I've had the chance to put the Garmin Edge 550 through its paces on several long rides, and while it's undoubtedly a capable device, it falls short of being a top choice for me due to its fiddly interface and steep price tag.
First impressions of the Edge 550 are overwhelmingly positive – the device feels solid and well-built in the hand, with a bright, high-resolution screen that's easy to read even in direct sunlight. The buttons are clicky and responsive, but it's here that the issues begin. Trying to navigate the menu system, which is largely reliant on button presses, can be a frustrating experience. I've found myself repeatedly pressing the wrong button or getting stuck in a loop of sub-menus, which can be a real distraction when you're in the middle of a ride.
On the bike, the Edge 550 performs well, providing accurate heart rate monitoring and GPS tracking. The device is also relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to mount on my handlebars. However, I've noticed that the screen can be a bit slow to update, particularly when I'm navigating through dense urban areas. This can make it difficult to get a clear picture of my surroundings, which is a concern for safety.
In terms of who
Garmin Edge 550's fiddly interface and high asking price stop it being a winner