GARMIN 010-00630-00 Etrex Vista GPS Receiver Reviews

• Finest Upgrade Available from Garmin

  
  By A6ZNGNUX9VFNZ on 2007-09-04
  I won't waste your time if you are a previous Garmin user. I upgraded from an EMap, bought in 2001, that has served quite well. However, after all that time there are features one desires that scream for an upgrade. Yes, the color screen, the USB capability, far larger (and commercially available) Micro SD Memory, improved maps all contribute to the many reasons to buy. This is the tops, absolutely.
  
  However, I saw this was coming out about 6 months ago and I waited. Why? The "H" in "HCx" stands for high-sensitivity. From my EMap experiences, I knew that GPS units were very sensitive to signal. My old EMap literally had to sit on the dashboard of the car on road trips, sitting in the sun, and sometimes still losing satellites. Well, friend, that's all over.
  
  My HCx arrived today, and I opened the box, securing two AA batteries, and turned the unit on after about 45 seconds of perusing the Quick Start Guide. Sitting in a concrete building (dormitory, with a steel door, the HCx immediately began acquiring satellites and within mere seconds had found three...inside my little "bunker". Impressed? You couldn't wipe the grin off my face. I set a waypoint for Home - in the room - and then trudged over to work. Entering another concrete building, the signal strength was still fine and I set a waypoint at my desk. I marveled over the `track" I had wandered on the way to work, zooming in to 20 ft. resolution.
  
  Friends, this is fantastic technology. The unit is small, comfortable to operate, feels solid, well-actuated controls and is far faster to acquire satellites than my expectations.. Needless to say, it's worth every penny. It fits in my shirt pocket, not a great deal larger than a pack of cigarettes, and it is the best thing I've spent money on since the thrill of buying a VIC-20 PC at K-Mart in 1985. And a lot of technology has been issued (and passed through my hands) since then. I admit it - I'm geek - I carry daily 3 phones, a digital camera and a Space Pen.
  
  Buy this unit. Amazon's price is current market price, so don't feel compelled to shop - I did and it was a huge headache to attempt to save $20. Your time is worth far more - don't delay another day. Hands-down, it is the one to buy, and you will be on cutting edge for several more years.
  
  You will not be disappointed.
  
  
  

• FANTASTIC

  
  By A1137C3DSUI5O1 on 2007-09-06
  If you are reading this and the other reviews of the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx then you are doing your homework and wondering if this GPS is as good as all the hype makes it out to be. The short answer is YES! I have an old Garmin 12 Map which has served me well, but was getting a bit long in the tooth. I wanted something a bit smaller, lighter, with color screen and was water tight. The Vista HCx meets all of these needs and so many more. It is small in size, but with a fairly big and bright screen (easily readable in the sun) for its size.
  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...
  
  
  

• It works great with a Mac but dismal documentation!

  
  By A2HYVJW9LYCCHD on 2008-06-28
  After being content with my Garmin Vista, I decided it was time to upgrade to the latest Garmin Vista eTrex HCx. With a new MapSource Topo USA for MAC available, and the ability to transfer National Parks Topo Version 3 from PC to MAC I thought it would be an ideal time to "upgrade" to this model. The HCx has a beautiful color screen, is highly sensitive-acquiring satellites and able to navigate much more effectively! Response is quick-virtually instantaneous. Ergonomically the toggles are awkward and its easy to toggle into the wrong place-not a big deal and I image I'll get used to it. This being said the documentation that comes with the unit is almost useless, covering just the basics. Forget about how to setup (at least for a MAC). The cd that comes with it is for PC's only and there is absolutely no information on what a Mac user needs to do. You think a quick look at the Garmin website would have these answers. Nope! Nada! The website is a joke-as is customer support. I waited 32 minutes to speak to a rep and then was told I would have to be transferred to their Mac Dept. Okay fine. Another 34 minute wait. Thats; okay, I'm willing to wait-except the tech I finally get is about 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. In fact I felt like he actually dispised my call. From simple things like where's the serial number? (UPDATE: it's behind the batteries) to do I need drivers to download to make this work? (UPDATE: No you don't. In fact, if you're using a Mac, just turn it on and it's up and running-no need for "installation disc")-if you want to transfer maps to your GPS, you must download the "MapInstall" program from Garmin's website). This is a beautiful device that does what my old Vista did-except this one, is of course, much faster, and more effective-if I could get some information on it! If Garmin is going to claim they are moving toward Mac compatibility they should give a little more information to Mac user's on their website (other than press releases on how they are now Mac friendly) or perhaps a few sentences in the manual explaining exactly what Mac users need to get this thing up-and-running; transferring maps, able to communicate with Mapsource software, etc.. I would like to give the HCx five stars, but because of absolutely no assistance for Mac users on their website or manual-and because of an initial bad customer service experience I give it two stars and sit here with a $270 GPS-$200 worth of new MapSource Maps (another product-another review) and a beautiful little machine that has quicker response and is much more capable than my old Vista-but just as useless on a Mac (REVISED: It works beautifully with my Mac. Perfect!). My enthusiasm dissolved after trying to upload maps or connect to my computer.
  
