Garmin eTrex Vista Handheld GPS Navigator

Garmin eTrex Vista Handheld GPS Navigator

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Garmin eTrex Vista Handheld GPS Navigator Product By Garmin (126 customers reviews) Lowest Price : $149.95 Available From 2 Sellers

Technical Details

• WAAS-Enabled
• Same Features As Grm0025600 Etrex Legend Plus A Built-In Barometric Altimeter & Electronic Compass
• Compass Provides Bearing Information While User Is Standing Still
• Altimeter Determines Precise Altitude & Provides A Graphic Profile Of User¿S Trip
• Contains 24 Mb Internal Memory For Storing Detailed Map Data

Product Description

The eTrex Vista combines a base map of North and South America, with a barometric altimeter and electronic compass. The compass provides bearing information while you're standing still and the altimeter determines your precise altitude. The Vista is also designed to provide precise GPS positioning using correction data obtained from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). This product will provide position accuracy to less than three meters when receiving WAAS corrections.The eTrex Vista also boasts an internal memory capacity of 24 megabytes, which allows it to accept downloaded mapping data from Garmin's MapSource CD-ROMs, including Fishing Hot Spots. A silver case gives this unit a high-tech look. New to the product design, Garmin will include marine aids to navigation in addition to the base map. These navigational aids can be pre-loaded into each unit from the factory.It is compatible with most Garmin MapSource products including BlueChart marine cartography, MetroGuide, and Fishing Hot Spots. Accepts up to 24 megabytes of downloaded map detail.

Amazon.com Review

Garmin's eTrex Vista GPS receiver is smaller than its popular eMaps, but far more powerful. The Vista offers more memory, more features, and more convenience than any other GPS hardware in this price range.
Don't be fooled by the product's small screen. Although smaller than the display used in products like the eMap, it has a higher resolution, letting it show more information more crisply. Small text can be difficult to read from a distance, but there are "big number" options available to make important data like your speed easy to read.
It's this configurability that makes the eTrex Vista so special.

Map page (shown with optional MapSource topo detail).

You can easily set it up to suit your needs, regardless of the situation. Menu choices are highlighted and confirmed with a small joystick near the top of the unit, providing an elegant interface for navigating a formidable amount of options. Our only complaint is that the joystick used to access all the product's features is offset to the left, making it nearly impossible to control using only your right hand. When the joystick is held in your left hand, however, every control is within easy reach of your left thumb, freeing your right hand to hold a flashlight, walking stick, lantern, or anything else.
This GPS unit's diminutive size and weight, not to mention its rugged design, make it an ideal hiking companion. It's waterproof in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes and is generously coated with shock-absorbing rubber. The barometric altimeter keeps a historical record of your ascents and descents, graphing elevation changes so you can easily track your progress.

Elevation page

The ability to store waypoints, points of interest, routes, and other information means you can blaze your own trail and always find your way back to camp.
Best of all, 24 MB of internal memory makes it possible to store an enormous amount of data from Garmin's optional MapSource CDs, turning the eTrex Vista into an interactive road atlas. The memory isn't expandable, but 24 MB is enough to store street-level data for entire states in some cases.
A serial cable is included for transferring the maps from your PC to the GPS unit, but it's terribly slow. A USB connector, sold separately, transfers data in a fraction of the time.
The eTrex Vista was very accurate in testing, especially in a car on the open road. Accuracy diminished somewhat when the device was used in heavy tree cover or a dense urban area, but not enough that you're ever going to get lost or miss an exit. Used side-by-side with an eMap, the eTrex Vista kept up in update speed while displaying even more information on the moving map than the eMap did, cementing its position as perhaps the best all-around handheld GPS unit money can buy. --T. Byrl Baker
Pros:

• Small and light without sacrificing features
• 24 MB of integrated memory stores reams of detailed maps
• High-resolution screen displays sharp text legible even at extremely small sizes

Cons:

• Can't be used one-handed when held in the right hand
• Smaller display is hard to read from a distance, as when the device is placed on a dashboard

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Customer Reviews

 "Great Low Cost GPS" 2010-03-15
By Diamondback (USA)
I've had this model for awhile now. I like it better than the Foretrex models. I like it better than the basic Etrex models.

It can do a variety of format datum that allows flexibility of use.

It is very accurate, dependable, takes abuse, and is waterproof. It uses two AA batteries and does not eat them up like other GPS's. The field tab areas are customizable in navigation mode to suit it how you like. The blacklight feature is not to bright and a nice feature.

The "thumb" button is a nice feature to have to scroll around rather than the other etrex lower base models that you have to scroll around by side buttons. So the thumb button is very nice especially when inputting data settings or waypoints.

The auto configure feature of locating the satellites when you turn it on is nice because you can take a trip and have it automatically update your current location without getting into manual settings for regions.

You can take clear packing tape and cut it to the shape of the GPS screen and roll it on to make a protective coating for the screen that costs nothing.

Cons:

The retaining strap is hooked to a small piece of plastic at it's base that can break if some hard pressure is applied. I wouldn't dangle it by the retention cord all the time. It can get broken easily if abused in this area.

Fix: if it does break, drill a small hole into the battery cavity past the broken plastic strip and knot a piece of nylon cord / melt the end and pass the cord through the tight hole for a new retention cord that is stronger than the original. You can silicone it shut with some automotive silicone. This will allow you to keep it for trail hiking, have a stronger retention cord, and keep it secure.

 "When it works..." 2009-02-18
By R. Stephenson (Chesapeake, Va)
Everything about the Etrex works; right up to the point the screen fails. And this did not just happen to me, it also happened to two friends of mine. Bottom line I have owned several Garmin products and been quite pleased but the Etrex is not reliable.

 "Display sux" 2008-10-06
By D. Buehler (PA, USA)
The display is dim & hard to see/read. Back light is not very bright. Tried replacing batteries (twice) still no improvement in the display. Returned the unit one day after receiving.

 "Garmin Etrex Vista" 2008-04-06
By Shawn N. Flynn (california)
Garmin eTrex Vista Handheld GPS

Bought it for a road bicycle, and I love it! Bought it with the bicycle mount. Received it and started using it the same day. It has a million features, so it takes a bit of reading to setup all the options. Oh...you have to buy MapSource to fully utilize the unit. I tried the cheaper method of uploading and downloading to the unit. Could not get to work with Google Earth Plus, I did get to work with other 3rd party software. But I finally coughed up the $100 bucks (almost as much as the unit) and bought MapSource North America.

Now I was cooking was gas! Uploading, downloading, mapping, graphing, analyzing my ride. It is incredible all the information that can be gleamed from the interface with MapSource.

