Garmin 405

[hup]

http://www8.garmin.com/ces/forerunner/index.html
http://gizmodo.com/340267/garmin-forerunner-405-watch-is-packed-with-awesome-features-for-healthy-types
http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/03/garmins-new-forerunner-405-puts-the-watch-back-in-gps-watch/

[Nettie]

OMG...that is beautiful. I am definitely getting that whenever it is available.

[arc918]

I'm all in - so long 205!

[muzicgrl]

I want one. Anyone gonna buy one for my poor ass?

[RunAsics]

Sweet!

[missy1102]

and i was JUST thinking i wanted a garmin this year!

[mykemp1971]

I think it's time for an upgrade :)

[JenRuns]

I just got totally burned...I bought a 305 yesterday MORNING, after explaining to DH that I had no idea if they were ever going to be releasing new model. Oh, well.

[mykemp1971]

by next Christmas, I will have had my 305 for 2 years... so I'll be ready for an upgrade :)

Christmas 2004 - Garmin 201
Christmas 2006 - Garmin 305
Christmas 2008 - Garmin 405

Logical progression :)

[phillytom]

Watching the video on engadget though, I think even the guy from Garmin makes it look awkward. I really wish they would team up with Timex - who I think really has a good handle on the human factors for a running watch - like a big button you can mash when you are doing intervals and the shake to turn the light on thingy.

I like my Garmin, I just wish it was more usable.

Like why does their software stink so bad? Why can't I use my convenient computer interface to setup the screen layouts?

The 405 does look nice though.

[hup]

Watching the video on engadget though, I think even the guy from Garmin makes it look awkward. I really wish they would team up with Timex - who I think really has a good handle on the human factors for a running watch - like a big button you can mash when you are doing intervals and the shake to turn the light on thingy.

I like my Garmin, I just wish it was more usable.

Like why does their software stink so bad? Why can't I use my convenient computer interface to setup the screen layouts?

The 405 does look nice though.

Tom, are you using a Mac?

[Andi]

That looks like a perfect Mother's Day gift. I need to start dropping hints now. :)

[phillytom]

Tom, are you using a Mac?

Yup. Why, can you do that in the windows version?

[Timr1]

I just got totally burned...I bought a 305 yesterday MORNING, after explaining to DH that I had no idea if they were ever going to be releasing new model. Oh, well.

Hey, the 305 still rocks. Yes, it's large, but it doesn't seem to bother me (accept in the last marathon where I had to take it off and carry it because my wrist was getting sore; previous 2 marathons no problem), but the good part of the 305 is the display. 3 displays that you can set up with up to 4 data fields on each. That's a ton of information.

[lgreenberg]

I'm all over that when it comes out.

[JohnnyB]

Hey, the 305 still rocks. Yes, it's large, but it doesn't seem to bother me (accept in the last marathon where I had to take it off and carry it because my wrist was getting sore; previous 2 marathons no problem), but the good part of the 305 is the display. 3 displays that you can set up with up to 4 data fields on each. That's a ton of information.

Gotta side with Tim on this one. I see no substantive advantage to the 405 other than thinness and wireless connectivity. USB is just fine and I LOVE the customizeable screens on the 305.

I highly recommend Sporttracks software (http://www.zonefivesoftware.com/SportTracks/) for any of you Garmin users still trudging through those awful crude maps in Garmin TC. I've also found Sporttracks to have much more accurate elevation numbers and more conservative calorie counts....in addition to the bazillion other cool features. Apparently there are lots of user created plugins which I have not even tried yet.

[Timr1]

JohnnyB,

I loaded Sporttracks when I got my Garmin earlier this year. At first, I was using Sporttracks, Garmin TC, Motionbased, and my running log (manual entry) Then I realized that this was nuts. So, I cut back to just Garmin TC, and my running log, motionbased only when I wanted a google map of my route or something.

Then, this week, Garmin TC, puked up my user file, and dumped a ton of my data. I wasn't too upset since it's all in my log. But, now might be a time for me to try sporttracks again and see how I like it.

[ScratchType1]

It looks pretty nice.

What also might be pretty nice is seeing some price cuts on the 305. Sorry about that prospect, Jen.

[mykemp1971]

not to hiijack and make this to sporttracks thread - but is sporttracks available for the Mac?

I've been just manually entering my data in Running Ahead.

