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.

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