handheld GPS... any suggestions?

[blaiz]

Im looking for a reletively affordable handheld gps for plotting dive spots. Im not sure if they make them waterproof or not(im sure they doo). I need something easy to read, use, accurate and one that is pretty sturdy. I would appreciate any info on your experience!

Or if anyone has one for sale!

[trux]

Well, there are waterproof GPS handheld devices which are not too expensive (check Google stores and eBay), but why not using a GPS enabled phone in a waterproof bag? At least you can use it also in car, for hiking, etc. And it comes with maps, and better software than the boat GPS handhelds. You can get some pretty inexpensive.

[settingsteel]

I have a Garmin GPSmap 76, its WP, floats and is under $200...its B&W no frills and purdy easy to use, can be upgraded and computer compatible, its over 2yrs old so it may or may not still exist. Good Luck

[miles]

Hiya

Garmin GPS72. I've used one for years and can very highly recommend it. The Garmin GPS76 is identical to the GPS72, just with a higher resolution and the obligatory higher price tag. The garmin GPS72 is probably one of garmins most succesfull gps's. Most anglers/small craft owners use this particular model here.

On such a small hand-held unit, i wouldn't bother with a mapping unit. Simple, straight-forward GPS is all you need. I have a Garmin GPS60C plotter, but find the screen to be very small to use as a plotter.

If you're planning on using it on a boat/kayak, get the marine mounting bracket and external power cable. GPS's eat batteries rather quickly, so get rechargable ones if you're not connecting it to a external power source.

Regards
miles

[blaiz]

Thanks alot guys! Im going to check out these models and see what the prices are. I appreciate the advice, my problem was that I have never used one before so I have nothing to compare them to.

The GPS enabled cell phone is a good idea but that just means I have to buy a new phone and probably service. Me and phones do not go well together! Ive been through about 15 cell phones in the last 2 years I need something waterproof at the very least.

[trux]

Originally Posted by blaiz

The GPS enabled cell phone is a good idea but that just means I have to buy a new phone and probably service. Me and phones do not go well together! Ive been through about 15 cell phones in the last 2 years I need something waterproof at the very least.

You do not need any separate service for GPS phone. The GPS works even with no phone signal at all. Just like a standalone GPS.

The big advantage is that it is multifunctional. So not only it comes with GPS and detailed maps, but you have usually also camera, PDA, alarms, notes, Internet, video player, email, communication, and of course phone. Not that you need it when diving, but may be useful on the trip. A decent waterproof protection comes for a few bucks for every phone model.

Unlike a dedicated waterproof GPS that you'll probably use just a few times a year, the phone will serve you everyday.

I've got a Mio A701 GPS PDA/phone. It is already about a year or two old model, so it was quite inexpensive, but it is still excellent and has practically all features of more recent phones. You'll find plenty of other GPS models at every cell phone dealer though, or can get a 2nd hand one from eBay.

[GaraTreter]

I have a Garmin etrex H, simple waterproof handheld GPS device which is very cheap and easy to use!

[blaiz]

Trux,

Very good points, though I think the phone is just a little more than what Im looking for. (I can barely figure out how to text on my phone let alone use the other functions available on a pda). Plus I dont do too much traveling. The Gps will be primarily for plotting reefs and pinnacles here in Hawaii from a boat or kayak. Im not going to be using too many maps. Just directions to way points. So as the phone is very practicle for many spearos im going to try to keep it simple.

GaraTreter,

Thanks for the model #. Sounds like Garmin is the standard. I will check out the GPS72,GPS76, and the etrex H.

Mahalo all

[miles]

Hiya

Mobile phones and salt water or salt air is definitely not a good combination!!

What i've noticed with my entry level GPS's, from both Magellan and Garmin, is that when you start approaching your waypoint, the arrow directing you which way to go starts jumping around, when you start slowing down. This makes it a hassle to pin-point the EXACT reef. You do get used to this, but for a little more money, the GPS72 doesn't do this.

The marine mount and external power cable unfortunately costs quite a bit!!

[blaiz]

Originally Posted by miles

Hiya

Mobile phones and salt water or salt air is definitely not a good combination!!

What i've noticed with my entry level GPS's, from both Magellan and Garmin, is that when you start approaching your waypoint, the arrow directing you which way to go starts jumping around, when you start slowing down. This makes it a hassle to pin-point the EXACT reef. You do get used to this, but for a little more money, the GPS72 doesn't do this.

The marine mount and external power cable unfortunately costs quite a bit!!

Im a little confused. I was under the impression that the GPS 72 was an older version of the GPS 76?

[miles]

Hiya

Sorry, was comparing the GPS72 to the Garmin Etrex. For all intents, the GPS72 and the GPS76 is almost identical. The GPS76 has slightly better screen resolution, not that i could notice the difference!!, but costs about US$50.00 more than the GPS72!!

Do a bit of research on the 'net and you'll find that the Garmin GPS72 offers you possibly the best value for money for a quality product.

Regards
miles

[blaiz]

Much Mahalos Miles!

[Marwan]

im looking into the new gps by gatmin the colorado 300, looks like it isnt much bigger then the 76 but with a much bigger screen, more options and definitley costs a lot more...

[blaiz]

Originally Posted by Marwan

im looking into the new gps by gatmin the colorado 300, looks like it isnt much bigger then the 76 but with a much bigger screen, more options and definitley costs a lot more...

Yeah, cost is definately my main issue. I will check this one out but I think I might stick with the simple, easy, CHEAP, and recomended Garmin GPS 72. I can get one on ebay for less than 100$us

[blaiz]

Well its settled, I just baught a Garmin GPS 72 off of ebay for 70$us. I think its a fair price. (thanks for the advice everyone!)

I told a friend about it and he proceeded to tell me he had one he would give me

Anyone want to buy a Handheld GPS?