When released in 2015 the Garmin Montana 610 and 680 devices appeared to be the next greatest thing. The company highlighted the capability of rechargeable batteries, a 3D axis tilt, wireless capability, and much more. It all seems like a great deal. The device is light making it easy to travel with and the screen has a sunlight to readable display making it easy to read whether in the sun or in the shade. This is an important factor while hiking through desert with no trees or brush to cover the light. And it is possible to buy cards containing maps already programmed to make travel a fun experience (for 22 straight hours with this battery life).
So what makes this GPS so special compared to the previous model, the Montana 600, which is far cheaper? Well for one, the screen is now 4in and the touch screen was updated. But the largest differences are the camera and the GLONASS feature. The lesser models contain a 5MP digital camera while these updated models are 8MP. And the GLONASS support makes the satellite reception stronger for canyons and heavily covered areas.
All of the upgrades add the to price of the GPS device. And for even more money, the consumer can have a camo cover instead of the traditional black. Going back to the original question: are these new 2015 devices worth the upgrade and extra money, the answer would have to be.....no. The Montana 600 will still do anything that the buyer wants. There is still a micro SD slot for a greater storage capacity, a colored touchscreen display, and has TOPO U.S. programmed into it. If a person has the money for the upgrade then go for it. But for those that already have a Garmin Montana GPS device, it is safe to say that the upgrades will not have a huge effect on you, enough to drive to the store and purchase one right away. And on the plus side, with the Montana 610 and 680 release the price of the Montana 600 is sure to drop.
Hi Cassaundra,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your review on the Garmin. I owned one a few years ago but with new technology on cell phones and a GPS system built into my vehicle, I no longer have the need for one. I understand that not everyone is lucky enough to have a GPS system in their vehicles or a SMART phone but I wonder if those same people would fork out that much money for a GPS device rather than a smart phone.
Great review. I'm not fond of GPS for everyday use myself, but it was instrumental in the work I did as an intern in the forest service. I feel like the average GPS provided in phones and vehicles to be too inaccurate in many situations especially in cities were the 6 meters off give or take can be unhelpful.
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting to me that you are not fond of GPS devices. I used to struggle with them and would rather use a phone, but after having to use on enough, it becomes an interesting tool. But it is also not for everyone and I can understand your point.
DeleteHi Cassaundra
ReplyDeleteYour review had some great details in it. I agree with John that smartphone GPS is not as accurate as GPS devices are. The software for the updated model sounds like it would be fun to try out.
Hi Cassaundra
ReplyDeleteYour review had some great details in it. I agree with John that smartphone GPS is not as accurate as GPS devices are. The software for the updated model sounds like it would be fun to try out.