Name: Eddy
Location: USA
Date: 2004-07-14
Customer Rating: -
Summary: Garmin has good reception
Comment: I own 3 GPS receivers and I will say Garmin did an excellent job. The receiver is much more sensitive to satellite signals than my other GPSs. Just don't expect too much from this small unit with tiny screen and very slow CPU for screen refresh. It will drive you nuts to use it for street navigation. It is suitable for back trailing in the mountains. For street navigate, I strongly suggest that you hook this unit up with a laptop but make sure that GPS is set to NMEA and the software GPS setting is also correct. Conclusion, don't street navigate with this unit alone and don't buy a no brand GPS under $90 because you will not be happy with the reception. Eddy
Name: Jake
Location: Texas
Date: 2001-08-13
Customer Rating: -
Summary: a true marvel
Comment: the Garmin etrex GPS unit is truly a steal when you take into consideration the compact size, quality construction, and functionality of the unit. The etrex delivers a strong reading when trekking, cycling, driving a car, even when flying! True to Garmin's claim, the etrex does deliver a strong reading under foliage but only if it is held in the user's hand. The etrex's tracking seems compromised when the user is hiking under dense foliage while storing the etrex in a backpack. The units durability is amazing. I have dropped the etrex on the ground twice already, once while biking, and the only thing that the etrex suffered was a few very minimal scratch marks on the yellow plastic case. The LCD display seems to be resistant to scratches because I have used the unit extensively and the display wipes clean without a scratch with a moist towel... I give Garmin's etrex 5 stars without hesitation.
Name: P. Christensen
Location: San Diego, CA United States
Date: 2004-05-14
Customer Rating: -
Summary: Good Little Workhorse
Comment: I've used a few GPS units over the years and have had my little yellow ETrex for a couple years now. It's been a great companion.You don't get many of the features of the higher priced units - no map overlays - compass only works while you are moving - accuracy +- 15 feet or so - unable to pan.
What you do get though is impressive. Battery life is awesome, I go on weekend camping trips and usually run Saturday and Sunday without changing batteries (NI-MH rechargeables). I'm hooked on geocaching and preloading in geocaching waypoints means you are always a couple miles away from an interesting spot you never knew was there. Use it when visiting new places and always know how to backtrack the way you came. Play with the trip odometer, estimated arrival times, and my favorite; meet up with your camping buddies giving them nothing but Lat/Long coords and no directions.
I've read a few complaints about getting a signal and I don't get it. Mine gets a lock within a minute or so and only loses it if I'm in REAL tight canyons or dense forest, but quickly reacquires with the next patch of open space.
Anyway, if you want to get a quality starter GPS unit without blowing the budget, especially if you have kids, try geocaching (search the web) and get one of these. One thing, get yourself some rechargeable batteries, once hooked you won't want to turn it off.
I just wanted to share while I came back to Amazon to upgrade to a ETrex legend (I'm hooked and want a map and panning) and thought I'd add my 2c in to someone getting their feet wet.
Name: Lonnie Easterling
Location: Memphis, TN USA
Date: 2002-02-28
Customer Rating: -
Summary: Simplicity
Comment: I purchased my eTrex with the sole purpose of going geo-caching, which is a type of high tech treasure hunt. So, being new to this I had no idea what to expect when I placed my order. When it promptly arrived I opened it up and began using it immediately. The instructions are clear and concise. And so is the display. I was pleasantly surprised at the GameBoy like definition and size of the viewer. It's easy to hold and, with only 5 buttons, easy to control. My only complaint (and it's a tiny one) is that the buttons are not clearly labeled on the front. It gets great satellite reception in a car or truck. I've even been under heavy tree cover and still get an accuracy of 10 feet! This product is highly recommended if you're looking for a GPS unit that is cost effective, easy to use, and for recreation.
Name: Louie Guizzetti
Location: Rainier, WA United States
Date: 2000-07-29
Customer Rating: -
Summary: Works like a champ.
Comment: When this unit is used in conjunction with a good map, there is no excuse for you becoming lost. My primary use for this GPS is off road motorcyling, hiking and other outdoor uses. It is very easy to use and comes with an easy to read manual that makes learning it's functions a breeze.We travel all over the western U.S. and have been very pleased with it's operation and have not lost our way yet. This is definately good for the outdoor enthusiast, but be forewarned, it does not work well in thick overhead vegetation.
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