Garmin Varia UT800
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Garmin Varia UT800. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
6 reasons to buy
- The Varia UT800 can be mounted on handlebars or helmets, but only one of the two mounts is included in the price.
- Mounting the Varia UT800 and syncing it with Garmin head units is easy, according to buyers.
- The Varia UT800 is compatible with a standard GoPro mount.
- Testers and owners praise the brightness at full power (800lm) and in daytime flash mode.
- When paired with a Garmin bike computer, the light can be set to automatically adjust brightness based on time of day, speed, and ambient light.
- This light has five modes ranging from high (800 lumens) to low (200) steady. It also has night and day flash modes.
5 reasons not to buy
- Multiple owners report UT800 cases and mounting tabs failing. The problem appears widespread enough that Garmin runs an exchange program for it.
- The Varia UT800 can’t be used while charging.
- A tester and multiple owners experience connectivity issues.
- Full-power battery life is poor. Testers and owners typically get around one hour, though one reviewer gets 2.5 hours with auto brightness control enabled.
- Garmin advertises this light for trail riding, but the beam intensity and spread are insufficient to be a standalone light.
Bottom line
The Garmin Varia UT800 is a rechargeable bike light sold with a choice of handlebar or helmet mounts. It weighs 4.6oz (130g) and has a beam spread of 270 degrees. This light receives praise for its different modes and auto brightness control. However, it’s not bright enough to be a standalone light for trail riding at night. The Varia UT800's short battery life at full power disappoints, and it can’t be used while charging, so it’s useless for longer night rides. While most experts consider the Varia UT800 a good light, connectivity issues, broken mounting tabs, poor battery life, and the high price should deter buyers.BikeRide finds and shows you the best prices of the bikes you want to buy. Prices constantly change and it’s impossible to compare them all yourself.
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Facts
Expert Reviews
79/100 based on 3 rated expert reviewsGarmin Varia UT800 – Overpriced Front Light? Or Top Tech With ANT+?
Garmin UT800 Headlight Real-World Review
Garmin Varia Smart UT800 Light Review
Garmin Varia UT800 Smart Headlight
Trail Tested | Garmin Varia UT800 Smart Headlight
Garmin UT800 Smart Headlight Review
Garmin Varia UT800 Bike Light | My Opinion [Polish]
Garmin Varia UT800 Review [German]
Test report: Garmin Varia UT800 [German]
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