A quality GPS is a must have for any nature lover who loves to roam around in the wilderness. They provide peace of mind that no matter what you do on a trail, you can always come back to your camp. But they are expensive. And so for anyone who doesn’t have that much to spend on a quality GPS, choices are really limited. This is exactly where Garmin eTrex10 GPS comes in.
Features of the Garmin eTrex10 Hiking GPS
Garmin eTrex10 GPS is extremely basic. It doesn’t do much more than the bare minimum. But this is where it shines the brightest.
The Garmin eTrex10 GPS features a 2.2inch monochrome display. The display is monochrome for obvious cost-cutting reasons. But don’t think this a disadvantage. Being monochrome, the display consumes very little power so batteries last longer. It is also perfectly visible outdoors in bright daylight.
When it comes to navigation, the eTrex 10 carries a GPS receiver with both HotFix and GLONASS. GLONASS is a Russian satellite system that is estimated to be 20% faster than GPS. Supporting both technologies enables the eTrex 10 to quickly and accurately identify the position and can track movement with relative accuracy.
With a WAAS GPS receiver featuring HotFix satellite prediction, Garmin promises it’s GPS will stay connected even in deep canyons and thick forests.
Garmin’s software on the eTrex automates almost everything. You don’t have to load paper maps and printouts. It automatically stores waypoints, displays terrain information, elevation points, and location information. eTrex also supports geocaching GPX files for downloading geocaches.
An outdoor GPS needs to be durable and long lasting. Fortunately, the eTrex 10 doesn’t disappoint. It has a dense polycarbonate body, rated IPX7 for protection against waterproofing. It will survive in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
The battery situation, on the other hand, is average, to say the least. The eTrex 10 needs 2 AA batteries to provide a battery backup of about 22 hours.
The eTRex 10 only comes in yellow/black and is available in only one size. It costs less than $100.
Pros
- Rugged and durable
- Splash resistant with an IPX7 rating
- Monochrome screen is perfectly adequate
- Both GPS and GLONASS support
- Accurate location information and quick ‘lock on’
- Great value for money
Cons
- Pretty basic unit
- Dated hardware
- The software can be confusing
- The world map is nothing more than a few cities and waypoints
For anyone looking for a basic entry level GPS tracker, needs to seriously consider Garmin eTrex10 GPS. It may only provide just the basic functionality but it is quick, accurate and efficient.
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