Garmin Colorado 400t

Though expensive, reviewers say the Garmin Colorado 400t is a big step forward in handheld GPS receiver design -- although it's been eclipsed in reviews by the Garmin Oregon 400t (*Est. $450), which has a touch-screen interface. Still, testers like the Colorado 400t's iPod-like control wheel and intuitive interface, which is so intuitive that some testers don't even need to crack the user's manual. The Colorado 400t comes loaded with a big, bright color screen, 3-D map viewing and features for geocaching . As Garmin's top-of-the-line handheld GPS, the Colorado 400t consistently gets better reviews than Magellan's flagship Triton 2000 (*Est. $445). Reviewers say the Colorado 400t has a bigger screen, smaller footprint and is easier to use than the older Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx (*Est. $285). However, some reviewers recommend sticking with GPSMAP 60CSx if you'll be hiking or mountain biking in very remote areas, as they find the Colorado 400t has omitted some important backcountry navigation features.

We found extremely thorough, expert reviews of the Garmin Colorado 400t handheld GPS at both GPSMagazine.com and GPSLodge.com. The review at About.com isn't nearly as extensive, but it is based on hands-on field testing. GPSTracklog.com's review is largely based on testing of the Garmin Colorado 300 (*Est. $410), which is the same unit as the Colorado 400t minus the U.S. Geological Survey topographical maps. Several of the consumers who post reviews of the Colorado 400t at REI.com, an outdoor retail site, have extensive outdoor experience and valuable insight.