Cycliste consultant un smartphone et un GPS vélo côte à côte avant une sortie, illustrant le choix entre deux options de navigation.

Use a  dedicated bike GPS?

With technological advances and the widespread adoption of navigation apps, many cyclists are wondering whether it's still relevant to use a dedicated bike GPS.

Can a smartphone really replace it?

In this article, we compare both options based on use cases, without bias, to help you make the right choice for your riding style.

GPS navigation by bike

Accuracy and reliability

A dedicated bike GPS typically uses GPS, GLONASS or Galileo satellites to deliver high accuracy, even in remote areas. Smartphones rely on the same satellite networks but sometimes depend on mobile network connectivity for certain apps.

Under good conditions, accuracy remains comparable, although GPS remains more consistent off-network.

  • Comparaison de cartes GPS sur un écran de GPS vélo et un smartphone monté sur un guidon. Comparaison de cartes GPS sur un écran de GPS vélo et un smartphone monté sur un guidon.

Bike screens: dedicated vs smartphone

Display and readability

The GPS has a screen designed for outdoor use, often anti-glare and very readable in direct sunlight.

The smartphone, being larger, can display more details, but its readability depends on brightness and screen quality. Moreover, some apps require a connection to display the map, unlike GPS devices that often include built-in maps.

  • Cycliste consultant une carte sur son GPS dédié et un autre sur une appli mobile. Cyclist checking a map on their dedicated GPS and another on a mobile app.

Which one lasts longer?

Battery life and management

One of the major advantages of bike GPS devices is their battery life: between 10 and 30 hours depending on the model. Smartphones, with constant GPS use and the screen on, consume more power.

However, adding an external battery or using a power-saving mode can extend their usage time, especially for medium to long rides.

  • View of a cyclist connecting an external battery to their smartphone mounted on the bike. View of a cyclist connecting an external battery to their smartphone mounted on the bike.

Bike mount and bike GPS

Mounting and use

Bike GPS devices are designed to fit standard mounts, with a stable and secure installation.

For smartphones, it all depends on the mount used. Shapeheart offers magnetic bike mounts, making it easy to attach and detach your phone, even with gloves on. This type of accessory lets you access navigation while keeping your hands on the handlebars and your eyes on the road, while ensuring good stability.

  • Smartphone monté sur un support Shapeheart, bien visible sur un guidon en pleine sortie. Smartphone monté sur un support Shapeheart, bien visible sur un guidon en pleine sortie.

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What investment for your cycling use?

Cost and versatility

A GPS represents an initial investment often exceeding €200, but is dedicated solely to cycling. On the other hand, a smartphone is already owned by the majority of cyclists and can be used for much more than navigation.

However, it requires a good mount, protection against the elements, and sometimes an external power source for long rides.

  • Smartphone et GPS côte à côte sur une table avec accessoires vélo. Smartphone and GPS side by side on a table with bike accessories.

The key is to choose the tool that suits your needs, making sure you have a good mount and a reliable attachment to ensure comfort and safety.

And you, what tool do you use on your bike rides? Let us know in the comments.


Also worth reading: The essential bike accessory for smoother urban mobility.

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