I used to use MotionBased and my log, but that was just cumbersome. I do like some of the data that Motionbased gave me though - and it worked with Mac.

[mykemp1971]

It looks pretty nice.

What also might be pretty nice is seeing some price cuts on the 305. Sorry about that prospect, Jen.

Really... even more of a price cut than $179 with a $50 rebate? Which I think was what Costco had... well the rebate wasn't Costco, but the $179 price was I think...

[ScratchType1]

Really... even more of a price cut than $179 with a $50 rebate? Which I think was what Costco had... well the rebate wasn't Costco, but the $179 price was I think...
I mean in the general at large market, not just simply a case of one retailer with a rebate attached.

[JohnnyB]

JohnnyB,

I loaded Sporttracks when I got my Garmin earlier this year. At first, I was using Sporttracks, Garmin TC, Motionbased, and my running log (manual entry) Then I realized that this was nuts. So, I cut back to just Garmin TC, and my running log, motionbased only when I wanted a google map of my route or something.

Then, this week, Garmin TC, puked up my user file, and dumped a ton of my data. I wasn't too upset since it's all in my log. But, now might be a time for me to try sporttracks again and see how I like it.

I was doing the same thing except I was putting my numbers in runningahead running log, which I still think is the best on-line log out there, but kind of irrelevant if you have an automated log like sporttracks. I like the ability to use the hybrid satellite map in Sporttracks and to track my shoe and equipment mileage. It does splits and heart rate calcs very nicely and has some nice reporting features too. You can export maps to Google earth as well, though I haven't found much use for this yet other than the neato factor.

[mykemp1971]

I mean in the general at large market, not just simply a case of one retailer with a rebate attached.

Good point :) I like your Avatar too BTW!

[JohnnyB]

Kemp, check the zone5 web site. Link is up top. I'd be surprised if they didn't have a mac version.

[hup]

Yup. Why, can you do that in the windows version?

No, neither platform has that capability yet. I just wanted to suggest you take a look at a piece of software called Ascent.
http://www.montebellosoftware.com/
It is just as functional as SportTracks, and a zillion times better than GTC. The biggest limitation I've found is that you can't upload your custom workouts to the unit through it (hence, you need to keep Training Center around if you want to use this function :()
Ascent is a free trial, with no functional limitation. It's been a cool and useful program for me.

[arc918]

well I'll gladly pay $300 to unsupersize my Garmin

I'd order it today if I could

[razzzzzz]

That looks sweet! I think I'll have to kick my 205 down to my 15yo son for his cross country training.

[Root Finder]

its soo pretty... i agree great moms day gift... must email link to dh :)

[Boyerdavea]

I looks sweet. My 305 isn't that old yet. So it may be a while before I can justify buying another one.

the other thing I like is it appears that all of the accessories from the 305 will work on the 405. :-D

[mykemp1971]

No, neither platform has that capability yet. I just wanted to suggest you take a look at a piece of software called Ascent.
http://www.montebellosoftware.com/
It is just as functional as SportTracks, and a zillion times better than GTC. The biggest limitation I've found is that you can't upload your custom workouts to the unit through it (hence, you need to keep Training Center around if you want to use this function :()
Ascent is a free trial, with no functional limitation. It's been a cool and useful program for me.

Thanks Hup - I'll give it a shot this weekend!

[Dankinia]

I love my 305 with one exception. I have small wrists so it is sort of awkward to wear. If the 405 is more compact it might be worth it for me to upgrade. I think I will have to see it in person to check the fit before I upgrade.

[mmoonptdeux]

Looks like Garmin has put a listing on the shop area of their website

Garmin Forerunner 405 (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=11039)

[Nettie]

Well, I won't be getting it for like months from now, so :(

[lgreenberg]

Moon - that page has been on their site since they announced the release.

I talked to someone at Garmin the other day and he said to look for it in Feb./Mar.

[jebba]

I'm with Tim. I love my 305, and don't need an improvement yet.

[RunsTheBitterroot]

I still have my 301 and it seems to do everything that I need it to do. The software that comes with it works great. I use delorme topo software to download tracks and waypoints from my runs along with uploading routes that I design from Delorme topo.

The newer FR's gps function is supposed to be more sensitive than my 301, but have not found that lack of sensitivity to be significant problem except perhaps in narrow canyons, but not sure if more sensitivity would help.