  REVISED 6/30/08: Okay, finally! I got someone at Garmin customer service (very nice in the Mac Dept.) that could explain what-exactly needs to be done to get this puppy up-and-running: I had already downloaded the Garmin MapIntsall software (which you need to open, then select the device-in this case the HCx); there you will find all 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 the maps you want from one set of maps and then go to the other set and select the ones there). Works like a dream! Now if they would just make this clear somewhere (and believe me, it is not CLEAR anywhere). That being said, the experience I had today was much better. While I had to wait another 30 minutes to get customer service (who told me the serial number is located inside the battery case on the back) and then another 5 minutes to get to the Mac specialist-all my questions were answered! Both techs were very nice and helpful! Today's experience would be 5 Star Customer service! while I have rated the device 2 stars-I would probably change to 4 stars. Why the missing star? Initial frustration that could have been alleviated if Garmin took the time to stuff some extra instructions in the box specifically for Mac user's and made their website a little more friendly-and informative. The 24k NATL PARKS maps are beautiful on 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 can download multiple maps on to your Garmin Vista Hcx using MapInstall (dowload from their website) to your applications folder. Once downloaded, connect your HCx to USB and select device and have fun selecting your maps. One thing I was not real clear on until today is that "Bobcat" is strictly for viewing maps and transferring wayspoints, etc. It has nothing to do with uplading maps to your GPS. Use MapInstall to upload maps to the GPS. Today's experience brought my faith back in Garmin customer service and technology. Thanks Garmin, for FINALLY becoming Mac compatible. I'm going to be a happy camper with this wonderful little GPS!
  
  REVISED 7/6/08: Referring to the most recent "1 Star" Review; Yes, mine locks-up/freezes, too (nothing to do with Mac) unit freezes on the trail-at least once a day. No response from any buttons-unable to do anything until holding power button for long period-reboot. This is not cool! Will call Garmin Monday and see what's up. Not good to hear they have a new chipset out and this may be the old one. After-all, I just purchased this. Will report back on what Garmin says. This sounds 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 great! No problem. Sent out a new one before I could box up the defective one-received replacement today! That's customer service! Will let everyone know if the problem 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 new chipset is 3.0. My software version is 2.60. Used "Web-Updater" on my Mac and said I have the latest software. Everything is working beautifully with replacement Amazon sent me. No freezes or problems of any kind. Final score: Garmin HCx-4 Stars! Amazon-big 5 Stars!
  
  

• Great GPS!

  
  By ABXQ2IOL1U0ND on 2007-11-18
  I work in Hawaiian native forests where the tree canopy can often be dense. I have also used a number of GPS units which always had difficulty detecting satellite signals under the tree canopy. So, having heard about the new HCx I bought one, took it out to the deepest forest canopy I could find and turned it on. In 30 seconds I had eleven signals. Amazing.
  
  

• Great upgrade

  
  By AARUF3LTGHAWV on 2007-09-25
  I bought it to replace my old Garmin Etrex Vista and I am very happy with it. When comparing it to my older model these are the main differences:
  
  Pros:
  * Really high sensitivity. Now it always works inside the car, and it always works when hiking in the forest. You can just drop it into your pocket or backpack.
  * Routing capability. Very useful if you have a good map, even if it doesn't give voice commands.
  * Color screen rather than B/W makes it much more readable even if screen area is slightly smaller
  * When saving Waypoints, now the date and time info is automatically included.
  * Battery lasts at least twice
  * Rapid transfer of maps and tracks through USB rather than serial!
  * Compatible with the maps and logs that I already have. I transferred all the 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 already have from my Etrex Vista.
  * I can 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 PC, the Active Log is now transferred as a few tracks (I guess one for every time that you have powered up the device) rather than as a long list of tracks
  * When saving a track, now you can decide exactly up to which point to save back.
  
  
  Cons:
  * Not compatible with two of my Etrex Vista accessories: Car power adaptor (now the power comes through the USB connector) and Garmin case (now the unit is a little bit wider and shorter)
  * No Favorite Waypoints menu. Has been replaced by a Recent Finds Menu?
  * User Interface is sometimes confusing and not easy to find the function that you are looking for.
  * WAAS setting and backlight level get to off whenever you power off the unit rather than remembering the setting (firmware bug?)
  * Product Manual is very bad. It tells you how to turn things on and off, not why and when you should turn something on and off.
  * No Micro SD memory included so you cannot upload any map unless you buy one.
  * For the next product update, could I ask Garmin to add a Voice Recorder function to be able record a voice note associated to each Waypoint?
  
  
• Functional but a design disaster
  By AKNXVQ7TFVQLH on 2007-12-12
  Be aware this product is virtually useless right out of the box. It works fine but the included map has detail down to my nearest interstate and no further. You have to buy more detailed maps to do anything useful.
  
  The included software is ancient but functional. A lanyard is provided but you'll need a microscope and tweezers to thread it though the connection point. A belt clip is optional and the necessary AA batteries are not included. Hey Garmin, nice bit of nickel and diming!
  
  The whole product could do with a wave of Apple's magic design wand. The unit feels like it's upside down. All the control buttons sit above the screen with the main joystick (they call it a rocker, but there's also a rocker on the left side) resting under your left thumb while the quit button is on the top right requiring two handed operation for navigating the menus.
  
  Having said all that, it feels nice and chunky in your hand. It's surprisingly small but thick and sturdy. It does the job fine but could be oh so much easier to use.
  
  Three stars. They lose one each for design and ease of use, or lack thereof.
  
