Polar RS200SD vs S625X

The biggest difference between the 625 & RS200 is:
1) The software & HRM recording. The 625 will record HR data every 5 seconds and can be uploaded to your computer for analysis. It also includes the software that runs on your own PC and is quite detailed. The RS200 will only upload the "summary" informaion to Polar's web-based software. All you get here is the overall ave/max data. The watch will also store the lap information, but I don't believe the web app will display this.

2) The 625 has the option of adding cycling speed and cadence.

There are some smaller differences, but these are the biggies.

Six months ago I was debating the same issue. The main differences that I noted between the two was the 625's ability to 1) download more data to your computer; 2) add cycling speed / cadence; and 3) track changes in elevation. The download capabilities did not interest me, and neither did the elevation feature (I live in a very flat area). I debated the cycling features, but then that would add $80 or so bucks to the already expensive unit. Plus, I couldn't see putting the 625 on and off my bike every time I went for a ride.

I ultimately ended up with the RS200SD and love it. I've found training by heart rate to be very effective, so I'm going to buy the Polar CS200cad for my bike. Even at $150, that puts my total on the RS200SD and CS200cad at $350, roughly $80 cheaper than the 625 with the cycling adds. Plus, by buying both, you get two straps (I think the wearlink replacement strap is something like $50 or so).

Good luck!

RS200 with the foot pod and the CD200cad are pretty much the ultimate in Tri setups. As emntioned previously they are a bit cheaper with some cool options to boot. I like the simple fact that you can actually read the bike computer instead of having to try to look at your watch on the bike.

I have the s625x and my wife owns the RS200SD. Without doubt, I could be perfectly happy using the RS200SD as my watch. The 625 is pretty complex in what you can do with it, adding cadence, speed and power output to the bike, as well as the software piece mentioned above. The 625 also has the ability to measure temp and altitude, so if you REALLY want to dig in and see how you perform at "X" alt. and "Y" temp you can. The speed and distance pieces are the same. The RS200SD is a better form factor. Its smaller, the face is easier to read, the display is (in my opinion) easier to read, and easier to setup and use. So for the money I think that the RS200SD is a great buy. However if you have any thought of getting serious into performacnce tracking and dont mind spending a few extra bucks, go with the 625, it will be a tough device to outgrow.

*Also, if price is a big concern, checkout Ebay there is a seller on there "Mrnapadog" that sells all Polar equipment. I picked up a 625x for $270... and he supports the device for the life of the warranty. I can personally say that he is good. When I bought mine, there was a problem with the foot pod and I had a new one shipped to me with in 48 hours of me telling him about the issue.