Garmin 540 vs 530 DIFFERENCES in short

When Garmin announced the Edge 540, it seemed like only a minor improvement over the Edge 530 Plus. But when you see the device and go through the specs, it's more than obvious. This Edge 540 will be Garmin's sales hit for years to come. The new Edge 540 is a quantum leap in comparison! There's been a lot of progress in terms of performance and features, and it's gotten a little nicer on the wheel too.

Many possibilities
You probably know the Edge 830 from Garmin. This new 540 has all the functions of the 830 plus the navigation functions of the Garmin 1000. In addition, there are software features plus more.

Functions
Large with a 3.5 inch screen, so that you can easily read the data even while cycling
Equipped with most safety features of the Garmin Varia line. This way you know exactly what is happening around you and you have the certainty that you will arrive home safely.
Rider to rider notifications, so you can race and connect even if you don't ride together. Completely perfect in this time, where you will mostly be cycling alone!
Beautiful derivative navigation. With a single glance at the screen you know where to go. This means you won't get lost even on the most winding paths.
Sleek appearance, because the eye naturally also wants something.
Most comprehensive navigation of all Garmins. Wherever you are, the Garmin Edge 540 knows the location and can map out the best routes. Not being able to get lost is a nice thought.
Large color screen, for good readability during the ride. You no longer have to stop to see where you need to go.
Touch screen, so you can get the necessary information for you with a simple finger movement. No more fiddling with buttons means fewer distractions on the road.
Connect ANT+ for the best power meter such as the Rally and indoor trainers. Handy if you want to have all measurements in the same place! No additional equipment is needed, which saves towing work.
Waterproof housing, so as not to be stopped even by the rain.
Strava and the segments so you can keep using your favorite app on the go.
Lots of Gb of storage so you don't have to remove maps to drive in new places. This way you can always keep your favorites and you don't have to waste time organizing your storage space.
Backlight to read everything on the screen even in the dark.

[thomaskuhn]

So what's the call, buy the 530 which is currently being offered at a discounted price or go for the 540. Solar is not even part of the equation for me because I think the price premium for that is a joke.

[gliraferreira]

is it the camera or the 540 screen looks brighter than the 530`s?

[OliverWiehe]

Question - as a new rider - should I buy the 530 (which is older) or 540 because its newer and will last longer? What are your thoughts? thx

[nassozeebo]

So... Barely any difference at all?

I'm mostly interested in it for navigation. Im doing bikepacking/touring mostly.

I waited for the new devices before buying. Now that they are released, i pulled the trigger on a "as new" used 530. For less than a third of what the 540 sells for.

[BlueLineRider]

Finally, an upload that answers ... should I or should i not

[argent]

how do these devices know "how much is left in the tank"? Do they have to be connected to a heart rate belt?