Some of you guys seem like you know the various functions of the GPS/HR units pretty well. I'm between the Garmin 301 (similar in size to my present 201), or the 305. What's the difference besides the size of the unit/display? I'd be using the unit in my boat as well as on a bike. I've got to let the wife know which one I want by this week. Pros/cons. Thanks.
Submitted by drewp on Mon, 12/08/2008 - 3:27am
Either one you get, you might want to get a waterproof bag such as an Aquapac to use it in to keep it from getting wet. Even though they claim to be IPX7 Standard (submersible in one meter of water for up to 30 mins), they aren't totally waterproof. Water seeped in through the charging contacts on my 201 (from the wriststrap getting wet) prompting me to get a 205 to replace it.
I notice that the 201/301 series has a longer battery life than the newer 205/305 series. If I had need of the HR monitor, I probably would have gotten the 305 instead.
Screen size is smaller on the 205/305, but is more clearer and readable than on the 201.
Here's a review on SurfSki.info of the 305 and mentions the pros and cons compared to the 301. Read some of the comments of others on there as well.
http://www.surfski.info/content/view/134/38/
#1 Mon, 12/08/2008 - 4:43am
Regardless of what model you buy always put it in a waterproof case or bag on the ocean. When those contacts go black the same thing happens internally to the copper pathways within the unit and eventually corrodes the internals and the GPS is then stuffed. It's a chemical process called electroysis. that happens even if water does not penetrate the casing.
Even a little kitchen ziplok bag is better than nothing, fresh water or in rain no problem.
Cheers Rambo
#2 Mon, 12/08/2008 - 10:51am