★★★★★ 1
Garmin has been a super disappointment.
Style: Alpha TT 25
FOR THE REMOTE:
For reasons I cannot fathom as a software developer, the Garmin developers chose to program the handheld to wait for GPS lock before allowing you to control the collar. This is stupid beyond belief and causes frustration that simply shouldn't be. Look Garmin, the remote should be able to communicate with the collar first and foremost. I want to be able to power everything up, put the collar on the dog, and walk out the door. If my dog sees a rabbit or deer, I want to be able to remind him not to chase. I DON'T want to stand there staring at my remote greeted by the message "Waiting for GPS" with all the buttons non-responsive. Fix this! This should be super easy to fix with a firmware update. Fix it and I'll gladly give this unit 10 stars! GPS is way too finicky to have to wait for it before using the basic controls.
Update: SERIOUSLY!! HOT GARBAGE. This remote couldn't find a satellite if I stuck one up its... AGH.. and you can't communicate with your dog's collar until it does.
FOR THE COLLAR:
You won't be happy with the beeper.. It's super quiet. The light is an awesome feature. Vibration may work for your dog, mine doesn't seem to notice it at all. If the antenna was any longer it would pick up signals from outer space. Buy the shorter one if you decide to go with this unit and don't need to keep your dog from crossing an ocean.
Seriously though... I'll never buy anything Garmin again. I would recommend you don't either.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on March 19, 2026