Over the last few years, GPS technology has jumped over leaps and bounds to what it is today. Although the use of touch-screens in displaying OS (Ordinance Survey) mapping has become the norm, the expansive 4” display on the Garmin Montana 650t is currently the best in its class as far as portable hand-held GPS devices go. Let’s take a look at what users can expect from this device, and examine what sets it apart from the rest.

Designed to be hardy, handy and versatile, the Montana 650t perfectly suits the distinct requirements of outdoor lovers. The four inch colour display which gives the user a clear view, with no scrolling required, of a 6km² area of OS 1:50,000 mapping is a huge draw on my part. Finding and planning routes is so much easier with this unit as compared to devices with smaller displays; the biggest drawback I have pointed out in the available alternatives.

Ease of use is vital when it comes to GPS devices in general; the Montana’s user friendly design owes its easy to use nature to the simple Operating System and visibly clear display characters. Although I am still of the opinion that buttons would be better, especially when operating the device while wearing gloves during cold weather, the unit’s touch screen interface operates smoothly.

 

As previously stated, the 650t is quite versatile, and can be used in a number of different applications, making it quite different from other available GPS devices. Among its long list of supported navigational tools is the turn-by-turn city navigation solution. Although it’s not as advanced as the custom satnav units used in vehicles, the Nuvi variety produced by the same manufacturer comes to mind, its Ordinance Survey mapping capabilities make it invaluable in countryside driving as well as in locating suitable parking spots.

A rechargeable battery powers the Montana 650t; however, if it were to fail, regular AA batteries can be used as a viable back up. The device comes with waterproof construction, and a hardy outer casing which substantially reduces its vulnerability to regular knocks. Simply put, the Montana 650t has left quite an impression on me, and if the price were to be adjusted a bit, I would consider it to be the best manifestation of cutting edge GPS technology.

It’s hard to fault the Garmin Montana 650t as it has effectively taken GPS technology meant for use by walkers to a whole new level; which is expected given its asking price.