This guide is based on the device I own (eTrex 20x), but it is applicable to most GPS units out there. Also, the touchscreen versions have a lower battery life. The navigation button (joystick) on the non-touchscreen units is very responsive and reliable. I’m one of those people who wears closed finger biking gloves even during the summer. Touchscreens don’t work very well when wet or when you are wearing gloves. When I was choosing a GPS device, I ruled out the touchscreen devices right away. If you already have a compass and don’t care much about determining altitude with a barometric altimeter, you should save some cash and settle for the eTrex 20x. The new devices have a better display, better reception, and increased memory capacity.
#Best free maps for garmin etrex 30x series#
The new offerings in the eTrex series are an improvement over the already very popular eTrex 10, 20, and 30 devices.
These devices don’t have the fancy touchscreens their siblings have and that’s exactly what I love about them – their simplicity. There are only a couple of differences between these two models: the 30x has an electronic compass, a barometric sensor, and a higher price tag. There are currently a few offerings in the eTrex series, but I’d like to focus on the 20x and 30x GPS units.
Garmin eTrex 20x GPS USB Port Garmin eTrex Series This is especially true if you don’t have a dynamo hub on your bike. If you have used a cell phone for navigation, you know how stressful it can be having to worry about your battery levels. Knowing that I can just swap batteries if I run out of juice gives me great piece of mind. To me, the biggest determining factor in choosing the eTrex 20x is the battery life and the ability to use regular AA batteries.
While there are many cycling-specific GPS units in the market, one non-cycling specific unit is the golden standard in bikepacking navigation.
#Best free maps for garmin etrex 30x how to#
Learn how to plan a bikepacking route using free maps and free apps.