Customer Reviews
Alex Roche Cagigos said:
i purchased it to switch my old Garmin Etrex Vista and i’m more than pleased with it. When comparing it to my older model these are the most differences:
Pros:
* Really high sensitivity. Now it usually works contained in the car, and it usually works when hiking inside the forest. You’ll be able to just drop it into your pocket or backpack.
* Routing capability. Very useful in case you have an excellent map, even supposing it doesn’t give voice commands.
* Color screen instead of B/W makes it even more readable even though screen area is slightly smaller
* When saving Waypoints, now the date and time info is automatically included.
* Battery lasts at the very least twice
* Rapid transfer of maps and tracks through USB instead of serial!
* Compatible with the maps and logs that I have already got. I transferred the entire waypoints and tracks saved in my old Vista to this new model, through Mapsource without problem.
* Compatible with my car, motorbike and bicycle mounts that I have already got from my Etrex Vista.
* i’m able to still use the free maps that I used with my old Vista, from: http://mapcenter.cgpsmapper.com/catalogue.php and from
http://www.malsingmaps.com/
* Automatic date setup (from the satellites?)
* When transferring to the computer, the Active Log is now transferred as some tracks (i assume one for each time that you’ve powered up the device) instead of as an extended list of tracks
* When saving a track, you can now decide exactly as much as which point to save lots of back.
Cons:
* Not compatible with two of my Etrex Vista accessories: Car power adaptor (now the ability comes in the course of the USB connector) and Garmin case (now the unit is just a little wider and shorter)
* No Favorite Waypoints menu. Has been replaced by a up to date Finds Menu?
* User Interface is typically confusing and never easy to search out the function that you’re looking for.
* WAAS setting and backlight level get to off everytime you power off the unit instead of remembering the setting (firmware bug?)
* Product Manual is rather bad. It tells you ways to show things off and on, not why and for those who should turn something off and on.
* No Micro SD memory included so that you cannot upload any map unless you purchase one.
* For a better product update, could I ask Garmin so as to add a Voice Recorder function to have the opportunity record a voice note associated to every Waypoint?
McLean said:
After being content with my Garmin Vista, i made a decision it was time to upgrade to the most recent Garmin Vista eTrex HCx. With a brand new MapSource Topo USA for MAC available, and the facility to transfer National Parks Topo Version 3 from PC to MAC i presumed it might be an incredible time to “upgrade” to this model. The HCx has a fantastic color screen, is very sensitive-acquiring satellites and ready to navigate even more effectively! Response is quick-virtually instantaneous. Ergonomically the toggles are awkward and its easy to toggle into the inaccurate place-not an enormous deal and that i image I’ll get used to it. This being said the documentation that includes the unit is nearly useless, covering just the fundamentals. Neglect the way to setup (no less than for a MAC). The cd that includes it’s for PC’s only and there’s absolutely no information on what a Mac user must do. You suspect a fast analyze the Garmin website would have these answers. Nope! Nada! The web site is a joke-as is customer service. I waited 32 minutes to communicate to a rep after which was told i’d must be transferred to their Mac Dept. Okay fine. Another 34 minute wait. Thats; okay, I’m willing to attend-except the tech i eventually get is set as helpful as a cord of wood. No help. I ask questions he doesn’t know the answers and doesn’t sound like he cares-hardly a Mac enthusiast. Of course I felt like he actually dispised my call. From simple such things as where’s the serial number? (UPDATE: it’s behind the batteries) to do i want drivers to download to make this work? (UPDATE: No you don’t. In point of fact, in case you’re using a Mac, just turn it on and it’s up and running-no use for “installation disc”)-which will transfer maps for your GPS, you should download the “MapInstall” program from Garmin’s website). This can be a beautiful device that does what my old Vista did-except this one, is naturally, much faster, and more advantageous-if i’ll get some information on it! If Garmin goes to say they’re moving toward Mac compatibility they need to give a bit additional info to Mac user’s on their website (aside from press releases on how they’re now Mac friendly) or even a few sentences within the manual explaining exactly what Mac users must get this thing up-and-running; transferring maps, ready to communicate with Mapsource software, etc.. i need to provide the HCx five stars, but on account of absolutely no assistance for Mac users on their website or manual-and due to an initial bad customer support experience I give it two stars and sit here with a $270 GPS-$200 worth of latest MapSource Maps (another product-another review) and an exquisite little machine that has quicker response and is way more capable than my old Vista-but just as useless on a Mac (REVISED: It really works beautifully with my Mac. Perfect!). My enthusiasm dissolved after seeking to upload maps or connect with my computer.
