Handheld GPS devices - CHOICE article

When we went shopping for a GPSr last year, I went to CHOICE looking for info to inform a confident shopping trip ... but at that stage could only find tests on car GPS units. However, the current issue of CHOICE (Dec 07/Jan 08 ) has just published an article roadtesting 1o units between AUD299-729 - "Where the hell am I? A handheld GPS uses satellites to guide you through the bush - but don't rely on them alone!" (pp.52-55, Dec 07/Jan 08). Geocaching was not mentioned at all.

The one we bought (Garmin 60) was not in the test - it does not have the map facility ... just vague knowledge of suburbs, but not street level detail. All the models tested came with a basic world map, and included LOWRANCE, GARMIN , and MAGELLAN units. The overall score was made up of "ease of use" (50%), "battery life" (15%), "accuracy" (15%), "acquisition" (10%), and "waterproofing: (10%). Funny that accuracy only attracted 15% ... I guess it's the geocachers more so than the hikers that are more interested in that!!

Garmin eTrex Vista Cx score best overall (83%, $599), closely followed by Garmin eTrex Legend Cx (81%, $499) and Magellan eXplorist 500LE (78%, $650).

The test article is here (subscribers only get the full article, but you can pay per view). Otherwise, trot down to your local library and read the full article for free.