GPS for geocachers

Last updated May 16, 2008

Geocaching is an extremely popular sport, and I’d venture to say that over 99% of geocachers use a GPS. But which one to choose? I’ll narrow the field, look at choices in multiple price ranges, and delve into other uses, mapping software, etc. By the way, all the units below have a high-sensitivity chipset for superior reception under canopy and in natural or urban canyons.

Budget GPS for geocaching

There are a couple of options here. The lowest priced is the Garmin eTrex H, a monochrome model that will not accept detailed maps. The "map" screen, shown at right, only shows your track and any waypoints you've created, though the compass screen will guide you to a cache. Also, this unit does not come with a cable to transfer waypoints from your computer. You must buy it separately or enter waypoint coordinates manually, which creates plenty of opportunity for error. I highly recommend the purchase of a cable. As of this update, the eTrex H is available for about $90.

Alternatively, you may want to consider the next model up, the eTrex Venture HC, which adds a PC cable, sunlight-readable color screen, and the ability to accept detailed maps, such as Garmin'€™s TOPO U.S. (purchased separately). The maps are not as detailed as a standard USGS 1:24,000 scale topo, but I find them quite useful. The retail price is $200, but as of this posting the Venture HC can be found for around $140.

Mid-range GPS for geocaching

I’m going to recommend the Garmin eTrex Legend HCx as a mid-range unit. Stepping up to the HCx, you get a color screen and expandable map memory. Plus, it supports turn-by-turn routing, making it useful for city navigation in your car as well. You’ll need a mount, City Navigator software, and preferably a power cord, but then you’re set up for turn-by-turn routing. The retail price is $269.99, but as of this posting the Legend HCx can be found for under $200.

The best GPS for geocaching

Without a doubt, the best geocaching GPS in the marketplace is the Garmin Colorado series.  In addition to the features mentioned above, you'll get an electronic compass and barometric altimeter. The Colorado has a high definition screen and shaded relief for maps, but the killer app for geocachers is paperless caching. That's right, you get the full cache description, recent logs and more, right on your handheld. There are two models to choose from:

• Garmin Colorado 300 - Worldwide basemap with shaded relief, no pre-loaded detail maps (great for owners of Topo U.S. 2008)
• Garmin Colorado 400t - Worldwide basemap with shaded relief, U.S. topo maps pre-loaded

Be sure to check out my hands-on review of the Garmin Colorado 300. At this point, the Colorado 300 can be found for around $400 and the 400t for a little over $480.

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Comments

[maique]

i'm using the gpsmap 60 and having a lot of fun doing it.
sure it has limited memory and it has no color.
but, apart from that, i get turn-by-turn, i have an adequate number of waypoints i can add and i really don't mind it beeing black and white... it kind of 'geeks' the thing a bit more...

it's much cheaper that the color models and it's perfect for geocaching.

[Rich]

maique,

Thanks for chiming in. What's important is that you're having fun using it, and I can tell from your blog that you are (even though I can't read anything but English)!

[Jim]

Is this where I can complain that Garmin still hasn't gotten around to releasing GPS software for Macs? I love my Rino 530, but am disappointed that Garmin has delayed release of Mac software until at least the end of the year (having announced early in 2006 that it would be out in late summer).

[Rich]

Heck yeah ya can complain here. Garmin tends to over-promise and under-deliver when it comes to new product introduction dates. I guess that applies to software upgrades too.

[jorge pinto]

hello
is the garmin zumo able to do geocaching

[Rich]

Jorge,

I don't see any reason why not. It can store waypoints and routes, you can enter a location by coordinates and it can accept custom POIs. It's going to be bulky though -- it's almost 3 inches thick!

[jorge pinto]

another question with my nokia n70 is possible geocaching how. what I have that to buy and to adapt
thanks.

[Rich]

Jorge,

I'm not that familiar with applications for your phone. I suggest asking at http://forums.groundspeak.com/GC/index.php?showforum=11

Sorry I can't be of more help.