An average GPS for the hiker with minimum requirement

Category: Review on Garmin eTrex H Compact GPS

Posted by: 25-Jul

Strengths: Easy-to-use, configurable routes and waypoints

Weaknesses: No base map, inadequate control of navigation, monochrome LCD

Garmin eTrex H GPS has a monochrome LCD and provides only basic GPS guidance. It is not meant for the hiking novices. This device has a rugged build similar to the Triton series. The plastic and rubber case protects it from dust and water. This is an ideal choice for those hikers who have the bare minimum necessity. Garmin eTrex H GPS can store up to 20 routes and 500 waypoints along with an automatic track log. This device also provides the basic sunrise and sunset information which is based on the location of the user. It also helps you to know the optimal hunting and fishing times.

Garmin eTrex H GPS uses two AA batteries and it can work for 17 hours constantly. It has a serial port with the help of which you can establish a connection with the PC. On the other hand the device does not have the required cable. Instead of using maps for navigation, it plots a geolocational route which has “North” as the only reference point. There are five buttons on the either of the device with facilitates one-handed operation.

This device is easy-to-use. You will find either zooming in or zooming out options only which means you cannot view or control the planned route in details. Since this is a low-end GPS device, the start-up takes quite some time. The receiver is WAAS-enabled. This lightweight GPS navigator can be recommended for those with minimum requirements.