GPS for walking
There are lots of GPS for walking devices out there. Some have big features, some are simpler, it is only up to you, which one will you go for. If you don’t know any or some of these features, it might be confusing to try to choose your GPS for walking. I started this site to try to help you navigate in this ocean of possibilities. I’m going to review the most popular GPS for walking devices and post my reviews here. I hope you will enjoy them and that they will help to make the right decision for you.
GPS for walking and how it works
GPS = Global Positioning System. It was first mentioned in the 60′s and was created by US Depart of defence. Originally the use of GPS (satellite radio navigation system) was army use only. Change came in the 80′s when was GPS allowed for general public use. So to explain it as clear as possible I will use simpler explanation. These days there are 24 satellites orbiting earth on 6 different trajectories. GPS for walking unit receives multiple signals and the GPS for walking device than calculates the position based on different satellite signals. Click here to read more on how GPS works. Very important is to have clear line between satellites and GPS for walking device.
Advantages of GPS for walking
There are lot of different advantages when it comes to comparing GPS for walking devices vs. map and compass. The biggest I can think of is that regardless if you are experienced or inexperienced hiker, it’s almost impossible to get lost. Increased comfort is important for sure (you can leave your map in your bag and concentrate on those deep breaths and every step of the journey). They are timesavers (there is no need to stand around every so often to check the map, you just can carry on with your GPS for walking device in your hand). In emergency situations, you are capable of getting information about your location in within seconds. And as we all know in emergency situations seconds saves lives. And GPS for walking devices are waterproof, so don’t worry about little bit of rain.
Important features when choosing GPS for walking
- Long lasting battery life – this is really important when it comes to hiking, your GPS for walking will be useless without power
- Durability – again, really important, make sure your GPS for walking device is waterproof and resistant against any impacts
- High quality receiver – it is really important to find signal even under the trees
- Memory capacity – the bigger, the better. Important to store all your maps and saved data
- Map – make sure you buy device that has map already in it and you’re good to go
- Screen – you’ll need to be able to read it under all circumstances (rain, sun, fog…) and needs to be big enough for you to be able to read the map without problems
- Dimensions – it would be perfect if it could fit in your jacket (or trouser) pocket and be in within easy reach
- These are the most importat features when you’re choosing GPS for walking.
My top 6 in GPS for walking
The rugged, reliable Earthmate PN-60 delivers next-generation GPS capabilities, plus DeLorme’s market-leading map and aerial imagery displays. PN-Series receivers have been tested in some of the most extreme conditions on earth.
So, here we have it, Garmin 60CSx. One of the most popular GPS models for outdoor and marine use. Garmin 60csx is much better, updated version of Garmin 60CS. The biggest difference between the two is extremly accureate, high quality GPS receiver from SiRP which easily tracks you under the trees or in deep canyons.
This is not your thypical GPS for walking devices. Wrist mountable and used by tactical units (rescue units, military…) around the world, this is one of the best and most accurate GPS for walking and many more!
Garmin Montana 600 is one of the newest members of Garmin Montana Family. It’s multipurpose use will make it ideal handheld GPS for everyone. It can take your hunting, hiking or on the water. Garmin Montana 600 will guide you everywhere you will go.
Magellan Explorist 510 is robust and waterproof GPS device, which combines accurate tracking, high sensitivity GPS signal reception and easy to read mapping. And it has 3.2 megapixel camera!
Magellan eXplorist 710 is better equipped, more handsome and sexier bigger brother of eXplorist 510. Magellan eXplorist 710 offers exactly the same specs as its little brother, but features some extra, bad ass features.
Thanks for reading, hopefully, this can helps you to pick the right GPS for walking. Check out Review page, to get to read any of my GPS for walking reviews, or simply click on name of any of GPS in the table above.
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