For GIS professionals who spend their days traversing diverse landscapes to collect crucial field data, the right GPS unit isn’t just a tool—it’s a trusted companion. Whether you’re mapping remote terrains, tracking environmental changes, or conducting field surveys, your GPS device needs to be as resilient and reliable as you are.
In this comprehensive review, we delve into the latest Garmin GPS units: the GPSMAP 64, 65, 66i, 67, Rino 755, and eTrex 22. Each model is scrutinized for its precision, durability, and functionality to ensure that you, the GIS field expert, have the information you need to choose a device that won’t just meet but exceed your fieldwork requirements. Let’s explore these technological trailblazers and find the perfect GPS ally for your next outdoor adventure.
Garmin GPSMAP 64 Review:
The Garmin GPSMAP 64 is renowned for its overall functionality and durability, making it a solid choice for outdoor activities. Key features include:
- Pros: High sensitivity GPS/GLONASS receiver, 4GB internal memory, sunlight-readable display, compatibility with BirdsEye Satellite Imagery and Custom maps, and durable design.
- Cons: Shorter battery life, no wireless connectivity, limited compatibility with other devices, and not touch screen.
- Performance: Excellent reception quality, even in dense forests or deep valleys, and preloaded with a worldwide basemap. Supports additional map downloads and paperless geocaching.
Garmin GPSMAP 65s Review:
The Garmin GPSMAP 65s stands out as the first Garmin model to offer multi-band GNSS, enhancing its performance as a handheld GPS unit. This model is a noteworthy choice for GIS professionals who require accurate and reliable field data collection. Here’s a breakdown of its features:
- Multi-Band GNSS: The GPSMAP 65s supports extended GNSS support and multi-band reception within a GNSS system, offering about 25% better accuracy than older GPS systems like Galileo or GLONASS.
- Mapping: It comes with Garmin TopoActive maps, providing a comprehensive trail and outdoor map set. While it doesn’t include a Birdseye subscription, it offers free lifetime updates on the TopoActive maps.
- Elevation Accuracy: The model has a barometric altimeter, providing more accurate elevation data than other Garmin handhelds, likely due to the new multi-band positioning system.
- Battery Life: On two AA batteries, the GPSMAP 65s delivers 14-16 hours of battery life, aligning well with Garmin’s advertised 16 hours.
- Smartphone Connectivity: The device can connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing for the transfer of navigation information from the Garmin Explore app. However, the app’s functionality as a planning tool is somewhat basic compared to other tools like Gaia GPS or CalTopo.
In terms of practical use, especially in challenging environments like canyons or mountainous regions, the GPSMAP 65s is expected to perform exceptionally well. Its accuracy and robust features make it an ideal tool for GIS professionals engaged in field data collection.
Garmin GPSMAP 66i Review: THE BEST GPS
The Garmin GPSMAP 66i is a top-tier handheld GPS unit, equipped with built-in InReach satellite communication capabilities. It’s designed for robust outdoor use and navigation. Here are the key aspects of the GPSMAP 66i:
- Pros:
- Rugged and durable, suitable for outdoor environments.
- Ergonomic design, easy to handle in various conditions.
- Fast GPS acquisition and responsive software.
- Preloaded topo maps with detailed trail information.
- Long battery life with customizable settings.
- Large, bright screen readable in sunlight and rain.
- Customizable with third-party apps and data fields.
- InReach technology for global satellite communication.
- Cons:
- High cost.
- Outdated interface compared to modern smartphone apps.
- The Garmin Explore website and app are not very user-friendly.
- Limited value in Birdseye imagery.
- Some quality issues, although improvements have been made in newer firmware releases.
- Learning curve for those new to Garmin handheld GPS units.
- Target Audience: The GPSMAP 66i is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, backpackers, surveyors, hunters, and search and rescue teams, especially those needing robust navigation tools in harsh outdoor conditions.
- Functionality: The device can be used right out of the box for non-InReach functions but offers more when connected to the Garmin Explore ecosystem. However, the setup process can be complex and disjointed.
- InReach Functionality: Requires a subscription plan, similar to cell phone plans, for two-way communication using the Iridium satellite network. This feature is particularly useful in areas without cell phone signals.
In summary, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i is a highly capable device, perfect for professionals and serious outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable GPS with global communication capabilities, albeit at a higher cost and with some interface limitations.
Garmin GPSMAP 67 Review:
After extensive use, the Garmin GPSMAP 67 has proven to be a highly reliable and accurate GPS unit, offering:
- Pros: Exceptional battery life (180 hours), multiband for enhanced accuracy, and robust reliability. Compatible with various Garmin software for route planning and trip sharing.
- Cons: Lack of solar charging and some complexity in its Connect/Explore interfaces and route planning options.
- Personal Experience: Praised for its size, weight, flexibility, and regarded as one of the best GPS units by the reviewer.
Garmin Rino 755T Review:
The Garmin Rino 755T stands out for its unique combination of two-way radio and GPS navigation, making it ideal for hunters and outdoor adventurers:
- Pros: GPS/GLONASS accuracy, barometric altimeter, 3-axis compass, text and voice messaging via GMRS radio, weather tracking, wireless interconnectivity, and dual-battery system.
- Cons: Screen resolution could be better, small toggle button, and complex instructions for some users.
- Unique Features: Built-in 8MP camera for geotagged photos, intuitive 3-inch touchscreen, and support for various mapping options including maritime and topographic maps.
Garmin eTrex 22x Review:
The Garmin eTrex 22x is a mid-range GPS device that balances functionality and price, suitable for various outdoor activities:
- Pros: Lightweight and compact, waterproof (IPX7), interfaces with GPS and GLONASS, useful for geocaching, and has a long battery life (25 hours on AA batteries).
- Cons: Lacks a barometric altimeter and 3-axis compass, and does not have a rechargeable battery or touchscreen interface.
- Features: Transflective display for easy visibility in sunlight, GPS-based compass, BaseCamp software integration, preloaded TopoActive maps, and expandable storage up to 32 GB.