Polar RS800G3 Multisport GPS Computer Heart Rate Monitor Watch with FREE USB 2.0 Interface
Customer Review: RS800G3
I normally train for races w/ both a heart rate monitor and a gps watch(garmin 201). I have used a Polar F11 for a few years and it finally died on me(partially my own fault). I was psyched to see that polar now offered a combo unit so I ordered the watch. The heart rate function is for the advanced user and is very good. The watch is completely programmable and takes some time to figure out, not a big deal. My one complaint about the HR function is that it's not compatible w/ cardio equipment at the gym. During nasty weather days or for speed work, I'll sometimes hit the treadmill. The HR strap uses a different freq, so it doesn't show up on the treadmill readout. The polar f11 didn't have this incompatibility problem. My biggest complaint is with the GPS function. Having used gps watches extensively, I am familiar with their limitations. Unfortunately this unit seemed much more susceptible to errors due to terrain and other factors. In fact the pace function was mostly unusable, bouncing between a 12min/mi to a 5min/mi while at a steady 8min/mi pace. Later, while running a race with a buddy who was using the garmin 305, we continually compared readouts. Again my watch was all over the place while his was very consistent. I ended up returning the watch and will wait for the new garmin forrunner 405. I sent an email to Polar with the same critique and hope they will be able fix these issues.
Customer Review: WARNING - Great Sports Watch, but no GPS logging
Great improvement over the Polar S625X as far as usability and relability of the telemetry HR is concerned, but - the GPS only tracks speed and distance, but you cannot download logging data to map where excactly your run or bike got you to and - the Infrared interface is pretty much a design fault, as you have to hold the receiver directely over the watch în an uncomfortable postion, as it is IR end on the watch is so badly located. In conclusion: If you have already a Polar Watch like the 625, save the money. If you want a top-of-the line Polar with improved usablity, this is an option (except IR interface) If you want to visualize your run or bike on Google Earth, get a Garmin Forerunner 305 (rather bulky and HR difficult to read).
If you are planning to go out into the wilderness, in un-chartered territory, at least as far as you are concerned, it is advisable to have some sort of equipment, apart from the age old "compass" to get you back to civilization. There have been many stories of people getting lost for days on end with no means of knowing where they are, you certainly do not want to add a story to that endless list. The best way for you to ensure you get back home from your trekking adventure is to make the best use of available technology - GPS!
There are a whole lot of GPS devices in the market for you to choose from, however, getting the right one for your needs and budget may take a bit of research. Selecting the perfect hiking GPS product will benefit you in many ways, so consider the following points when selecting your hiking GPS device from out of the scores available in the market.
In order to ensure you get quality of money when you purchase your hiking GPS equipment look for the following features in your GPS pack:
1. Select a GPS product that can display on-screen maps. These little gizmos will cost you a bit more than the rest but you get much more out of them when you are in a tight spot and need to know where you are without having to decipher in-comprehendible text.
2. Ensure that the GPS equipment is water resistant. IT will last longer and will not let moisture get in the way of its functioning.
3. Check how long the power supply, the batteries, will last.
4. Ensure that the GPS is compatible with hand-held battery chargers. You might need to recharge the batteries of the GPS in a place that has no power source.
5. Does the GPS you are considering to buy have built-in maps? This is important as it will be able to search faster and more efficiently, using less power from the batteries.
6. Are the in-built maps in the GPS system upgradeable?
7. Don't go in for a GPS gadget that is too bulky. The right size is also important. The screen must be big enough to display maps efficiently and small enough not to make the whole gadget bulky.
When deciding which GPS is best for you, take you time, do not rush when deciding on what features you need and what you do not. You don't buy a GPS everyday, so, having a few additional features can be good, but if you don't need them, why pay out the extra bucks? Research many manufacturers and don't let the salesman talk you into buying something you don't need. This will save you a lot of time and money.
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