Hi All,
Just giving you a quick overview of my thoughts on the Garmin 5X with mapping software.
Earlier this year I backed the ZeTime smart watch with hands on KickStarter. It arrived a few weeks ago and I really loved the smart watch features. But soon realised I was missing the compass, altimeter and barometer on my Tissot T-Touch Solar.
A bit of investigation and I found the Garmin Fenix 5X which had all the features I wanted plus mapping software.
Bought one a couple of weekends ago from a local Cotswold Camping and set about learning the incredible features of this product.
I soon realised the mapping software I was seeing on youtube was not Garmin but from a guy who goes by the name of TalkyToaster - check him out on youtube. So I paid £11 and downloaded the UK map. He adds additional information on Open Street Maps - OSM including contour lines. I also paid about £22 and downloaded Garmin's Satellite Imagery. these two give you all the information you will need.
I use ViewRanger on my Samsung Galaxy Note 8 with 1:50000 and 1:250000 maps. But I was amazed that with less detail how useful the Garmin is. Yes you can easily follow the maps and if, like me, you create or download GPX routes you will soon be told when you are off route and by how many Metres.
This watch is incredible with it's functions and what you can download. I have the Bretiling watch face which I really enjoy. Currently I have a Christmas tree with flashing lights - see attached. They alsouse something called widgets which are various useful other functions. i have downloaded a sunrise/sunset widget that also allows me to see the state of the moon as well as an accuweather app.
Garmin have cleverly made this smart watch battery last a long time. Those modern Kindle users will know that the trans reflective display is superb in bright light. The backlight is weak, but you don't need a strong light at night. On a sunny day the display is incredible. Early morning when I walk before sunrise my headtorch makes the display very bright.
If you want additional information ask away. If you want to see it, I live near Devizes in Wiltshire and travel around the country in my motorhome on business. Send me a pm and see if I am around your way!
Best regards
Chris