Garmin Astro vs Alpha

The Garmin Astro 320 and 430 were Garmin's earlier dog-tracking handhelds: GPS tracking only, with no training stimulation, using the DC40 and T 5 collars. The Alpha added training to the same idea. If you want track-and-train, the Alpha is the system - the Astro tracks but will not correct a dog.

See Garmin Astro listings on Amazon

Astro vs Alpha: the core difference

The Astro located dogs; it did not train them. The Alpha added electronic stimulation, tone and vibration to the same VHF tracking, which is why it replaced the Astro for most hunters. If you train with the collar, you want an Alpha and a TT 25; if you only ever need to see where the dogs are, an Astro still does that.

The Astro 320 and 430 used the DC and T 5 collars, which the Alpha does not fully share - the Alpha's collar family runs from the T 5 and TT 15 up to the current TT 25. They are related systems, not interchangeable ones.

Should you buy an Astro today?

Only for tracking-only use on a budget, and used. For anything current, the Alpha lineup is where Garmin's support and collars are. The competitors page sets the Alpha against other systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Garmin Astro train a dog?

No. The Astro only tracks. For stimulation, tone and vibration you need an Alpha handheld and a track-and-train collar like the TT 25.

Do Astro collars work with an Alpha?

The DC-series Astro collars are a different system. The Alpha tracks the T 5, TT 15, T 20 and TT 25. Check the collars page.

Astro 320 vs Alpha 100?

The Alpha 100 adds training the Astro 320 does not have, on similar-era tracking. The Alpha is the more capable of the two.

Ready to check the latest price?

See Garmin Astro listings on Amazon