Cheapest Garmin Forerunner 405

Let me start by saying that I've been a fan of Garmin and the Forerunner since the early days. That being said, I am reviewing this product not independently, but in comparison to other Garmin models. Here's what I like:

-The design is greatly improved. It fits like a watch, albeit a very large watch. This is a dramatic improvement from previous models.

-The GPS connection is nearly automatic. I used to set my old units outside, get a cup of coffee, and return to hope that the signal had been found. With the 405, it's connected as soon as I'm outside my door. In new places, it takes a bit longer to lock on, but once it's done it's strong.

-Accuracy. I don't have quite as many inconsistencies in pace/distance as I did with previous models.

Other than that, everything else works just as well or the same as other Forerunners I've owned.

Now, the not so good:

-The battery life is awful. If you travel with this device, forget leaving the charger at home. I used to charge my 305 to 100% and run for a week. With the 405, it's always ON, apparently, and the battery will drain to nothing within a couple of days, even if you aren't using it.

The touch bezel. I don't like it. It isn't "intuitive", it is over-sensitive and "buggy"when it gets wet (anyone else sweat when they run?), which can be a major annoyance. It took me about a month to finally get the feel of it, and I still don't always get what I expect when I use it.

-The menus. Again, not intuitive. Things just don't seem to be located where they should be. I had to go to the owner's manual to find out how to pull up run history. I am a gadget geek, not a technophobe, and I usually figure things out easily. Not the case with this device.

-The software. Others have done a good job telling what a nightmare the Garmin Training Center software is. I personally don't use it because I don't always run with my Forerunner (treadmill, etc.) and I want my training log to reflect all my runs. That's why I use paper. If Garmin ever figures out how to let runners manually enter training, I will use the Training Center.

All in all, it's a very good device, and I'm sure it's the best in the market. However, I can not give it a 5 star rating because I see all the things that Garmin can do better.Get more detail about Garmin Forerunner 405.