Now that I have used it for a bit, I love it even more. You can plan routes, or not. Use the tracks you created, later. The graphing on the altimeter is wild! The maps are incredibly detailed. I could go on and on about all the features, for the price this unit is the BOMB.

I had a sneaky suspicion that I might need to buy the software. So I chose the Vista. However, I am so pleased with the unit that I wish I had bought the colored more sensitive(GPS wise) higher end model.

 "Too simple" 2008-01-27
By A. Gandini (Canoas, RS, Brazil)
It is a good receiver, but its operational system is too simple and slow to use. But for the price, it worths.

All Reviews

Garmin Etrex Legend GPS Receiver

Garmin Etrex Legend GPS Receiver

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Garmin Etrex Legend GPS Receiver Product By Garmin (306 customers reviews) Lowest Price : $169.95 Available From 4 Sellers

Technical Details

• WAAS-Enabled
• Smallest GPS On Market With North & South America Basemap
• Perfect For Outdoor Person & Adaptable To Be Fully-Functional For Vehicle Use
• Download From Metroguide Usa Cd-Rom (Not Included), Detailed Street Map Info, Addresses & Points Of Interest With Phone Info
• 8 Mb Of Available Flash Memory

Product Description

With the eTrex Legend, Garmin has loaded a full base map of North and South America into one small unit. The Legend is also designed to provide precise GPS positioning using correction data obtained from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). This product will provide position accuracy to less than three meters when receiving WAAS corrections.The base map contains lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads and coastlines. The eTrex Legend is also equipped with additional memory totaling eight megabytes. The added memory allows the eTrex Legend to accept downloaded map data from Garmin's entire line of MapSource CD-ROMs, including Fishing Hot Spots. The eTrex Legend comes in a brightly colored translucent blue case that really makes the unit stand out. New to the product design, Garmin will include marine aids to navigation in addition to the base map. These navigational aids will be pre-loaded into each unit from the factory.It is compatible with most Garmin MapSource products including MapSource BlueChart marine cartography, MetroGuide, and Fishing Hot Spots. Accepts up to 8 megabytes of downloaded map detail.

Amazon.com Review

Amazon.com Review There are now enough handheld global positioning system (GPS) receivers on the market that you can be choosy when it comes to price, features, and design. Garmin--a leading manufacturer of car, boat, and personal GPS receivers--has a complete line of eTrex handheld receivers, with our Legend falling about midrange.
With Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) support, the eTrex Legend offers extremely accurate readings (rated to within 2 to 3 meters). (For more on WAAS, see the Frequently Asked Questions section.) A good-size screen--288 x 160 pixels--makes it easy to see location details, and the Legend redraws maps quickly when zooming in or out of a position.

The eTrex Legend provides precise GPS positioning using correction data obtained from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS).

The Satellite page shows satellites being tracked, and their corresponding signal strength. View larger.

The internal trip computer provides a range of data about hikes and drives. View larger.

Its 8 MB of memory means there is also plenty of room for waypoints, routes, and saved tracks. The Legend will hold up to 500 waypoints, complete with a name and graphical symbol, 20 routes with 50 waypoints each, and it contains slots for 10 saved tracks. You can also download maps from Garmin's MapSource CD-ROMs (thorough but expensive accessories for the GPS receiver) to see street-level or topographic detail (depending on the CD-ROM title).
But one of the most striking attributes of the Legend is its comfortable and efficient design. While it rests easily in the palm of either hand, it's most suited for the left hand, where its handy click-stick can be manipulated with the thumb. The click-stick works like the pencil-eraser nubbin on laptop PCs and is handy for moving through screen icons and menus. It also works as a button when pressed down.
The Legend is coated with a waterproof, rubberized plastic shell that grips nicely. Weighing in at only 5.3 ounces, it fits into a pocket or clips onto a belt loop, going almost unnoticed.
The internal trip computer of the Legend provided a range of data about our hikes and drives, including current speed, average speed, trip distance, and time traveled (both moving and stopped). For those interested in checking out their foot pace and distance traveled, it's a handy GPS to have in hand.
Our only major beef with the Legend is that the receiver sometimes seemed to grow weak. Even when it wasn't in WAAS mode (which can be tough to maintain a signal in), it dropped the signal from time to time. We even lost the signal once while walking along the streets of San Francisco--it seems that the medium-size buildings were enough to interfere with the reception.
But this only happened on a few occasions. Most of the time the well-designed Legend was able to keep us in touch with up to 12 GPS satellites for a strong-enough read to maintain a tight handle on our location. --J. Curtis
Pros

• Comfortable, compact design
• Click-stick for interface navigation
• Bright backlight
• Handy distance-traveled feature

Cons

• Sporadic reception within urban areas
• Can take several minutes for a cold fix
  
  
  

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  Customer Reviews

   "Simple but very functional" 2010-03-21
  By RJL (Texas)
  This simple Garmin GPS is just right as a starter GPS for campouts, hiking, or geocaching. Very simple on the surface, but it has plenty of features, include road maps, that make it useful every day.
   "Garmin Etrex Legend GPS Receiver" 2010-02-05
  By J. Anderson (Greeley, CO)
  I purchase this 3 to 4 years ago. For the money at that time, it is the best. I even do a little surveying with it and an engineering firm used my numbers without hesitation. I love it!!!!
   "Solid GPS for cycling and hunting" 2009-09-15
  By Conrad Kite (Milwaukee, WI USA)
  I've had this GPS for a few years now. It's still a bit more expensive that it is really worth now, as there is an updated model. The Legend has pretty much every feature that you would expect from a hand held unit. The time to acquire enough satellite to navigate is pretty quick, usually less than a minute.
  
  I've found that it is pretty good on battery life. The screen is slow in cold weather, but not unreadable. It works great for finding a deer blind before sunrise. I also like the ability to mount it to my bike to log my rides, then being able to download them using MapSource. The only thing that I'm not real happy about is the poor base map. I ended up loading the NA Topo map and it gave me much better street level data for my rides, and I expect that I'll have better views of the land when hunting.
  
