I’ve used GPS units for hiking extensively in the past (both Garmin and Magellan) but the last one I had went kaput a few years ago and I haven’t gotten around to getting a new one. Since it’s been awhile since I purchased one, I’d like to get some input from those who may have done so more recently, since I’m not sure what the state of the art is these days.
I would be using it mainly for day hiking, often in heavily forested areas where it can be difficult to pick up signals, sometimes in places where maps are poor or nonexistent. I’m probably looking for something in the $100-$200 range.
Try the Garmin ETrex Vista HCX. Slightly over your budget, but a nice device. (I’ve seen it as low as $200.00 on sale.) Screen is small but readable, it’s got a built-in compass and altimeter and a high sensitivity receiver.
The old standbys, 60csx and 76csx are also possibilities but are larger and more expensive. Primary differences are in the ergonomics. I find the 76csx to be slightly large for handholding while hiking – the etrex is smaller and feels better in the hand.
All these are waterproof and the 76csx floats which is the reason I bought it (I occasionally use it while kayaking or sailing).
REI carries a very basic model that you input your starting point into, and then it leads you back from wherever you are. IIRC it’s priced very reasonably.
I’ve been very happy with my Delorme Earthmate PN-20. Now that the PN 40 is out you may be able to get a 20 pretty cheap. I paid about 200 for mine last year.
The delorme comes with better topo maps right out of the box. Nice sturdy little bugger, water resistant to 3m, decent battery life. I’ve never had a problem picking up a signal in dense tree cover. It generally gets great reviews.
I use Garmin GPS 60 handheld units that sell for I think about $140. It has the same receiver as many other Garmin models including the other 60’s and the 76, and because the display isn’t color and there’s no built in compass or altimeter, the price is low. I especially like them because they include waypoint averaging, which many don’t.