GPS hiking: hiking GPS Comparison
This article is originally written by Jeroen
The hiking GPS is booming. Manufacturers have understood this and now offer many models that meet the needs of hikers. What models are best suited for trekking? This article attempts to answer this question by comparing the various hiking GPS on the market and to view map source possibilities for your hiking gps models, click here.
MEDION took over the IGN, with three models M3220, M3320 and M3320A Premium (available since July 2010). These GPS are always mixed road / touring, by cons are waterproof to IPX7. They retain the soft OUTDOOR developed by CompeGPS is compatible mapping at 1/25000 (for download), and integrate the new software used by road GoPal5 Medione. The two latest models barometric altimeter and compass. The early returns are not encouraging.
This family of models consists GPS Foretrex 301 and Foretrex 401 . These models are very small and very light (76 grams) and comes with a wrist watch. These hiking GPS are compatible DGPS and have good capacity in number of WPTS. They run on two AAA batteries. Their autonomy is 17/18 hours. Compared to 301, the 401 adds a barometric altimeter and a magnetic compass.
This family of hiking GPS was a great success and was revamped in September 2011, with 10 eTrex, eTrex eTrex 20 and 30. These three GPS are not tactile, but have a joystick on the front. The eTrex 10 is the entry level, with a monochrome 128 x 160px, it is powered by two AA batteries and has a range up to 25 hours . The eTrex 20 mainly adds a color screen and the ability to add an SD memory card. The high-end, the eTrex 30 adds a wireless communication (super. ..), but above a barometric altimeter and a compass.
In many beautiful toys. I would advise to choose the 20 or 30, depending on your needs.
The difference with the eTrex line is primarily a remote antenna and reported a larger screen with a keyboard. The series of GPS touring "GPSMAP" has a mapping function and memory in addition, the "C" means color, "S" altimeter and compass, "x" removable SD card. All of these dedicated GPS for hiking have a serial and USB. The range is more expensive than against the eTrex range. The GPSmap 60 and has only one base map, while at the other end of the spectrum the MAP GPSmap 60CSx adds color, compass and altimeter, and the SD card. A GPS range quite cumbersome, but still interesting (and more readable screen keyboard clearer than on the eTrex). This range is replaced by the 62 range.
The new range to replace the 60 range. The entry-level we find the GPSmap 62, which has a screen 65 000 2.6-inch color sunlight-readable, consistent with satellite images BirdsEye ™ (subscription required) and functionality Garmin Custom Maps ™. The GPSmap 62s adds a barometric altimeter, 3-axis magnetic compass and an SD card reader. At the top of the range we find the GPSmap 62st adding maps to 1/100000 of 59 european countries. No need for the hike. In this range, for use when hiking, I would advise the 62s.
This range of Garmin hiking GPS standalone (2 * AA) and high sensitivity touch screen has almost everything you need. Its only flaw is the poor readability of the screen in bright sunlight. It consists of models Oregon 200 has 24MB of internal memory, accepts MicroSD cards. The model Oregon 300 adds a barometric altimeter and a temperature-compensated electronic compass, and sees his move to 850MB internal memory. The most expensive model adds 400 Oregon topographic maps of 29 European countries and an internal memory of 3GB. The Oregon 550 and 550t models add a digital camera of 3.2 megapixels. Super ... and it makes the coffee? All these models support GPS mapping TOPO. For hiking, I would advise the midrange model with Oregon 300.
Only the model Garmin Colorado 300 is sold in France. Unlike Oregon, it has no touchscreen, but a wheel control system that seems to be very effective and very useful to navigate with one hand and eat the batteries because turns himself in the pocket without locking the wheel can. Furthermore it offers good battery life, large screen, a compass, an altimeter and of course supports GPS mapping TOPO.
This is the last line of hiking GPS from Garmin. It is very similar to the range "Oregon", but slightly more compact and with less resolution. The base model, Dakota 10 already incorporates all the technology Garmin touch screen of 160x240 pixels, runs on two AA batteries and has a self-announced 20 hours. Moreover, it has 850MB of internal memory that allows it to receive the Garmin mapping. The Dakota 20 adds a MicroSD slot, a 3-axis electronic compass, barometric altimeter and a wireless connection. The latest software update allows you to add maps scanned, a real plus, as Oregon, 62s, Dakota, Colorado.
