When it comes to outdoor adventures, having a reliable GPS navigator can make the difference between a safe, enjoyable experience and a frustrating, possibly dangerous one. The Garmin eTrex 22x Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator has been a popular choice among hikers, campers, geocachers, and outdoor enthusiasts for years. As part of Garmin’s well-known eTrex line, the 22x model offers a sturdy, compact, and affordable GPS solution with plenty of useful features. But is it the right device for you? Let’s dive into a comprehensive review of the Garmin eTrex 22x to help you decide.
Design and Build Quality
One of the standout qualities of the eTrex 22x is its rugged construction. It is specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions often encountered in outdoor settings. The device is compact and lightweight, measuring approximately 2.1 x 4 x 1.3 inches and weighing just 5 ounces. This makes it easy to hold in one hand or fit into a small pocket in your backpack or jacket.
The rubberized exterior provides a solid grip, reducing the risk of accidental drops even in wet conditions. It is also water-resistant to IPX7 standards, meaning it can handle rain, splashes, and even brief submersion in water (up to one meter for 30 minutes). For those who frequently explore in wet environments, this level of durability is a big plus.
The color display is a significant upgrade from earlier eTrex models. The 2.2-inch sunlight-readable screen offers a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which is crisp enough for maps and navigation details. The screen isn’t touch-sensitive; instead, it relies on a side-mounted joystick and physical buttons for navigation. This design is beneficial in cold weather when gloves are needed, or in situations where touchscreens may be less responsive.
Key Features and Performance
GPS and GLONASS Support
The eTrex 22x supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, giving it faster and more reliable positioning compared to devices that use GPS alone. It locks onto satellites quickly, even in challenging environments like dense forests or deep canyons. This dual satellite support ensures you’re less likely to lose your position in areas where signals can be tricky.
Preloaded TopoActive Maps
One of the eTrex 22x’s key selling points is that it comes preloaded with Garmin TopoActive maps of the U.S. and other regions, depending on the purchase model. These maps include detailed road networks, trails, waterways, and points of interest (POIs) that are especially valuable for hikers and cyclists. While the maps are not as advanced as Garmin’s premium topographical maps, they are quite sufficient for recreational navigation.
Expandable Storage
The device comes with 8 GB of internal memory, and it has a microSD card slot that allows you to expand storage and download additional maps, including BirdsEye Satellite Imagery (which requires a subscription). This flexibility is excellent for users who may want to explore beyond the preloaded maps or add more detailed topography later.
Long Battery Life
The eTrex 22x runs on two AA batteries (not included), which is great because you can easily replace them in the field. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 25 hours in GPS mode. This longevity is perfect for multi-day hiking trips or situations where recharging isn't feasible.
Waypoints and Navigation
The device can store up to 2,000 waypoints and 200 routes, which is more than enough for most outdoor trips. It also includes a tracback feature, which helps you navigate back to your starting point by retracing your steps—a very valuable safety feature.
Advantages of the Garmin eTrex 22x
1. Durability and Weather Resistance
The rugged, water-resistant design makes it a perfect companion for rough outdoor conditions.
2. Long Battery Life
Up to 25 hours on two standard AA batteries is outstanding and provides peace of mind on long trips.
3. Expandable Storage and Map Flexibility
With a microSD slot and compatibility with downloadable maps, this device can grow with your navigation needs.
4. Accurate Positioning with GPS and GLONASS
The dual-satellite support ensures fast, accurate location tracking even in challenging environments.
5. Preloaded Maps
Having TopoActive maps included is a convenient starting point, especially for beginners.
6. Easy to Operate with Gloves
Physical buttons and joystick navigation work well in cold or wet conditions where touchscreen devices may struggle.
7. Affordable Price Point
Compared to more advanced handheld GPS units, the eTrex 22x is budget-friendly without sacrificing core functionality.
Disadvantages of the Garmin eTrex 22x
1. No Touchscreen
While buttons have their benefits, many users today prefer the speed and convenience of touch navigation.
2. Basic Display
The 2.2-inch screen, while sunlight-readable, is small and not as vibrant or high-resolution as modern smartphones or higher-end GPS devices.
3. Limited Connectivity
The eTrex 22x does not have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Data transfers must be done via USB cable, and it doesn’t support live tracking or syncing with Garmin Connect in real-time.
4. No Built-In Compass or Barometric Altimeter
Unlike the more advanced eTrex 32x, this model lacks a three-axis compass and barometric altimeter, which are helpful for elevation tracking and precise heading.
5. Outdated User Interface
Some users find Garmin’s user interface on this device to be dated and not as intuitive as smartphone apps or newer GPS units.
Common Questions about the Garmin eTrex 22x
1. Is the eTrex 22x waterproof?
Yes, it meets the IPX7 water-resistance standard, which means it can withstand rain, splashes, and temporary immersion in water up to one meter for 30 minutes.
2. Can I use the eTrex 22x for driving?
Technically, yes—it includes road networks and turn-by-turn navigation, but the small screen and manual controls make it less convenient than a dedicated car GPS or smartphone app for driving.
3. Does it come with international maps?
It comes preloaded with Garmin TopoActive maps that cover a wide region (the specific area depends on where you buy it). You can also download additional maps or purchase more detailed ones if you plan to travel internationally.
4. Can I geocache with the eTrex 22x?
Absolutely. The device supports paperless geocaching and can store geocache details such as location, terrain, hints, and descriptions.
5. What is the main difference between the eTrex 22x and the eTrex 32x?
The eTrex 32x includes a three-axis compass and a barometric altimeter, which provide better heading and elevation accuracy. The eTrex 22x lacks these features but is otherwise quite similar.
6. Can I charge the device, or does it only use replaceable batteries?
The eTrex 22x uses two AA batteries and does not have a built-in rechargeable battery. Some people prefer this setup because it’s easy to carry spares and swap them out in the field.
7. Is it easy to update the maps?
Yes, maps can be updated by connecting the device to a computer via USB and using Garmin’s free software. You can also download additional maps onto a microSD card.
Final Thoughts
The Garmin eTrex 22x is a reliable, straightforward handheld GPS navigator that delivers solid performance at an accessible price point. It’s perfect for hikers, cyclists, backpackers, and casual outdoor enthusiasts who want dependable GPS tracking without the bells and whistles (and high price tags) of premium models.
It shines in its rugged durability, long battery life, and simplicity, which are invaluable in remote locations where reliability trumps fancy features. However, if you need advanced functionality like wireless connectivity, high-resolution displays, or barometric altimeters, you might find this model a bit limited.
For users looking for a practical, field-tested GPS unit that won’t break the bank, the eTrex 22x is an excellent choice. It’s especially good for those who prioritize affordability, ease of use, and toughness over cutting-edge technology.
