Satmap Active 12
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Pros
- Clear large screen + cheap to replace
- Long battery life
- Use disposables or rechargeable
- Uses UK OS maps to make a paper link directly
- Button only control, so no quick errors
- Great backlight
- Rapid refresh rate
- Waterproof + rugged
Cons
- Maps expensive
- Big in the hands
- Bulky in the pocket
I easily configured this for left-handed use and have used it really effectively even with the standard 1:50 basic Landranger map that it comes with. I have also bought regional maps (10 to 45 gbp) at 1:25 and less for geo-caching, walking mountain trails and cycling the moors.
For all uses this has replaced my Garmin and is easier to use since everything is button press function access, which might sound an odd positive but miss-touching a capacitive screen to lose the detail in a swipe (particularly if things are wet) is so irritating.
The long battery life is great when camping as there is little need for a solar charge here—and disposables are easy and cheap to come by. Summary details are good too, providing all the information to download to pc or upload online.
Mine came with a thoroughly rugged and waterproof protective case which was demoed in the shop by throwing the whole thing (whilst on) at a wall to no effect. I've had this two years now and through various conditions walking and cycling and a variety of maps. Interesting to compare against Google, maps which are more for direction than terrain.
Overall, great robust kit, straightforward to customise and use. Bought mine from Cotswold with a deal, came with free UK map 1:50 Landranger.
Source: bought it new
Price Paid: 400
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