New since June 2011, the Montana series Garmin has 3 models: Garmin Montana 600, 650 and 640T. These three GPS touring are characterized by a significant size (14 x 7 x 3 cm) and a projection screen and a weight that goes with (4.0 ", 300 grams). The model 400 is already more than enough for use in touring. The model 450 adds a camera (super. ..) and memory, the 450t is in all respects identical to Montana 650 but adding on an 1/100.000ème Mapping Europe and customization of screens and display. With their big screen, the GPS will certainly find their audience. For use in emergency bag bottom could use some work.
After eXplorist X00 models that have had limited success, Magellan renews its range of products for much more in the era of time. TheeXplorist GC is a model dedicated to Geocaching, which interests us so little for hiking. Models eXplorist 510, 610 and 710 are more interesting. the basic model, the eXplorist 510 has a 3-inch touchscreen, a 3.2 megapixel camera and global base mapping preloaded unusable. Side battery, two AA batteries give it 15 hours of battery life. The eXplorist 610 adds an electronic compass 3-axis barometric altimeter, and topographic mapping by Magellan. The eXplorist 710 adds the road mapping and guidance that goes with it.
For the hike, the Model 610 seems the most interesting.
With TwoNav Aventura, TwoNav offers a GPS that could change the market. A compatible GPS IGN Carto (among others) reliable and robust.Autonomy of 16 hours, barometric altimeter, thermometer and compass integrated Sirf III antenna, 2D and 3D. Mapping the whole of France 1/100.000ème integrated basis in the original card to 4GB of Aventura, as well as road maps France. Its price is equivalent to high-end models from other brands, it is not given, but it's worth it. For more information, see the article I tested the GPS TwoNav Aventura.
Last born from TwoNav, the TwoNav sportiva is a dedicated outdoor GPS that corrects minor defects of the aventura: More compact and lightweight with only 124 grams. Autonomy 10 hours, sealing IPX6. Certainly the best touring the GPS time. See the test TwoNav Sportiva. The Sportiva is an evolution of technology that incorporates ANT.
The TwoNav Delta, the latest in GPS TwoNav is a Large size (Comparable to Garmin Montana) who will certainly find its audience for activities where the readability of the screen is important, without the weight or the bulk to be a limiting factor. Other models of GPS hiking are certainly available, but they are less common. If you know a good GPS model out of the ranges presented above, and that is suitable for hiking, do not hesitate to comment.
* GPS mapping IGN: TwoNav Sportiva (or Sportiva + ): Not only is it a very good GPS, but in addition there is no real competition in the market. * GPS mapping without IGN: Garmin Oregon 300 , Garmin Dakota 20 or eTrex 30 : last-generation Garmin GPS touring with the ability to add scanned maps. Definitely a good choice.
Target your needs
What hiking GPS do you need? GPS to guide you mountain bike? A GPS to record your jogging the day and know your statistics? A GPS to mark your corners to mushrooms? GPS as a safety tool in the mountains? Is what you need mapping? Summary mapping or mapping IGN?Do you need an altimeter? On a compass? How much autonomy do you need? etc., etc.. You see, there are many possible uses, as there are many GPS. The key is to choose the hiking GPS that will be customized to YOUR business It is the use you want to make your hiking GPS that will condition your choice .Criteria for comparing different models of GPS for hiking
- Weight: This is the No. 1 enemy of the hiker. A lightweight material, it's so fast program security. - Battery life: hiking in the GPS function on battery or batteries. Compared to batteries, the batteries have the advantage of being universal. Have a minimum of 12 hours (15 hours is better) for a good GPS. - Reception quality: If the GPS does not pick up satellites, it is useless. The new chips are now much more sensitive than the former and not posit more reception problems, even in the forest. - Robustness / waterproofing: When hiking equipment suffers: Shock, drop, humidity, rain. Robust equipment is based. - Ease of Use: A GPS can be useful if you can use it. Your home warm in the record, that's fine, but on the ground in the storm that Corsican. Clear and logical interface, large screen readable even in bright sunlight ... Many parameters to look good. - Processor suitable: The modern GPS are real small computers. Those who boarded the mapping must be fast enough that the display is not jerky. - Barometric