I'm new to the forum here, but been reading alot as I try to decide on my first GPS unit. I think I've narrowed my choices to the Garmin 60csx, Vista HCX or the Oregon 300. I'm aware of the basic difference such as ergonomics, lighting and such. With any selection, from the way I understand it from reading different threads, it will be best to add different maps later. Some free, and some for extra $$.
I intend to use it for hiking in the Adirondacks, and the high peaks. It will be used throughout the year, so working in the cold is also an issue for any electronics. Primarily I want it for several things, not getting lost, making efficient use of time on the trail for longer hikes, keeping track of hike stats like distance and elevation. I would also like it to try out geocaching with my family, sounds like it would be fun for everyone.
So the questions. First I've read some reviews were people felt the Vista HCX was actually superior, or at least equal to, the 60csx. So, can I rule out the 60csx for the cheaper Vista HCX, or what would I be giving up if I did (other than serial port and the option of external antena)? I know there alot of features that the Garmin site doesn't show, are some missing on the Vista HCX?
Also, I have considered the Oregon 300. Not the 400t, because from what I read it has potential to be more powerful unit with maps loaded on the micro SD card, rather than internal memory. Question is partly the accuracy. Seems like there are many reviews and posts that contradict the accuracy as compared to the above mentioned units. Also ofcourse the readability of the display, which I'm less concerned about. One thing I've noticed is that almost every review I find is rather old, so they couldn't have the latest firmware fixes. So with a fully updated unit, are there still any real drawbacks to the Oregon 300 compared to the others, besides the display visibility (which I think a firmware change also helped this slightly)? Any other 60csx or Vista HCX features missing?
Thanks for the insight!
I intend to use it for hiking in the Adirondacks, and the high peaks. It will be used throughout the year, so working in the cold is also an issue for any electronics. Primarily I want it for several things, not getting lost, making efficient use of time on the trail for longer hikes, keeping track of hike stats like distance and elevation. I would also like it to try out geocaching with my family, sounds like it would be fun for everyone.
So the questions. First I've read some reviews were people felt the Vista HCX was actually superior, or at least equal to, the 60csx. So, can I rule out the 60csx for the cheaper Vista HCX, or what would I be giving up if I did (other than serial port and the option of external antena)? I know there alot of features that the Garmin site doesn't show, are some missing on the Vista HCX?
Also, I have considered the Oregon 300. Not the 400t, because from what I read it has potential to be more powerful unit with maps loaded on the micro SD card, rather than internal memory. Question is partly the accuracy. Seems like there are many reviews and posts that contradict the accuracy as compared to the above mentioned units. Also ofcourse the readability of the display, which I'm less concerned about. One thing I've noticed is that almost every review I find is rather old, so they couldn't have the latest firmware fixes. So with a fully updated unit, are there still any real drawbacks to the Oregon 300 compared to the others, besides the display visibility (which I think a firmware change also helped this slightly)? Any other 60csx or Vista HCX features missing?
Thanks for the insight!
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