  Overall, I love the Legend. If / when this one dies, I'll definitely replace it with another from the eTrex line.
   "Great for what it does" 2009-08-21
  By oldtymer (East Tennessee)
  I use my Etrex Legend in my kayaks. The display is sharp enough that with my sunglasses on I can read it even in bright sunlight. The buttons are large enough that I can operate the Legend wearing my paddling gloves. Once it locates its satellites on startup, it doesn't seem to lose them, even when stored in one of my kayak hatches. (By way of contrast, my Merax/Gisteq Phototrakr sometimes resets on a kayak trip.) The only real weakness is a somewhat cumbersome menu system that can be difficult to see in the sunshine. You also need two hands (usually) to operate it. I get about 17 hours from one set of AA alkaline batteries. I've been using it for two years, on the water, with no problems. I don't know how it compares to newer devices, but as long as you don't need maps and only want breadcrumb trails, navigation functions, and speed/time recording, this device does the job. It comes with only a serial cable, so you will probably need a serial to usb cable/adapter if you want to transfer its data to your PC. I like the accessory case for it, and advise buying it.
   "Nearly worthless" 2009-06-26
  By F. Schaefer (Sacramento, CA)
  For nearly 4 years and over 50 countries I had a Magellan Explorist 210. Except for maps, it was very good. I literally always knew my direction, speed and location. I lost it the mountains of Argentina. The Garmin ETrex Legend looks a little fancier, and it has a better (not great) map, but literally everything else is harder to use or inferior.
  
  The obvious first fault is that it doesn't find salelites quickly. When it does find them, it seems to need 5 or (usually) more to find your location. Then nearby buildings, trees, mountains, tent ceilings, and more just shut it down, with a large prompt saying that it was out of satelite range. This prompt blocks much of the screen, making your map nearly worthless. Trying to regain satelites can often take forever. Even on a regular bike trail with few trees, I can not get a good use of the odometer, as the breadcrumbs would look like dashes. Additionally, when I have not moved the GPS for minutes, I keep getting changes in location and especially altitude.
  
  Other concerns are labeling the POIs. Very often when one pushes the save, it does not accept it...a real pain at an intersection while driving. It also only allows about 9 letters/numbers for a description of your POI...not enough. Then it gives such a variety of markers (i.e. park, church, etc, etc), that one can spend minutes finding the most suitable one. The screen is also smaller and harder to read than the Explorist. There are many other complaints. Keeping it short, I strongly recommend that you not buy a Garmin Legend!
  
  All Reviews

Garmin eTrex Venture Handheld GPS

Garmin eTrex Venture Handheld GPS

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Garmin eTrex Venture Handheld GPS Product By Garmin (31 customers reviews) Lowest Price : Visit store to see price

Technical Details

• WAAS-enabled
• Worldwide database of cities
• 1 MB memory
• Stylish, green translucent case
• Package Includes: eTrex Venture, City Point Database, PC interface cable, Wrist strap, User's guide, Quick reference guide

Product Description

The eTrex Venture offers a worldwide database of cities and increased internal memory. It is also one of three eTrex units that are designed to provide precise GPS positioning using correction data obtained from the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). This product will provide position accuracy to less than three meters when receiving WAAS corrections.The memory capacity of one megabyte allows the eTrex Venture to accept downloaded information from Garmin's new MapSource Points of Interest CD-ROM. The CD enables users to download locations such as restaurants, hotels, shopping, and entertainment. Once the information is loaded into the unit, you can make a selection and telephone and address information for a particular point of interest will appear on the screen. The CD also includes marine data such as lights, buoys, wrecks and obstructions. The eTrex Venture comes housed in a stylish, translucent green case.

Amazon.com Review

Amazon.com Review Garmin's eTrex Venture GPS receiver offers a host of track- and path-related programs and is surprisingly easy to use. Its size and design make it comfortable to use one-handed, and its automatic tracking feature and ability to download maps from optional CD-ROMs make it an excellent navigation tool.

The main menu. View larger.

Current position display. View larger.

Point of interest information page. View larger.

The Garmin eTrex Venture provides easy-to-use GPS navigation in the palm of your hand. View larger.

Roughly the size and shape of a cell phone, the Venture has six buttons that are easily accessible by thumb and forefinger. The Power, Page, Zoom In, Zoom Out, and Find buttons are along the side, with the big-daddy navigation button (a directional click-button akin to a thumb-operated joystick) on the front above the screen. The side buttons are stiff enough that it's nearly impossible to accidentally push one. However, we found the navigation button to be a bit too stiff, which caused us several errors in entering waypoints.
Text was very easy to read--highlights are discernible and menu bars and clickable objects are well defined. The unit also has an excellent backlight, which illuminates the whole screen with a white light, giving excellent contrast and viewing capability at night.
The Venture's interface is split into five different pages, each providing different functions. The main menu page gives you access to your saved routes and tracks, as well as setup for using WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation Service) reception, unit measurement, time, and display. These are all quickly rotated through with the click of the Page button on the right-hand side of the unit.
The map page displays the basemap included with the Venture, and for outdoor excursions it provides all the basics you'll need. It automatically tracks your movements and you can save individual tracks for later viewing. The map is zoomable from 500 miles to 20 feet depending on your preferences. You can place waypoints and places of interest on the map and name and change the icons of each to create your own personalized maps. If you decide you want to go somewhere, press the Find button and you'll get quick access to waypoints, your favorites list, and nearby cities.
The Venture features 1 MB of memory for downloading points-of-interest data--including lodging, business services, banks, and more--from optional CD-ROMs via the included PC cable. Unfortunately, for more detailed mapping you'll need to look to the Garmin eTrex Legend or Vista, both of which have larger memory capacities and the ability to download detailed maps.
Reception was, of course, best outside on a clear day, but the Venture retained most of its functionality under limited cover like small buildings or thick trees.
All in all, the Garmin eTrex Venture is a nifty little GPS tool and is ready to roll for your outdoor adventure. However, if you're looking to use more detailed map data with your GPS, the Garmin eTrex Vista or Legend would be a better choice. --Matt Deffer
Pros:

Intuitive interface

Clear, easy-to-read display

Create waypoints at key locations for easy navigation

Included PC cable for downloading firmware upgrades and maps

Cons:

1 MB memory only accepts points-of-interest data

What's in the Box
eTrex Venture GPS receiver, City Point database, PC interface cable, wrist strap, user's guide, and quick reference guide.

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Customer Reviews

 "Garmin ETrex" 2007-05-15
By Patricia Moore (Stockton, CA USA)
Ordered for the telecom crew to use. Seems to be working great.

 "Attention all farmers and ranchers" 2006-09-30
By Found the Truth (Florida United States)
I have used GPS for years for flying to driving, but a lumber man turned me on to this inexpensive gadget as an invaluable tool for calculating acreage for fertilization or liming of fields. Turn it on, drive around the perimeter of the field you wish to measure, hit the button and it tells you exactly the acreage inside the area. You will pay for it the first time you use it. You will never order more or less than needed again.

 "Used only a few of its features, but it performed great" 2005-12-06
By J. Starbird
I bought the Venture back in the summer of 2003 and I was never let down by it. At that time the speedometer on my car went out and as a cheaper alternative to buying the new, expensive gauge cluster for my car, I bought this GPS with a dashboard mount. So this product was used literally every day, sometimes several times a day, and for several hours a day for over 2 years.