  UPDATE December 18th 2007 - I bought Gamin's recommended accessory National Parks Map East on CD to go hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains. When I tried to transfer a map to the unit from my PC, I found that it cannot be done for this model. But it's a recommended $100 dollar accessory for this product!
  
  Apparently, you can only download waypoints and trails from the CD but not the map. If you want to upgrade the map you have to buy a preloaded microSD card, except that at the time of writing the map I want is not on SD yet.
  
  I've returned the eTrex Vista and ordered Garmin's GPSMap 60Csx.
  
  Jeez Garmin, I really want to like your products but do you have to make me work so hard for it?
  
  
• Built-in maps are very sparse
  By A1JSCFOEC021AK on 2007-08-10
  Be warned: the promotional pictures of this GPS unit show street-level maps, but the unit as shipped includes only major highways and city names. To get the kind of detail suggested by the marketing pictures on this site, you have to spend more than $100 extra to buy maps.
  
  
  
  
• So far very happy with the HCX as my first GPS unit
  By A2SNJR8KZIJRU6 on 2007-08-15
  I was pleased with my purchase from Amazon - they seemed to have one of the best prices and best shipping FREE! And it came pretty quick too.
  
  It's my first GPS unit - so I can't compare it to any other, nor do I really know how to use it to its full potential, but so far I love it.
  
  Yes, it only comes loaded with Base Maps, but so far that's fine by me. I find my way so far with the major highways using it in the car, and was able to use it on the boat in the Cape May/Delaware Bay area with the coastline - that was nice! All Garmins seem to be that way with just the base map and the description says so as well. I will continue to use it as is until I can decide which map set(s) is what I need. That's one downside to the unit, city maps and topo are a little expensive, and blue charts are really expensive.
  
  I haven't had a problem with satellite coverage yet, but I haven't been in woody areas.
  
  I would have given this 5 stars but:
  1) I couldn't rate this as 5 stars when I can't compare it to previous experiences of these devices or knowing full potential of gps systems and knowing what this might be lacking.
  2) I completely was aware of the additional costs of maps, but still not too happy about that.
  
  
  
  
• Great little unit
  By A1VV1CFWRGSC9O on 2007-10-23
  I have read all of the earlier reviews and agree with all the "pros" listed - for the amount of features, ease of use and , size, ability to lock on a signal - there is no better GPSr in this price range.
  
  I am an avid hiker, nature photographer and geocacher and I like to be able to recall my trips - document sites, features and sightings etc. This unit didn't let me down. Last weekend I took a day trip that included four different parks along a river system with high bluffs and DEEP ravines - in the car and on the ground, this unit never missed a beat, never lost signal lock.
  
  The unit was located in many places - in hand, in the cup holder of a van, in a zipped fanny pack, clipped to a belt, and at lunch, on the table at a tavern - not a problem, never lost signal. :) My last unit was a Garmin Vista Cx - this unit is MUCH better - better lock and faster draw.
  
  As far as the "cons" I've read - there are few and most are related to the price of maps, the accuracy of the maps or the manual.
  
  Concerning the price of the maps - there is no unit that comes close, at this price, (even considering the price of buying the maps) to this unit in speed and accuracy of plot. Anyone that did ANY research would know that maps are not part of the base price (not that I like or approve).
  
  The accuracy of the maps themselves, as far as roads are concerned, is poor (topo maps) - in my area there are major freeway junctions that have not been updated for over twenty years. The topo maps, however, are not bad - if you need road info, get the City Navigator maps.
  
  The manual I recieved with the Vista HCx is deficient, find and D/L the manual for the Vista Cx.
  
  The Garmin Vista HCx is a great, small, versatile GPSr that will do what you need.
  
  
• Daily user of GPS's!
  By ARK50OULPTF4R on 2007-11-04
  I'm a daily user of GPS's. I'm a truck driver who uses it religiously for navigation. On my days off I geocache, hunt, fish, hike, backpack, etc.
  I began many years ago with a Magellan that ate 6 AA batteries every 8 hours or less, and had the satelite reception of a rock... Those were scary days!!! I'd mark my position to start, turn it off to conserve batteries, and hope like mad I could get a signal when I got to where I needed to set a mark. I made sure to have a compass too!!!
  Then I upgraded to a Garmin Legend. I was amazed at how advanced it was compared to where I'd been. Then I upgraded to the Venture HC when it came out and Holly Smoke!!! The venture ROCKS!!! I threw the legend in a geocache for someone else to use.
  Well folks, I passed the Venture HC to my wife when I upgraded to the Vista HCx as she's a beginner GPSR and it will serve her very well!
  I researched ALL the mapping hand-helds and most of the others, and hands down the Vista HCx is by far overall the best possible GPS buy available today. The screen is easy to see, crisp, and very clear. The Use of Garmin products are simple to learn. Battery life is outstanding with the Vista HCx! I could run 2 days with the Venture HC, now I get 3 days (I got the external power cord though, so batteries are just for outside of driving now). I see some say how well it picks up reception, well folks I drive through tunnels with entire mountains on top of me, and OH YA, Venture and Vista doesn't even blink at the challenge! cliff's? tree's? child's play!
  Buying maps and microSD cards aren't going to cause anyone to have to re-mortgage the house. Buy one here, and one there (or get a better job), and soon you'll have all you need. Cut the chase and get the preprogrammed microSD cards and you don't have to bother with tansfering the CD versions. Don't overbuy for what you really need, I use mine for work and play. Most people use GPS's for one or two activities and really don't use them but they overbuy maps that never get used.
  If your someone who is on limited income, use some enginuity and make yourself a mount for the car. I made one with two suction cups (origionally for hanging pictured), a little bailing wire, a strip on old belt leather, and some velcro I got at walmart in the material section. We've used it for years!!! Works perfectly, and has never dropped a GPS.
  Take it from someone who knows and has been through the history of GPS navegation, and has done his research for ya, The Vista HCx is one heck of a buy!!!
  
