Garmin T5 vs T5X Tracking Collars

With the launch of the new Garmin T5X collar, we would like to take the time to compare the new collar with its older version. Upon first glance, you will be able to see that the shell of the two units is virtually the same. The only identifying mark of the two Garmin collars is the serial number sticker with its designated product name above. There is not a remarkable change in appearance between the new Garmin T5X and its original design that was first released in June of 2014. We will be breaking down the collars into several categories including battery life, features, range, handheld compatibility, and price. Keep reading to learn more.

Battery Life

One of the major improvements to the Garmin T5X collar was its battery life. For years, customers have repeatedly expressed their desire for the T5 collars to have more battery life, especially on multi-day hunts. Garmin has listened to that feedback and the T5X new features a battery life of up to 80 hours! This is up to a 300 percent increase over the original T5’s 20-40 hour battery life. What remains unclear is how exactly they were able to achieve this increase in battery life. We are thinking that it could be due to more efficient circuitry and software, but it could also be the result of a new and an improved battery. We will find out once we are able to open one up and peek inside. Stay tuned for an update.

Collar Features and Tracking Range

Both the Garmin T5 and the T5X collars feature beacon lights and the ability to track out to a max range of 9 miles. New to the Garmin T5X is a remote receiver sleep mode. This mode can be remotely turned on and off to extend the battery life of the receiver. We are assuming that there will be a new Garmin handheld software update for existing units to activate this sleep mode, but are still unsure of the details at this time. We think this feature will shine brightest when you’re moving your dogs from one hunting spot to another, where you don’t want to take the time to remove the dog’s collar and we all know how difficult the collars are to turn off while being worn. With the remote sleep mode, the hunter will be able to remotely put the receiver into a standby mode, which should save on battery and extend your hunt time. Tracking distance with both collars remain the same, at a max range of 9 miles. There is the possibility that new hardware could result in some increase in tracking quality, like less frequent signal drops and better range in cover, but we will have to do further testing before being able to determine for sure.

System Compatibility

Like range, compatibility with handhelds stays the same with the new Garmin T5X. Both the Garmin T5 and T5X collars are compatible with the Astro 430, Alpha 100, Alpha 200, Alpha 200i, Alpha 10, and PRO 550 Plus handhelds. The T5X is also available as a Garmin Astro 430 T5X Bundle, as well as in multi-dog Astro 430 bundles.

Unlike the T5 collar, the T5X is not compatible with the Garmin Astro 320 handhelds.

Unit Price

One of the unfortunate changes between the Garmin T5 and T5X is price. As it seems like everything lately is increasing in price, so is the new T5X collar. The original Garmin T5 sold for $249.99, whereas the new T5X is available at $299.99.

LCS E-Collar Trade-In Program

Do you want to purchase a new Garmin T5X and already have an older DC50 or T5 collar, or perhaps an older Astro 320 or Astro 220 system? With the LCS E-Collar Trade-In Program, you can send in your old equipment (working or non-working) for credit towards your new Garmin purchases. For more information on our E-Collar Trade-In Program, see LCS Trade-In Program. If you are ready to send in your equipment check out, Simple Tips for the LCS E-Collar Trade-In Program, for information on sending in your trade-in and making the process go as smoothly and quickly as possible.

If you have any questions about the new Garmin T5X, please leave a comment below or reach out to our customer service by either calling 1-800-662-5202 or using our website’s live chat during business hours.

Thank you for reading!

Michael Cassatt – LCS Director of Marketing