Budget Handheld GPS

Less expensive GPS units skip extras and large screens

For those on tighter budgets, experts identify some good alternatives. The least expensive handheld GPS units have monochrome displays, but experts such as GPSLodge.com's Scott Martin suggest skipping monochrome units because color contrast makes a small screen easier to read.

Instead, reviews say that any device in Garmin's affordable eTrex line will do for a budget GPS receiver, but we found the most recommendations for the eTrex Venture HC (*Est. $125). For example, GPSTracklog.com picks it as the top budget receiver, calling it an "excellent backcountry GPS." It is also one of the most highly rated handheld GPS devices on Amazon.com, where it receives 4.5 stars out of five on average from more than 100 user-written reviews.

Because it is an entry-level GPS receiver, it is safe to assume that the eTrex Venture HC is not packed with high-end features, but it does get the job done admirably. Its 24 MB of onboard memory is enough for 500 waypoints, 50 routes and 10 saved tracks. Users and reviewers praise it for its accuracy, though it is not as perfect as some high-end models. Unlike other inexpensive handheld GPS receivers, this eTrex Venture HC has a vivid color display. It supports topographic maps at a scale of 1:100K, as well as City Navigator maps for driving and National Park Service trail maps. It is also enabled for geocaching .

Some of the high-end features missing from the eTrex Venture HC are available in other models in the eTrex line. The eTrex Summit HC (*Est. $175) adds a barometric altimeter and electronic compass. The eTrex Legend HCx (*Est. $175) has expandable memory and is routable. GPSTracklog.com recommends the eTrex Legend HCx as the best mid-range handheld GPS device.

Some older GPS receivers offer great value. The Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx (*Est. $285) was Garmin's top-of-the-line handheld GPS a couple years ago and still leads all other handheld GPS receivers with positive reviews at sites like Amazon.com and REI.com. Features include expandable memory, a good-sized screen, routable maps, a barometric altimeter and an electronic compass.

In addition, the Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx uses the SiRFstar III signal processor, which locks on to satellites quickly and tenaciously, according to tests at GPSMagazine.com. In fact, Rich Owings of GPSTracklog.com reports that the Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx is the most accurate GPS device Garmin has ever made, so he recommends it for professional trail mapping over even the Oregon 400t handheld GPS, a more expensive unit.

The advice discussed so far makes the most sense for hikers, but other users might have a slightly different perspective. GPSTracklog.com does a great job providing additional insight for cyclists, geocachers, hikers, golfers and runners. Geocachers should love the Oregon 400t, according to the site's Rich Owings, but those in urban areas or in open landscapes might like the DeLorme PN-40 more. The DeLorme PN-40 also "may be the ideal unit for mountain bikers." Owings universally recommends Garmin eTrex line -- particularly the Venture HC and Legend HCx -- as a more affordable option for all of these activities.