Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer vs Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack (2026)

✍️ By the 247Verdict Editorial Team📅 Updated 05 October 2026

Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.

Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer

9.2/10 Excellent

4.6★ (4,200 owners)

Multiband GPS, ClimbPro, GroupTrack, 26hr battery, power meter compatible. Garmin cycling benchmark.

Full Review

Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack

8.9/10 Great

4.5★ (3,800 owners)

45L, ventilated back, hipbelt pockets, rain cover, accessible front opening. Scandinavian hiking pack.

Full Review

At a Glance

	Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer	Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack
247Verdict Score	9.2/10	8.9/10
Owner Rating	4.6★ (4,200)	4.5★ (3,800)
Verdict	Excellent	Great
Heritage	Garmin cycling 20 years	Thule, Sweden 1942

Quick Verdict

Both are strong choices, but the Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer edges ahead with a 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10. Multiband GPS, ClimbPro, GroupTrack, 26hr battery, power meter compatible. Garmin cycling benchmark. That said, the Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack is worth considering if 45L, ventilated back, hipbelt pockets, rain cover, accessible front opening. Scandinavian hiking pack. Check the current price on Amazon →

Pros & Cons Side by Side

Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer

Multiband GPS accuracy matches dual-frequency cycling computers at more affordable pricing
ClimbPro displays remaining climb gradient and distance in real-time during ascents
GroupTrack shows all ride companions' positions on the map simultaneously
26-hour battery handles full-day audax rides and multi-day touring without recharging
Garmin's 20-year cycling GPS heritage — the most trusted brand in cycling navigation

No coloured maps — monochrome display limits route readability vs colour alternatives
Premium pricing vs Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT at comparable GPS specification
Garmin Connect subscription for some advanced features

Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack

Ventilated back panel separates pack from spine for airflow on steep ascents
Large hipbelt pockets hold phone and snacks without removing the pack
Front U-opening allows full access to pack contents without unpacking from top
Integrated rain cover deployable without removing the pack
Thule's Scandinavian heritage in outdoor equipment design since 1942

45L is touring size — too large for day hiking, slightly too small for 5+ day expeditions
Hipbelt fit requires proper sizing — poorly fitted hipbelts are uncomfortable for long days
Premium pricing over Osprey Talon alternatives at similar capacity

FAQ

Which is better, Garmin Edge 540 GPS or Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking?

Is the Garmin Edge 540 GPS worth the extra cost?

Yes — Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer scores higher at 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10.

Who is the Garmin Edge 540 GPS best suited to?

Multiband GPS, ClimbPro, GroupTrack, 26hr battery, power meter compatible. Garmin cycling benchmark.

Who is the Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking best suited to?

45L, ventilated back, hipbelt pockets, rain cover, accessible front opening. Scandinavian hiking pack.

What are the main downsides of each?

Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer: No coloured maps — monochrome display limits route readability vs colour alternatives; Premium pricing vs Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT at comparable GPS specification. Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack: 45L is touring size — too large for day hiking, slightly too small for 5+ day expeditions; Hipbelt fit requires proper sizing — poorly fitted hipbelts are uncomfortable for long days.

Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?

Largely, yes — Garmin Edge 540 GPS Cycling Computer sits at 4.6★ from 4,200 verified Amazon owners, and Thule AllTrail 45L Hiking Backpack at 4.5★ from 3,800.

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