GPS - Overall Comparision

Best handheld GPS overall.

Reviews say the Garmin GPS GPSMAP 60CSx is the best all-around handheld GPS. The 60CSx gets great scores in reviews for fast map rendering and speedy satellite lock, even from a cold start, due to its SiRFstar III chipset. The rubberized and water-resistant Garmin GPS comes with a 64MB microSD memory card for adding additional maps. North American base maps are preloaded, but reviews say the handheld Garmin GPS really shines when used with optional Garmin MapSource software. The Garmin GPS has a 2.6-inch color screen, an electronic compass, a barometric altimeter, and a special geocaching menu. It weighs 7.5 ounces and runs for about 18 hours on two AA batteries.

Budget handheld GPS.

The Magellan eXplorist 500 LE's biggest virtue is price. Although it doesn't use the latest SiRFstar III GPS chipset (which gets much better reception), it has a 2.25-inch color display, which is unusual in its price range. The 5.4-ounce handheld GPS unit is impact and water resistant. Although reception can be spotty, reviewers find the unit easy to use. On-board memory is limited, but can be expanded by adding an SD memory card.

Lightweight GPS with satellite imagery.

Although it doesn't use the most advanced GPS chipset, the DeLorme Earthmate GPS PN-20 has some unique display qualities, most notably the ability to display satellite imagery of terrain. (Reviewers liken it to a portable version of Google Earth.) The small waterproof yellow receiver weighs just 5.12 ounces and has a 2.2-inch color display. Reviews say that GPS performance is very good even though it doesn't have the latest SiRFstar III chipset. Your choice between this unit and the Garmin 60CSx comes down to whether you want the best accuracy and reception (Garmin) versus the lighter weight and satellite-image display of the DeLorme.

Dual-duty GPS for car and field use.

The Magellan Crossover GPS attempts to combine the capabilities of car and outdoor GPS devices. While reviews say it doesn't outperform separate units, the Magellan is a pretty good value if you want both kinds of GPS. Reviews say the Crossover GPS is rugged and waterproof for outdoor use and has sophisticated vehicle navigation features, including text-to-speech and NAVTEQ maps. It also plays MP3s and has a photo viewer. Real-time traffic updates are an optional upgrade. The unit weighs 7.8 ounces and has a 3.5-inch color touchscreen.

GPS watch for runners.

This waterproof GPS watch is a little bulky, but it can track your movements along with time, distance and laps. The Forerunner GPS uses the SiRFstar III chipset, which reviews say allows it to lock quickly and hold onto satellites, even under heavy cover. The Forerunner 205 (*est. $205) is the same unit, but without a heart-rate monitor. The Garmin Edge 305 (*est. $280) is a very similar unit for cyclists. These units have monochrome displays. They are bundled with software specifically for measuring running and bicycling performance, and are waterproofed to the IPX-7 standard.

Thursday, December 13, 2007