Cheap Handheld GPS Navigators that are Worth a Try
When looking for a cheap handheld GPS device, expect the prices to be less than $200. Of course, you sacrifice some extra features, but the core navigation features remain in place no matter what device is picked as long as they have been recently introduced. The most important aspect of the handheld GPS navigator is its accuracy. Fortunately the devices that are mentioned here are accurate and are proficient in handling basic routing tasks that explorers and travelers can use even during long trips. Still, it is best to take a closer look at each of the cheap handheld GPS devices to see the strengths of each and ultimately decide which one is really best for you.
Garmin eTrex H
Garmin is best known for its high-end devices that come with a high price tag. However, the eTrex H begs to differ as it is priced at a comfortable $99. Although the display isn't colored, the rounded, bright yellow exterior attracts and it makes it very easy to find on land. It is also highly rugged for a budget model and is even IPX7 waterproof. Bear in mind that this device doesn't float in water, but it is very lightweight and should be easy to travel around with.
The layout of the five buttons found on the sides makes it easy to operate the device using one hand. It is also WAAS-enabled assuring that the accuracy of the device stays sharp and can track you even if you venture in deep canyons, tall buildings, or large forests. Up to 500 waypoints can be stored which should be enough for multiple or lengthy trips and the 17 hours battery life puts the 2 AA batteries to good use. Don't expect to find many extras on this device, but the rugged design and easy handling makes this a great pick.
Magellan Triton 200
This Magellan handheld GPS costs $30 more than the Garmin eTrex handheld GPS, but the screen size is not only larger, but colored as well. Operating the device should be as easy as operating an ordinary cellular phone with easy menus and icons that are used for navigating the interface and zoom and standard buttons within reach on the bottom of the screen. It should be possible to access all of the frequently used features in just two to three clicks. Like the Garmin eTrex H, the Triton 200 is rugged and waterproof, but the color of the exterior isn't really flashy.
The Triton 200 is fairly advanced for an entry-level model as it comes with built-in maps that cover the 48 states including Alaska and Canada and all of the major highways and some bodies of water in the areas supported. If a data cable accessory is obtained, other maps and marine cartography can be uploaded to the device. It also allows the VantagePoint software to be put to full use allowing route planning on the PC. The SiRFstarIII chipset utilizes WAAS in decent accuracy by utilizing multidirectional antennae.
Lowrance iFINDER GO2
The iFINDER GO2 by Lowrance has the same price tag as the Garmin eTrex H and uses a monochrome display as well. There are more buttons found on the device and they are located on the front making one hand operation questionable. On the up side, it does bear the same WAAS receiver features to ensure accuracy and the 2" diagonal display allows a lot of map data to be presented. It is also waterproof and is quite easy to handle overall.
It can store more inside its 64 MB internal memory allowing up to 1000 waypoints and event markers to be stored or up to 100 routes. Perhaps the strongest feature of the iFINDER GO2 is the battery life allowing the device to run continuously for around 50 hours.
Bushnell ONIX110
The ONIX110 handheld GPS navigator has a much larger display than just about all of the entry-level handheld GPS devices, but it only uses a 4 level gray scale screen. That isn't necessarily a weakness as the design looks very sleek and it is built to last with a rugged rubber armor and IPX6 standard water resistance. The memory is a bit higher too along up to 1,000 waypoints and 50 routes to be saved. The interface is also unique introducing four different modes that cater to different types of users. Beginners can use the simple mode which puts the basic functions up front while advanced modes allow deeper route planning. A geocaching mode is available as well as a Sport mode which logs training activity. It costs a bit more than the previously mentioned devices, but the ONIX110 is tough and flexible.
Delorme Earthmate PN-20
The Delorme Earthmate PN-20 is very rich in physical and internal features. The screen size is just 2.2 inches, but the color handheld GPS displays its graphics in high-resolution and the visuals can be seen in different lighting conditions. It has the WAAS accuracy and is NMEA-compliant as well capable of receiving signals in 12 channels. The rubberized housing is impact resistant and meets the IPX-7 waterproof standards. This is the device of choice when accuracy, speed, durability, and good visuals are all in demand.
The internal flash memory is just 75 MB, but SD cards that are 2 GB or less are supported for more waypoints and routes to be stored. Unsurprisingly, the PN-20 is the most expensive of the bunch starting at around $170 or $299 if the 1 GB SD card and map software is included.