Are you in need of a reliable, rugged, and high-performance marine GPS for your next adventure? The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded with BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water (Renewed) might just be the perfect fit for you. Below is a comprehensive review that details every aspect of this impressive device.
Key Features
Rugged, Floating, and Water-Resistant
One of the biggest selling points of the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is its rugged design. This handheld GPS unit is built to withstand the toughest marine environments. It is water-resistant to IPX6 standards, which means it’s capable of withstanding powerful water jets from any direction. Plus, it floats! So if you accidentally drop it into the water, you won’t lose it.
High-Resolution Color Display
Having a clear and readable display is crucial, especially when you’re out on the water. The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc comes with a high-resolution color display that ensures you can read your information easily, even under bright sunlight. The screen is also made from scratch-resistant and fogproof glass, so you don’t have to worry about visibility issues in various weather conditions.
Increased Memory
When you’re on an extended trip, it’s essential to have enough memory to save your waypoints and routes. This device supports up to 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and 300 fit activities. Whether you’re an avid sailor or a fishing enthusiast, this GPS unit has you covered.
Multiple Satellite Constellations
Reliability in tracking is critical when you’re out in the open water. The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc supports multiple satellite constellations including GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and SBAS. This means that you get accurate and reliable positioning data no matter where you are in the world.
Preloaded BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts
Navigating the waters has never been easier thanks to the preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts. These charts offer detailed mapping of the coastline, enabling you to plan your trips and navigate safely.
3-Axis Tilt-Compensated Electronic Compass
When you’re standing still, it’s crucial to know which direction you’re facing. The built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass ensures you always know your heading. This feature is invaluable for those tricky moments when you need precise orientation.
Barometric Altimeter
Tracking changes in pressure to pinpoint your accurate altitude is another useful feature. The barometric altimeter is particularly helpful for sailors and boaters to estimate weather changes, ensuring you can make informed decisions while out on the water.
Extended Battery Life
Battery life can make or break a handheld GPS device, especially during extended outings. The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc boasts up to 20 hours of battery life in GPS mode, so you can focus more on your adventure and less on recharging the device.
Product Specifications
Below is a table that provides a quick breakdown of the key specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Water Resistance | IPX6 |
| Display | High-resolution color display, scratch-resistant, fogproof glass |
| Memory | 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, 300 fit activities |
| Satellite Constellations Supported | GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, SBAS |
| Preloaded Maps | BlueChart g3 coastal charts |
| Electronic Compass | 3-axis tilt-compensated |
| Barometric Altimeter | Yes |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours in GPS mode |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 ounces |
User Experience
Usability
The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is user-friendly and intuitive. Whether you are a seasoned navigator or a beginner, the interface is straightforward, making it easy to access and interpret all the information you need. The physical buttons are responsive, and their layout ensures convenient use even with wet hands or while wearing gloves.
Display Quality
The display is crystal clear, even under direct sunlight. This is particularly beneficial for day-time navigation. The color contrasts are well-balanced, making the map details easy to decipher. The fogproof glass is a massive plus, eliminating any visibility issues in humid environments.
Durability
This GPS device is built to last. The rugged design not only provides a good grip but also offers resistance to drops and harsh conditions. The water-resistance and floating features give you added peace of mind. You can be confident that this is a device designed to withstand the tough marine environment.
Satellite Accuracy
With support for multiple satellite constellations, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc provides highly accurate and reliable tracking. You can trust the data it delivers, knowing it will guide you safely to your destination.
Battery Performance
The battery life is impressive. It can last up to 20 hours in GPS mode, which is more than enough for most day-long excursions or even multi-day trips. Additionally, it uses standard AA batteries, making it easy to carry spares.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rugged and Durable: The device is built to withstand the toughest conditions, providing lasting durability.
- Floats in Water: Reduces the risk of losing the device if accidentally dropped.
- High-Resolution Display: Ensures clear visibility even under bright sunlight.
- Extended Memory: Stores up to 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and 300 fit activities.
- Multiple Satellite Support: Highly reliable and accurate tracking.
- Preloaded Coastal Charts: Detailed maps for easier navigation.
- Electronic Compass and Barometric Altimeter: Added functionalities for precise orientation and weather tracking.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 20 hours in GPS mode, using standard AA batteries.
Cons
- Bulkier than Other Models: The rugged design adds weight and size, which might be a downside for some users.
- Limited to Marine Use: While excellent for marine environments, it may not be as versatile on land.
Why You Should Consider the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc
If you are someone who spends a lot of time on the water, whether boating, sailing, or fishing, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is an invaluable tool. Its rugged design ensures it can handle the harshest conditions while the detailed coastal charts make navigation a breeze. The comprehensive features like the electronic compass, barometric altimeter, and extended battery life make it a trustworthy companion for any marine adventure.
The device’s ability to support multiple satellite constellations reassures you of its reliability, providing accurate and dependable tracking no matter where you are. With the increased memory, you can save all your favorite waypoints and routes, making it easier to plan and revisit your trips. The high-resolution display adds another layer of usability, making sure you can read all the necessary information without any hassle.
In summary, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a must-have for marine enthusiasts who need a robust and reliable GPS device. It’s packed with features tailored specifically for maritime use, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about navigating the waters.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right marine GPS can significantly influence the quality of your adventures. The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc stands out for its ruggedness, reliability, and a plethora of features designed for marine environments. With its user-friendly interface and extended battery life, this GPS unit is geared to offer you the best sailing, boating, or fishing experiences. If you’re in the market for a top-notch marine GPS that won’t let you down, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is an excellent choice.
