Garmin eTrex Vista HCX

Garmin eTrex Vista Handheld GPS

Neither tall trees nor deep canyons phase the rugged eTrex Vista HCx.  Its high-sensitivity receiver holds a GPS signal in the toughest environments.  Similar to the Vista Cx, this handheld navigator also has a bright color screen, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, microSD card slot and automatic routing for wherever adventure takes you.With its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, eTrex Vista HCx locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover and deep canyons. Whether youre in deep woods or just near tall buildings and trees, you can count on Vista HCx to help you find your way when you need it the most.The Vista HCx has a built-in electronic compass that provides bearing information even while you’re standing still, and its barometric altimeter tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude.  You can even use the altimeter to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions.

Adding maps is easier than ever with Vista HCxs microSD card slot.  Conveniently plug in optional preloaded microSD cards with MapSource data for your land and sea excursions.  Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps, and Vista HCx provides turn-by-turn directions to your destination. The card slot is located inside the waterproof battery compartment, so you dont have to worry about getting it wet.  Like the rest of the eTrex series, Vista HCx is lightweight and compact – the perfect size for all your travels.Neither deep foliage nor steep canyons will faze the rugged Garmin eTrex Vista HCx navigator. Equipped with a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, the unit locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover. The advantage is clear: whether youre traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you can count on the Vista HCx to help you find your way when you need it the most. The Vista HCx also includes a built-in electronic compass that provides bearing information even when youre standing still, along with a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude.  You can even use the altimeter to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you keep an eye on changing weather conditions.

Garmin eTrex Vista HCX Review – Size & Weight

2.2 x 1.2 x 4.2 inches  approx 6 oz.

The unit is small enough for all hiking and outdoors needs. The weight is comparable to other portable hiking GPS units, and better than most, with the exception of watch GPS devices.

Garmin eTrex Vista HCX Review – Battery Life

The Garmin eTrex Vista uses 2 AA batteries, so they are easily replaced on the move.  The battery life will vary depending on the type and quality of batteries used.  Expect 20 hours or so of life with typical off the shelf batteries, and typical hiking use.  Enough for a day of hiking and replaced at camp, but make sure you bring spare batteries on the trail.

Garmin eTrex Vista HCX Review – Features

• Waterproof, so it can withstand the elements or an accidental dunk in water.
• Crisp 256-color, sunlight-readable display makes it easy to distinguish map details — plus, it looks fantastic
• Fast USB computer connection so you can transfer waypoints and other data to your computer

Not much in toys, this is a hiking gps, with good reception an gps functionality.  This is a GPS for serious hikers, boaters, etc.

Our Comments:

If I am going to get lost in the woods, this is the GPS I want to get back home.  Its reception is top notch. If you are off the trails or on large lakes, take this GPS with you.  For casual use, geocaching, etc, there are better options, but no option we have seen for better reception out in the middle of nowhere.

Price:

As of this writing, this GPS is available on Amazon for a respectable $209.95