  
• good - not great
  By A14GI7GYN3TWL on 2007-11-18
  Overall the Garmin eTrex Vista HCx is a good - not great - product. The high-sensitivity receiver is the most important point. Even with heavy brush and tree cover (or in a car or house) the unit keeps on track. AA batteries, Waterproof, PC interface, Ability to add maps... like Topo... great. I'm not sure if the extra expense for the Electronic compass and Barometric altimeter were worth the money. They have to be recalibrated all the time. Legend vs. Vista. The "enter/rocker key" sticks out too far and snags on everything. If you want to protect the unit by placing it into a pouch the key gets activated and the map goes to the edge of the world. I taped a flip-up bonnet over the key to protect it. (bonnet = plastic bubble from a blister pack - hey, it works). I didn't have this problem on my old eTrex Legend with the same type key.
  
  The 3D or "highway" view is worthless... no streets, roads, or trails even with maps loaded. I called Garmin about this. I called Garmin about transferring my unlock code from my retired etrex Legend to my new Vista. Sorry, but for another $99 they will sell me a new unlock code WITHOUT updated software. The free update is for only 1 unit even if you paid for several unlock codes.
  
  If I had it to do over again I think I'd wait till the Magellan Triton comes out.
  
  
  
• Great GPS for hiking
  By A1XO9SXHLDJP02 on 2007-09-27
  This is my 3rd GPS.
  
  Pros:
  1) The signal reception of this GPS is remarkable comparing to my old eTrex Venture. It's capable of receiving signal inside my apartmtment.
  The "H" for HCx stand for "high" sensitivity receiver. I would definitely spend the extra money for "HCx" rather then the "Cx" models for improved reception.
  2) Small and durable. Great for hiking.
  
  Cons:
  - This is not the right GPS for cars. The screen is too small. Tomtom and Mio makes good GPS for cars, and their packages include road maps.
  - Garmin maps are expensive (City Navigator and Topo).
  
  
  
• Missing Features from Vista Cx
  By A6DOX08V5MHVL on 2008-01-06
  I just sold my Vista Cx on Amazon and bought the HCx because I fly a lot and like to know where I am and the Cx lost reception unless I held it close to the plane's window which always looks suspicious. I trust that the HCx will be better in the air.
  
  However, I did notice that my new HCx lacks a few features that I liked with my old Cx. The HCx has no alarm clock which I liked to use in my hotel rooms, and it lacks tide predictions that I enjoyed using at the beach. Also, the ability to view screen on the HCx is tougher to see without the backlight on compared with the Cx.
  
  Bottom line, if you don't need super sensitive reception, stick with the cheaper Cx.
  
  **UPDATE: I tried to change to three stars after I spoke with a Garmin technical representative who gave me some information. You can download tidal charts for free from their site. Also, I was told because of the sensitive receiver, the alarm function had to be left out of the HCx.
  
  
• Excellent GPS unit.
  By AQEQTMV5NBBP1 on 2007-11-11
  I've been playing with this thing for over a month now. Great unit, very sensitive. The only place that I don't get signal is where I work, but the building is shielded, what can I expect? Other than that no problem: In the house, malls, hills, you name it. This baby knows where it is all the time. The basic map is basically basic, no much fun, so I installed City Navigator 2008, and here is where this thing shines. You get turn by turn to your destination. Of couse, you will need a MicroSD card to install the maps, do yourself a favor, get the 2GB, here at Amazon the price is just right to pass.
  Now, after you install the map, go to "setup" then to "routing" and pick faster time, then below that menu, pick "Follow road Options..." and disable all the "avoid". I thought this thing lost its mind, it was routing me all over the streets to my destination, until I came to this menu and disable all the "avoid."
  
  Pros: Very sensitive.
  Able to use a MicroSD card.
  Small and rugged.
  
  Cosn:
  Wish to be able to scroll back and forth, so far you can scroll forward only.
  
  To test the unit, press the rocker switch down and turn it on. To see additional info, get to the computer trip, then press the rocker switch up, right, down then left.
  
  In my opinion, this unit is more advanced than those for your dashboard. Of course, you don't have voice guidance, traffic update, etc.
  
  Usually, I come to Amazon.com to read reviews, some are very extensive. In my opinion, people that write reviews here are more mature in most aspects, so these are my two cents.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Great upgrade - very happy!
  By AJSWNNUIH3FXR on 2007-12-18
  This is my third eTrex GPS receiver, and each has been a worthwhile upgrade. I started with a Legend about 4 years ago, which I thought was great at the time. A couple of years ago I bought a Legend Cx, and this provided me with the added benefits of a colour screen, expandable memory, a longer battery life and, somewhat surprisingly, a significantly better receiver - I could get a good signal under tree cover, unlike before, and even a fix inside my one-storey house, despite it not having the new SirF3 chip. I was in two minds about upgrading to the HCx model, as the only gain would be an even more sensitive receiver (but a slightly poorer battery life). So, I opted to change from the Legend to the Vista to increase functionallity. I think it was a good choice because the extra sensitivity, and quicker processing speed, seems significant and worthwhile.
  