REVISED 6/30/08: Okay, finally! I got someone at Garmin customer support (really nice within the Mac Dept.) that may explain what-exactly should be done to get this puppy up-and-running: I had already downloaded the Garmin MapIntsall software (that you should open, then select the device-as a consequence the HCx); there you’ll find all of your maps (in my case the Topo Natl Parks and Topo USA for Mac). With the GPS plugged into USB port you simple select all of the maps you’d like from one set of maps after which visit the opposite set and choose those there). Works like a dream! Now in the event that they would just make this clear somewhere (and believe me, it’s not CLEAR anywhere). That being said, the experience I had today was far better. While I needed to wait another half-hour to get customer support (who told me the serial number is found contained in the battery case at the back) after which another 5 minutes to get to the Mac specialist-all my questions were answered! Both techs were really nice and helpful! Today’s experience will be 5 Star Customer support! while I even have rated the device 2 stars-i’d probably change to 4 stars. Why the missing star? Initial frustration that may had been alleviated if Garmin took the time to stuff some extra instructions within the box specifically for Mac user’s and made their website a little bit more friendly-and informative. The 24k NATL PARKS maps are beautiful at the color screens-as are the TOPO USA 2008 for Mac. The toggles are still awkward and unruly-but I’ll get used to it. So, in a nutshell; You’re able to download multiple maps directly to your Garmin Vista Hcx using MapInstall (dowload from their website) on your applications folder. Once downloaded, connect your HCx to USB and choose device and feature fun selecting your maps. Something i used to be not real clear on until today is that “Bobcat” is precisely for viewing maps and transferring wayspoints, etc. It has nothing to do with uplading maps for your GPS. Use MapInstall to upload maps to the GPS. Today’s experience brought my faith back in Garmin customer support and technology. Thanks Garmin, for FINALLY becoming Mac compatible. I’m going to be a cheerful camper with this glorious little GPS!
REVISED 7/6/08: Pertaining to the latest “1 Star” Review; Yes, mine locks-up/freezes, too (nothing to do with Mac) unit freezes at the trail-once or more an afternoon. No response from any buttons-unable to do anything until holding power button for long period-reboot. This isn’t cool! Will call Garmin Monday and spot what’s up. Not good to listen to they’ve a brand new chipset out and this can be the old one. After-all, I just purchased this. Will report back on what Garmin says. This seems like an obvious defect.
REVISED 7/9/08: Emailed Garmin Monday-no response yet (3 days later)-so returned to Amazon for exchange. Amazon is excellent! No problem. Sent out a brand new one before i’ll box up the defective one-received replacement today! That’s customer support! Will let everyone know if the issue persists with replacement unit. Amazon 5 Stars! HCx?..not so sure anymore.
REVISED 7/11/08: Garmin emailed me 4 days later and explained that the brand new chipset is 3.0. My software version is two.60. Used “Web-Updater” on my Mac and said i’ve got the newest software. Everything is operating beautifully with replacement Amazon sent me. No freezes or problems of any kind. Final score: Garmin HCx-4 Stars! Amazon-big 5 Stars!
Product Details
- High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver provides peak performance in any environment
- Lightweight, compact and waterproof
- Features a 1.7-inch X 1.3-inch screen with 256-level color TFT
- Built-in basemap with automatic routing capability
- USB connection for prime-speed map downloads
Neither deep foliage, nor canyons faze the rugged eTrex Vista HCx. Its high-sensitivity receiver holds a GPS signal within the toughest environments. Just like the Vista Cx, this handheld navigator also has a bright color screen, barometric altimeter, electronic compass, microSD card slot and automated routing for wherever adventure takes you.
