Gear Review: Magellan eXplorist 310 North America GPS
A perfect starter GPS unit, with a great price and minimal drawbacks.
[beginner bargain]
This palm-size unit maps like a larger, flashier device at half the price, making it a terrific buy for first-time or infrequent users. The secret? You get a buffet of standard features (minus an altimeter) and access to World Edition data. For an extra $50, get regional maps in detailed, 24K-scale data. Our editors mapped 16 hours on two AA alkalines—on par for a 2.2-inch color screen unit. Field note: Get familiar with the small thumb control before heading out; navigating the menu system takes a little practice. Bummer: The unit’s VangtagePoint desktop software is PC-only. $200; 5.4 oz; magellangps.com