Pacer Support Guide · Part 8 of 33
Garmin Settings: Lap Key and GPS Recording
Step-by-step instructions to disable the manual lap key and switch from Smart Recording to Every Second recording on your Garmin.
Marcel Lennartz
1 min read
Updated
Disable the manual lap button#
You can switch off the Lap Key on a Garmin watch as follows:
- Access settings: hold the MENU button.
- Select activity settings: navigate to Settings › Activities & Apps › Run › Run Settings.
- Toggle Lap Key: select Lap Key and change its status to Off.
Record every second for better GPS accuracy#
By default, Garmin watches use “Smart Recording”, which can produce less precise data. For optimal accuracy, switch to “Every Second” recording:
- Hold the MENU button.
- Select System.
- Select Data Recording.
- Under Frequency, choose Every Second.
It is important to understand why. Smart Recording is a power-saving option that sacrifices some accuracy, whereas Every Second recording provides the most accurate track at the cost of battery life.
| Smart Recording | Every Second Recording |
|---|---|
| Records data points only when there are significant changes in direction, speed, heart rate or elevation. | Records a data point every second, producing a more detailed and accurate track. |
| Conserves battery life and storage space. | Uses more battery life and storage space. |
| May be less accurate for activities with frequent changes in pace or direction. | Ideal where precise tracking is essential, such as races, training sessions or navigation. |