altimeter: This is something new that can calculate the height difference made, but it is far from essential. - Electronic compass: quite comfortable for the user, the compass heading can be stopped. The 2-axis compass (GPS older generations) pose a lot of usability issues. The modern GPS now offer 3-axis compass (which work even if the GPS is not held horizontally).The compass is generally energy-intensive, so it must be deactivated. - Input / Output: All GPS have a PC interface that allows minimum to send files stored on the ground by the GPS to the PC for analysis. The more advanced models can receive GPS files from the PC or other device, to keep a trace (Guide Function). The GPS feature all modern USB interface (most comfortable user interface that "series" exceeded), and are recognized as an external hard drive. - Mapping: The mapping theory is not essential, but what comfort on the ground! Many models are compatible with a Vector mapping is already a plus but it is not comparable with the models that can embed a raster mapping 1/25000th IGN's example, provided that it is fluid and available at a reasonable price ... We propose now to review the different models of GPS touring on the market.Medion EVADEO
MEDION took over the IGN, with three models M3220, M3320 and M3320A Premium (available since July 2010). These GPS are always mixed road / touring, by cons are waterproof to IPX7. They retain the soft OUTDOOR developed by CompeGPS is compatible mapping at 1/25000 (for download), and integrate the new software used by road GoPal5 Medione. The two latest models barometric altimeter and compass. The early returns are not encouraging.
Garmin Foretrex
This family of models consists GPS Foretrex 301 and Foretrex 401 . These models are very small and very light (76 grams) and comes with a wrist watch. These hiking GPS are compatible DGPS and have good capacity in number of WPTS. They run on two AAA batteries. Their autonomy is 17/18 hours. Compared to 301, the 401 adds a barometric altimeter and a magnetic compass.
Garmin eTrex
This family of hiking GPS was a great success and was revamped in September 2011, with 10 eTrex, eTrex eTrex 20 and 30. These three GPS are not tactile, but have a joystick on the front. The eTrex 10 is the entry level, with a monochrome 128 x 160px, it is powered by two AA batteries and has a range up to 25 hours . The eTrex 20 mainly adds a color screen and the ability to add an SD memory card. The high-end, the eTrex 30 adds a wireless communication (super. ..), but above a barometric altimeter and a compass.
In many beautiful toys. I would advise to choose the 20 or 30, depending on your needs.
Garmin 60
The difference with the eTrex line is primarily a remote antenna and reported a larger screen with a keyboard. The series of GPS touring "GPSMAP" has a mapping function and memory in addition, the "C" means color, "S" altimeter and compass, "x" removable SD card. All of these dedicated GPS for hiking have a serial and USB. The range is more expensive than against the eTrex range. The GPSmap 60 and has only one base map, while at the other end of the spectrum the MAP GPSmap 60CSx adds color, compass and altimeter, and the SD card. A GPS range quite cumbersome, but still interesting (and more readable screen keyboard clearer than on the eTrex). This range is replaced by the 62 range.
Garmin 62
The new range to replace the 60 range. The entry-level we find the GPSmap 62, which has a screen 65 000 2.6-inch color sunlight-readable, consistent with satellite images BirdsEye ™ (subscription required) and functionality Garmin Custom Maps ™. The GPSmap 62s adds a barometric altimeter, 3-axis magnetic compass and an SD card reader. At the top of the range we find the GPSmap 62st adding maps to 1/100000 of 59 european countries. No need for the hike. In this range, for use when hiking, I would advise the 62s.
Garmin Oregon
This range of Garmin hiking GPS standalone (2 * AA) and high sensitivity touch screen has almost everything you need. Its only flaw is the poor readability of the screen in bright sunlight. It consists of models Oregon 200 has 24MB of internal memory, accepts MicroSD cards. The model Oregon 300 adds a barometric altimeter and a temperature-compensated electronic compass, and sees his move to 850MB internal memory. The most expensive model adds 400 Oregon topographic maps of 29 European countries and an internal memory of 3GB. The Oregon 550 and 550t models add a digital camera of 3.2 megapixels. Super ... and it makes the coffee? All these models support GPS mapping TOPO. For hiking, I would advise the midrange model with Oregon 300.
