Garmin Forerunner 201 Review

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

Awhile back I reviewed the Forerunner 301. Today we’re going to look at its little brother, the Garmin Forerunner 201. Basically the same model, minus the heart rate monitor, this Forerunner shares most of  the advantages and disadvantages of the 301. At a mere 2.75 ounces, it is ideal for runners, hikers or cyclists looking for a lightweight device. If your primary interest is in training and tracking your athletic performance, the 201 is a good choice. If you plan to do some serious navigation, I’d recommend something with more features than the Forerunner series. Sure, they’ll navigate to a waypoint or along a route, and create a track as you go along, but just about any other GPS receiver will provide you more options in this regard.

It certainly is a popular receiver, if numbers are any guide. A whopping 211 reviewers at Amazon gave the Forerunner 201 an average 4 out of 5 stars.

Here’s what others have to say about the Forerunner 201:

• CompetitiveRunner.com has an extensive review of the Garmin 201.
• At CNet, the editors gave the ForeRunner 201 a 7 out of 10 rating, while 31 of their readers rated it 7.5 out of 10.
• For a UK perspective, check out Pocket Lint’s review of the Fore Runner 201, where they gave it a 9 out of 10 rating.
• Singletracks.com has posted a Garmin Forerunner 201 review, from a cyclist’s perspective.
• About.com reviews the Garmin Forerunner 201.
• The Forerunner 201 appears to be one well built device!

Finally, here are a few other resources:

• Have an in-depth look by checking out the Forerunner manual (PDF).
• How to swim with a Forerunner.
• Have more questions? You’re sure to find an answer at the Yahoo ForeRunner discussion group.
• Garmin’s 201 page.