Best GPS Brand?

[TwoWheeledExplorer]

I use a Magellan 315, and had a Magellan 4000 before that. I am looking at upgrading and perhaps getting either a Magellan SportTrak with map or Garmin E-trex Legend. What are you all using and how has it been working for you?

Hans Erdman, WEMT
Backcountry Trail Patrol
www.trailpatrol.org

This message was edited by Trailpatrol on 2-24-04 @ 10:03 AM

[FredHiltz]

Hi Hans. I use my Garmin GPS-III+ often in back-country skiing, snowhoeing, and hiking. There might be a Garmin 60C in my future. Connecting an external antenna (in my geek hat) improves track logs for trail mapping, so that's a must for me.

Both brands have broad product ranges, competing in the feature wars well enough. I can't call either one best in general, but particular situations might favor one. For example, Magellan leads with very large map memory, while Garmin offers 1:24,000 on-board maps for an increasing number of national parks.

Regards,
Fred

[JayH]

The Etrex Vista has more memory (24MB) if that is an issue and it has a built in compass, ascents/decents if that is what you're interested in. The Etrex line does not support an external antenna though, but for road touring, I have not had a problem with my Etrex Vista on the handlebar mount on trips in the NE.  There is a handy (albeit not publicized) way of getting the outside temperature on the Etrex's too which can be handy when on a tour. Check out

www.gpsinformation.net and search for the secret temp. reading you can access.

My only gripe with the Garmin Etrex series is the click-stick is fragile and Garmin warentee policy is not that great. They charge a flat $125 fee for anything, including silly stuff like the click stick rubber knob breaking off.

Jay

[turtlex]

I've got a Garmin Etrex Legend and I love it. I've had it for more than two years and it's served me well. I've geocached in all sorts of weather, hot summer through cold cold winter and never had any kind of problem. The new LegendC is a color version that I've heard great things about (unfortunately, I can't think up a reason to buy one - or I would!).

Best of luck.

[ptaylor]

I got a Garmin GPSMap 76C (with City Select map) and have used it for a few club rides and for an 11 day tour of part of the Atlantic Coast route. I am quite pleased with it.