The TomTom Runner Cardio is the follow up to the TomTom Runner. It is now GPS-enabled and it addresses some of the main issues that were found in its predecessor. It now has a built-in heart-rate monitor to let you know how to adjust the pace of your running. The downside of these added features is that it costs more, making it significantly expensive than the original model and even with its direct rivals.
Does the TomTom Runner Cardio Do Enough to Justify the Higher Cost?
To start, let’s take a look at the design of the TomTom Runner Cardio. The company did supply some radical changes, and some of those updates are more welcoming than others. The device is now available in either red on black or red on white variants. With these design choices, it moves away from the more conservative colors that the Runner was available in. Furthermore, its color choices can draw attention to itself if that’s what you’re intending it to do.
Gone is the plastic strap from the original model and has now been replaced by a flexible rubber watch strap which holds the watch’s face and the GPS module in place. Another change is how the watch’s strap is now secured around the wrist. It will now be secured by way of a three-pronged clasp and a holed design.
While still on the strap, the TomTom Runner Cardio Activity Tracker now has a thicker one. The strap has gone from 0.45-inches to 0.54-inches. This completes the more rugged and durable look that the watch is trying to portray. However, it also means that the tracker is less comfortable to wear than its predecessor. This is now more of a sport’s watch rather than what you would normally wear on an everyday basis.
It is still waterproof and it can be submerged up to 165-feet, so you can take it along when you’re swimming. However, all it can do is tell you the time and the activity functions will automatically shut down while you’re underwater.
As for the GPS functionality, it is very reliable to use. There are many running watches that have built-in receivers are not able to record accurate data. This is not the case with this particular tracker from TomTom. However, the company does suggest that you should regularly update the GPS information so that you will always get accurate data.
There are many great improvements on the TomTom Runner Cardio and it does address some of the more blatant issues that were found on the original model. However, the higher price tag and the less comfort makes you want to think twice in getting it.