As an ultra cyclist, I know firsthand that accurate data is the bedrock of meaningful training. But using a power meter isn’t just vital for athletes chasing long-distance records—it’s a tool that benefits anyone who sets specific goals, from weekend warriors to ambitious club riders. While heart rate, speed, or perceived exertion can provide partial insights, power meters give you the most direct measurement of your effort. They strip away guesswork, allowing you to train smarter, monitor progress, and unleash potential you might never have known existed. In this article, I’ll compare two leading contenders on the market: the 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO and the Inpeak Powercrank-E. Based on my experience, research, and the specs that matter most to me, I’ll show why the Inpeak comes out ahead—not just for ultra cyclists, but for anyone who values reliability, usability, and innovation. Welcome to my 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO vs Inpeak Powercrank-E journey to finding the best power meter. Just an honest review, no commercial benefits for me; I own both power meters.
Why You Need to Be Aware of Your Power Output
Awareness of your power output is transformative. Here’s why:
- Objective Measurement: Power is the only truly objective metric in cycling. Unlike heart rate or speed, it isn’t affected by wind, temperature, or fatigue. When you know your wattage, you can quantify effort with scientific precision.
- Smarter Training: Power meters help you structure intervals, tempo rides, and recovery sessions that align perfectly with your goals. Over- or under-training becomes a thing of the past.
- Real-Time Feedback: Real-time data means you make immediate adjustments—pacing climbs, holding steady in time trials, or managing surges in a group ride.
- Long-Term Progress: Tracking your numbers across weeks and months reveals trends and breakthroughs you’d never spot otherwise. You can fine-tune nutrition, recovery, and tactics for steady improvement.
- Motivation: Watching your power numbers climb is incredibly motivating. It turns training into a tangible journey of progress.
In short, knowing your power output is a game-changer, whether your aim is to finish your first century, crack into the top ten at your weekly race, or conquer ultra-marathons. Now let’s jump to my 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO vs Inpeak Powercrank-E comparison.
Price – Where Value Meets Ambition
Let’s get the most obvious concern out of the way: price. I’ve always believed that the best equipment doesn’t have to break the bank, but I’m also unwilling to compromise on quality—especially with something as essential as a power meter for my ultra-distance rides. On paper, the 4iiii brand generally offers cheaper options, but there’s a catch: when you look deeper, you realize you’re not always comparing their flagship models.
For example, if you want a factory-installed power meter on a Dura Ace crank, you’ll quickly notice that the 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO—arguably their most advanced unit—currently isn’t available for factory installation. Instead, you’re left with the Precision 3+, the slightly older and less innovative sibling. The numbers are clear: Inpeak’s Powercrank-E factory install costs $366.44 (or 366 euros), while the 4iiii Precision 3+ comes in at $327.66 (329.99 euros). But since I’m only interested in the very best, the 4iiii Precision 3+ isn’t even an option for me. I’m willing to pay about 10% more for the top-tier Inpeak because I want no compromises.
When it comes to ride-ready, dual-sided power meters on the latest Dura Ace crank, the comparison is more direct: the 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO is $1,237.84 (1,259.99 euros), whereas the Inpeak Powercrank-E is $1,110.89 (1,099 euros). Here, Inpeak is the clear winner, delivering the best technology at a lower price. For me, it’s an easy choice; my money goes to Inpeak.
Other 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO vs Inpeak Powercrank-E comparison categories
Weight – Every Gram Counts
As someone who obsesses over every gram on the bike, weight is a big deal for me. The Inpeak Powercrank E-power meter tips the scales at just 10 grams, while the 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO weighs 29 grams. That’s almost three times heavier! It might sound trivial to some, but for those of us who count grams with every upgrade, this is a major win for Inpeak.
Profile – Compatibility without Compromise
A low profile isn’t just about looks; it’s about compatibility and ensuring that nothing interferes with the tight spaces on modern frames. Both the Inpeak and 4iiii power meters are exactly 5.5mm thick—I measured them myself to double-check. Interestingly, only 4iiii mentions this on their website, but there’s no winner here: both fit beautifully on my bikes.
Battery – The Real Game-Changer
Here’s where things get personal. For years, I’ve been frustrated with power meters that rely on coin cell batteries. Nothing derails a ride like a dead CR2032 in the middle of nowhere, or struggling to open a stubborn battery compartment that always seems on the verge of breaking. Inpeak finally answered my prayers with the Powercrank E-power’s USB-C rechargeable battery.
Not only does it offer 90 hours per charge (and a full recharge in just 2 hours), but it also performs reliably from -5°C to 50°C. The convenience and peace of mind this brings to ultra-distance riding are hard to overstate. By contrast, the 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO still uses a CR2032 cell, which technically lasts up to 550 hours, but you trade convenience for those extra hours, and the minimum operating temperature is only 5°C. I’ll happily take the shorter battery life and USB-C convenience—Inpeak wins this chapter hands down.
Power Range – When Is More… Too Much?
The numbers here look dramatic: 4iiii’s power meter measures up to 4,000 watts, while Inpeak goes up to 2,000 watts. But let’s get real: even Jasper Philipsen, one of the world’s top sprinters, maxes out at around 1,900 watts. For all practical purposes, 2,000 watts is more than enough. No clear winner here—just two excellent options.
