GPS unit and Google Earth

[+lekogm]

Hey all,

 

I am looking to buy a GPS unit and I was wondering if anyone knew of a few that would work with Google Earth? I have a bunch of items listed there and would like to import them easily to a GPS unit. I also want to be able to export waypoints I set with my GPS unit to google earth. It'd also be nice if the unit had street maps so that I could use it for directions to places if I get lost, and if it was waterproof so I could use it while kayaking. I'd like to spend no more than $130.

 

Can anyone give me some suggestions or point me in the right place?

 

Thanks

Edited January 11, 2007 by lekogm

[+Red90]

Pretty much anything can get waypoints and tracks from Google Earth. You save as a GPX file and then upload with one of many free programs.

 

For $130, a mapping unit is not even remotely posisble.... Maps cost about that themselves. Maybe if you went with a good deal used, but I doubt it.

[+lekogm]

I don't mind buying maps later, but something with a basemap would be nice. Also if I need to spend more money to get what I'd like, I wouldn't be opposed to it. I just would like to spend no more than $130 if possible.

[robertlipe]

Google Earth Plus supports pretty much all Garmins and all the Magellan handhelds these days.

 

A $130 mapping unit squeaks you into an Explorist 210 with basemaps. You can upgrade to detailed maps to get turn-by-turn directions later. Honestly, you'll probably find the basemaps frustrating for navigation as they're imited to interstates and some major roads.

[+Timpat]

You can get the Garmin "Blue" Legend for $127.73 today on Amazon.com.

[+Timpat]

[ed] Ooops...double-post

Edited January 11, 2007 by Timpat

[+Red90]

You can get the Garmin "Blue" Legend for $127.73 today on Amazon.com.

 

You "can", but they really have useless map storage, reception is not great and there is no auto-routing.

 

The lowest end mapping Garmin I would suggest is the Venture Cx ~$200.

 

Personally, i think you would be unhappy with any mapping unit for that low of a price and you might as well just get a non mapping unit.

[+bpcooper14]

I don't know if they still have it or not, but on Costco.com they have the Explorist 500LE AND topo 3d for $180 after rebate. It was an xmas present for myself and so far its been great

[Newdogg]

I don't know if they still have it or not, but on Costco.com they have the Explorist 500LE AND topo 3d for $180 after rebate. It was an xmas present for myself and so far its been great

 

All I can find on that site is vehicle nav units?

[user13371]

You can find the Lowrance iFinder H2O (monochrome, not the higher-end color model) for right around $130 new. This has a decent base map, and you could buy the MapCreate package for between $80-$100 later on when your budget permits.

 

But I'm not buying any more toys - I'm saving my pennies for an iPhone

[+Pablo Mac]

...I'm saving my pennies for an iPhone

That's what I'm talking about...and have been for a couple of years now. Google Earth Maps & Satellite images (and much more) on your mobile device, anyone?

 

 

(Screenshot from the iPhone Keynote address, not a Photoshop job)