Reprinted with permission from Garmin International
To the first-time buyer, selecting a handheld GPS unit can be a daunting task. Knowing your navigational needs in advance will make your shopping easier, and your next boating trip more enjoyable.
The most important question you should ask yourself when purchasing a handheld GPS receiver is how do I intend to use it? Will it be your primary means of navigation, or a backup to a fixed-mount chartplotter? Besides using it on your boat, do you plan to use it while driving, fishing, hiking, or hunting? All GPS units can show your position and basic navigation information, but each model offers a different combination of features. The following checklist from leading GPS manufacturer Garmin International will help you narrow down the feature set that will benefit you most:
Display – are you more interested in an ultra-compact unit, or are you willing to sacrifice size for a larger display screen? These days, units like the Garmin Geko series are as small as a modern flip-phone. Other handhelds, like the GPSMAP 76 series, have larger, easier-to-read display screens, but aren’t quite as compact.
Mounting Considerations – Where do you intend to use your GPS? Virtually every unit offers different optional mounting accessories, so take a moment to consider the ideal position for your handheld. In a marine environment, it’s a good idea to have your unit secured near you while piloting your boat. If you intend to use the unit under a solid roof (or sometimes, a Bimini top), you may want to consider purchasing a unit with an optional external antenna for better reception.
Mapping – All handhelds show your position and basic navigation information, but many boaters want a unit that also has mapping capabilities. These units come equipped with a standard basemap that typically shows lakes, rivers, shorelines, major cities, and highways. Additionally, users can download detailed map data from optional CD-ROMs, like Garmin’s BlueChart or Recreational Lakes. This additional data offers highly detailed marine navigational data, boat ramps, marinas, underwater structure, contour lines, and more. If you intend to use your new unit in the car or on the trail, Garmin also offers street and topographic data on CD-ROM. The Garmin GPSMAP 76 and higher-end eTrex models are two product lines that offer mapping capabilities.
Additional Features – Many Garmin units offer unique features that can be helpful to boaters, including sunrise/sunset tables and fishing and hunting charts. Some units also feature internal electronic compasses and barometric altimeters, which can give you precise altitude readings and help you define weather patterns. Battery life is also an issue for many boaters, and it’s a good idea to always carry a spare set aboard your boat. An optional 12-volt cigarette lighter cable can power most units as well. If you’re accident-prone and worried about losing your new unit overboard, you may want to consider the GPSMAP 76 series – those units float.