Neither deep foliage, nor canyons faze the rugged eTrex Vista HCx. |
Crisp 256-color, sunlight-readable display makes it easy to differentiate map details. |
Perfect for geocaching. |
Lock Onto the good Outdoors
Enjoy Clear Reception
With a high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, the unit locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover. The advantage is evident: whether you’re traipsing through thick woods or strolling near tall buildings and trees, you’re able to assume the Vista HCx that can assist you find your way whilst you need it essentially the mostsome of the most.
Get Your Bearings
The Vista HCx also features a built-in electronic compass that gives bearing information even if you’re standing still, together with a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. You can too use the altimeter to devise barometric pressure through the years, that could mean you can keep watch over changing climatic conditions.
Expand Your Memory
Adding maps to the Vista HCx is less complicated than ever owing to the device’s microSD card slot, which accepts cards preloaded with MapSource data in your land and sea excursions. Just insert a MapSource card with detailed street maps, and the Vista HCx will provide turn-by-turn directions in your destination. Plus, the cardboard slot is found within the waterproof battery compartment, so that you needn’t worry about it getting wet.
Intuitive Control
Besides appreciating its small size, users may also be proud of the Vista HCx’s unique button layout, with five buttons located on each side of the unit. Some great benefits of this design are twofold: First, the Vista HCx is a breeze to function with only one hand, and, second, with the buttons on each side of the unit, the majority of front is devoted to the 256-color, sunlight-readable TFT display. This makes it easy to differentiate map details whatever the time of day.
Comprehensive Basemap
The Vista HCx basemap, meanwhile, contains lakes, rivers, cities, interstates, national and state highways, railroads, and coastlines–briefly, a bunch of helpful details to your outdoor adventures.
Additional Features
Other details include an IPX7 waterproof housing, 1,000 waypoints with names and graphic symbols, a built-in patch antenna, a USB interface, a hunt/fish calendar, sun and moon information, and a geocaching mode. The Vista HCx, which runs for as much as 25 hours on a couple of AA batteries (not included), measures 2.2 by 4.2 by 1.2 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a one-year warranty.
What’s within the Box
eTrex Vista HCx, basemap, MapSource Trip & Waypoint Manager software, USB cable, wrist strap, quick start guide, user’s manual.
Related Geocaching Products
Garmin eTrex Vista HCx Color High-Sensitivity Mapping Handheld GPS… ($218)
Every review I read touted the extra sensitive antenna and how it picked up and locked onto satellites inside of homes or buildings. Well I can honestly tell you that it does all this and does it quick. How this happens it Garmin magic. I was always told you had to have line of sight to pick up satellites, but not in the case of the Vista HCx, it can get them just about anywhere short of being in a bunker.
The menu is intuitive and easy to navigate, so much more that my old Garmin 12 map. The long story short, this little GPS is the one for everyone else to beat. If you are seriously considering a GPS purchase for hiking or navigating the back country, do not look elsewhere, this is the one to get!
The base maps in the Vista HCx are of course upgradeable through additional accessories purchases from Garmin (at substantial cost), but worth the money. How Garmin managed to pack so much into so little a package is a mystery to me. Do yourself a favor, stop reading the review and just buy one, you will not be disappointed.
BTW, I purchased mine through Amazon.com and took advantage of the free shipping. It arrived four days ahead of when it was scheduled to arrive which was a nice surprise. Amazon has a very good price and I have always been happy with my purchases through them. And no I am not getting paid to say these nice things about Amazon, I am just a very satisfied customer.
Dan…
Garmin eTrex Venture HC GPS Receiver… ($104)
It disappoints no more. The Venture HC is the eTrex perfected. It remedies almost every shortcoming that plagued the original models. The new high-sensitivity receiver is amazingly effective. Countless times I’ve stood in wide open spaces cursing my old eTrex because it wouldn’t acquire a single satellite. Last night I turned on the Venture HC on the bottom floor of my two story house, and it locked onto 8 satellites…through the roof and the upper floor! No more “need a clear view of the sky” messages. Amazing.
The old monochrome display has become color, and the user interface is now substantially more intuitive, while adding even more functionality. The cable, which was serial on previous models, has been upgraded to USB, another welcome improvement. The case is somewhat wider than before, but the design bears a strong resemblance to the original eTrex.
