Mapping vs ability to load maps?

[RickW]

Newbie question.  I am getting ready to buy a gps and I am confused.  What is the difference between a "mapping" gps like the Garmin 62 and the etrex 30?  The both can load maps, is there something more in the 62 that I am missing in the spec sheets?

Rick

[Boyd]

The eTrex 30 *is* a "mapping gps" - here is the full list of Garmin mapping GPS devices: https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=145

The eTrex 30 and GPSMap 62s have very similar feature sets, but they are packaged differently. Based on reports I've read, the eTrex 30 has a slower processor and will be more sluggish when zooming and panning the map. The eTrex is really tiny - I didn't realize just how small it was until I saw it in person.

Some of the older models (the older eTrex models than don't have a number in their name) in the link above have more limited capabilities and cannot use satellite imagery or the new "custom maps" (.kmz file) Garmin format.