Need recommendations for handheld GPS

[agnes!]

I want to buy one as a gift for a friend, but I know nothing about the things. My friend is interested in genealogy and needs it for walking around and mostly finding historical sites (like cemeteries, so they can transcribe grave-marker inscriptions).

Anyone out there have one they'd like to recommend? There are *so* many and all the different models...yikes!

Thanks,
agnes!

 

[BunsenH]

I have a Garmin Colorado 300 that I use for geocaching (finding locations based on coordinates).

Check out this link for some comparisons and recommendations.

http://www.geocaching.com/reviews/gps

 

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

several other places compare them.

it might be a good idea to read this at the REI site:

http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/gps+receiver.html

kinda give you the basic information so that any/all compairsons you read about will make a bit more sense!

good luck.

 

[agnes!]

Thanks for the tips etc. (I think the Garmin Colorado might be too pricey for my wallet though...)

Any more recommendations/reviews?...post them here .
agnes!

 

[kelly7ak]

There are several Garmin GPS units that would fit your needs ... fewer bells & whistles means lower cost. Some units come with color screens, and that may be unnecessary for geocaching. Some units include a radio function, which may be helpful if geocaching with others (and maintaining communication) ... these are the Rino units. Some come with SD card slots, which help increase the unit's memory capabilities (more maps, more details, more waypoints, etc.).

 

[agnes!]

My friend doesn't have a very new computer & still has dial-up (so downloading maps and even having map stuff on extra CDs probably is not the best). They watch our cats and take in the mail when we're away...I usually give them something nice (they won't take money) like a DVD set to a TV show they like or a genealogical book they need for research. They said a while back that they wished they could find a simple GPS unit to use when they're looking at old cemeteries for marker inscriptions. From looking at reviews online my concern about the cheaper units is exactly that...they're cheaper. I want the unit to be somewhat rugged and to last, but can't shell out $$$ for the thing and am hoping I can find a good unit for maybe $150 (at the *very* most).

Any specific recommendations on which Garmin units? I'm finindg all the model names to be confusingly similar.

agnes!

 

[BunsenH]

When I was shopping for a receiver, I considered something in the Garmin eTrex family. I ended up with the Colorado 300 because Costco had a great deal ($250?).

Price within the eTrex family will mostly depend on the screen (greyscale vs. color).