Garmin Colorado
Only the model Garmin Colorado 300 is sold in France. Unlike Oregon, it has no touchscreen, but a wheel control system that seems to be very effective and very useful to navigate with one hand and eat the batteries because turns himself in the pocket without locking the wheel can. Furthermore it offers good battery life, large screen, a compass, an altimeter and of course supports GPS mapping TOPO.
Garmin Dakota
This is the last line of hiking GPS from Garmin. It is very similar to the range "Oregon", but slightly more compact and with less resolution. The base model, Dakota 10 already incorporates all the technology Garmin touch screen of 160x240 pixels, runs on two AA batteries and has a self-announced 20 hours. Moreover, it has 850MB of internal memory that allows it to receive the Garmin mapping. The Dakota 20 adds a MicroSD slot, a 3-axis electronic compass, barometric altimeter and a wireless connection. The latest software update allows you to add maps scanned, a real plus, as Oregon, 62s, Dakota, Colorado.
Garmin Montana
New since June 2011, the Montana series Garmin has 3 models: Garmin Montana 600, 650 and 640T. These three GPS touring are characterized by a significant size (14 x 7 x 3 cm) and a projection screen and a weight that goes with (4.0 ", 300 grams). The model 400 is already more than enough for use in touring. The model 450 adds a camera (super. ..) and memory, the 450t is in all respects identical to Montana 650 but adding on an 1/100.000ème Mapping Europe and customization of screens and display. With their big screen, the GPS will certainly find their audience. For use in emergency bag bottom could use some work.
After eXplorist X00 models that have had limited success, Magellan renews its range of products for much more in the era of time. TheeXplorist GC is a model dedicated to Geocaching, which interests us so little for hiking. Models eXplorist 510, 610 and 710 are more interesting. the basic model, the eXplorist 510 has a 3-inch touchscreen, a 3.2 megapixel camera and global base mapping preloaded unusable. Side battery, two AA batteries give it 15 hours of battery life. The eXplorist 610 adds an electronic compass 3-axis barometric altimeter, and topographic mapping by Magellan. The eXplorist 710 adds the road mapping and guidance that goes with it.
For the hike, the Model 610 seems the most interesting.
TwoNav Aventura
With TwoNav Aventura, TwoNav offers a GPS that could change the market. A compatible GPS IGN Carto (among others) reliable and robust.Autonomy of 16 hours, barometric altimeter, thermometer and compass integrated Sirf III antenna, 2D and 3D. Mapping the whole of France 1/100.000ème integrated basis in the original card to 4GB of Aventura, as well as road maps France. Its price is equivalent to high-end models from other brands, it is not given, but it's worth it. For more information, see the article I tested the GPS TwoNav Aventura.
TwoNav Sportiva
Last born from TwoNav, the TwoNav sportiva is a dedicated outdoor GPS that corrects minor defects of the aventura: More compact and lightweight with only 124 grams. Autonomy 10 hours, sealing IPX6. Certainly the best touring the GPS time. See the test TwoNav Sportiva. The Sportiva is an evolution of technology that incorporates ANT.
TwoNav Delta
The TwoNav Delta, the latest in GPS TwoNav is a Large size (Comparable to Garmin Montana) who will certainly find its audience for activities where the readability of the screen is important, without the weight or the bulk to be a limiting factor. Other models of GPS hiking are certainly available, but they are less common. If you know a good GPS model out of the ranges presented above, and that is suitable for hiking, do not hesitate to comment.
The Editors' Choice: Finally, what model to choose? Where to buy your GPS Hike? and at what price?
We have reviewed all GPS models dedicated to hiking. Finally, here is our verdict:
* GPS mapping IGN: TwoNav Sportiva (or Sportiva + ): Not only is it a very good GPS, but in addition there is no real competition in the market. * GPS mapping without IGN: Garmin Oregon 300 , Garmin Dakota 20 or eTrex 30 : last-generation Garmin GPS touring with the ability to add scanned maps. Definitely a good choice.
You are decided? Whatever your choice, please take a look at the Map Source Store to find one of these handheld trail models and get hiking!
