GPS maker Garmin recently introduced two new midrange units for its outdoor handheld GPS product lineup, as the company continues to emphasize technology away from traditional in-car devices.
The Oregon 450 ($399) and Oregon 450t ($499) touchscreen GPS units have 3-inch glove-friendly touchscreen displays.
For an extra $100, the Oregon 450t includes a 100,000:1 scale topographic maps, along with 3D maps that allow owners to have an enhanced view of nearby terrain elevation.
"More than ever, Garmin offers intuitive touchscreen options for anyone exploring and enjoying the world around them," said Dan Bartel, Garmin VP of sales, in a statement. "Oregon 450t and Oregon 450 provide a bridge between the slimmed-down Dakota family and the top-of-the-line Oregon 550t, all of which work seamlessly with Garmin Custom maps in planning your adventure and Garmin Connect for reliving the experience and sharing the memories."
Garmin upgraded the user-customized "dashboard" interfaces, photo navigation, included high-speed USB, 3-axis electronic compass, and PC/Mac support. Using Garmin's custom software, the Custom Maps utility allows owners to transfer paper and digital maps to either unit.
Anyone looking to store images and additional maps can do so by using 850MB internal memory, or with a memory card via the built-in microSD slot.
Both devices are supported by two AA batteries that last up to 16 hours. Garmin expects to begin shipping both units during Q1 2010.
I'm disappointed the device doesn't have an internal battery for initial support, and then the two AA batteries as a backup. I have more experience working with Garmin's cycling and running GPS devices, but the units that I've tested have been high-quality.
