Review: Qstarz BT-Q1300S Sports Recorder

Review: Qstarz BT-Q1300S Sports Recorder

For people interested in maintaining an active lifestyle, Qstarz has introduced the BT-Q1300S Sports Recorder. Basically, it is an updated version of the Qstarz BT-Q1300 Travel Recorder Nano (reviewed here in September 2008) that now includes the QSports software package and a bright orange armband. The ability to adjust the GPS signal sampling rate (for more or less accuracy) is also a new feature. I will not bother rehashing the device basics since it is virtually identical to the BT-Q1300 and I don’t have much to add to Gautam’s already good review. Instead, I will focus on the Qsports software.

My first impression of the Qsports software was that it was very easy to use. To begin, you first create a new user profile. This allows you to track separate workout plans and sessions for multiple persons. It prompts you for relevant information used for fitness calculations. You can then begin to import the logged tracks from the GPS device.

Once the datalogs are downloaded, the Activities View will display summary information for your workouts. You can assign a name and activity type as well as add useful notes. The remaining data is taken from the GPS track log and used to calculate things such as speed and

the average elevation grade. I’m a bit of a geek when it comes to numbers and graphs so I loved the level of information provided. The detailed log of my hike was extremely useful and I’m sure runners, cyclists, etc… would also find this helpful.

The Health Management screen allows you track fitness and workout goals. Based on the personal information you provide, Qsports will calculate your BMI (Body Mass Index) and ask you to specify a target body weight. You can also set up your weekly, monthly, or yearly workout plan. The software will then track your sessions in a calendar format and provide feedback history via graphs.

The Statistics View is another screen that will show your workout history. There are many options and preset views that could keep you busy to your heart’s content.



Finally, I will mention two more items of note. As I mentioned at the top of this review, an added feature to the Sports Recorder is the ability to adjust the GPS signal sampling rate. Qsports has default log criteria but you can override these settings. I didn’t mess around with this option much but obviously it will affect the accuracy of your track log.



The ability to export your track – as HTML, Google, or Track file – is also available. I really liked the HTML option. It essentially overlays your route on Google Maps, similar to a KML file. However, it differs in that you can playback and retrace your route as movie.





My overall opinion of the Qstarz BT-Q1300S Sports Recorder is that it is a fantastic product. As a photo/geotagging device, it was already a solid recommendation. I think the addition of the Qsports software package only increases its usefulness and value. Exercise buffs that enjoy monitoring their performance and activities will appreciate the detailed information and analysis. One disappointment I did have, though: Qsports only runs in Microsoft Windows. Sorry Mac users!

(Via NaviGadget.)