Maps are Extra
Posted by: ShadyClip
on Mar-20-13 3:36 PM (EST)
-- Last Updated: Mar-20-13 3:39 PM EST --
Garmin pricing is a bit confusing. For the majority of the handheld GPS units they sell they have a base version which comes with a worldwide base map that is near useless and then other versions which are the mostly the same hardware but different maps are installed.
The codes at the end mean:
T = includes a Topo Map
C = digital camera
S = Compass (I think)
You might want to spend sometime checking out gpstracklog.com -- they have good GPS guides and reviews.
If you are expecting something like a car GPS you might want to read more about handhelds first -- they have a lot more power but are not as simple as a car GPS. If you have a smartphone the free maps apps on them work well enough but you do need to worry about battery life and cell reception.
Generally most people seem to buy the map less versions. There are lots of great free maps on gpsfiledepot.com. I do pay for the Garmin BirdsEye sat imagery and use that in combo with a bunch of free topo maps from gpsfiledepot on my Garmin Oregon 450.