First of all, I really only use it in navigation mode with the time, cardinal direction, and the speed being displayed, so I cannot comment an much of the other features of the unit. I have done some minor geocaching with it though, and it performed great for that, although it is tedious to enter in lat. and long. coordinates directly into the unit. I will say that using it as often as I do in my car, it is amazing. To be honest, I did not expect it to last this long. I have never had much trouble with tree cover causing a lost signal, but it does happen on occasion.

From the beginning I used rechargeable batteries and the unit has surprisngly long battery life, even with the backlight on. I replace the batteries about once every week or two, but remember, its on for up to a few hours a day.

All in all, this is a great GPS. Again, I can't vouch for many of its features, but I can vouch for its long life and consistant operation. I have gotten hundreds, if not thousands of hours of use out of this and it has yet to let me down.

 "Great GPS receiver for basic hiking and backpacking." 2004-12-28
By Matt (Bay Area)
I returned a Cobra GPS 100 and upgraded to the eTrex Venture for the extra money. What a difference only a few dollars more can make! this is my first GPS unit ever, and I had no problems picking everything up within a day.

For starters, it only took about two minutes to locate a satellite for the first time (supposed to take up to five) and averages about 30 seconds to locate one in general. The screen resolution is easy to read and the options for customizing the map make it even easier if you have trouble reading small text. The waypoint markers are easy to define and edit. The compass seems to be very quick in picking up your movements. Almost everything is customizable giving you endless options for your specific use for the GPS unit. The unit is comfortable in the hand, although some of the buttons are a little stiff at first.

My satellite reception is excellent. I took it hiking in 40°F rain and hail (obviously very overcast) and only lost reception once while walking under heavy tree cover. On the way home I placed it on the dashboard and it tracked me 33 miles home without losing reception once. This was in 500 ft visibility fog on a one lane curvy mountain road. This unit definitely gets the job done.

My only gripes are there's no beep or sound when it loses reception and you have to press enter to acknowledge you have lost reception, thus it begins tracking you again. So if you hike by turning the unit on and placing it in your backpack, or even on your belt, you could have lost reception and not known it, and because you haven't acknowledged the unit, it's not tracking you anymore (as far as I can tell).

Other than that, this unit works perfect for getting you in and out of areas where there's no trails and finding that perfect spot to spend the night or fish and hunt.

 "Just OK, or maybe a bit less than that." 2004-10-20
By Alberto Gemin (New York City, USA)
This was a mild disappointment. It is the second Garmin product that fails me, I also owned a Pilot II, whose firmware at some point lost its marbles, and now it displays only some pages and refuses to get a GPS fix.

The Venture had, almost from the beginning, a problem with the display, which flickered and became alternatively all black or white, or lost some horizontal lines, creating a nice "blinds" effect.

The problem normally went away by moderate slapping. But it is not a nice start.

Second point: the battery contacts are sub-quality, you just need to shake the unit a little and the electrodes lose contact with the battery, causing the unit to switch off.

Third: when the memory is fairly full, the operating system goes in overload mode, sometimes it does not manage to acquire the user input, and you find yourself trying to use the buttons without actually managing to do nothing. Erase the memory and the problem disappears.

Four: a few leaves overhead and you lose the fix, the sensitivity and selectivity is not great.

Maybe I had a bad firmware, who knows, but I don't want to change my firmware every month, I expect the original firmware to be OK for a while.

I just bought a Magellan, I'm curious to see if it's better or worse.

All Reviews

Garmin eTrex Handheld GPS

Garmin eTrex Handheld GPS

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Garmin eTrex Handheld GPS Product By Garmin (218 customers reviews) Lowest Price : $129.95 Available From 5 Sellers

Technical Details

• Global positioning system (GPS) receiver continuously tracks and uses up to 12 satellites
• Calculates current and average speed, time of sunrise and sunset, trip distance, and more
• Automatic track log--10 saved tracks let you retrace your path in both directions
• Tough waterproof case; runs for 18 hours on 2 AA batteries
• Compatible with optional Garmin MapSource software for downloading trip and waypoint data (not map compatible)

Product Description

All the power of a 12 parallel channel GPS receiver in a palm-sized package / Waterproof / Stores up to 500 waypoints All five buttons are placed on the sides, for simple, one-handed operation that doesn't obstruct your view of the display Bright yellow case makes it easy to locate in the boat or backpack And the eTrex is waterproof, so a splash or dunk is not a watery grave for the eTrex The high-performance, GPS receiver runs 18 hours on two AA batteries Even under canopy forest conditons, the eTrex maintains a tight satellite lock Stores up to 500 waypoints with graphic icons Exclusive TracBack feature provides a reverse course home

Amazon.com Review

A few years ago, when personal GPSs first became available, every geek from here to Poughkeepsie was enthralled about the possibility of always knowing exactly where on the planet he or she was. While the Garmin eTrex isn't the most feature-rich GPS out there, it will definitely come in handy if you don't want your next camping trip to end up like a scene from The Blair Witch Project.

The eTrex allows you to pack more detail into your adventure with added color, expandable memory, and automatic routing capabilities.

The eTrex is sort of a dumbed-down, rugged version of the company's more advanced eMap. Designed specifically for hiking, biking, and camping, the eTrex is one of the easiest-to-use GPS units available. It offers the ability to track up to 12 satellites so you never lose contact with one. The eTrex won't work inside--however, we don't anticipate that you'll get lost inside a building very often.
Among the eTrex's notable features is its ability to calculate your current and average speed. We used the eTrex to determine the distance from work to home, and to calculate how fast we were walking. This helped us gauge the average time it should take to get to work. This feature should really come in handy on extended hiking, camping, or cycling trips where planning your average speed and tracking the distance traveled is critical.
Sticking with its theme of simplicity, the eTrex has only five buttons, making it easy to use with just one hand (It's specifically designed for the left hand.) Weighing only 5.3 ounces with the batteries installed, the eTrex is also ultralight, making it an easy addition to a daypack. The eTrex is also waterproof, so a little water shouldn't damage the unit.

Turn-by-turn directions make long trips a snap.

Check your speed, ETA, and distance.

Great for calculating distance and directions for camping trips.

Get predictions for when it's best to hunt and fish.

The eTrex can hold up to 500 user-created waypoints. And using Garmin's TracBack feature, it's easy to plot a course with up to 10 waypoints and follow it in both directions. --Julian Strate
Pros:

• Easy to use
• Light
• Waterproof

Cons:

• Batteries only last about 20 hours

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Customer Reviews

 "It works pretty good!" 2010-03-16
By P.Rivera (Honduras)
I received this GPS as seller description. It has the basic features for positioning and navigation.

