Next Generation: Garmin Colorado 400t Review

Specifications:

• Unit dimensions, WxHxD: 2.4" x 5.5" x 1.4" (6.0 x 13.9 x 3.5 cm)
• Display size, WxH: 1.53"W x 2.55"H (3.8 x 6.3 cm); 3" diag (7.6 cm)
• Display resolution, WxH: 240 x 400 pixels
• Display type: Transflective color TFT
• Weight: 7.3 oz (206.9 g) with batteries
• Battery: 2 AA or 2 NiMH batteries (not included)
• Battery life: 15 hours (claimed)
• Waterproof: yes
• Floats: no
• High-sensitivity receiver: yes
• PC interface: USB

Maps & Memory:

• Basemap: yes
• Preloaded maps: yes (topographic)
• Ability to add maps: yes
• Built-in memory: yes
• Accepts data cards: SD card (not included)
• Waypoints/favorites/locations: 1,000
• Routes: 50
• Track log: 10,000 points, 20 saved tracks

Features:

• Automatic routing (turn by turn routing on roads): yes (with optional mapping for detailed roads)
• Electronic compass: yes
• Barometric altimeter: yes
• Geocaching mode: yes (paperless)
• Outdoor GPS games: yes
• Hunt/fish calendar: yes
• Sun and moon information: yes
• Tide tables: yes
• Area calculation: yes
• Custom POIs (ability to add additional points of interest): yes
• Unit-to-unit transfer (shares data wirelessly with similar units): yes
• Picture viewer: yes
  

Selected accessories include: auto navigation kit, vehicle power cable, hard carrying case, rechargeable NiMH battery kit, heart rate monitor (Colorado has a heart rate sensor mode), bike cadence sensor, bike handlebar mounting kit, marine mount.

There are four models in the Colorado line, including the 300, 400t (tested here), 400c and 400i. They have much in common, including the same unit dimensions, color display size and resolution, weight, and waterproofness.

They are similarly priced, also, except for the 300, which costs less. The primary difference is in the pre-loaded maps. The 400i includes U.S. inland lakes mapping, so would be best for fishermen. The 400c comes with U.S. Bluechart mapping, so would be best for the salt water boater. The 400t comes with U.S. topo mapping, so is best for the hiker and geocacher. The 300 has only a simple world basemap pre-loaded. All of the Colorados accept an SD card, and the various maps can be loaded into all of the models.

Overall, the Garmin Colorado 400t lives up to its promise of being a next-generation handheld GPS. The Rock 'n Roller wheel and accompanying menu system are easy to use in the field, even with a lightly gloved hand. The 400t is very sturdily built, with a metal and rubber-armored case. The battery cover and latch are easy to use, and keep the SD card slot clean and dry. The Colorado's USB computer linkup lets you quickly and easily upload tracks and other data, and download firmware upgrades, geocache information, etc. Its 3D viewing capability gives you outstanding awareness of surrounding terrain. The Colorado's high-sensitivity receiver reliably picked up satellite signals in steep and wooded terrain. It's a terrific receiver for a wide range of outdoor activities.