celebrity writers

Garmin GPSMAP 60Cx Product Review

An advanced, multifunctioning handheld GPS that makes for a great gi

Nov 2, 2006

Garmin's updated GPSMAP has the fastest satellite connections yet. The pros far outweigh the cons with this GPS; it's the perfect luxury gift for outdoor types.

Looks like Garmin's done it again. I really like using my Garmin eTrex Legend GPS for geocaching, and just plain not getting lost, but now Garmin has raised the standard of global positioning devices: The new portable GPSMAP 60Cx is waterproof, with a more advanced GPS receiver for receiving satellite signals faster and in more remote terrain. All Garmins are WAAS enabled: The Wide Area Augmentation System, also used by the FAA and DOT, provides satellite transmission connections for GPS accuracy and signal corrections. Load the GPSMAP 60Cx up with extras like City Navigator street maps and BlueChart marine cartography: Garmin's GPSMAP 60Cx will delight both the urban dweller and outdoor buff.

What I like the most:

All Garmins are hardy and durable, with a generous repair policy if needed.
The color screen sure is pretty, a nice upgrade from my Garmin eTrex Legend.
The remarkably fast USB connection. The USB interface cable is standard with your purchase (you can power your handheld GPS through the cigarette lighter in a car, just like with a cellphone).
Dedicated geocaching mode with vertical and horizontal accuracy.
The preset locations, or important waypoints if you set them.
You can watch your progress on the map page (Casio's GPS Pathfinder lacks this setting).
Precise autorouting and global positioning: The position measurement accuracy is truly great. While geocaching, I've never (even under a forest canopy in Hawaii) been more than a yard or two from the hiding geocache's set location.
Compatability with Garmin's POI (point of interest) loader: Download your info via the SD slot.

What I don't really like:

On bright, sunny days, you really need the backlight to see the screen - this drains the battery pretty quickly.
The difficulty of learning to navigate this complex little gadget. GPS learning is strangely not intuitive; you need to really read the instruction manual.
The manual assumes a certain amount of tech savvy which casual users (read: me) may not have, and some of the learning seems unsequential.

Quick fix suggestion:

The instructions could be laid out better; if reordered, there would be less flipping back and forth.The Garmin website has tech help just for newbies and frustrated users who are sick of flipping through their handbooks. However, the instruction manual does have enough graphics and simple explanations (once you find what you need) for the technically impaired!

Summary

The Garmin GPSMAP 60Cx is a pricey portable GPS; My eTrex Legend runs just over 150 bucks, while this one will cost you closer to 490 dollars. They are both geocaching ready, and either would make a thoughtful holiday gift for a casual, geocache hobbyist GPS user. However, if you're in the market for an outdoor adventure luxury item, the GSPMAP's versatility and speed make it an ideal gift.

Related, on Suite 101:

GPS Devices and Geocaching

Navigation and GPS Technology

GPS Hub in Boating and Sailing

High-tech Travel Gifts

Blackberry Pearl Product Review

The copyright of the article Garmin GPSMAP 60Cx Product Review in Luxury Vacations is owned by Jennifer W. Miner. Permission to republish Garmin GPSMAP 60Cx Product Review in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.