Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Review: Navigate the Waters with Ease

As an avid outdoor enthusiast who’s navigated through various terrains, I’ve come to rely on the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, part of the gpsmap79 series, for its precision and durability, similar to the reliability found in the gpsmap86sci and gpsmap66i series. This Garmin GPSMAP86sc handheld GPS, a game-changer for anyone serious about their outdoor adventures with Garmin electronics, whether you’re sailing the high seas or trekking through dense forests, comes with a convenient Garmin carrying case to protect your Garmin device. Its detailed marine charts and rugged design make the GPSMAP86SC, a handheld GPS unit from the GPS store, an indispensable tool for mariners and hikers alike, compatible with Garmin GPS. In this review, I’ll dive deep into the GPSMAP 86sc, the main GPS unit and GPS handset, its features, performance, and how it stands out from the competition for customers. By the end of this read, you’ll understand why the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc isn’t just another gadget but a vital companion for your explorations, promising to enhance your experience with reliability and advanced navigation capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts, offering advanced navigation tools and multisatellite support to keep you on track in any environment.

• Its rugged and water-resistant design makes it durable enough for the most adventurous activities, ensuring reliability in various conditions.

• The enhanced display technology of the GPSMAP 86 provides clear visibility under direct sunlight, making it easier to read maps and data on the go.

• With extensive memory and waypoint capacity, users can store numerous maps and points of interest, enhancing the exploration experience without worrying about space.

• The device supports multiple satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo) for more accurate location tracking, even in challenging terrains.

• When considering purchasing a GPS device, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc’s combination of durability, precision navigation, and user-friendly features make it a solid investment for serious adventurers.

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Key Features

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a powerhouse of functionality for outdoor enthusiasts and maritime adventurers alike. Its robust set of features caters to a wide array of needs, from navigating open waters to exploring rugged terrains.

One of the most compelling attributes of the GPSMAP 79sc is its ability to float. This feature alone makes it an indispensable tool for anyone spending time near water. I’ve personally found this to be a game-changer during kayaking trips, where dropping equipment overboard is always a concern. The peace of mind knowing my GPS won’t sink to the bottom is invaluable.

The device’s high-resolution color display is another highlight. Even under direct sunlight, the screen remains clear and readable, thanks to its fogproof and scratch-resistant glass. This has proven especially useful during long hikes when conditions can change rapidly, and visibility becomes crucial.

Memory capacity on the GPSMAP 79sc is impressive, allowing users to save and track up to 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and 300 fit activities. For someone like me who enjoys mapping out detailed routes and tracking progress over time, this feature provides enough space to store extensive data without the need for regular cleanups.

Support for multiple satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and SBAS) ensures accurate tracking in even the most remote locations. On a recent backpacking trip through a densely wooded area, the GPSMAP 79sc maintained a reliable signal when other devices struggled.

The preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts have been invaluable for planning boating trips along unfamiliar coastlines. The level of detail and accuracy in these charts gives confidence when navigating tricky waters.

Lastly, the built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass and barometric altimeter add layers of navigational precision not found in many handheld GPS units. Whether I’m scaling a mountain or setting sail at dawn, these tools offer real-time data that enhances safety and decision-making.

Rugged and Water-Resistant Design

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc boasts an IPX6 rating, which guarantees its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. This feature is critical for outdoor enthusiasts like me who often find themselves caught in unexpected rain or heavy fog. The device’s resilience against water exposure means you can continue your adventure without the worry of damaging your GPS.

It also floats on water, a feature that has saved me more than once during kayaking trips. Dropping your GPS into the water can mean the end of navigation if you’re using a regular device. However, with the GPSMAP 79sc, it simply floats on the surface, making it easy to retrieve and continue using without any hiccups.

Built with a robust exterior, this device is designed to withstand rough handling. Whether it’s being tossed into a backpack, dropped on rocky terrain, or used in sandy conditions, the GPSMAP 79sc stands up to the challenge. My personal experience has shown that even after several drops and bumps, the device continues to function as if it were brand new. This durability is a testament to its design, aimed at users who demand reliability in all situations.

Enhanced Display Technology

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc features a high-resolution color display that ensures clear visibility, which is crucial for outdoor activities. In my experience, this display has been a game-changer when navigating through unfamiliar terrains, offering crisp and vibrant visuals that make reading maps and data straightforward.

One of the significant advantages of this device is its scratch-resistant, fogproof glass. This durability aspect means that whether I’m hiking in misty conditions or accidentally drop it, the screen remains unscathed and readable. It’s a relief not to worry about minor accidents impairing my device’s usability.

Moreover, the transflective 65K Color TFT screen of the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc excels in sunlight readability. This feature is particularly important for me as someone who enjoys long daytime adventures. There’s nothing more frustrating than struggling to read your GPS screen in bright sunlight. Fortunately, this model mitigates that issue, providing excellent visibility even under direct sunlight.

In various scenarios, from dense forests to open water, the enhanced display technology of this GPS unit has proven its worth. Its ability to remain clear and legible, regardless of weather conditions or time of day, makes it a reliable tool for serious adventurers and casual explorers alike.

However, it’s worth noting that while the display performs exceptionally well in most conditions, extremely cold temperatures can sometimes affect responsiveness. This is a common issue among many electronic devices and by no means a deal-breaker but something to be mindful of during winter expeditions.

Extensive Memory and Waypoint Capacity

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc shines with its ability to store up to 10,000 waypoints. This feature is a game-changer for adventurers who rely on precise navigation. It means you can mark every point of interest, from the start of your trail to the hidden waterfall deep in the woods, without worrying about running out of memory.