A basemap is included but it’s just that – basic. It shows the largest highways, bodies of water, and has some limited capability to display highway exit services. If you need turn-by-turn street directions, an eTrex is not for you. This is a GPS receiver true to Garmin’s outdoor GPS heritage.
Promised battery life (14 hours) is near the bottom of the range when compared to the existing eTrex models, but is still perfectly adequate and has posed no problems.
One weakness that remains is Garmin’s waypoint manager PC software. It has the feel and functionality of a software product released circa 1994. Garmin could certainly develop a better PC interface. For you can buy ExpertGPS from Topografix, or download the free version (EasyGPS)from their website. Either is far more functional than the Garmin OEM software.
Still, the software criticism is a quibble. The Venture HC itself is great. It is a market changing product that renders all previous eTrex models (and many competitors) obsolete. Finally, an affordable outdoor GPS receiver that I can wholeheartedly recommend.
Garmin eTrex Summit HC Handheld GPS Receiver… ($169)
Pros:
-easy to read/see color screen (even in bright sunlight)
-highly customizable screens (types and amount of data shown on each screen)
-fairly easy to learn and operate
-many features, including barometric altimeter and electronic compass
Now, the cons to this product may not be specific to this unit. It may be more a function of the limitations of GPS:
-inaccurate (sometimes highly) “tracking” of horizontal position or trail actually traveled (I’ve compared to trail maps and Google Earth visible trails, and some of my tracks are inexplicably way off)
-inaccurate barometric altimeter (sometimes hundreds of feet off. I’ve turned it on, and had elevation readings of -200 feet!!) which must be constantly calibrated. Also, if you calibrate at the bottom of a climb, by the time you reach the summit, it may be over 100′ off.
-very inaccurate odometer data, and inconsistencies in the data. For example, I recently hiked Half Dome, which is 4800′ vertical gain…this unit only registered 1500′ total ascent, but the begin elevation and end elevation shown were well over 1500′ different. Also, on the same Half Dome hike, the odometer read 5 miles hiked, but the track total registered a more accurate 8.3 miles.
-very “stiff” buttons.
Again, the inaccuracy may be a function of the limitations of GPS, but the odometer inaccuracies in terms of total distance, total ascent, descent, etc. was disppointing. Perhaps Garmin needs to come up with another way of calculating these values. I think a lot of these values are calculated using current horizontal and vertical velocity, which may be inaccurate at any given moment. With inconsistencies at any given moment, it is difficult for the unit to calculate the actual horizontal and vertical distance traveled.
In any case, overall, I would recommend this product for simple trail and waypoint marking. But it should be understood you will only get “general” information, and not anything resembling very accurate data.
**EDIT** Garmin released a firmware patch in Feb of ’08, and it has really helped with the accuracy of certain data. The total ascent data is much more accurate now, often within 100′ of actual climbed distance (that may not seem so great, but it was horrible before). Also, the distance measurements are better. When I save a track, the distance per the track is much more close to the odometer reading, usually within a mile for a 10-15 mile hike (which again, is just ok, but better than before).
Overall, the unit does seem to be more accurate in all ways now, perhaps due in part to this firmware update. Also, tracks seem to be more accurate in terms of comparing visually to maps. I’m more happy with the unit now, and would probably give it 4 stars if I reviewed it today.
Garmin eTrex Legend HCx Personal Navigator… ($170)
The expandable memory option (Cx) of the etrex series allows you to store a tremendous amount of map info. I installed the TOPO and City Navigator Mapsets for the entire state of CA and I am able to switch between mapsets. When I am on the trail, I “hide” the other mapsets and “show”/use the TOPO mapset. When driving on the road, I switch to City Navigator to get turn by turn navigation to my destination.
The only cons about the etrex series is that they have a small screen to view while driving and the menus/control button configuration are complex. I had to install my unit right on the steering column for driving. It took me awhile to learn and use all the features of the City Navigator and to switch between mapsets. But, for a pocket size all around GPS with excellent battery life, these are acceptable compromises.
Related posts:
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- GARMIN – ETREX H HANDHELD GPS (30943)
- Garmin eTrex Summit HC Handheld GPS Receiver
- Garmin eTrex H Handheld GPS Navigator
- Garmin Legend H Handheld GPS Navigator