Important Tips for Choosing a Handheld GPS
Important Tips for Choosing a Handheld GPS
Handheld GPS units can vary greatly in features as well as in price. In order to choose the right one for you it is important to know ahead of time what you will be using it for as well as what features will get used most. There are several different types of GPS units including:
Handheld
Automotive
Marine
Aviation
PDA
Laptop
Handheld units tend to be extremely popular for those who travel and love outdoor activities.
A handheld GPS is convenient for a few reasons:
They can easily be brought anywhere
Many are waterproof and can be used for all outdoor activities including hiking, kayaking, skiing, hunting, cycling, etc.
They are the perfect tool for geocaching
They are self-contained meaning there are no external attachments (although some units will have optional attachments for a car, laptop or external antenna)
Most handhelds can be easily adapted for use in a vehicle or boat with an optional mounting kit
They tend to be the less expensive option for GPS devices
How to Choose a GPS
Once you begin your research you will notice that there are several different GPS models to choose from. Before purchasing first decide exactly what activities you will use it for. Then decide what features are most important to you. Many higher end models will have an abundance of features that although seem great may in reality never get used. Most basic handheld GPS devices will have:
Time usually in 12 and 24 hour formats
Satellite location
Ability to calculate distance traveled
Ability to set and record waypoints (reference points)
Ability to navigate routes
Ability to retrace your steps
Compass
Elevation above sea level
Important questions to ask are:
Is it WAAS enabled? this is important as it will give you a far more accurate signal
Is it waterproof?
How many waypoints are there? a minimum of 500 will suit more outdoor activities
What maps are included? different models will have different map options
Is there space to upload more maps if necessary?
Do you want a color screen or is black and white okay? the handheld GPS units with color screens will usually cost more
Features that don't always get used but will really jack up the price:
Heart-rate monitor
Electronic compass
Barometric altimeter
If you are clear as to exactly what you will be using your handheld GPS for as well as what features are most important to you then it should be no problem finding a model that fits your needs as well as your budget. There are several different manufacturers to choose from although the Garmin handheld GPS units seem to be most popular.
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