  The main complaints about the eTrex models appear to concern the lack of a good inbuilt map, and the extra cost of the associated Garmin-specific software needed to put this right. While these may be valid criticisms, they should not come as a surprise to anybody who has done their homework. If your main interest is in street navigation, an eTrex model is not your best option; try one of the Nuvi models, if you want to stick with Garmin. This is prinicpally an outdoor device to aid hikers: light, small, robust and tells you where you are (in terms of latitude and longitude, or local grid coordinates); it's best used in conjunction with a good topographical map, rather then being something that replaces it. The inbuilt base-map (of interstates, main roads and rivers) is only there to provide a basic reference, not for detailed navigation. The functionality of the device can be greatly enhanced by buying additional maps (whose price can be comparable with the receiver itself!), but there are several different types depending on your needs: roads/towns, topographic or marine. You can preview them (free) on the Garmin cite before you buy them, to make sure that your choice meets your needs.
  
  
• Great unit, great price
  By A2MVMJOXMIL64E on 2007-09-21
  The vista HCX rocks! It's more sensitive than the even the SiRF based units (76csx, 60csx), smaller, lighter, has a much brighter display and is even much cheaper. In fact I think that Garmin really made both the 76 and 60 obsolete with the release of the Vista hcx.
  
  I get 12 foot accuracy sitting inside the middle of my house with no view of windows! The electronic compass is an absolute dream. It works perfectly. I bought a 2 gig MicroSD card and loaded 75% of the TOPO US 2008 map.
  
  My only complaints are that the backlight setting gets lost after each power-off. Also the unit does not accumulate distance to the trip computer under 2.2 mph which is unacceptable for a hiking GPS unit. Garmin is aware of both of these issues and they should be addressed in a firmware update soon.
  
  
• Excellent; I highly recommend this handheld
  By AS6DSULZUFLDR on 2008-06-21
  This is my review of the Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx handheld mapping GPS unit. I purchased this GPS in early June of 2008 and have had it about 3 weeks as of this review. I own two other GPS's: a Microsoft Streets and Trips + GPS from 2005 and a Garmin Nuvi 200 I received as a gift Christmas 2007. MS S&T is a really nice program and it works well with its accompanying GPS receiver. But, it requires that you use it with a computer (the receiver plugs into a USB port). And the Nuvi 200 is a great unit as well, but it's more for finding a route and directions while driving--finding your way to a destination.
  
  I wanted a portable unit mostly to use while walking, hiking, or biking that would track my journey, with a color display, memory expansion capability, and alititude tracking. I did lots of online research, reading reviews and user manuals at Cnet, Amazon, and several GPS-specific sites and eventually narrowed it down to three possibilities, all Garmin: the eTrex Vista Hcx, the GPSMAP 60 CSx, and one of the new Colorado units. In the end, I selected the Vista because: I felt the Colorado was too new and I'd seen negative reviews (and it has features like 3D I didn't think I'd need), and the Vista was proven, reliable, and less expensive than the 60 CSx. Also, it had all the features I wanted and was lighter and has longer advertised battery life than either of the other two units.
  
  In a word, I consider this unit to be: exceptional. It meets or exceeds its advertised functionality and my expectations. Some specific items:
  
  --Accuracy: I had read some reviews that complained about the accuracy of other similar units and I was worried. But I've found this unit to be very accurate, down to within a couple meters. And in my case it seems to make no difference whether the WAAS feature is enabled or disabled.
  
  --Altitude accuracy: not quite as good as I'd like to see, but adequate. In a couple cases while hiking it has actually been off by as much as 1000 feet in altitude, but I attribute this to the vagaries of barometric altitude measurement, not to a defect in the unit itself. In cases where the altitude doesn't seem so accurate, I find that the altitude relative to an entire track still reports where I've gone up and down hills, so I'm satisfied. Also, I have not yet tried manually setting the altitude or barometric pressure at the beginning of a trek, but I'd guess that would improve its overall performance.
  
  --Battery Life: my first set of regular old AA Eveready Alkalines lasted slightly longer than 25 hours, the advertised life. I'd bet that I could stretch this to longer if I paid attention to turning off the backlight when I don't really need it on.
  
  --Size: I was surprised at how small the unit is. For some reason I had in my mind that all units around this size would be a bit bigger; it's about the size of a deck of playing cards, but slightly thicker.
  
  --Display Visibility: no problems at all here. I use the unit frequently in bright sunlight attached to my bike while wearing sunglasses and I can see the display fine from a few feet away.
  
  --Map: the map that comes with the unit by default is entirely inadequate for anything but highway driving, but I knew this when I bought it, and had purchased Topo 2008 as well (which is very nice for both city and on-trail tracking). There are very few trails actually in the mapping software itself, but this isn't the Vista's deficiency itself.
  
  --Sturdiness: biking can sometimes be a bit bumpy. Yay for solid state components; this GPS has worked fine over bumpy roads.
  
  I'd highly recommend this unit to anyone looking for a handheld GPS, especially one to be used for walking, hiking, jogging, or bike riding. If you're looking for something to give you directions while driving a car, this unit is not for you--stick to the Nuvi series.
  
