GPS Devices

[spejic]

I don't know if I want to get into geocaching itself, but I am interested in small, cheap GPS devices and would like some people's recommendations and reviews.

[the shelts]

To be honest, for an entry level unit I'd think about downloading an application to the iphone if you have one. They have some seriously good applications.

If that isn't an option I'd go with the TomTom One if you want any sort of car navigation, as it has a mode that you can use the battery and do geo-caching. The battery isn't that good though.

For a true handheld model, I'd get the cheapest one possible on ebay or at a store that has a color display, if you enjoy it then you'll learn enough about it to know what you like/dislike.

[BocaFan]

Are we talking about GPS devices for driving or for hiking? For driving I would recommend the Garmin Nuvi. The mounting device (to put on your windshield) is great and sturdy, and that is a key apect of any GPS for driving. I use it for driving through both North America and Europe, don't know what I would do without it. I could only wish my cell phone would work in small, backwater towns of both continents to the same level of effectiveness.

[spejic]

Are we talking about GPS devices for driving or for hiking?Hiking and possibly bicycle riding.

[Caesar]

In Australia, I would only buy a Navman or TomTom - they're the only ones with decent maps.

This is probably different for America though.

[CyphaPSU]

Hiking and possibly bicycle riding.

It very much depends on the functionality you want from a GPS. Sounds like you need a handheld, but handhelds are diverse based on what functions they are designed for. I would recommend checking out Garmin handheld GPS units.

If you want a simple lightweight handheld GPS that has a compass and waypoint-finding capability, I'd recommend a Garmin eTrex. I have one and it's great out on the trail, particularly if I have the coordinates of my destination punched into the GPS.

If you want something that you can wear around your wrist and have the ability to backtrack, I'd recommend checking out the Garmin Foretrex series.

For handhelds with a bit more advanced navigational & mapping functionality, check out Garmin's Dakota series.

Of course, Garmin is not the only one out there, Magellan is also a good brand to check out if you're still looking for a GPS unit. I'm just more familiar with the Garmin product since I happily own one.

[YankHibee]

I have the Garmin eTrex for hiking and whatnot. The new ones might have more functionality, but mine is frustrating if I try to use it for anything other than that. I do like how sturdy it is and that it can survive full submersion.