Cadence Range – Flexibility for Every Rider
Here’s a subtle but important difference: Inpeak’s power meter can measure cadence from 20 to 200 rpm, while 4iiii’s range is 30 to 170 rpm. Both ranges are more than enough for me (and probably 99% of cyclists), but it’s nice knowing that Inpeak offers that extra flexibility at both the low and high ends.
Accuracy – The Numbers Game
Accuracy is critical if you’re a data purist. The 4iiii boasts ±1% accuracy, while Inpeak is rated at ±2%. In practice, this means a difference of 1 watt in either direction at 100 watts—numbers that are more psychological than functional for most amateurs. If pinpoint accuracy is your obsession, 4iiii takes this category, but for me, it’s not enough to sway my decision.
Experience – Training in the Digital Age
Both brands offer apps with all the essentials: real-time data, sensor configuration, updates—the works. But Inpeak partners with AiTRAINER, giving buyers two months of free access to structured training plans. As someone always looking to improve, I consider this a nice bonus that tips the scale ever so slightly in Inpeak’s favor.
Durability – Built for Adventure
Riding in all weather is part of my identity as an ultra cyclist. So the durability of my equipment is non-negotiable. The 4iiii power meter is rated IPX7 (waterproof for immersion), while Inpeak is IP67 (fully dustproof and equally waterproof). The dustproofing makes Inpeak the clear winner for anyone tackling rough, dirty, or unpredictable conditions.
Warranty – Peace of Mind
Finally, we come to warranty. 4iiii offers three years, while Inpeak gives two. If long-term coverage is your top priority, 4iiii stands out here. For me, this is a minor consideration compared to all the other factors.
4iiii Precision 3+ PRO vs Inpeak Powercrank-E: Head-to-Head Comparison
Here’s how these two power meters stack up based on the most important factors for serious cyclists:
| Specification | 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO | Inpeak Powercrank-E |
| Price (Factory Install, Dura Ace Crank) | $327.66 / €329.99 (Precision 3+) | $366.44 / €366 |
| Price (Ride-Ready, Dual-Sided, Dura Ace) | $1237.84 / €1259.99 | $1110.89 / €1099 |
| Weight | 29g | 10g |
| Profile Thickness | 5.5mm | 5.5mm |
| Battery Type | CR2032 (replaceable) | USB-C rechargeable |
| Battery Life | Up to 550 hours | Up to 90 hours per charge |
| Charging Time | N/A (replace battery) | 2 hours (0–100%) |
| Operating Temp Range | 5°C to 50°C | -5°C to 50°C |
| Power Range | 0–4000 W | 0–2000 W |
| Cadence Range | 30–170 rpm | 20–200 rpm |
| Accuracy | ±1% | ±2% |
| Mobile App Features | Yes (personalized config, real-time data) | Yes + 2 months free AiTRAINER |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IPX7 (Water only) | IP67 (Water & Dust) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |
Detailed Analysis
- Price: Inpeak is generally more affordable, especially for top-tier ride-ready setups. While the 4iiii Precision 3+ (not PRO) is a bit cheaper for factory installs, the PRO version cannot currently be factory installed. For a +/-10% higher price, you get Inpeak’s very best. For full-featured, dual-sided power meters, Inpeak is the clear price leader.
- Weight: A 19g difference may seem minor, but weight weenies will appreciate Inpeak’s ultra-light 10g unit.
- Profile/Thickness: Both power meters are 5.5mm thick, so compatibility with tight frames is a non-issue.
- Battery: This is the game-changer. Inpeak’s USB-C rechargeable battery means no more fiddling with coin cells or worrying about battery case seals mid-ride. This is a huge advantage for ultra-distance cyclists and anyone who hates sudden power loss. 90 hours per charge, 2-hour recharge, and solid cold-weather performance—all in one package.
- Power & Cadence Range: 4iiii offers a wider power range, but 2000W covers even elite sprinters. Inpeak wins on cadence range (20–200 rpm vs 30–170 rpm).
- Accuracy: 4iiii technically wins with ±1% (vs Inpeak’s ±2%), but for most amateurs this difference is negligible.
- App Features: Both companies deliver robust apps, but Inpeak’s partnership with AiTRAINER and 2 months free use is a nice bonus for those interested in structured training plans.
- Durability: Inpeak’s IP67 rating means full dust and water protection, giving it the edge for rugged rides and bad weather.
- Warranty: Here, 4iiii wins with an extra year of coverage (3 vs 2 years).
Conclusion: Why Inpeak Is My Clear Winner
In the end, while both the 4iiii Precision 3+ PRO and Inpeak Powercrank-E power meters are excellent options, the Inpeak stands out for several reasons that matter deeply to me as an ultra cyclist. The rechargeable USB-C battery finally solves a long-standing annoyance and makes the Inpeak far more practical for extended adventures. The lighter weight, greater cadence range, competitive pricing, and full dust/water protection round out its advantages.
Sure, 4iiii takes the win on absolute accuracy and warranty length, but for my needs—and, I believe, for the vast majority of cyclists looking for the best combination of price, performance, and ease of use—Inpeak is the best choice. If you want to train with power, chase big goals, and never fret about batteries again, the Inpeak Powercrank-E is my unequivocal recommendation.
After weighing every category from price to durability, there’s no doubt in my mind—Inpeak is the winner for my needs. It checks all the right boxes: lighter weight, superior battery design, greater cadence range, better durability, and outstanding value. If you’re looking for a power meter that won’t let you down, especially on long adventures, Inpeak is my recommendation.
Interested in an Inpeak power meter, just follow the below link (no commercial benefits for me).
