eTrex 20 or eTrex 30???

Unless you need to use the extra features of the 30 (eg, heart rate monitor and bike cadence sensor for example,) why would you bother? The eTrex 20 is a better value IMHO.

I consider the electronic compass a drawback rather than a feature.

I consider the electronic compass a drawback rather than a feature.

why is that?

An electronic compass uses battery power and is an extra expense for a feature that you rarely (if ever, depending on the use case,) will use. It requires calibration and is prone to interference. It is no better than a standard magnetic compass.

If you are going to be standing still a lot and trying to figure out which direction north is, then get a regular compass. If you are using the GPS to track the typical things that one wants to track while bike riding, or motoring to one's favorite fishing spot (the use-cases that Jim said he wants it for,) then the electronic compass is a drawback rather than a feature (it reduces battery life without adding information.)

Have the etrex 20 now for over a year. It is very waterproof and solid. Battery-life
is not a problem. Just put in a pair of 2400Mh rechargeable AA pennlites in and your good for a week.
I use it as a log, after a sail you can see the tripmeter for distance, speed etc.etc.
Just turn it on and stow it in the grab-bag before a trip.
Always set a waypoint of the beach you leave for safety. One day that compass was handy when fog kicked in.
The screen on both the etrex's are to small to navigate on a rough ride. Maybe the
30 is handy for biking but I wouldn't take it on a cat.Does
state its IPX 7(sort of waterproof) though.

Since Gps is forbidden in most races I do ( or want to do ) I opted for the 20.

Regards, André

Edited by catmodding on Feb 11, 2012 - 02:18 AM.

Thank You Guys

I am going to order the eTrex 20

I'm planing on getting a Foretrex 301. I like the idea of keeping it on my wrist.