Originally Posted by
Flounce
So if I decide I want better mapping and routing ability, and money was no concern, what would be the best device(s) for rando purposes, edge 820? edge 1000?
Functionally, the 1000 and 820 are similar. The 1000 might be more reliable (it's older). The 1000 has a bigger screen with more resolution (shows more detail). It is faster than the 800/810 (I'm not sure if it's faster than the 820). Many people might not really notice that the 1000 is faster than the 810/800 (but I do funky things that are slow on the 800).
The "mapping" (displaying maps) doesn't appear to be different between the units. The 1000, with it's bigger screen and faster CPU helps displaying maps (and turn directions).
The newer Garmins might be more flaky (buggy).
The 800 (no longer made) might be the most reliable. (I don't recommend the Touring.)
If I wasn't using the 800, I'd choose the 1000 over the 820 (I look at the map a lot; the bigger screen would be useful to me).
Some people might not like the orientation of the USB socket on the 1000 for charging while riding (I'd have to look to see if the 820 is different).
The routing when using a loaded course doesn't appear to be functionally different between the units (what you'd be doing on a rando ride).
There are more features/options for "route to a point" (on device routing) on the 820/1000 compared to the older units (810/800) but planning routes before hand (on ridewithgps, for example) is likely to be more reliable.