Garmin Forerunner 101 Review

UPDATE: This model has been discontinued. For more current recommendations, please refer to our GPS for runners post.

The Garmin Forerunner 101 GPS is Garmin’s entry level product in the Forerunner series. The primary features distinguishing it from the Forerunner 201 are that it runs on two AAA batteries and cannot be connected to a computer for data transfer. Meanwhile, the 301 adds a heart rate monitor and some advanced features.

A popular device, the Forerunner 101 got an average 4 out of 5 star rating from 32 reviewers at Amazon, where the editors said:

"The Forerunner 101 offers athletes an easy-to-read display and integrated GPS sensor that provides precise speed, distance, and pace data–all in one compact unit that straps to your wrist. It’s a lightweight, accurate training assistant with performance tracking, auto-lap, auto-pause and more. And because it is a high quality Garmin GPS device, you get many of the features GPS users have come to rely on, such as precise latitude, longitude, and altitude data. The Forerunner 101 is easy to use right out of the box and it delivers the benefits of GPS technology.

Although it lacks the rechargeable battery and PC connectivity features of the Forerunner 201, the 101 retains all of the other great features of the 201, at an even more affordable price. The Virtual Partner feature allows you to set your training goal by configuring your Virtual Partner’s pace and workout distance. You’ll get a graphic perspective of your performance by viewing your pace in relation to your Virtual Partner’s pace, so you can always see at a glance if you’re keeping up or falling behind…"

Here’s what other reviewers have to say about the Forerunner 101:

• Running Times offers this review of the Fore Runner 101.
• Paramount Zone includes some screen shots in their review of the Garmin 101.
• Read some more user opinions in this review of the Garmin Fore Runner 101.

Here are some other resources on this unit:

• The official Garmin Forerunner 101 web page.
• A PDF version of the Forerunner 101 owners manual.
• Want to compare the features of the 101, 201 and 301, or other handhelds? Check out this Garmin GPS comparison page.
• How to swim with a Forerunner.
• Finally, there is a Yahoo Garmin Forerunner discussion group, devoted exclusively to this product line.