The Difference Between CS600 and CS600X

The CS600 and CS600X are handlebar-mounted cycling computers designed by Polar. Both devices are intended for use by competitive and semi-professional cyclists looking to be able to record training and recovery data that can be analyzed both on the road and at home. The devices are nearly identical, differing only slightly in terms of cosmetics, features and bundled items.

  1. Identification

    • The CS600 and CS600X are identical in size. Both measure approximately 2 inches wide, 2 inches tall and 1 inch thick at their thickest points. The CS600 is black with red accents, while the CS600X is dark grey with silver accents. The CS600 and CS600X weigh about a pound apiece, not including optional upgrades and accessories. Physical control buttons are located on the right hand and left hand sides of both devices.

    Differences in Features

    • There are two primary differences between the CS600 and the CS600X. The first is that the CS600X has the ability to record GPS track logs when paired with Polar’s optional G3 GPS module. The second is that the CS600X has twice as much on-board memory as the CS600, allowing it to store up to 8.5 hours of data under optimal circumstances, compared to roughly four hours for the CS600.

    Additional Features

    • Additional features of the CS600 and CS600X are identical. Both devices have altimeters, barometers, temperature monitors and a wealth of body measurement features, including the ability to calculate things like calorie expenditure, intervals, training loads and heart rate variability. Polar outfits both devices with the ability to perform automatic lap recording and estimated daily and weekly training totals as well. The CS600 and CS600X are both water-resistant to 10 meters and feature automatic back lights for use at night.

    Bundled Items

    • Both devices come with the Polar Twist bicycle mount, Polar ProTrainer computer software and an installation guide. Versions of the CS600 and CS600X are also available with Polar’s W.I.N.D. Power Sensor, which allows cyclists to measure power output and heart rate while on the road. The CS600X also comes bundled with a Polar IrDA USB adapter and USB cable, while the CS600 does not.