Dakota 20 vs Oregon 400T

[+mwe5398]

I have narrowed my choice between the Dakota 20 and Oregon 400T. Any recommendations or suggestions? the price is similar, what is the biggest difference?

[+mwe5398]

Any comments?

[+The Yinnies]

Dakota 20 or the Oregon 450. I like the 3-axis compass. The Dakota might be a litle small if you have large hands.

[+metalgearjay]

They are such similar units it is tough to call. But the Oregon 400t did get Backpackers all around editors choice if that helps. http://www.backpacker.com/garmin_oregon_400t/gear/12697

[Keystone]

I am moving this thread from the Geocaching Topics forum to the GPS and Technology forum.

[+SamSpade47]

Side by side comparison information:

 

http://garmindakota.wikispaces.com/Dakota+vs.+Oregon

 

Probably the most significant difference is the screen size:

 

Oregon: 1.53"x2.55" (3.8x6.3 cm), Dakota: 1.43"x2.15" (3.6x5.5 cm)

 

and more importantly the screen resolution:

 

Oregon: 240x400 pixels, Dakota: 160x240 pixels

Edited February 15, 2010 by SamSpade47

[+narcissa]

I have the Dakota 20 and love the smaller size since I have small hands. I don't miss the Wherigo function because Wherigo caches are pretty rare.

[NordicMan]

Have you handled both units? If you have then it should be a simple decision if the larger screen on the Oregon is worth the extra size of the unit, compared to the Dakota. Otherwise they're fairly similar

[+Redwoods Mtn Biker]

I think the Dakota is significantly brighter. I'd prefer it, but that's partially because I would use it on my bike, fixed-mount, where brightness is a big factor.

[+half-full]

I have narrowed my choice between the Dakota 20 and Oregon 400T. Any recommendations or suggestions? the price is similar, what is the biggest difference?

 

I haven't used an Oregon, but understood the main differences to be screen size and resolution, with allegedly better brightness on the Dakota. I did want a small unit too, due to generally having a toddler in my other hand.

[+The Yinnies]

I think the Dakota is significantly brighter. I'd prefer it, but that's partially because I would use it on my bike, fixed-mount, where brightness is a big factor.

What are your thoughts on the 450? Will it be brighter?

Thanks

[+g-o-cashers]

From what I've read the 450 is the same as the 550 which makes it slightly more readable than the x00 Oregons but still not quite as good as the Dakota. There really isn't a huge difference in my opinion between all three.