Do GPS computers always need online account I am looking to buy a GPS computer. I have looked at Giant's NeosTrack and Garmin's Edge series. Looking at the manuals, it is not entirely clear to me if you have to set up an online account. I would rather not because I value my privacy. The main thing I would like to do is transfer my routes between computer and device. I have no need for services like Strava

Does anyone have experience on setting up these devices, or recommend one which does not require an online account?
Depends what you want to do with the information.  

If you just want to see your location on screen and nothing more, then no online account is required.

However if you want to push your ride recording/location to a service like strava etc, then you'll need an account with them. 

The device maker would want your information for registering the device, and warranty.  That would be a different matter, but doing this may give you access to firmware and map updates.

Finally, if your device wants internet access but has no internal cellular SIM, it might pair with a cellphone via bluetooth etc, to get internet access.  This is often done through an app on the phone.  Or you have to wait till you get home in range of a wireless AP to upload the device's recording.



I don't have a garmin personally, I use an android phone with ANT+ to talk with a HRM and a Cadence sensor.  The phone has a data internet link when in-range, and also has wireless ethernet when I'm at home.

I need a strava account, and a cellphone account, and a working internet connection at home.