Magene S3+ Speed & Cadence Sensor Review: Is It Worth It?
What People Say
I bought two of these for Zwift and they connect instantly every time without fail.
For $20, I was skeptical, but the accuracy is spot on compared to my expensive Garmin sensor.
Super easy to install; I had it up and running on my crank in under two minutes.
Problem & Solution
Cyclists often struggle to track their progress accurately without spending hundreds on expensive power meters or proprietary ecosystems. If you are training indoors on apps like Zwift or Onelap, guessing your speed and cadence leaves you without the actionable data needed to improve your FTP or endurance, leading to stagnant fitness gains.
The Magene S3+ solves this by providing precise, real-time metrics at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. By simply strapping it to your crank or hub, you instantly bridge the gap between your bike and your favorite training apps, allowing you to monitor your cadence and speed with professional-grade accuracy.
Who Is It For?
The Magene S3+ is designed for budget-conscious cyclists, indoor training enthusiasts using Zwift or Onelap, and recreational riders who want to gamify their workouts without breaking the bank. It is perfect for those moving from casual riding to structured training.
Key Features
- Dual Protocol (ANT+/Bluetooth)Connects seamlessly to both bike computers and smartphone apps simultaneously.
- Dual Mode FunctionalityEasily switch between Speed or Cadence mode to suit your specific training focus.
- CR2032 Battery PoweredProvides up to 500 hours of ride time, ensuring you aren't constantly swapping batteries.
- IP66 Waterproof RatingBuilt to withstand heavy rain and sweat, making it reliable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Lightweight Aerodynamic DesignAdds virtually zero weight or drag to your wheel hub or crank arm.
- Plug-and-Play InstallationNo magnets required, allowing for a clean, hassle-free setup in seconds.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Incredible value for money compared to premium competitors
- Extremely easy installation with no magnets needed
- Stable and fast connection with Zwift and Wahoo
- Compact and unobtrusive design
Cons
- Requires manual mode switching between speed and cadence if you only own one unit
- Battery door can be slightly stiff to open
FAQ
A single S3+ unit tracks one metric at a time. For both simultaneously, you need two units.
Yes, it supports standard ANT+ protocols, making it fully compatible with Garmin, Wahoo, and Bryton computers.
No, the S3+ uses an internal accelerometer, so no magnets are required on your spokes or frame.
You switch modes by removing and re-inserting the battery until the LED color changes (Green for Cadence, Red for Speed).
Final Verdict
The Magene S3+ is a game-changer for the cycling market. It proves that you don't need to spend $100+ to get reliable, accurate training data. While it requires buying two units if you want speed and cadence simultaneously, the total cost is still significantly lower than a single brand-name sensor. It is responsive, durable, and highly compatible, making it an essential tool for any Zwift or outdoor cyclist.