Etrex Legend CX versus GPSmap 60CX

Marty

The following information is from www.gpsoz.com.au. The GPS 60 is $130 more but remember you get what you pay for.

The decision is yours but I would go for the GPS 60 is my options were limited to there two models.

GPS 60 - A$329 inc GST and free delivery

Large sunlight-readable, four-level grayscale display with bright LED backlight
Special Geocaching Navigation Mode.
Trip Computer: current speed, average speed, resetable maximum speed, trip timer and distance.
500 waypoints with name and graphic symbol, 10 nearest (automatic) and 10 proximity.
50 reversible routes of up to 50 waypoints
Best Hunting and Fishing Times.
Battery Life: 2 AA's (included) up to 30 hours.
12 channel GPS receiver. External antenna option
Waterproof to IPX7 standard
Area calculation

In the Box:

PC/USB Interface cable
Trip & Waypoint Manager software on CD.
Lanyard (wrist strap)
Belt Clip
Owners Manual
Quick Start guide

eTrex - A$199 inc GST and free delivery

Operating buttons on both sides allow more room for display screen on the front.
Trip Computer: current speed, average speed, sunrise/sunset time, resetable maximum speed, trip timer and distance.
Tracks: Automatic track log; 10 saved tracks lets you retrace your path in both directions.
500 waypoints with name and graphic symbol.
1 route of up to 50 waypoints.
Battery Life: 22 hours, using 2 AA Batteries.
12 channel Differential-ready GPS receiver.
Waterproof case to IPX7 standard.

The major difference, hence the prices, is that the 60Cx has a SiRFstar III chipset whereas the Legend Cx doesn't. These new chipsets are much better, especially in maintaining a satellite fix where previously unavailable.

The legend will have better battery life due to it not using the power hungry SiRF III chipset.

The other feature differences noteworthy of the 60Cx include the variable voltage range (8-36V v's 4.2-5.5v), and the external antannae capability of the 60Cx. These features by themselves can be worthy of the upgrade in some cases.

To compare the two models accurately go to " target="EOF" class="lbg">www.garmin.com/outdoor/compare.jsp and tick the required boxes for the models you want to compare. This will bring up a table comparing the two models fairly.

Whilst there is nothing technically wrong with the etrex models, as they will still give your position in most normal situations, I would suggest that you buy the better model with a SiRF III chipset if you can afford to in the first place.

Andrew

Thanks for the replies, see if I got this right.
If you want a GPS with good features (sunlight readable colour screen, ability to load maps, memory expandable) with average satellite reception buy the Etrex.
But if you want extra accuracy through better receiver & external aerial then get the GPSmap 60.

from Marty.