 "great for geocaching" 2010-02-01
By Terence E. Cowan (st.george island fla)
This little gps has everything you need for geocaching if you are as technically challenged as I am. We have located over a dozen caches and the gps was right on. For the price it is great.

 "Garmin GPS" 2008-12-28
By Robert Owen (Niagara Ontario)
The Garmin system is not as good as the Intelinav because you do not have as much notice for junctions (They give you a count down) and often no instruction at all if you are proceeding straight ahead

 "etrex" 2008-12-12
By William L. Bennett
Not only was this product packaged as advertised. It was delivered promptly and what a great product. When I hunt I go into very rough terrain and I go way in where most other hunters would never go. My new etrex always brings me right back to my truck or location I desire. Easy to use would be my thoughts and all outdoors people should have one.

 "Garmin eTrex" 2008-11-26
By Michael Barad (HI, USA)
I purchased a refurbished model of the Garmin eTrex Handheld. I received it within the stated shipping period and in excellent condition. Upon opening the package, I thought there may have been a mistake. The shipped unit looked brand new. No blemishes or scratches anywhere.

Works and tested flawlessly when tested next to my Cuda 250. I purchased the handheld to be a backup for when I used a different kayak or travel to another island.

It took a bit of fumbling around to figure out all of the nuances. Although the manual was included..... who reads the manual anyway? :)

A recommended product if you want a backup or want an entry level handheld gps. No bells or whistles needed, unless you're into that sort of stuff.

All Reviews

Garmin eTrex Legend HCx Personal Navigator

Garmin eTrex Legend HCx Personal Navigator

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Garmin eTrex Legend HCx Personal Navigator Product By Garmin (62 customers reviews) Lowest Price : Visit store to see price Available From 53 Sellers

Technical Details

• High-Sensitivity, WAAS-Enabled GPS Receiver Provides Peak Performance In Any Environment
• Lightweight, Compact & Waterproof
• Built-In Basemap With Automatic Routing Capability
• Features A 1.7-InchH X 1.3-InchW Screen With 256-Level Color Tft
• Connects To Computer'S Usb For High-Speed Map Downloads

Product Description

GARMIN eTrex Legend HCx Hand Held Receiver w/ Built in GPS Patch Antenna. MicroSD card slot allows for storage of optional MapSource detail /MicroSd card not included. WAAS enabled, 12 parallel channel GPS receiver. Built in GPS patch antenna. Display: 1.3 in W x 1.7 in H, 256 color, high resolution, transflective TFT /176 x 220 pixels. LED backlit display and keypad. Battery life: up to 32 hours typical use using two AA alkaline batteries. Includes a built in Americas autoroute basemap with automatic routing capabilities including highways, exits and tide data /USA only. 500 user waypoints with name and graphic symbol; 20 reversible routes, 50 points per route. Position formats include Lat/Lon, UTM, Loran TDs, Maidenhead, MGRS, user grid, and more. Audible alarms for anchor drag, arrival, off course and clock. Large numbers option for easy viewing, dual position display mode. Trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed and more. 10,000 point automatic track log; 20 saved tracks /500 points each/ let you retrace your path in both directions. Built in celestial tables for best time to fish and hunt, plus sun and moon calculations. Fully compatible with MapSource products including BlueChart, City Navigator, U.S. TOPO 24K, U.S. TOPO and US Inland lakes. Waterproof, IEC 60529 IPX7, /Submersible 1 meter at 30 minutes.

Amazon.com Product Description

Neither deep foliage nor steep canyons will faze the rugged Garmin eTrex Legend HCx navigator. Equipped with a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, the unit locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover. The advantage is clear: whether you're traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you can count on the Legend HCx to help you find your way when you need it the most. Adding maps to the Legend HCx is easier than ever thanks to the device's microSD card slot, which accepts cards preloaded with MapSource data for your land and sea excursions. Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps, and the Legend HCx will provide turn-by-turn directions to your destination. Plus, the card slot is located inside the waterproof battery compartment, so you needn't worry about it getting wet.
Besides appreciating its small size, users will also be happy with the Legend HCx's unique button layout, with five buttons located on either side of the unit. The benefits of this design are twofold: First, the Legend HCx is a breeze to operate with just one hand, and, second, with the buttons on both sides of the unit, the bulk of the front is dedicated to the 256-color, sunlight-readable TFT display. This makes it easy to distinguish map details regardless of the time of day.
The Legend HCx basemap, meanwhile, contains lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads, and coastlines--in short, a host of helpful details for your outdoor adventures. Other details include an IPX7 waterproof housing that withstands inclement weather, a speedy USB interface, 1,000 waypoints with names and graphic symbols, a track log with 20 saved tracks, a hunt/fish calendar, a built-in patch antenna, and a geocaching mode. The Legend HCx, which runs for up to 25 hours on a pair of AA batteries (not included), measures 2.2 by 4.2 by 1.2 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box
eTrex Legend HCx, basemap, MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software, USB cable, wrist strap, quick start guide, user's manual.

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Customer Reviews

 "Disappointment" 2010-03-28
By Clunker (Patchogue, NY, USA)
Good device, but elation turned to disappointment on finding the supporting software was not MAC compatible, and, therefore, the USB interface capability, useless.

 "Nice personal gps, but useless w/o added maps" 2010-03-13
By G. Litwinski (Midland, MI United States)
I bought one of these expecting it to be useable out of the box. After all, the various much less expensive, Nuvi models all come with excellent street maps of high detail. Well, dream on, buddy boy. This thing comes with only the most rudimentary map of very gross detail (i.e., none). So, other than being able to plot for you your track on a pretty blank display, it is useless until you buy some maps. Fortunately, you can get the 100k Garmin Topo! US map DVD or SD card for not too much money. I bought the DVD for sixty dollars delivered and it covers the entire US. There are 24k (slightly, ~16x, higher resolution maps), but they cost over seventy five dollars each and each only covers a few states. Simply not worth the added cost. Garmin really got greedy with the 24k maps...and that is saying something!

Bottom line, when you are shopping for these, just add at least sixty dollars to any price you see if you want something useful.

It is supposed to be possable to get free maps for these Garmin gps's using, USPS maps, and some conversion gymnastics. However, after a few eveneings of looking into that, I found no easy way to do it. If you want a new hobby of converting free maps into Garmin format maps, go for it. me, I just want to use the thing.

 "Good choice for backcountry use" 2010-03-05
By cyberdude (Idaho, USA)
In addition to the HCx I considered the Oregon and Map60. In the end the type of use (mostly backcountry hiking and skiing), size, weight, battery life (similar for the HCx and 60) features and price were the factors that helped me to choose the Legend HCx.

