Magellan eXplorist-710
Reviewed by
Robert Templer
+165
January 3, 2018
Does the job and works under heavy bush canopy, though there is a steep learning curve to master this device. Consumes batteries ravenously.
Pros
- Works well under heavy bush canopy
- Compact and good ergonomics
Cons
- Rubber perishes
- Poor battery life
- Outdated by 2017 standards
- Expensive
- Touch screen and GUI is primitive by today's standards
My first 12-channel high sensitivity GPS, so I was very impressed to see it work in dense bush. However in hindsight this is to be expected these days.
I found the system very difficult to learn despite having worked in IT for 10 years.
After four years of hard use the cover over the rubber button has worn off rendering the GPS usable but no longer waterproof. I have to turn the thing on with a stick by pressing the now visible microswitch. Occasionally the device locks up and needs a reboot.
Despite all of this it has served me well, even though I have to take plenty of spare AA batteries for a five-day trip.
Basically it's outdated now, though still available.
Quite frankly an iPhone 6+ with a "GPS kit" installation is a much better and intuitive GPS, especially with the ability to download and display off line Google Satellite Maps.
Essentially the Garmin and Magellan as a consequence are obsolete and will soon go the way of the Dodo in my opinion.
