Garmin GPSMAP 60Cx Handheld GPS Navigator Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I still own my Garmin GPS 10.It's a wireless bluetooth gps device for a Pocket PC/Laptop.This product is so awesome, I decided to stick with Garmin.This led me to the 60Cx.

The biggest con to this device is that the maps are very basic.Notice on all the 60Cx product images, it'll say in small print "Shown with optional MapSource data."This might be bearable for hiking but is horrible for automotive use.You will need to buy detailed maps that can run over $100.

The extra features such as information on sunrise/sunset or fishing/hunting conditions are very convienent.This device is definately a dream for anyone who love gps functionality.

The color screen is also very nice.In direct sunlight, I was able to see it with clarity.The brightness of the screen is at a perfect level for night use.It's not too bright and not too dim.

The controls are clumsy at times but i guess you'll get use to it.The sensitivity is great!I never got signal in my house with my GPS 10.The 60cx picked up signal with no problem.My customization:

Garmin City Select North America v6 was included with my Garmin GPS 10.I registered the device online.Through Garmin's site, I was able to generate a 2nd unlock code.I used this unlock code to installed City Select North American v6 onto my 60cx.It's funny that Garmin's site doesn't mention it was compatible with City Select.My 60cx now has detailed maps and added functions such as being able to search for addresses which wasn't possible with 60cx's basemaps. I am also very happy with the performance of the device.It basically does everything my Pocket PC and GPS 10 does. Once i installed the detailed maps, this device has been a dream gps device.I used it in the car and for hiking.It will be great when I go visit New York for the first time.

Conclusion:
Overall, I think this is a great gps device.It is solidly built and waterproof at that.Everything about it is great EXCEPT for the horrible basemaps.You will have to shell out over $100 for detailed maps but if you add up the total it still comes out cheaper than my Pocket PC + GPS 10 combo(about $640 for me).I think the 60cx is worth every penny.

EDIT:
May 2006

I've had the 60Cx for 3 months now.It is still an awesome device.One thing I want to comment on is battery life.I do not use regular alkaline batteries.I use Energizer Rechargables, 2500mah, and slow recharge at 8 hours per session.I entered in an address that was 2 hours from where I was started.It tracked my position, estimated time til turn and estimated arrival time.When I got to my destination, the GPS battery meter was at HALF. the GPS will only last on average of 4-5hours while on a route.This is still pretty good comparing it to my Dell Axim + GPS 10 combo.I am not sure how long it will last if you're just using it without being on a route.

I was a bit dissapointed that Garmin did not state how it got the 30 hours battery life.They might just mean 30 hours on standby.

Also, the 60Cx does drain your batteries even while it is off.I had my unit stored in the drawer for a week.The batteries were drained.So it is highly recommended you get rechargable batteries for this device.If you are taking it with you on a trip, bring at least two sets of battery.

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Product Description:
The venerable Garmin 60C just got a whole lot better. The 7.5-ounce GPSMap 60Cx now features an insanely accurate, high-sensitivity GPS receiver by SiRF that tracks your position even in tree cover and canyons. Plus, you get a bright, sunlight-readable color TFT display and an included a 64 MB microSD card for storage of optional map detail. Simply put, this powerful unit is ready to take you anywhere on land or sea.

Main menu. View larger.

Map page. View larger.
The GPSMap 60Cx features the powerful SiRF GPS navigation chip for supreme accuracy in all conditions. You can use the 60Cx's memory card slot with preprogrammed microSD cards from Garmin (sold separately) that provide topographic maps, city streets, and nautical charts. In fact, the unit is compatible with most Garmin MapSource products including BlueChart, City Navigator, U.S. Topo 24K, and U.S. Topo and Recreational Lakes with Fishing Hot Spots. The unit comes preloaded with an Americas autoroute basemap that provides automatic routing capabilities including highways, exits, and tide data. There's also a preloaded marine point database. You can even get turn-by-turn directions when you're driving, and an integrated trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed, and more.
The 60Cx's 2.6-inch, 256-color TFT color display is designed to present mapping and trip information clearly and accurately in any lighting conditions. Plus, the case is lightweight, rugged, and water resistant to IEC 60529 IPX7 standards (can be submerged in one meter of water for 30 minutes). When using two AA alkaline batteries, you'll get up to 30 hours of battery life from the unit.
Another key feature of the 60Cx is the 10,000 point automatic track log; 20 saved tracks (500 points each) let you retrace your path in both directions. There's also a large-numbers option for easy viewing, as well as a dual-position display mode. The also unit includes built-in celestial tables for best times to fish and hunt, plus sun and moon calculations.
The 60Cx's trip computer provides odometer, stopped time, moving average, overall average, total time, max speed, and more. Meanwhile, a fast processor allows the 60Cx to provide quick auto-routing, turn-by-turn directions, and audio alerts when you use the optional MapSource software, which can be stored on the unit's included 64 MB microSD card. Downloading information is quick with the USB or serial port interfaces. Using the dedicated serial port, the 60Cx can share navigation instructions with repeaters, plotters, and autopilots. The four-position rocker pad and dedicated high-use buttons make navigating through the unit's features easy, even when your fingers are cold or wet.
Finally, the GPSMap 60Cx is packed with some extra fun features. An integrated outdoor calendar provides ideal hunting and fishing times, as well as moon rise/set/location information. There is a dedicated geocaching mode for those of you into the hot GPS community treasure hunt game. Finally, there are indoor/outdoor GPS games to help you and your friends enjoy the outdoors.
If you like the features of the 60Cx but require an electronic compass and a barometric altimeter, check out the Garmin 60CSx.
What's in the Box
60Cx unit, 64 MB microSD card, belt clip, USB interface cable, MapSource Trip and Waypoint Manager CD, lanyard, owner's manual, and quick-start guide.

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