 "Good buy" 2010-02-10
By Ricardo Daniel Delgado
Only have had it for a day and it's my first gps so I cant compare and havent had that much time to explore the options it has. I just got back geocaching with my kids and it got me within 5-10ft of each . I look forward using the waypoint etc for hiking..... Update Have had it almost for a month now and loaded City Nav map set/app. Was a solid unit before but now its a great for finding my way around town with turn by turn directions etc. The orginal base map sucked donkey balls. For some reason it tries to stick to main roads and ignore the smaller ones until your on them. Still havent tried to use it for hiking trails etc . Have been using it for geocaches and driving directions. I've used it alot more than most would need to use it and am on the 3rd set of batteries. So good batt life. It gets me within 5-10 feet in the city and 10-20 feet in heavy woods. The only time it lost satelites was in the grocery store. I paid 200 for mine after shipping , it was worth it. For those shopping around for gps's one thing to remember is H=high sensitvity C=colored screen x= expandable memory thats what HCx means

 "great transacion." 2010-01-22
By mts
Bought if for a gift and got it in plenty of time. Have not heard any reports yet on how great it is. He is probably still reading the manual.....every page. I own a Garmin , two actually, and I love them.

All Reviews

Garmin eTrex H Handheld GPS Navigator

Garmin eTrex H Handheld GPS Navigator

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Garmin eTrex H Handheld GPS Navigator Product By Garmin (74 customers reviews) Lowest Price : Visit store to see price Available From 46 Sellers

Technical Details

• High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver provides peak performance in any environment
• Lightweight and waterproof
• High-contrast 2.1-inch X 1.1-inch screen with bright back lighting
• 5 buttons located on either side of the device for one-hand operation
• Stores up to 500 waypoints for easy retrieval and 20 routes with up to 125 waypoints per route

Product Description

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget, the Garmin eTrex H GPS navigator helps you navigate your way through the toughest terrain. The unit is equipped with a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, which locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. The advantage is clear: whether you're traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you can count on the eTrex H to help you find your way when you need it the most. And just like the original eTrex, this little yellow wonder is intuitive and rugged, with a lightweight housing that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand.
The eTrex H is a breeze to use, with five buttons on either side of the navigator facilitating one-handed operation. The four-level gray LCD display, meanwhile, is easy to read in a shade or daylight. And you needn't fret should the weather turn, as the eTrex H is IPX7 waterproof, so it can withstand an accidental splash or dunk in the water and still continue to perform.
Functionally, the navigator stores up to 500 waypoints in its memory for easy retrieval, with names and graphic symbols to highlight the selections. Users will also appreciate Garmin's exclusive TrackBack feature, which lets you reverse your track (up to 20 reversible routes) and navigate back to your starting point. And the automatic track log offers 10 saved tracks (with 10,000 points), along with the ability to retrace your path in both directions. Other details include a hunting and fishing calculator, sun and moon information, and a serial PC interface.
The eTrex H, which runs for up to 17 hours on a pair of AA batteries (not included), measures 2.0 by 4.4 by 1.2 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box
eTrex H navigator, wrist strap, quick start guide, user's manual.

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Customer Reviews

 "Disappointed" 2010-04-19
By Handicapper (Naples, FL)
much more difficult to program and use than I anticipated. Product description seems erroneous.

 "Good GPS" 2010-04-15
By J. Thomas (HUMBOLDT, TN, US)
Does exactly as advertised. Maps are poor but can use Google Earth. Map Source software not included.

 "My First Time" 2010-03-22
By S. Quarders (NW Wisconsin)
This is a first for me. I spent a lot of time researching various Brands and models of hand held GPS. It really comes down to "What am "I" going to use it for. The answer was pretty simple, all I want to do, at this time anyway, is store info so I can get back to a particular spot on a lake or in a woods for fishing and hunting. Also to find my way "back" to my vehicle when out and about. This Garmin E-Trex fills the bill nicely and was quite inexpensive as well. I was pretty much decided on this one when I talked to a guy I work with, and he said he had the older version of this one and was very impressed with it. It is easy to figure out, it starts up a lot faster than the older models, and has enough bells and whistles for me, for now. No buyers remorse or bad surprises so far. As I learn to use it more I might want to upgrade and that's where the price of the E-Trex shines, If I want to upgrade later I'll buy another one with the features I want or need, and still have this one for a back up. Win Win Deal for me! To sum it all up, I find the Garmin E-Trex pretty easy to use. small enough to fit in a pocket or pack, and very affordable. Let's just hope that customer service is as easy to get along with, should the need ever arise. I'm happy to say I got the best price at Amazon.com and had super fast service! I gave 4.5 stars just because I haven't had it long enough or used it enough to find any faults with it yet!

 "Great Product" 2010-03-19
By Wendy
I really love this GPS, it is so easy to use. My 13 year old daughter used it the first night I received it. We use this product to geocache and the accuracy is great! I will definitely recommend this product!

 "Garbage" 2010-03-14
By Eric G. Wilkinson (Eugene, OR United States)
The Enter key on this unit was nonfunctional right out of the box. The only thing I was able to test on this receiver was its accuracy with known locations, such as "home". Outdoor clear line of sight accuracy ranged from 12 to 16 meters, which is well outside of the accuracy listed in the product specifications. Indoor accuracy ranged from 15 to 90 meters, which is pretty typical in my experience. Returned this item to Amazon.

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Garmin eTrex Vista HCx Color High-Sensitivity Mapping Handheld GPS

Garmin eTrex Vista HCx Color High-Sensitivity Mapping Handheld GPS

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Garmin eTrex Vista HCx Color High-Sensitivity Mapping Handheld GPS Product By Garmin (226 customers reviews) Lowest Price : Visit store to see price Available From 48 Sellers

Technical Details

• High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver provides peak performance in any environment
• Lightweight, compact and waterproof
• Features a 1.7-inch X 1.3-inch screen with 256-level color TFT
• Built-in basemap with automatic routing capability
• USB connection for high-speed map downloads

Product Description

Neither deep foliage nor steep canyons will faze the rugged Garmin eTrex Vista HCx navigator. Equipped with a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, the unit locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover. The advantage is clear: whether you're traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you can count on the Vista HCx to help you find your way when you need it the most. The Vista HCx also includes a built-in electronic compass that provides bearing information even when you're standing still, along with a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. You can even use the altimeter to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions.
Adding maps to the Vista HCx is easier than ever thanks to the device's microSD card slot, which accepts cards preloaded with MapSource data for your land and sea excursions. Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps, and the Vista HCx will provide turn-by-turn directions to your destination. Plus, the card slot is located inside the waterproof battery compartment, so you needn't worry about it getting wet.
Besides appreciating its small size, users will also be happy with the Vista HCx's unique button layout, with five buttons located on either side of the unit. The benefits of this design are twofold: First, the Vista HCx is a breeze to operate with just one hand, and, second, with the buttons on both sides of the unit, the bulk of the front is dedicated to the 256-color, sunlight-readable TFT display. This makes it easy to distinguish map details regardless of the time of day.
The Vista HCx basemap, meanwhile, contains lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads, and coastlines--in short, a host of helpful details for your outdoor adventures. Other details include an IPX7 waterproof housing, 1,000 waypoints with names and graphic symbols, a built-in patch antenna, a USB interface, a hunt/fish calendar, sun and moon information, and a geocaching mode. The Vista HCx, which runs for up to 25 hours on a pair of AA batteries (not included), measures 2.2 by 4.2 by 1.2 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box
eTrex Vista HCx, basemap, MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software, USB cable, wrist strap, quick start guide, user's manual.

