Considering that some of the Garmin GPS devices for boats can reach $7,000 in price, the GPSMAP 276C (retailing from $300 to $500) is a pretty good deal! This portable, 256 color navigator comes with the basics but consumers are able to upgrade to more detailed maps. In addition to the marine maps, a separate auto kit can be bought, which includes a data card, City Navigator maps and a car mount. If people plan to use their boating functions as much as their driving functions, then these are good devices. However, the “Nuvi” models are preferable for motorists.
There are many pros to the 276C. The transflective screen makes the display visible in direct sunlight, which doesn’t necessarily come with all site navigation units, not to mention the high resolution which boasts three times the amount of pixels for better definition. Additionally, the 10,000 point track log is handy. Many consumers like that this system has buttons, rather than a touch screen and that the unit is battery-powered and portable so they can be used in motels and restaurants too. The WAAS technology results in accurate readings within 3 meters and the computer interface makes adding programs, route information or additional maps easy.
Yet there are a few cons to the GPSMAP 276C as well. The 128 MB memory card is pretty big for local use, but inefficient for a pre-planned cross-country trip. It is possible to get a 256 MB memory card, but it costs an extra $100. Speaking of “extras,” the additional software costs an extra $110. There’s no internal speaker for voice prompts either, so external speakers could possibly be another cost. So for the extreme travelers who plan to venture outside of their local zone and who need the additional storage and software, an upgraded model is probably worth the money.
One www.gpsnow.com reviewer, Christopher Noe, said he liked the bright, readable display of the GPSMAP 276C. While the GPS navigation system was ready for use right out of the box, he said he’ll probably spend some time customizing it for his preferences. “And I really like how Garmin has grouped functions into separate ‘marine’ or ‘automotive’ modes. It allows for a very streamlined interface in each mode,” he adds. The ability to save up to 3,000 waypoints is significantly better than the competition and the “find” function groups the waypoints in a sensible manner.
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