Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I bought the Meridian Platinum and the Garmin Vista to do a technical comparison. They are both great units with similar price and features. I also tested the next level down: Meridian Gold and the Garmin Legend with similar results. Here's my take:
If small size and high resolution are important to you, buy the Garmin.
If you prefer a larger screen, larger buttons, a floating unit, or something that can be viewed beyond an armslength away, get the Magellan. If you require reading glasses, avoid the Garmin.
Here is a list of specific comments:
- Size: Garmin fits easily in a shirt pocket. Magellan is 114% larger by volume and is better suited for a fanny pack or large coat pocket.
- Weight: Magellan is 51% heavier.
- Display: Magellan display is 66% larger, viewable beyond an arm's length. Garmin not viewable beyond an arm's length.
- Pixels: Garmin has over twice as many pixels.
- Resolution: With the smaller display and higher pixel count, the Garmin screen resolution is about four times greater.
- Both are waterproof. Magellan floats...Garmin doesn't.
- Reception: Magellan had slightly better reception, probably due to larger internal antenna.
- Screen protection: Magellan has a raised frame around display to help prevent scratches, but it also collects lots of dust on the screen as a result.
- Maps/waypoints: Low resolution for the Magellan made small map features difficult to discern. Garmin much easier to read with a large variety of highly detailed map symbols/icons.
- Features: Similar for both, but the Magellan had a few extras I liked: audible alerts for turns, a "windshield" navigation view with waypoints drawn in the "distance", a "speedometer" view with dial, sun and moon location displayed on the compass dial.
- Buttons/knobs: Garmin's buttons are all on the sides and are very small. You won't be able to operate them with gloves. I like the little joystick for the left thumb very much, but folks with clumsy hands will not. Magellan's buttons are large, easy, and labelled.
- Magnetic compass: Garmin must be held flat for this feature. Magellan's compass works in any position. (With motion, separate heading indicator works at any orientation on both units.)
- Battery life and accuracy: About the same for both.
- PC cable/DC car adapter: Garmin slides onto the back. Magellan has an awkward screw-in device.
- Mapping Memory: Garmin has 24 MB ready for upload from mapping software (sold separately). Magellan requires additional memory card...
- Owner's Manual: Garmin provides complete owner's manual. Magellan only provides a quick-start manual. Complete manual is electronic and divided into two files.
- User interface: I found the Garmin software and menus to be slightly more intuitive.
Result: I wanted a small unit for outdoor activities and occasional automobile travel. I like small, high-precision devices with lots of detail. I kept the Garmin.
I also ordered the car dash mount, DC auto adapter, belt carry case, and MapSource MetroGuide USA CD. I have been very pleased with each of them.
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