The display on the 405 looks small. One of the things that I enjoy with my 301 is the large display. Since the 301 is shaped oblong it fits nicely on my wrist, so I see no advantage to the watch like shape of the new 405. High resolution color graphics even in the smaller display might make up for size, but this hasn't happend yet. Even the 305 doesn't seem to be a significant upgrade and the shape of it looked awkward, however it retained the large display.

Perhaps this might be a good time to buy 2 or 3 301's at a good price. Sort of like when they change the design of a good running shoe, I always wished I bought several pair when they were on sale.

There was a comment somewhere about the battery charge being too short eg. Ultrarunners. There is an easy solution to that. A few parts from radio shack, a few batteries and a tiny battery pack can be made that would keep it running for days.

If there were a complaint about the FR all models, would have to be the hrm function. It doesn't appear to work as well as Polar hrm's and the fr is not compatable with the aerobic machines at the health clubs. This isn't a real problem as when I was using those machines, I would wear one of my polar straps.

Larry

[VictorN]

I figured this was imminent given the discounting that has been happening on the 305. My 305 still has a few years in it so I'll stay put. I love my 305, however, so when it does die I'm sure I'll pickup another Forerunner, whatever version is available at the time.

Victor

[Sisu]

My 201 is still going strong and since I don't need it for HRM it fits my needs. Ugliest thing I've ever used but I'll wear it until it dies.

The 405 looks nice design wise but I wonder how huge it would be on a small wrist.

[divaleh]

And that would explain the great price I got on my new 305....

[mmoonptdeux]

Moon - that page has been on their site since they announced the release.

I talked to someone at Garmin the other day and he said to look for it in Feb./Mar.

Ahh, okay - I didn't see it in the original list of links, so I thought it was a recent addition

[Dankinia]

Moon - that page has been on their site since they announced the release.

I talked to someone at Garmin the other day and he said to look for it in Feb./Mar.

Right before my birthday. If it fits my wrist better then the 305 I might have to ask for it as a gift. *grin* I am a techno geek, but decided that unless it is more comfortable then the one I have I won't get it.

[lgreenberg]

The 405 is featured in a NY Times video at CES.

At the 2:30 mark.

http://video.on.nytimes.com/?fr_story=6cbbd68c421f756bc30509aae6ea4d286ac914ae

[Jensparks]

OMG, it's pretty.

I ALMOST bought a 305 this year, but held out. Glad I didn't buy one! I'll have this on my wish list this year.

[joy2theworld]

I'm currently using an older model Timex GPS, but when it dies, I'll definitely consider the 405.

[LeftRightRepeat]

Why can't they make it at least waterproof enough to handle a triathlon swim??? This has the same IPX7 rating as the 305 which they don't recommend swimming with. How hard can it be to make with stand 1 meter for a couple of hours?

[GoGoGlets]

I just pre-ordered my 405 from Amazon and noticed this in the specs area on the Garmin site...

Garmin Connect and Garmin Training Center are currently compatible with Windows® 2000 or later. Mac® compatibility coming 3rd Quarter, 2008.

Does anyone know what I will and won't be able to do with the data on my Mac with the Data?

[lgreenberg]

Did Amazon give you any indication as to when they'd begin shipping?

[GoGoGlets]

Nope. They just said that would send me an email when they have an estimated ship date.

[GoGoGlets]

I just found this blog post on the Garmin site that has a Q &A about the 405...

Garmin Q & A link (http://garmin.blogs.com/my_weblog/2008/01/pegs-posts-q-as.html#more)

[VictorN]

Does anyone know what I will and won't be able to do with the data on my Mac with the Data?

I'm using a Mac version of the Garmin Training Center software (v 2.0.3) on my Mac.

Victor

[fatmantrying]

I'm still using the Polar RS200 and I've been looking at Garmin since the 305 came out. The 8 hr battery life is a major strike against it IMHO. I wonder if that will improve?

[lgreenberg]

I'm still using the Polar RS200 and I've been looking at Garmin since the 305 came out. The 8 hr battery life is a major strike against it IMHO. I wonder if that will improve?

They say the 405 will last a week on one charge.

[fatmantrying]

hmm... I read the GPS feature would run the battery down in 8 hrs...???

[lgreenberg]

Yeah - I guess I was confused a little by the question.

Using the GPS feature constantly you'll get 8 hours battery life. But wearing the watch everyday and using the watch features only you get about a week.