  
• Its good but
  By A2G1QM09YJNGN8 on 2007-10-20
  Well I have had it for two weeks and it is a good unit. It grabs the sat-s fast and acquires a very accurate position. Base map detail is extremely basic. For any serious navigation you must purchase there mapping programs. I got the Topo Usa 2008. Detail is limited in that it needs go down to a more close up of Topo detail map. Found the screen to be small in comparison to some current PDAs. It would greatly benefit from a bigger display. Really need to purchase a least a 4 gig micro sd card to load the whole USA map. 2 gigs will hold 1/2. Took 8 hours plus to load this onto the card. Anyway I am using it for deer hunting on the east coast (Va.) right now. After more use I will give another update.
  
  
• Fantastic, Very satisfied
  By A3EDCSFAR4IVR on 2007-11-30
  I will keep this as short as possible. The only drawback is the small screen, but that's what you sacrifice for extreme portability and honestly, it doesn't bother me that much.
  
  I'm in Iraq and most civilian GPS systems and even some of our own can't get a signal inside our armored trucks w/o an external antenna, but this one can even without the high-sensitivity feature turned on. I've taken it out on four patrols for a total running time of about 36hrs and the batteries only read half-drained. Granted they're lithium batteries and I use the backlight VERY sparingly, but still, very impressed.
  
  It's everything I would want in a GPS, I had the RINO and while that was nice, this is so much better since I RARELY used the radio feature. It's worth the money, shop around, I found mine for just over $200 new.
  
  If you don't already know, the loaded maps are sparse, so don't expect a lot of detail w/o shelling out some cash for new maps, but that's the case with any GPS.
  
  Bottom line, great product, Garmin impresses me again. If it's good enough for me in Iraq, I don't see where this bad-boy would fail.
  
  
• New sensitivity is as good as advertised
  By A39HLLBYLTO3YC on 2007-08-28
  I've owned both the Etrex Vista C and the Etrex Vista CX, so this one only adds sensitivity and a few other minor improvements. The sensitivity is exceptional. I tested both the CX and HCX in the center of my house downstairs and the HCX locked on in 20 seconds, (just arrived in the mail with last location lock at the Garmin company in the midwest), and the CX which had had a local lock. The CX never locked on.
  
  I have seen it lock on instantaneously from powering off and back on later.
  
  
• First GPS That Couldn't Point North!!
  By A9IKEO7S4K154 on 2008-01-02
  That's right! While hiking I compared my heading against my old eTrex Venture and a compass. Heading north, the Vista HCx was off as much as 90 degs!! However, it did like going south. The further south I went the closer the 2 GPS's agreed. Also, the backlight setting wouldn't stick. Every time I powered it up, it reverted to the dimmest setting instead of the highest. Finally the display lost all contrast and I lost all patience and returned it for a refund. I feel the Vista was overly complex and the Manual did a poor job of explaining how to use it. Please note I have considerable GPS experience; this was my 4th GPS and 3rd Gramin.
  
  
• eTrex trash
  By A2TVSDJQ8LZE1M on 2008-03-08
  eTrex has been a disappointment. I own 2 Garmin Nuvi 350s and love them. I ordered eTrex Vista HCx for my mountain bike. It would not allow me to unlock the "City Select North America v7" map (that comes with Nuvi). Their tech support told me to return the unit (at my cost!), and they would send me a refurbished unit.
  
  The refurbished unit would not operate on battery power. It was fine when plugged into my laptop via the USB port. I noticed there is a design flaw in their battery compartment. They designed in a brace that prevents the right-hand AA battery from making contact on the + end. I called tech support and they told me to send it in, and they would send me a new unit. I asked them to send me the new unit first and pay my return shipping, but they refused. I am not happy!
  
  Sidenote: Their tech support did answer the phone right away and seemed to be USA-based. They were helpful with trouble-shooting, but not in overall satisfaction with fixing my problem. And it takes 2-3 weeks to get a replacement unit each time.
  
  
• Vista HCx Review
  By AQFLMFB0TVB6P on 2007-09-03
  I was very pleased with the Amazon delivery of the unit along with the accessories I purchased.
  
  The Vista HCx has been fantastic. I have used it backpacking, mountain biking, and for auto navigation. This is my 2nd Garmin unit and this one blows away it's predicessor. There are so many functions in here it takes weeks of playing with it to find them all and learn how to use them.
  
  The data on the pages is completely flexible as is the list of pages shown and their sequence. So much useful info however you want to see it.
  
  The GPS receiver is far more sensitive than predecessors and locks on quickly.
  
  I use both the Topo Maps and the City Navigator NT. Nice to have all that capability in a single unit.
  
  Overall I am just thoroughly jazzed with this unit. The reason it did not get 5 stars is because the user manual is very limited. There is no way to get information on how to use most of the features in the unit. You have to figure them out by playing with them and trial & error. I have called Garmin support on a few things to truly figure out how some features work.
  
  
  
  
• Good Buy
  By A2E0OZHJYRY6FF on 2008-02-28
  This was my first entry into the GPS market. I asked around at work, and "Garmin" was the name a few folks recommended. I was looking for something that would be great for hiking and off road experience, but I also wanted something that I could use on long car trips to help navigate unfamiliar places.
  
  The Garmin website makes research very easy. I compared feature differences between their different handheld mapping units, and this one seemed to provide all the features I needed without going overboard.
  