Supporting 250 routes, this device caters to those who love planning their trips in detail. Whether it’s mapping out a cross-country road trip or a complex sailing route, the capacity to save and revisit these plans is invaluable. I’ve personally found this feature helpful when revisiting favorite spots or sharing routes with fellow travelers.

Tracking 300 fit activities, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc doesn’t just stop at navigation. It’s designed for the outdoor enthusiast who engages in various activities. From hiking to kayaking, this device ensures that all your adventures are recorded. This extensive activity tracking has allowed me to review my performance over different terrains and conditions, enhancing my outdoor experiences.

Multisatellite Support

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is compatible with a wide array of satellite systems including GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and SBAS. This broad compatibility ensures that the device can maintain a reliable connection to satellite signals even in the most challenging environments. Whether you’re navigating through dense forests, near tall buildings, or in remote areas far from civilization, the GPSMAP 79sc’s multisatellite support works tirelessly to keep you on track.

From my personal experience, I’ve found this feature to be incredibly useful during hiking trips in mountainous regions where traditional GPS signals tend to be weak or inconsistent. The ability to latch onto multiple satellite systems means that my position was accurately tracked without significant lapses. This level of reliability provided peace of mind during solo adventures.

However, it’s important to note that while the access to multiple satellite systems enhances positioning accuracy, users in extremely remote or obstructed locations may still experience occasional signal drops. This is not a flaw unique to the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc but rather a limitation present across all GPS devices due to the nature of satellite signal reception.

Despite these rare instances, the enhanced accuracy afforded by accessing multiple satellite systems cannot be overstated. In scenarios where precise navigation is critical—such as sailing along intricate coastlines or embarking on backcountry expeditions—the multisatellite support of the GPSMAP 79sc proves invaluable. It significantly reduces the margin for error, allowing for safer and more confident navigation.

Advanced Navigation Tools

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc comes equipped with a 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass. This feature is essential for accurately determining your direction even when you’re not moving. Unlike traditional compasses, which require you to be stationary to get a precise reading, this electronic compass allows me to navigate more confidently while on the move. It’s particularly useful when I’m hiking through dense forests or navigating busy marinas where quick and accurate orientation is crucial.

The device includes a barometric altimeter. This tool offers precise altitude readings, which is indispensable for my mountain climbing adventures. It not only helps in assessing the elevation gain during hikes but also in predicting weather changes. A sudden drop in pressure, which I can monitor with the altimeter, often indicates an approaching storm, giving me ample time to seek shelter.

Preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts, the GPSMAP 79sc provides detailed marine navigation. These charts have been a game-changer for my sailing trips, offering clear mapping of coastlines, depth contours, harbors, marinas, and more. The detail and accuracy of these charts ensure that I can navigate coastal waters with confidence. However, it’s worth noting that while these preloaded charts are comprehensive for most needs, serious mariners might still want to invest in additional mapping software for more specialized or updated data.

Buying Guide

When considering the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, one of the first aspects to evaluate is its battery life. The device promises up to 20 hours in GPS mode. In my experience, this estimate holds up well during extensive outdoor use, though it’s worth noting that colder temperatures can reduce battery performance slightly. For those planning longer expeditions or frequent use, the longevity of the battery is a key factor, ensuring you’re not left without navigation at a critical moment.

Another important consideration is the compatibility with smartphones and tablets. This feature significantly enhances the GPSMAP 79sc’s functionality, allowing for seamless integration with other devices. I’ve found this compatibility invaluable for downloading maps and sharing waypoints with my phone, making planning and navigating much easier. However, users should check their specific device compatibility to avoid any connectivity issues.

The control method of the GPSMAP 79sc relies on buttons rather than touchscreen technology. This choice by Garmin has its pros and cons. On one hand, buttons can be more reliable in wet conditions or when wearing gloves, a common scenario during outdoor adventures. On the other hand, individuals accustomed to the convenience of touchscreens might find the button interface less intuitive at first. Personally, I appreciated the tactile feedback of buttons when navigating through menus, especially in rough conditions where touchscreens can be finicky.

Final Remarks

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc shines with its robust features, from the durable, water-resistant design to the cutting-edge display technology and vast memory capacity. It’s equipped with multisatellite support and advanced navigation tools, making it your reliable companion for any adventure. This device not only meets the expectations set by its specifications but exceeds them, offering unparalleled guidance whether you’re on water or land. Its comprehensive buying guide ensures you make an informed decision, tailored to your specific needs.

Now’s the time to elevate your exploration experiences. Trust in the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc to lead the way. Whether you’re charting unknown territories or navigating familiar waters, this GPS unit promises precision and reliability. Don’t wait to transform your adventures—make it a part of your journey today and discover the difference it makes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc truly water-resistant?

Yes, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is water-resistant with an IPX7 rating, ensuring it can withstand accidental immersion.

Can the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc float if dropped in water?

Absolutely, it’s designed to float, making it ideal for aquatic adventures without the fear of losing it.

How does the display quality of the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc stand out?

It features a high-resolution, color TFT display that is scratch-resistant and fogproof, offering clear visibility in various conditions.

What kind of battery life can I expect from the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc?

You can expect up to 19 hours of battery life in GPS tracking mode with its user-replaceable AA batteries.

Does the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc support multiple satellite systems?

Yes, it supports various satellite constellations including GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, QZSS, and SBAS for accurate tracking.

How extensive is the memory and waypoint capacity on the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc?

It boasts an impressive memory capable of saving and tracking 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and 300 fit activities.

Can I connect my smartphone or tablet to the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc?

Yes, it’s compatible with smartphone and tablet devices for enhanced functionality and convenience.