Garmin Alpha Comparison

253 g

Display Resolution

Display Type

Transflective, monochrome LCD

0.91″ x 0.91″ (2.3 x 2.3 cm); 1.28″ (3.26 cm) diagonal

Lithium-Ion

YES (Non- Rechargeable)

Y

Battery Life

24 hours

N/A

n/a

Water Rating (7PX)

Y

Touchscreen

N

Compass: (Tilt-Compensated 3-axis)

N

High-sensitivity receiver

Do not have Sensor such as GPS , Galileo, & Barometric altimeter

Preloaded Maps

N

N

N

N

N

N

Automatic Routing

N

N

N/A

Navigation Routes

N/A

N

N/A

Tracks

NOT SPECIFIED

Navigation Track Log:

N/A

Satellite Imagery

N/A

N

N/A

Outdoor Recreation

N/A

Frequency

MURS

N/A

TT and T Series, 9 miles; TT mini and T mini Series, 4 miles

N/A

NOT SPECIFIED

NOT SPECIFIED

N/A

Vibration Alerts

N

N

N

N

N

N

Connection

NOT SPECIFIED

Garmin Explorer app,

Garmin Website, and

Dog Tracking

Not Specified

Garmin explorer App

Interactive SOS

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Lightweight and budget-friendly GPS tracker Tracks up to 20 dogs from 9 miles away, updating every 2.5 seconds.

Water-resistant and easy to use in any weather condition

Offers basic training features and needs a smartphone app for mapping.

Precise Tracking: Real-time updates and point alerts.

Durable: Rugged, waterproof, and shockproof.

Customizable Training: Extensive settings for training.

Advanced Features: Detailed mapping and smartwatch compatibility

Tracks dogs: Up to 9 miles, 2.5-second updates.

Dog Management: Easy group and inactive dog handling.

Public Land Boundaries: View on maps.

Performance Metrics: Track dogs’ speed and distance

18 Stimulation Levels: Customizable training.

Tone/Vibration: Quick commands.

Garmin Explore App: Real-time tracking and replay.

Pro View Compass: Easy dog location tracking.

Multi-GNSS: Accurate with GPS and Galileo.

TopoActive Maps: Detailed terrain views.

BirdsEye Direct: Satellite imagery via Wi-Fi.

Navigation Sensors: Altimeter and compass.

20-Hour Battery: Long-lasting.

In-Vehicle Tracking: Compatible with Tread® and DriveTrack™.

SOS Alerts: Send emergency SOS to Garmin’s 24/7 center (subscription required).

Location Sharing: Share GPS location or track progress (subscription needed).

Global Coverage: Reliable messaging and tracking via Iridium satellite (subscription required).io

Long Battery Life: Up to 55 hours.

Clear Touchscreen: 3.5-inch display works with gloves.

Advanced Mapping: Includes TopoActive and Garmin Outdoor Maps+.

Channel View: Avoids collar interference.

Global messaging, navigation, and SOS.

Collar Compatibility: Works with new and older collars.

InReach Satellite Technology: Offers global SOS alerts, two-way messaging, and location tracking.

Extended Battery Life: Up to 55 hours, or 50 hours with InReach functionality.

Comprehensive Tracking: Tracks up to 20 dogs from distances of up to 9 miles.

Enhanced Training Options: Includes 18 levels of stimulation, and commands for tone and vibration.

Satellite Imagery: Allows you to download detailed terrain views via Wi-Fi.

Efficient Group Management: Supports up to 250 dogs for easier hunting setup.

Garmin Explore App Integration: Provides detailed reviews and navigation options.

Dual Satellite Systems: GPS and GLONASS enhance tracking accuracy.

Comprehensive Mapping: Preloaded TOPO U.S. 100K maps and microSD™ slot for additional maps

Detailed Hunt Metrics: Tracks and analyzes hunting performance and behavior.

Covey Counter™: Records specific hunting details, including prey locations and counts.

Wireless Sharing: Supports data transfer with various Garmin devices and watches.

Durable Design: Water-resistant to IPX7 and rugged enough for field conditions.

Rapid Tracking Updates: 2.5-second location updates ensure accurate tracking of fast-moving dogs.

Extended Battery Life: 24-hour battery capacity supports long hunts and training sessions.

Built to Last: Durable and water-resistant design handles rugged conditions.

Enhanced Tracking: Compatible with various Garmin devices for extended tracking capabilities.

App Integration: Garmin Explore™ app compatibility allows for detailed tracking and data storage on mobile devices.

Basic Training Features: Limited stimulation and controls.

No Built-In Mapping: Requires app or other devices for maps.

No Touchscreen: Lacks touchscreen functionality.

Fewer Advanced Features: Less versatile compared to higher-end models.

Limited Buttons: Only three training buttons.

No Beeper: Lacks beeper compatibility for dense cover.

High Cost: $599.99 may be pricey for some users.

Cost: Priced at $699.99, which might be high for some users.

No Collars Included: Collars must be purchased separately.

Complexity: Advanced features might be overwhelming for some users.

Additional Costs: Some map features and accessories are sold separately.

Shorter Battery life when using in reach

Requires compatible Garmin products for full functionality.

Complexity: Advanced features might be overwhelming for beginners.

Size/Weight: Slightly bulky, which could affect portability.

Ongoing Costs: Premium map features require a subscription.

Battery Replacement: In-field battery replacement can be inconvenient

Interference: Potential signal issues in densely packed areas.

Feature Complexity: Advanced functions might be overwhelming for new users

Separate Purchase Required: Collars are sold separately.

Additional InReach Costs: May require a subscription for full satellite features.

In-Field Battery Replacement: May be inconvenient during hunts.

Collars Sold Separately: Requires additional purchase of compatible collars.

Limited International Availability: Approved for use only in the U.S., with restrictions in Canada.

Complex Features: Might be overwhelming for users unfamiliar with advanced tracking systems.

Battery Options: Requires standard AA batteries or optional rechargeable NiMH pack; in-field battery management can be a hassle.

Additional Purchases Required: Compatible dog collars are sold separately.

Price Point: $399.99 may be high for casual users.

Limited Dog Capacity: Tracks up to 3 dogs; not ideal for larger packs.

Complexity for Beginners: Advanced features may require a learning curve for new users.

Track storage: up to 10 days

*Garmin discontinued the Alpha 100 to focus on newer technology and market trends. The Alpha 200 and 300 models offer enhanced features and performance, meeting evolving consumer needs. By phasing out the Alpha 100, Garmin can streamline production, cut support costs, and stay competitive with advanced products. This approach ensures Garmin remains innovative and resource-efficient. Despite its discontinuation, the Alpha 100 is still available through businesses on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and local stores.

*Garmin discontinued the Astro 430 to focus on newer, better technology. As Garmin developed more advanced models, the Astro 430 became outdated. Newer models offer improved GPS accuracy, better maps, and longer battery life.

Keeping older models like the Astro 430 can be expensive for Garmin, so it makes sense for them to invest in new technology. This move helps Garmin stay competitive and meet the latest demands of their customers, ensuring they continue to provide top-notch, up-to-date products.