Garmin HRM 200: A Future-Ready Heart Rate Strap
Garmin has unveiled the HRM 200, a replacement for the HRM Dual. It looks similar at first glance, but the HRM 200 adds unnecessary updates to meet unnecessary regulatory requirements, plus a few design tweaks.
What’s New?
The HRM 200 comprises a strap plus Garmin’s first removable pod to feature a button and light. The button enables manual authentication, supporting the strap’s ability to encrypt heart rate data during transmission. This future-proofs the product for incoming privacy regulations requiring secure wireless data transfer.
the first of likely many Garmin product refreshes that are aimed at complying with upcoming EU regulations on authentication and encryption requirements [dcrainmaker]
Another key update is the redesigned battery compartment. Children shouldn’t be able to open and eat the battery as a specialized tool is needed to access the CR2032 coin cell battery – I believe that is also in response to legislation.
The battery still offers a year of life.
Key Features
- Modes: Operates in Open mode (traditional, unencrypted data transmission) and Secure mode (authenticated and encrypted).
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with all modern fitness equipment. Secure modes will gradually start to appear on new watches.
- Connectivity: Supports ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart, with three Bluetooth channels and unlimited ANT+ connections.
- Pricing: At $79, it is priced above the $59 HRM Dual.
Comparison to Other Garmin Straps
Unlike the HRM Pro and Pro Plus, the HRM 200 doesn’t offer advanced metrics like running dynamics or onboard storage. It also lacks the HRM Fit’s bra-clip design, making it a more straightforward, future-proof option for users primarily interested in heart rate monitoring.
Who Is It For?
The HRM 200 caters to users seeking a durable, accurate strap with future-proof privacy features, i.e. no one. I guess it’s not Garmin’s fault.
Once the HRM Dual stocks are depleted, there is nothing wrong with this chest strap. you just get unnecessary features.
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Who would be trying to highjack your HR data while working out?
Shady health insurance companies in wild west countries aside.
Garmin already got hacked. We got tons of apps for supermarkets on our phones. Google and Apple know more about our lifes than they should but it’s a good thing some one is trying to make a stand at cycling cadence, speed or HR data. Really.
Typical garmin price hike. Who doesn’t want to pay extra for a button and an LED light.
Snark aside…great that Garmin updates their removable HR chest strap option. Even greater to see it still sporting a coin cell battery and no internal battery.
If you are a pro, you might want to keep this data to yourself.