The Garmin 62 Handheld GPSMAP 62 is the brand new update of Garmin’s most popular handheld GPS, the 60Csx, and enthusiasts of hunting, geocaching and hiking have been waiting fervently for its arrival. The 62 series is a real breakthrough that Garmin have been working on for four years, and offers unparalleled mapping capabilities, and a new level of rugged design and practicality.

There’s tonnes of features to get your head round on the three new 62 series models so I’ll break down the main features they share, then look at what the 62s and 62st bring to the party, before comparing them to other Garmin models such as the Oregon and Dakota.

The main features that run through all three models are the quad helix antenna; a high sensitivity WAAS enabled satellite receiver with Hot Fix technology, so it’s incredibly quick at finding your signal in whatever terrain you’re in or cover you’re under; a 2.6” inch sunlight readable 65 k colour screen; photo navigation, with the option of downloading locations from Garmin Connect, and paperless geocaching. They also have the ability to connect with your computer and upload your routes and analyse data, as well as downloading further maps and applications. All the Garmin GPSMAP series have 20 hours battery life, are fully waterproof and have automated routing, as well as being able to store 2000 waypoints and 200 routes, and a track-log that stores 10,000 points and 200 saved tracks.

So let’s start with the Garmin GPSMAP 62 which has a worldwide base map with shaded relief, great when you’re heading into unknown terrain because it lets you know whether you’re going to be heading down steep declines or up large hills. With 1.7GB of on board memory you can download shed loads of extra maps and it has a high speed USB connection too. This is a brilliant all round outdoor navigator that will more than suit the needs of walkers and hikers heading into a range of terrain as well as geocaching enthusiasts.

The Garmin GPSMAP 62s steps it up a notch with some awesome high end features that will endear it even more to serious hikers, geocachers and hunting enthusiasts. A barometric altimeter gives you highly detailed altitudinal information, as well as predicting atmospheric pressure and weather changes. A 3-axis compass allows you to get a accurate directional reading without having to hold it level, which is great if you’re on the move quickly, plus it has wireless technology that allows you to share routes, waypoints and tracking information with any other compatible Garmin GPS without the need for a laptop. The 62s also has 1.7GB memory but you can plug a Micro SD card into it so you can add additional maps. You can also download Blue Chart g2 for marine navigation or the City Navigator for using it in your car.

The GPSMAP 62ST has all this, with the added benefit of being preloaded with 1:100 scale topographic mapping of the whole of Europe! The 62ST really pushes the envelope for outdoor navigation – no matter how you twist, turn or carry it, it will always keep you heading in the right direction, which is exactly what you need if you’re on the move chasing game, clambering across high mountain edges, or chasing down an elusive geocache! Hunters will particular appreciate the option of downloading Bird’s Eye Satellite Imagery (with a subscription), so they can view detailed pictures of clearings and game trails. This is a really great feature  (also available on the 62s) that gives added sophistication to any expedition.

The 62ST also has profiles you can choose to suit whatever you are using the device for-select on the menu from automotive, recreational, classic, marine, geocaching or fitness and there’ll be features and compatibility to suit each usage.

Another feature that really stands out for us is the photo navigation that all models share. There is a huge community of Garmin users that post tagged images of locations they have visited and using the Garmin GPSMAP 62 you can download the tagged photo and get directions to that exact location – it’s an awesome feature!

The Garmin custom maps feature is also brilliant- go on to the Garmin site and find a wealth of electronic or printed maps that you can download and convert into fully navigable maps on you GPS. You can also convert any of your favourite electronic or printed maps into downloadable trackable maps on your GPS. There’s thousands to choose from on the Garmin custom site, and knowing Garmin they’ve probably managed to convert Long John Silver’s treasure map into a geotagged, 3D navigational digital download!

Experienced navigation enthusiasts will be itching to get their hands on the 62 series, but it’s also a great option for someone looking to get started with a GPS or looking to explore more adventurous terrain.

So what makes it different when compared with the Oregon and Dakota ranges? Well, the GPSMAP 62 series doesn’t have the touchscreen of the Dakota and Oregon, instead it utilises rugged buttons and a slightly stronger outer casing, and seems more equipped for expeditions where you’re on the move a lot at fast pace. The stronger casing is also very slimline and lightweight at 260grams.

Also, the mapping capabilities are where the 62 really outshines the other Garmin models. With 1.7GB of memory, as well as a micro SD card slot on the 62s and 62ST, there’s room for an unprecedented amount of maps and information, and with the option of navigating with Birds Eye satellite imagery (with a subscription), as well as the option of downloading from Garmin’s custom maps, its navigational versatility can’t be matched.

Garmin GPSMAP 62 Handheld GPS BUY

Garmin GPSMAP 62s Handheld GPS BUY

Garmin GPSMAP 62ST Handheld GPS BUY

Garmin GPSMAP 62s Handheld GPS + 1:50 GB Discoverer FULL UK Map (Bundle) BUY

Garmin GPSMAP 62s Handheld GPS + 1:50 Eire Discoverer FULL Ireland Map (Bundle) BUY

Or Click below to see the awesome GPSMAP 62 series simulator

By Tom (Loving Outdoors)