EmailBest Reviewed
Handheld GPS
- Best handheld GPS Garmin Oregon 400t *Est. $450
- Best-value handheld GPS DeLorme PN-40 *Est. $340
- Budget handheld GPS Garmin eTrex Venture HC *Est. $125
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Best-value handheld GPS
- Great maps
- Extremely accurate
- Fast
- Good build quality
- Steep learning curve
- Relatively small screen
The DeLorme PN-40 handheld GPS receiver has drawn great reviews for its fast performance, unbeatable accuracy and great maps. A bright, crisp display is also appreciated, though some say it could be larger. The maps are what really get hardcore GPS fans going. DeLorme offers better access to more maps and images -- U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps, satellite images, aerial photography -- than any other GPS manufacturer, experts say. However, an annual subscription (*Est. $30) is required, and you'll need to spend some time on a computer -- and have decent computer skills -- to get the full benefit. Accuracy is enhanced through the use of the SiRFstar III signal processor. The PN-40 is also packed with features. However, reviewers and users say it takes time and patience to learn how to use the PN-40 to its best advantage. For those who want something a little less challenging to use, the Garmin Oregon 400t (*Est. $450) is pricier and has a dimmer screen, but its touch screen and interface are unsurpassed when it comes to ease of use.
Dedicated GPS sites like GPSReview.net and GPSTracklog.com provide the most in-depth and DeLorme PN-40, detailing the reviewers' experience with screenshots, maps, and photos. About.com offers a briefer but still competent and worthwhile report. User reviews at Amazon.com tell the tale of how happy -- or not -- users are after the sale.
DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 Handheld GPS (1:100k Topographic, Detailed Street Maps & POIs Included) |
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Our Sources
Tim Flight's extremely detailed review of the DeLorme PN-40 walks through hands-on testing of the device's impressive features and includes an array of photos and screenshots Flight praises the DeLorme PN-40's speed and accuracy, but adds that you should be prepared to spend considerable time working with the mapping software to get the most out of the GPS receiver.
Review: DeLorme PN-40 Review, Tim Flight, June 2008
2. GPS Tracklog
The DeLorme PN-40 is named one of the best high-end handheld GPS receivers here. Rich Owings notes that the screen is smaller on the equally well-regarded Gamin Oregon 400t, but that it is easier to see under more conditions. The complexity of the mapping software makes it a less than ideal choice for the beginning GPS owner, however.
Review: DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 review, Rich Owings, Feb. 2009
3. About.com
About.com GPS guide Fred Zahradnik says there is lots to like in the DeLorme PN-40. A smallish screen and a steep learning curve are offset by the construction quality, speed, accuracy and great map library. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
Review: DeLorme PN-40: Speed, and an Abundance of Maps, Fred Zahradnik
4. Amazon.com
Amazon.com users weigh in on the DeLorme PN-40 and most seem to be pleased. The steep learning curve is confirmed in many reports, but most say that the time spent is worth it. Speed, accuracy, the quality of the maps and value are frequently complimented. A few report receiving defective units.
Review: DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 Handheld GPS, Contributors to Amazon.com
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