I have been using the free version of Strava for over a year now but have been thinking of getting a Garmin dedicated bike computer. I don't go outside the surrounding areas and have no interest to set up a ride to follow on the screen. I like the segments option that Strava has and was wondering would I be better served using the subscription Strava over the Garmin or the Free Strava? I am confused. I don't have a power meter, not that I would not want one, but my rides are usually in the 12-15 mile range 4-5 times a week. For the cost of the computer and the type of riding I do is there any reason/benefit to a Garmin or subscription Strava for me or is it just money spent on another toy?
Thanks in advance, Frank.

It really depends what your looking to collect. If you want more data than your getting then a garmin will be the way to go. But if you just track distance or don't even care about data then don't waist your money and keep on with the free strava.

What are looking for?

is strava having a free trial currently? they did a while ago and i tested it out. it's not worth whatever they're charging. try it for a month yourself. all the good features are in the free version. the paid features are silly, in my opinion of course. everyone has different interests, so if someone is paying for strava i'm not ripping on their decision or anything.

garmin and strava integrate well. you don't have to chose. both my forerunner 220 running watch and edge 830 bike computer automatically load my runs and rides into strava. for free.

I’ve struggled with similar questions. I have an inexpensive cateye computer on my bike and I use the free version of Strava as well. The only reason I would use the paid version is if I decided to get a smart trainer for the winter and connect with Zwift. But, that’s an investment I’ve avoided because I’m concerned I wouldn’t ride indoors enough to justify all the cost. I really only use Strava to track my miles and watch the other Strava athletes I connect with. My cateye actually tracks me slightly faster and logs slightly more distance each ride, so I like it better.