  I have purchased the following upgrades:
  1. City Navigator NT -- worth the investment to make your handheld street worthy.
  2. Topographical maps -- again, worth the investment for hiking.
  3. Suction cup mount -- illegal in my state, but largely unenforced. If you install it correctly, it's better than the friction mount. I've heard others complain that it frequently falls off, but I've had it for several months and have moved it around to find the right sweet spot, and it has never fallen off once.
  4. Friction mount -- irritatingly, you have to purchase the dash mount in order to get the swivelling head that makes it work... But just in case... (note the legality issue of the suction cup mount)
  5. InvisibleShield screen protector -- the screen can easily be scratched, and this non-garmin product is a great way to protect it long term (also available through Amazon, or direct).
  6. Sanyo Eneloop Rechargeable batteries -- they work well and don't lose a charge when sitting unused. They're even ready to use right out the the package with a full charge.
  
  With the added functionality of my upgrades and preloaded features, here are just some of the features that I've enjoyed:
  1. Geocaching mode -- if you haven't tried it, you must! Works like a charm!
  2. High sensitivity receiver -- this is nothing short of incredible. The fact that I can get a signal inside a building and under tree cover is amazing. Sometimes my signal bounces around a little (20 to 30ft), but it's a hundred times better than not having one at all.
  3. Tracking -- I love to see where I've been, and it also makes it easy to navigate back out when you don't know where you are.
  4. Turn-by-turn directions -- it doesn't talk to you, but it does beep at you when there's an upcoming instruction.
  5. Waterproof -- Let's face it, if you use it outside, you're going to get rained on, or you'll spill something on it. I've used it in a downpour, and it was protected.
  6. Point-of-interest search -- You can easily find stores, gasoline, lodging, hospitals, exits, truck stops....
  7. Compass and Altimeter -- you do need to calibrate them frequently, but still worth the money to have them.
  8. Waypoint Manager -- this is software that comes with the unit that you load on your PC. You can use it to create routes, waypoints, and map packages that you want to load onto your unit. So if you travel frequently to a particular area, you can "store" your own regional specific data on your PC that you can transfer to your GPS when you actually need it. I also use it as a backup for my unit. Bottom line -- all electronics eventually fail, so backup, backup, backup.
  
  Little things that annoy me:
  1. Turn-by-turn directions aren't always the best route that I would choose, but they still get you there. (Mapping feature)
  2. When recalculating, it seems insistent on getting you back on the route that it originally planned for you. (Mapping feature) I say that you should still always have a paper map as a backup.
  3. Backlight setting resets after powering off even though it's set to "on" in the setup menu. A small annoyance that I've gotten used to.
  
  A few weeks ago, I actually had a failure of my unit. Shortly after I backed up all my data to Waypoint Manager, I was loading waypoints directly to my unit from geocaching.com, and my unit turned off. For some reason, whenever it was connected to my computer, it wouldn't turn on or stay on. Garmin technical support was amazing. Someone picked up within a minute. He was friendly, helpful and patient in working out my problem, and then created an RMA and put a rush on it when I asked for it. I'm one of those pesky customers who calls frequently to ask for status, and again, I got someone on the phone immediately every time, and everyone was helpful, and they overnighted my replacement once my failed unit was received. Since I work in customer service myself, I strongly appreciate good customer service when I get it (which is actually quite rare).
  
  In summary, this is a full feature-rich product, with a few recommended upgrades, and when something goes wrong, Garmin's customer service makes you glad you bought a Garmin...
  
  
• User unfriendly
  By A320K59NFLX1YC on 2008-04-01
  I think this will eventually be a nice product. But, it is not intuitive and very difficult to learn how to use. The manual and other instructions are close to awful. Their are no instructions on how to geocache, just downloadable cache cordinates.
  
  BTW I may not be a techno-geek, but I also am not a techno-dummy (I have a real PhD). This is not a user-friendly product to learn how to use.
  
  Be advised (like I was): You'll need to buy maps and a memory chip.
  
  
  
  
• Does not meet expectations
  By A23ESSOV52U8U2 on 2008-01-19
  I was very dissapointed. After reading other reviews and the specs Ii was expecting an accurate GPS device. I found it to be off by 150-250 ft at a minimum. When I was out an about in the mountains, and was close to a waypoint in a canyon, it shifted direction constantly. I have already returned this device and will be looking for something better.
  
  
• Garmin Vista HCX is a great GPS
  By A2UFB63KPEMY1N on 2008-07-06
  I spent a great deal of time selecting this unit. I wanted a GPS that had the following features. This unit made the cut on all the features except for the manual/documentation.
  - turn by turn routing
  - compass - magnetic and GPS
  - bright color screen that provided clear detail
  - ability to handle both land and marine maps and usage
  - high sensitivity and high accuracy
  - as water proof as possible
  - over 500 waypoints along with at least 10 routes. It has 1000 and 20.
  - reversible routes / tracks
  - time to waypoint and to final destination
  - distance to waypoint and to final destination
  - eta to final destination
  - needed to be good in the car and superb on the water.
  - proximity alarms
  - altimeter
  - strong back light
  - at least 12 hours of power from one set of batteries (easily meets this requirement with several hours to spare)
  - needed to accept power from my iGo power supply
  - several different screen color displays to get the most out of available light / too much light / not enough light conditions
  - lots of options in terms of numerical data displays
  - ability to have road and topo maps loaded at the same time
  - reasonably easy to master (It is easy to use.)
  - USB connection to the PC
  - enough memory to store road maps for the entire country and Canada along with topo maps for at least two non-contiguous areas (it did it with a bit of room to spare using a 2 GB memory card)
  - good to excellent manual (This is the area it failed miserably in. But, the unit is easy to use and there are lots of tips and tricks on the web to get you started. So, I let this one go in terms of the decision process.)
  - under $300 for the unit and under $500 when I added in the maps and optional stuff like a car windshield mount. I went first class on the maps and the mount and still made it.
  
