Like A Garmin Extrex, But More Durable Buttons?

[+JL_HSTRE]

The only dedicated GPS device I've used is a Garmin Etrex 30. I mostly like the device in terms of accuracy, features, ease of use, and overall durability. 

 

However, the buttons aren't durable. I had a button wear out after 4 years. I traded it in for a refurbished unit of the same type. Now two buttons are wearing out, after 7 years of caching (almost twice as long but about half as much caching).

 

I'd like to find a Garmin similar to an Etrex 30, but with a lifespan of a lot more than 3000 Finds. Any suggestions?

Edited February 15, 2022 by JL_HSTRE

[+Atlas Cached]

eTrex Touch. Similar size and capability,  a lot less button pressing. 

 

Or an Oregon 7x0, if you can find one. Far more capable for not much more money. 

 

 

Edited February 15, 2022 by Atlas Cached

[+Mineral2]

The gpsMap line up (64x, 65, 66 series) are also button GPS, in which the buttons are a bit more durable than on the eTrex. Buttons will always wear out at some point because the motion produced weak spots in the rubber covering. But the more advanced models are built with higher quality materials. I've had my Oregon 600 now for 6 or 7 years and the rubber over the power button has now developed a crack.

[+Atlas Cached]

I know there are many posts here where various model GPSr have worn through the rubber that covers a switch (usually the power button) - but I can not for the life of me figure out how that is done.

 

I have multiple Garmin GPSr, including Oregon x50/6x0/7x0 and Montana 6x0/7x0 models, most with well over 60K cycles on the power button, and none of them show any signs of failing. None of them have been exposed to extreme cold temperatures however, and I suppose that may be tougher on the material if used frequently in temperatures near or below freezing.

 

Of course, touchscreen devices require far less button pressing, so they may tend to last longer from that perspective alone.

[+JL_HSTRE]

4 hours ago, Atlas Cached said:

None of them have been exposed to extreme cold temperatures however, and I suppose that may be tougher on the material if used frequently in temperatures near or below freezing.

 

I live in Florida so that's not the issue.

[+Mineral2]

Extreme heat will also soften the rubber. And if you live near the coast, the salt in the air doesn't help either. 

[+JL_HSTRE]

On 2/15/2022 at 9:55 AM, Atlas Cached said:

eTrex Touch. Similar size and capability,  a lot less button pressing

 

Is the Extrex Touch 25 equivalent to an Etrex 20, and the Touch 35 to the regular 30?

[+Atlas Cached]

8 minutes ago, JL_HSTRE said:

 

Is the Extrex Touch 25 equivalent to an Etrex 20, and the Touch 35 to the regular 30?

 

Yes and No. 

 

You can compare all of their individual features against each other at GPSrChive.

[+JL_HSTRE]

I checked with Garmin to see if getting my Etrex 30 refurbished for $99 was still possible, like it had been back in 2015. Nope! The model is no longer supported.