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Customer Reviews

 "A few caveats to consider when buying any Garmin eTrex GPS" 2010-04-18
By William W. Davis
QUICK SUMMARY: The Vista HCx is a fine choice for outdoors use, but can serve as a road map, too. However, my experience with the Garmin Venture Cx dampens my enthusiasm for this device. Read on to learn why.

Background: This is my second GPS purchase. My first was four years ago when I bought the Garmin eTrex Venture Cx before a road trip to North Carolina where I was going hiking for a few days on the Appalachian Trail. This new Garmin offering, the Vista HCx, is essentially like my old Venture Cx except it has a compass and altimeter, and a chip that supposedly does a better job at finding and tracking satellites, even under a lot of obstructions (I haven't gone hiking yet with the Vista HCx to know that for sure).

A lot has already been said about the Vista HCx, so let me make only four points, based upon my experience with Garmin and my eTrex Venture Cx.

1) Be wary about the black, rubber band that goes around the four edges of the Vista HCx -- it's prone to stretching and detaching from the GPS. After three years, the black band around my Venture Cx hung limply around the device's housing. I can still use the GPS, but I have to align the rubberized buttons "just so" before I can use the GPS functions.

2) Garmin won't send you a replacement rubber band if the black rubber band does stretch and detach from your eTrex GPS. Plead all you want, talk to a Garmin supervisor, but they won't send you any replacement parts for your Garmin -- they want you to ship your GPS to them so they can send you a refurb GPS. They'll want you to spend $100 (really!) to fix something that should cost about $5 to fix. If you negotiate hard, you can get them to halve that cost, down to $49. They'll send you a refurb GPS for a problem that should only cost you a few bucks and some glue to repair. Stupid!!

3) Maybe because it's new, but the Vista HCx takes a LOT more pressure to depress the GPS's side buttons (I'm comparing my Vista HCx to my 4-year-old Venture Cx). I used a postal scale to get an idea of the difference. My Venture Cx takes about two pounds of pressure to click a button, the Vista HCx takes about four pounds of pressure. Maybe that eases some after using it for a while, I don't know.

4) If you're new to Garmin, be forewarned that the map loading process can be a horrible experience for some -- but not all -- Garmin owners. You'll need to buy City Navigator NT if your want to use road maps on your Vista HCx, and then later, you can buy the nuvi Map Updates to update your City Navigator road maps. At the least, loading maps onto your Garmin GPS is more troublesome than you'd think it would be. Be sure to read carefully how to load maps onto your device. BTW, you'll need to buy a microSD memory card (at least 2GB) to load all of North America onto your GPS.

One last thing. When doing the setup for the Vista HCx's compass, be sure to lay it on a flat surface when you spin it slowly twice in the same direction. My compass setup kept failing because I was spinning it on my laptop (which was on my lap, so it wasn't quite flat). The setup worked just fine once I put the Vista HCx on the coffee table.

I've really enjoyed having my eTrex Venture Cx, and was disappointed that the Venture HCx (the latest model) no longer has a microSD card slot anymore, so I had to pay the extra $$$ to buy the Vista HCx which has a microSD card slot.

Conclusion: At least now, if you buy, you'll be buying with your eyes wide open, knowing some of the potential pitfalls of your purchase decision. I like the eTrex series because they're rugged, watertight, small, you can operate them with one hand, they're accurate, and they're versatile. I can recommend the eTrex series, with the noted concerns I named above. If you buy this GPS, I might see you on the Appalachian Trail this summer!

 "Excellent Value" 2010-04-16
By Frank J. Haggard (Brookings, Oregon)
This product operates and performs as advertised. Fast and easy to use.Very sensitive in most buildings.

 "Great little GPS unit." 2010-04-09
By Z. J. Garcia (Idaho Falls, ID USA)
I like this unit. It is compact, light, user friendly, and versatile. It is fairly comparable to the e-Trex Legend CX with a few little additions. I did not understand the benefit of the extra sensitive receiver and thought that it would be more accurate, but that did not seem to be the case when I used it. The benefit of the extra sensitive receiver (just to make it clear in case you thought the same as me) is that it keeps the accuracy under heavy cover just as if you were standing in an open field. Hope this helps.

 "Garman personal GPS" 2010-04-02
By Jack Ledbetter (Nacogdoches, TX, US)
Looking for a "walking" GPS? You have just found it! This unit is small, light weight, multi-featured and dependable. My use was to track distance walked in my daily walking program. It is the perfect tool. Easy to use and carry with a lanyard. If you are walking in remote areas it will map your trail and eliminate the danger of getting lost.

 "Missing The Software - The GPS is great." 2010-03-15
By Robert P. Brady
Missing the Map Source Trip @ Waypoint Manager Software. Take that into account when you are comparing prices. Consider the true price is having to buy the software at $29.99 plus whatever shipping charge. I would buy the GPS again and recommend it to a friend. But I would buy it from someone else!!!!!!

