Why is a Garmin (etc) better than Strava app?

[AStreetcarNamedBob]

I'm 2 months into my new running hobby and loving it. I want a running watch...because... well I dont know why but everyone seems to have one!

At the moment I use the strava app to log my runs and LOVE analysing it afterwards. A garmin would do the same job but i'd still need to take my phone for my music, so is there any benefit to me?

They seem super popular but i can;t work out why as they don't really replace your phone (music) and the strava app records pace/splits etc for free.

[Purplerunner]

I'm interested in this too. Use the Endomondo App to track my runs which I really like, but keep wondering about a Garmin!

[MissMarpling]

I think the big advantage to a Garmin is that you can see how far you've run easily without stopping and fiddling with phone.

[Purplerunner]

Hmm, the app tells me regularly though my distance, pace, time etc.so I don't need to look at my phone again once I've started.

[MilicentKing]

I don't take my phone - too heavy.
I have Garmin and tiny MP3 player if I want to listen to music or podcasts

Your phone uses data (possible cost issues) and 3 or 4G which might not be as reliable as a Garmin. The battery on a phone probably doesn't last as long as a Garmin.

It's easier to look at a watch than a phone.

nb I've never used a running app on my phone so could be talking rubbish!

[Fibonaccied]

I use a garmin as it's more reliable than strava on my phone. Garmin connect also tells me extra information like stride length. And I can see my pace and run at a glance, and it works on a treadmill too.

I dropped the music during runs a long while ago though.

[AStreetcarNamedBob]

Good point about being able to see your pace and distance run on your wrist.

Maybe I'll buy a little MP3 then for my music. Although Sod's law the first time I ditched the phone is twist my ankle and not be able to phone dh to come out in the car and save me!!

[Whereisthesnow]

Much more accurate and reliable - don't need 3G/4g for it to work . Constant feedback on your pace is good too.

[MrsMook]

My phone's GPS went wappy and either cut chunks off or added distance by bouncing between phone masts as several points along my regular routes. Phones use GPS via the phone network, watches are direct and more accurate. They may have more features.

I've got a Polar M400 which I use with a chest strap. The app shows things like under/ over training, sleep, training plans. I can sync with Strava for sharing easily.