I am looking to buy a GPS computer. I have looked at Giant's NeosTrack and Garmin's Edge series. Looking at the manuals, it is not entirely clear to me if you have to set up an online account. I would rather not because I value my privacy. The main thing I would like to do is transfer my routes between computer and device. I have no need for services like Strava
Does anyone have experience on setting up these devices, or recommend one which does not require an online account?
All Garmin Edge models can be used without any sort of online account. As can any of the outdoor models, eg the Etrex, Oregon etc. There is a handlebar mount available for these, so you can use them on your bike if you want.
Newer Garmin models work as a USB mass storage device. ie you plug it into your computer, and it appears as a disk drive. So you can just copy files on and off, usually in FIT, TCX or GPX format.
Some models also have the option of Bluetooth or wifi for uploading. These will require a Garmin Connect account, and the app on a phone or tablet. But you don't have to use this, you can just plug in a USB cable as above.
There is a variety of free software you can use on your own computer for viewing rides etc, eg
For plotting routes, to transfer to the GPS. Depends on what sort of maps you want to use, some options include
Also some websites will let you draw a route, then save it as a file, without an account. eg GPSies
For updating the firmware, you can use Garmin WebUpdater software.
Depends what you want to do with the information.
If you just want to see your location on screen and nothing more, then no online account is required.
However if you want to push your ride recording/location to a service like strava etc, then you'll need an account with them.
The device maker would want your information for registering the device, and warranty. That would be a different matter, but doing this may give you access to firmware and map updates.
Finally, if your device wants internet access but has no internal cellular SIM, it might pair with a cellphone via bluetooth etc, to get internet access. This is often done through an app on the phone. Or you have to wait till you get home in range of a wireless AP to upload the device's recording.
I don't have a garmin personally, I use an android phone with ANT+ to talk with a HRM and a Cadence sensor. The phone has a data internet link when in-range, and also has wireless ethernet when I'm at home.
I need a strava account, and a cellphone account, and a working internet connection at home.
What you are trying to avoid is probably in fact almost unavoidable these days.
A bike computer head unit that uses a iPhone or Android phone with an app for GPS that does not specifically require creating an account still creates an identity and record of your activities that the computer vendor then stores, sells etc. etc.
The short answer is not. Although GPS devices with maps and routing existed before social media exploded and Garmin were the industry leaders in this, it no longer makes commercial sense to build products based on this model.
So where does that leave someone who does not want to leave a footprint on the internet - fundamentally you are stuck in limbo, no one wants to provide you a modern product.
The solution is rather than avoid online registration, set up an internet presence for just that one purpose. Open as gmail account "BobsGarminAccount.gmail.com" and sign in with this when using Garmin. You will have the advantage of working within the system, getting updates etc, while remaining (relatively) anonymous.
Maintaining a separate digital identity for this purpose can be difficult, but it is, theoretically possible. Avoiding logging into the shadow identity account from your normal pc or phone/home WiFi/regular Starbucks WiFi AP might be required, and may not be practical, but it is possible.