All Reviews

Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver

Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver

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Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver Product By Garmin (195 customers reviews) Lowest Price : Visit store to see price Available From 67 Sellers

Technical Details

• High-Sensitivity, WAAS-Enabled GPS Receiver Provides Peak Performance In Any Environment
• Built-In Basemap Includes Lakes, Rivers, Cities, Interstates, National & State Highways, Railroads & Coastlines
• Features A 1.7-InchH X 1.3-InchW Screen With 256-Level Color Tft
• Usb Compatible For High-Speed Map Downloads
• 24 Mb Of Internal Memory Allows User To Load Waypoints & Routes From The Included Mapsource Trip & Waypoint Manager Software

Product Description

GARMIN eTrex Venture HC Hand Held Receiver w/ Built in GPS Patch Antenna. New high sensitivity GPS receiver. 24 Mbyte of internal memory for storing detailed maps. WAAS enabled, 12 parallel channel GPS receiver. Built in GPS patch antenna. Display: 1.3 in W x 1.7 in H, 256 color, high resolution, transflective TFT /176 x 220 pixels. LED backlit display and keypad. Battery life: up to 32 hours typical use using two AA alkaline batteries.Includes a built in Americas autoroute basemap with automatic routing capabilities including highways, exits and tide data /USA only. 500 user waypoints with name and graphic symbol; 20 reversible routes, 50 points per route. Position formats include Lat/Lon, UTM, Loran TDs, Maidenhead, MGRS, user grid, and more. Audible alarms for anchor drag, arrival, off course and clock. Large numbers option for easy viewing, dual position display mode. Trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed and more. 10,000 point automatic track log; 20 saved tracks /500 points each/ let you retrace your path in both directions. Elevation computer /Summit HC/ provides current elevation, ascent/descent rate, minimum/maximum elevation, total ascent and descent, average and maximum ascent and descent rate. Built in celestial tables for best time to fish and hunt, plus sun and moon calculations. Fully compatible with MapSource products including BlueChart, City Navigator, U.S. TOPO 24K, U.S. TOPO and US Inland lakes. Waterproof, IEC 60529 IPX7, /Submersible 1 meter at 30 minutes

Amazon.com Product Description

An essential for any outdoor excursion, the Garmin eTrex Venture HC helps you navigate through the toughest terrain. The unit is equipped with a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, which locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. The advantage is clear: whether you're traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you can count on the Venture HC to help you find your way when you need it the most. At the same time, the Venture HC's easy-to-use menu lets you create and view waypoints (up to 500), save and view 10 track logs, access setup features, and more. It even offers 24 MB of internal memory and a detailed basemap, so you can load waypoints and routes from the included MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software and add map detail from Garmin's entire line of optional MapSource mapping products.
Besides appreciating its small size, outdoorsmen will also be happy with the Venture HC's unique button layout, with five buttons located on either side of the unit. The benefits of this design are twofold: First, the Venture HC is a breeze to operate with just one hand, and, second, with the buttons on both sides of the unit, the bulk of the front is dedicated to the 256-color, sunlight-readable TFT display. This makes it easy to distinguish map details regardless of the time of day.
The Venture HC's basemap, meanwhile, contains lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads, and coastlines--in short, a host of helpful details for your outdoor adventures. Other details include an IPX7 waterproof housing, a built-in patch antenna, a USB interface, a hunt/fish calendar, sun and moon information, and a geocaching mode. The Venture HC, which runs for up to 14 hours on a pair of AA batteries (not included), measures 2.2 by 4.2 by 1.2 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
What's in the Box
eTrex Venture HC, basemap, MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software, USB cable, wrist strap, quick start guide, user's manual.

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Customer Reviews

 "Es mas de lo que esperaba" 2010-04-19
By Salvador Oswaldo Ayala
El GPS eTrex Venture HC ha superado mis expectativas en comparación al Legend y al Venture anterior, debido a que tiene muy buena resolución de pantalla, el consumo de energía ha mejorado, es mas compacto, la interfaz gráfica es fácil de comprender y navegar, pero sobre todo porque es mucho mas sensible para captar las señales satelitales, lo que ahorra tiempo en la adquisición de los satélites y no se pierde facilmente la señal. Su puerto de comunicación USB acelera la carga y descarga de datos a la PC. En lo referente a durabilidad, deberé usarlo mas para finalmente dar una opinión al respecto. para el caso del Legend, este modelo se queda corto en cuanto a durabilidad ya que generalmente presenta fallas en la pantalla, en el jostick o en la recepción de satelites, despues de un año de uso, deseché varias unidades por este tipo problemas.

 "No Maps - No Value" 2010-04-16
By Scott J. Schmitt (Madison, WI USA)
I returned this unit as it had no maps loaded and had to buy $100+ package to get any maps that I could use for outdoor trekking. To get at the free maps mentioned in reviews for this Garmin was a big pain. Went with Delorme model that costs a bit more, but comes with easy map downloads to the world in topo satellite etc. for $30. Much better value for me.

 "Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Reciever" 2010-04-12
By J. Anliker (Iowa)
This GPS unit is quite easy to use and locked on quickly. Maps are not very detailed but you can get additional maps for a fee of around $90. I am using the unit in conjunction with a computer database so I only need the Lat & Long readings. Very good unit for the money.

 "Great For Price and Function" 2010-04-12
By F. Balogh (Corona, CA USA)
After much research into handheld GPS devices I decided on the Garmin eTrex Venture HC. The price and feature set was good as compared to other units in the same price range. Accuracy of the unit is good. This is my first dedicated handheld (other than my iPhone which works great as GPS device when maps are downloaded for areas when data signals are not available, as the GPS still works without that as long as you've pre-downloaded maps for where you are going). Overall the Venture HC is very nice. Garmin may want to update their BaseCamp software though, and certainly their Webupdater software for the Mac - as it killed my unit the first time I used it and after several Customer Support calls to Garmin it was determined I would have to send the unit back for a replacement because the update rendered the Venture inoperable. Garmin's Tech and Customer support was great and I received a new unit within a couple of days. Other than that I am very happy with it. I also purchased the 100k maps, which I highly recommend, as the base maps that are included with the unit are not that good. The 100k maps improve the units ability very well. I would recommend the Garmin eTrex Venture HC to anyone looking for a well constructed and accurate handheld GPS device.

 "1st GPS owned" 2010-04-10
By Tech wannabe (Missouri, USA)
The GPS is a bit confusing at first. I even read the manual. This is the first GPS handheld I have ever owned and it seems to do the job just fine. I got it for geocaching and I can find them okay but the screens do get a bit confusing to navigate and try to set up. Downloading the info from the net is easy ([...]) and the easiest method to input info. I still have trouble putting in coordinates manually unless you call up an existing waypoint and modify it. The mapping software is very basic. I have mapsource from garmin also (through a car gps unit) and tried to update as the purchase included free update. The maps downloaded to the handheld but then told me to unlock them - couldn't do that without paying an additional $100 fee as Garmin claims the mapsource was not shipped with the handheld and shouldn't have worked. It did without any warning prompts. If you own muliptle GPS (car, handheld) be careful using the software. I can use the handheld but have to to say skip/enter to bypass the locked message page. It still works but is a painful reminder of something that "shouldn't have happened". You can upload easy to mapsource to see your tracks, routes etc. but you see them as all connected (even from across the country) unless you save, clear, turn off tracking each time you do a new track/route/geocache/hike. Still like it for the money but be aware of limitations.

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