Garmin Mapping Question

[CrazyCDN]

I've got a Garmin eTrex Legend HCx and I'm considering getting one of the navigation maps for a trip we're planning to another part of the province.

 

I think I've figured out the difference between City Navigator NT and the regular City Navigator (basically compression ratio and compatibility) but no one seems to talk about what the MetroGuide is other than to say its "similar".

 

So what are the differences between City Navigator NT, City Navigator, and MetroGuide?

 

And should I get the CD/DVD versions or just buy the memory card version?

 

Thanks in advance!

[SporkSports]

MetroGuide was for GPS units like the GPSMAP 76 which did not have autoroute capability. Version 8 (which I think was 2006) was the last version published. It has since been discontinued, which sucks for us 76 owners, since now we can't get updated maps anymore.

[+JSWilson64]

Get the version on disc -- you can't back up the data on the cards, and you can't use them on your computer.

 

NT uses a better compression routine and is supposed to work better on certain units.

 

MetroGuide doesn't allow auto-routing, out of the box, on units that will do it. You can add the routing capability back using a program called MetroWizzz (Free) or MetroGold ($6), from www.geodude.nl. It sprinkles magic dust on your map data and allows them to route on your GPS device.

 

The upshot of this is you're not locked in to one GPS unit with your maps, because MetroGuide doesn't require unlock codes like City Navigator (regular or decaf, er, NT) requires. So, you can buy a used MetroGuide and don't have to worry whether the original owner unlocked it. If you're cheap like me, it's the only way to fly.