I was wondering if any of the websites that I have come across can be considered reliable and/or comprehensive in the reviews they present regarding handheld gps units. I'm new to this technology,and was wondering what I should be looking for. It would be used for navigation through the desert and mountains, both in vehicles and on foot, but I'm not sure which features are required/helpful,or necessary beyong accuracy and the unit being waterproof. Any help would be appreciated either in pointing me to a site or with recomendations here. Thanks for the help as always.-- Ian

I hear the Equipped to Survive has a lot of articles, reviews and/or links to sites with such information. <img src="/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" /> Just goofin'.

I found the following link on an EPS page about compasses and GPS units:
GPS Information

There are some hardware and software review links about halfway down the page.

Yes, the GPS Information web page is an excellent resource! Beat me to it... <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

As far as GPS goes, stay away from any units that use proprietary rechargeable batteries. Most seem to use "AA" batteries, although there are a couple Garmin's that use smaller "AAA" batteries.

I'm kinda partial to the Garmin line, but that's probably because that's all I've ever used. I have an "eTrex Legend" which fits the bill for something basic for hiking / driving. There is the option to download additional maps (Garmin calls them "Mapsource"), but those CDs seem to run about $100.

There are also 3rd-party programs that can interface with your GPS (upload/download waypoints, routes, live tracking, etc.). DeLorme makes quite a few programs and National Geographic has a great Topo map program.

If you can, I would visit a store where you can try before you buy. Each one is a little different.

Thanks as always for the help. I'll check out that website, and will be sure to test out any unit before I buy it. --Ian

I's suggest getting one that shows maps instead of the cheapest which shows only directions and way points.

TRO

PS read some reviews for which are the easiest to use...

I have the basic Garmin eTrex and like it, although my needs are limited. It costs about $100 and uses AA batteries. It will work is a vehicle if placed on the dash where it can "see" through the windshield. It won't utilize maps, though. However it is exceedingly easy to use, which is great for me as my aptitude is limited by my patience, I guess might be a good way to put it. My main desire was simply something to use while hunting or hiking in the woods and get back where I started. No real sophisticated desires.

In my opinion, the best GPS unit on the market right now is the Garmin 60Cx (or 60GSx). These work well in a car and on the trail. It can do turn-by-turn routing for driving, or you can load it with topo maps for outdoor use. Color screen, waterproof, long battery life. The only down side is the price. Stree price of $450 for the Cx and $500 for the CSx (which adds a compass and barometer). Mapping software will also add $100. This "x" means that the memory comes in the form of removable memory cards. You can load this thing up with 512MB if you want.

A bit pricey, but I want one as soon as I can afford it to replace my old Meridian Platinum.

If you want something smaller, the eTrex line is nice, but you get less memory. If you want cheaper you can get the 60C or 60CS. That will save a little money, but you loose upgradable memory.

I am an owner of a Magellan Meridian. My experiences with that unit have convinced me to stay away from Magellans hand-held line. They are very slow to update firmware, and I do not like the way that their mapping software works. Somebody else mentioned the Gpsinformation.net site. Go there and click on the "what's new" page. Garmin dominates here. They are always updating firmware and introducing new products.

I'll second the vote for the Garmin GPSmap 60C (Sx) series, I have a 60CSx and it was worth every penny for my purposes. At $500+, there may be better choices for others.

I have had a number of Garmin GPS over the years and a few GPSs from other manufacturers. I have also had the opportunity work with some of the newer GPS units from Magellan, Cobra, and Lowrance while teaching. While some of these had neat features, I wouldn’t buy any of them. The Garmins I have used have been more durable, better power consumption, more accurate more consistently, better compatibility with 3rd party mapping software, and better reception.

My advice, look at what features you need (want) and pick a Garmin that has all those features. I highly recommend one of Garmins new “x” series with a removable memory card.

I have a 512mb card in my 60CSx (with software version 2.60) and I was able to load Topo and City Select maps for all of AZ, UT, NV, NM, CO, CA (south of NV north boarder) and West TX! Garmin’s Topo data isn’t as detailed as Magellan’s, but I have never wished I have had more detail on my GPS… however I use my GPS as a tool to use with a good map not as a replacement for a map. Using a GPS as a replacement for a map is a dangerous practice, and a recipe to find yourself on the receiving end of a search mission.

The -x versions also have the Serf-III chip set, which is a big improvement over the older models. It's more likely to get signal when the sky is blocked by trees.

I had a Gpsmap 60, and recently upgraded to a 60Cx. I gather you can get in-car navigation cheaper now, but it's nice to have a single unit that can do everything.

The etrex "X" series units do not have the Serf-III chipset, the 60C(S)x and 76C(S)x do... significant improvment in reception!