So I guess I'm confused - how is 8 hours of use a strike against it? Unless you're running a 100 mile race you'll only need to recharge it every second or third run (3-4 times a week.) Just like the 305, just like a cell phone etc.

[Brandy]

we looked at the 405 at a recent expo. I was so not impressed. The only cool thing about it was the wireless technology. It has less battery life and less features than the 305. Not worth it in my book.

[GoGoGlets]

As a newbie to the GPS devices.. can you tell me what features it is missing that are helpful to runners?

[Brandy]

As a newbie to the GPS devices.. can you tell me what features it is missing that are helpful to runners?

I honestly stopped listening to the presentation after a bit. There were some displays that instead of 4 options, you only got 3. we were asking about some other features and the rep said "no, this doesn't have it" like storing routes. I also found the display too small to easily read.

I was uncomfortable with the bezel access. You can lock it but now I am having to unlock, change view, then lock again? No way. The 405 uses the same GPS technology as the 305 so it is nor more accurate.

[muzicgrl]

Yeah - I guess I was confused a little by the question.

Using the GPS feature constantly you'll get 8 hours battery life. But wearing the watch everyday and using the watch features only you get about a week.

So I guess I'm confused - how is 8 hours of use a strike against it? Unless you're running a 100 mile race you'll only need to recharge it every second or third run (3-4 times a week.) Just like the 305, just like a cell phone etc.

8 hours is not good. I would consider that a huge strike against it. I hate having to drag a charger around when I go out of town for the weekend.

[lgreenberg]

But I say again - unless you're an ultra runner who runs more than 8 hours in a weekend?

[muzicgrl]

But I say again - unless you're an ultra runner who runs more than 8 hours in a weekend?

Over a long weekend I can run for 8 hours (or more) especially when I was marathon training. I am just that slow. Plus I use my Garmin for biking.

[fatmantrying]

So I guess I'm confused - how is 8 hours of use a strike against it?

I agree, many won't have a problem with the 8 hrs, but...well, I'm slow... 8hrs is pushing a 50K for me. lol

I'm using a Polar cadence pod thing now and I can get close to 20 hrs out of it, and the watch will go a year or more.

[CoyoteMark]

I have had a 305 for a year and a half, and as far as I can tell the 405 looks cooler but does less:

405/305 Comparison (https://buy.garmin.com/shop/compare.do?compareProduct=349&compareProduct=11039&compare=compare)

405 has no routes, and it looks like you have to be in some special "Advanced Workouts" mode to get pace, time & distance alerts.

I'm waiting for two major improvements before I upgrade:
1) WAAS compatable GPS for more accuracy
2) Longer battery life- at least 12 hours.

You get a lot more bang for the buck buying a 305 at the discount prices that it is selling at now.

[arc918]

My $.02 - I don't use half the features of my 205 - anything showing "current" pace is worthless in a GPS unit. All I want is to see my avg. pace per lap (mile) and my mile splits - I don't really need 4 screens worth of data.

Battery life doesn't matter to me - 8 hours of running time is plenty.

[lgreenberg]

I agree on the battery.

And comparing the battery of the Garmin (any model) to that of the Polar simply isn't fair.

True the Polar's battery lasts a year but guess what happens then? You have to pay for another one. That's one of the benefits of rechargeable batteries.

[fatmantrying]

I agree on the battery.

And comparing the battery of the Garmin (any model) to that of the Polar simply isn't fair.

True the Polar's battery lasts a year but guess what happens then? You have to pay for another one. That's one of the benefits of rechargeable batteries.

Well, if you can use a screwdriver, replacing the Polar battery couldn't be any simpler so you pay about a buck and a half. . There is a rubber grommit that needs to be in a groove when you put the back back on. No big deal, it's really simple.

As I said, the comparison I think is accurate with the polar foot pod which is 20 hrs. Big difference if you need more than a few hours.

[akfailla]

I have one concern about the new model - accidentally hitting the buttons! Even with my 305 I have hit the stop button and not realized it - seems like this would be even more likely to happen with the 405. Any thoughts?

[Brandy]

I have one concern about the new model - accidentally hitting the buttons! Even with my 305 I have hit the stop button and not realized it - seems like this would be even more likely to happen with the 405. Any thoughts?

There is a lock button on the side. Another reason why I don't like it. I don't want to have to hit 2 buttons to stop the darn thing.

[lgreenberg]

Hmm I'm actually looking forward to the lock feature. Often times I've hit my lap button by mistake.