Advantages: Size, speed, colours, waterproof, SD slot Disadvantages: Reliance on poor Magellan Maps, no third party support
I wanted a small GPS unit principally for my off road mountain biking activities.
It's a real hassle stopping the bike unfolding the OS map and working out precisely where you are, on a legitimate bridle path or in a farmers backyard.
When I saw the advert for the new eXplorist 500 at £350, featuring Magellan's topographical UK map, I thought this is it, a bit expensive, but just what I've been waiting for.
The reality is somewhat different to the expectation, hence my disappointment.
Now don't get me wrong, this little GPS unit is easy to use, it's fast and accurate and will display your position on it's simple and crude basemap as good as any other Garmin or Magellan unit. It will also give you an accurate reading of latitude and longitude or OS grid reference.
But what's the use of a 16 colour TFT screen if the map on it ...
Advantages: Attractive, 3 bedrooms plus good sized centre, packs away small, rel. easy to pitch Disadvantages: Was expensive originally but can be got for good discount now
