Do you love exploring the outdoors? Do you need a reliable and easy-to-use navigation tool that can track your location in challenging environments? If yes, then you should check out the Garmin eTrex series. Garmin eTrex is a series of handheld GPS devices that are designed for outdoor recreation. They are popular among hikers, geocachers, cyclists, boaters, and off-the-grid explorers. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Garmin eTrex series, and help you choose the best model for your needs.
What is Garmin eTrex?
Garmin eTrex is a series of handheld GPS devices that are designed for outdoor recreation. They have been around since 1999, and have improved a lot over the years. The current eTrex series consists of four models: eTrex 10, eTrex 22x, eTrex 32x and eTrex Solar.
All eTrex models have some common features, such as:
- A 2.2-inch display that shows waypoints, tracks, routes, and maps. The display is sunlight-readable, so you can see it even in bright conditions.
- A rugged and water-resistant design that can resist dust, dirt, humidity, and splashes. You can use your eTrex device in any weather and terrain.
- A high-sensitivity receiver that supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems. This means you can get faster and more accurate positioning, even in places where GPS signals are weak or blocked.
- A long battery life that can last up to 25 hours in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries. You don’t have to worry about running out of power when you are on a long adventure.
- A support for paperless geocaching, which allows you to download and view geocache information, such as location, terrain, difficulty, hints, and descriptions, without printing or entering coordinates manually. You can also log your findings and share them online.
- A compatibility with various mounts and accessories, such as bike mounts, car mounts, marine mounts, and spine-mounting accessories. You can attach your eTrex device to different vehicles and equipment, depending on your activity and preference.
However, each eTrex model also has some unique features that make them different from each other. Here is a table that compares the main differences among the four eTrex models:
Feature | eTrex 10 | eTrex 22x | eTrex 32x | eTrex Solar |
---|---|---|---|---|
Display type | Transflective, monochrome | Transflective, 65K color TFT | Transflective, 65K color TFT | Transflective, 65K color TFT |
Display resolution | 128 x 160 pixels | 240 x 320 pixels | 240 x 320 pixels | 240 x 320 pixels |
Memory/Storage | 8 MB | 8 GB | 8 GB | 8 GB |
microSD card slot | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Preloaded maps | Worldwide base map | TopoActive maps | TopoActive maps | TopoActive maps |
Compass | No | No | 3-axis compass | 3-axis compass |
Barometric altimeter | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Wireless connectivity | No | No | Yes (ANT+ and Bluetooth) | Yes (ANT+ and Bluetooth) |
Solar charging | No | No | No | Yes |
Why Choose Garmin eTrex?
Garmin eTrex is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want a handheld GPS device that is simple, reliable, and versatile. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose Garmin eTrex for your next adventure:
- You can enjoy the outdoors longer with the solar-charging technology of the eTrex Solar. The eTrex Solar has a transparent solar panel that can provide infinite battery life and help rejuvenate a low-charged battery. You don’t have to worry about running out of power or carrying extra batteries when you are exploring remote areas.
- You can stay connected and informed with the Garmin Explore app. The Garmin Explore app allows you to sync your eTrex device with your compatible smartphone and access various features, such as cloud backup, smart notifications, geocaching live, weather forecasts, and more. You can also plan your trips and create routes on the app and then transfer them to your eTrex device.
- You can explore the terrain with the preloaded TopoActive maps. The TopoActive maps feature streets and trails for cycling and hiking, as well as natural features, buildings, international boundaries, and more. You can also download and integrate satellite imagery with your maps using the BirdsEye Satellite Imagery subscription.
- You can find your way in more challenging environments with the multi-band GPS and GLONASS support. The eTrex 32x and eTrex Solar also have a 3-axis compass and a barometric altimeter, which can help you keep your bearings and measure your elevation.
How to Buy Garmin eTrex?
If you are interested in buying a Garmin eTrex device, you can visit the official Garmin website or one of the authorized Garmin dealers in your country. You can also buy Garmin eTrex online from various e-commerce platforms, such as Amazon, Flipkart, Snapdeal, and more. However, before you buy Garmin eTrex, you should consider the following factors:
- Your budget: Garmin eTrex devices vary in price depending on the model and features. The eTrex 10 is the most affordable model, with a suggested retail price of $119.99, while the eTrex Solar is the most expensive model, with a suggested retail price of $249.99. You should choose the model that fits your budget and offers the features that you need.
- Your purpose: Garmin eTrex devices are suitable for various outdoor activities, such as hiking, geocaching, cycling, boating, and more. However, some models may have more advantages for certain activities than others. For example, if you are into geocaching, you may prefer the eTrex 32x or eTrex Solar, which has wireless connectivity and supports geocaching life. If you are into cycling, you may prefer the eTrex 22x or eTrex 32x, which have preloaded TopoActive maps and microSD card slots for additional maps. You should choose the model that matches your purpose and preferences.
- Your experience: Garmin eTrex devices are easy to use and operate, but they may have different levels of complexity and functionality. For example, if you are a beginner or a casual user, you may prefer the eTrex 10, which has a simple user interface and a basic worldwide base. If you are an advanced or a professional user, you may prefer the eTrex 32x or eTrex Solar, which have more features and capabilities, such as a compass, an altimeter, a solar charger, and more. You should choose the model that suits your experience and skills.
Conclusion
Garmin eTrex is a series of handheld GPS devices that are ideal for outdoor adventures. They are reliable, durable, and easy to use, and they offer various features and benefits, such as solar charging, wireless connectivity, preloaded maps, a compass, an altimeter, and more. They are also constantly updated and improved to meet the needs and expectations of their customers. If you are looking for a handheld GPS device that can help you explore the outdoors longer and better, you should consider buying a Garmin eTrex device. You can choose the model that fits your budget, purpose, and experience, and enjoy the ultimate outdoor navigation experience.
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