  
  Cons
  ----
  
  1) The manual is next to worthless. It explains the buttons but does not detail how to use them. It does not show the all the sub-screens underneath the buttons/selections. If you are a first time GPS user you will need to buy a book or Google the tips and tricks along with the GPS basics. I have used a GPS and I just spent a few hours playing through all the screens and took notes on how to get back to the features / selections I know I would regularly need. I good manual would have made this extra work unnecessary.
  
  2) The manual is next to worthless. (I won't type this in any more.) Garmin could and should do much better given the cost and the sophistication of this unit.
  
  3) The car power supply sold by Garmin is way over priced. I chose not to use it. Instead I bought a USB adapter for my iGo power supply and used one of the short USB cords I had lying around. Cost $10 bucks and works perfectly for me.
  
  
  
• Not half bad
  By A1P7INRTDC6SNO on 2007-09-25
  I'm new to GPS and Garmin. I bought it because i was interested in the Altimeter, Barometer, and Compass and thought i'd check out GPS.
  
  I ordered it on Tuesday and got it on Friday with the standard shipping. I was surprised by how small the whole thing is but the screen is very clear and easy to read. It took less then a minute to find the satellites. It took a while to figure out how to use it because i'm not much on reading directions but is easy to learn.
  
  The base map is not very detailed regarding roads. Only details available are state highways and interstate highways. The map does do well with the names of towns. I decided to purchase City Navigator. It seems kind of expensive but there's not much choice. I saw a few programs where you can make your own maps but the process seemed kind of complicated for a newbie.
  
  The unit itself is very nice. I like all the different data it can give. I'm not sure how accurate all of it is but it seems fine for my needs. I will do some hiking and biking but mostly use it for driving.
  
  It does seems to be a bit of a battery hog. I use Radio Shack green NIMH batteries and they lasted for about 8 hours.
  
  I do look forward in learning all it can do.
  
  
  
  
• Over- priced and Over-complicated
  By A1DUT04JJC7EHJ on 2007-12-29
  I bought the Garmin eTrex Vista for my solo flights thru the tooleys on my Polaris 800 in case I got...well, lost. I haven't taken it into the wild with me yet because I cannot trust it. The first review I wrote on this item was never posted, I guess that was because I didn't rate it high enough to generate any sales. I took the Vista along on an ATV trip in another state 1300 miles away. When I got home the Vista said I was still in that other state. Along Lake Superior it was basically useless. I'd give it to my young nephew to use as a toy, but then I'd feel responsible if he got lost with it. It's either too complicated (having to read the manual before every use) or I have a Le`mon. Ya pays yer money and ya takes yer chances. I think it's a rip.
  
  
• simply the best hiking GPS
  By AHGE3HTCK931Q on 2008-01-03
  For many years I used a Garmin eTrex Vista. It was sooo reliable. So when it came to upgrading (I wanted a USB rather than serial port, data card for mapping and waypoints) I chose Garmin eTrex Vista Hcx. This is an amazing GPS for hikers and trekkers. It has everything. Long battery life, very high sensitivity (it works inside my house or my work office), fast satellite acquisition, memory card for detailed maps, excellent track log facility, small size, light (180gm inc. protective jacket and Li batteries), waterproof and easy to use (I still haven't used the manual). The main problem with GPS is that none of the manufacturers offer proper support for Apple Macintosh computers. However Mac GPS Pro is excellent. The cost is reasonable $49.99(US). This software also makes it easy to see your tracks and waypoints on Google Earth!
  ____________________________________________________________________
  
  A couple of months later:
  OK, the sensitivity of this little GPS is AMAZING. Tested under tree cover - no problems. It's a sensitive as my in-car GPS (Nuvi 660)!! V fast acquisition times. These two items are really important for GPS's. And of course it loads maps. These vary in quality and are not related to an individual GPS - the maps run on many models.
  
  About the only thing that is missing from this little device is Blue Tooth or Wfi. If it had (switchable) Wifi, there would be no effect on battery life (which is fantastic!) and they could waterproof it even better. I have my doubts about the weather sealing around the USB socket!
  
  But still, I am blown away by this units power, sensitivity and endurance. Simply amazing.
  
  

• TOPO! National Geographic USGS Topographic Maps, California
• Garmin Vehicle DC Power Adapter for eTrex and Geko (010-10203-00)
• Garmin Bicycle Mount for eTrex and Summit (010-10267-00)
• GARMIN 010-10314-00 Carrying Case
• Garmin MapSource WorldMap

• GARMIN 010-10314-00 Carrying Case
• Garmin MapSource Topo U.S. 2008
• Kingston 2 GB Micro SD Card (SDC/2GB, Retail Package)
• Garmin Bicycle Mount for eTrex and Summit (010-10267-00)
• GARMIN 010-10563-00 12V Adapter Cable