User Review: Garmin eTrex Vista Cx

Garmin eTrex Vista Cx
Above: The current eTrex Vista Cx, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 29, 2007 by thruhiker02

Rating:
Price Paid: $249

This GPS unit is full of features, moderately expandable, and not very sensitive. What it doesn't lack is features: nice color screen, compass, altimeter, waterproof, and separately purchased 2GB memory card. The Vista Cx is expandable with a microSD memory card. I purchased a 2GB card hoping to put all available maps on it. There is a small limitation to the number of maps you can put on the card through Mapsource so stick with a smaller, 1GB, card.

Sensitivity is an issue. Even in a lightly forested area near tree line the Vista Cx will sometimes lose the GPS signal in moderate size valleys. I would hesitate to say that it works well in the dense deciduous forests of the East. Maybe the new model HCx with the high sensitivity receiver will be more sensitive. All said it is a top of the line GPS for geocaching or just seeing where you are.