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Hand-held GPS
Introduction
We tested 7 handheld GPS devices and found some much better than others.
For some of us any trip into the wilderness is fraught with danger. Not from angry animals or sprained ankles, but from misreading simple maps and failing to follow well-marked tracks. So a handheld GPS unit is essential for the navigationally challenged – although some are better than others, as our test results show.
How they work
A hand-held GPS is a cellphone-sized gadget that can tell you exactly where you are, anywhere in the world. It can also show you a map of where you are, and then tell you which way to go next.
GPS units bounce signals between orbiting satellites. The more there are in the sky above you at one time, the more accurately it will be able to pinpoint your coordinates.
A minimum of three satellites is required for a location fix (aka “signal acquisition”). You need to factor this in next time you’re taking a GPS on your tramp – will you have access to open areas where you can see a lot of sky? Foliage, bad weather (such as snow or hail), cliffs and other obstacles all interfere with a proper reading.
Tip: Treat your GPS unit as an aid to your navigation – you should still have knowledge of basic map and compass reading.
Models we tested
This report contains test results and recommendations for the following models of hand-held GPS: