What is the difference between Garmin US Topo maps 100k and Topo Maps 24k?

[sarge1967]

This may be a dumb question but I can't seem to find an answer for it.

I currently have the Topo 100k DVD what is the difference between it and the 24k DVDs? Those seem to only cover a certain section of the country.

Thanks and forgive my ignorance.

[+Timpat]

The 24K mapping shows more detail and closer elevation contour intervals than the 100K. Like the difference between a 7.5 Min USGS quad and a 15 Min quad.

[+geodarts]

Part of the answer may depend on what version you have The newer (2013) 100k map has been updated with non-routable NAVTEQ roads and enhanced trail information. I use it when for planned hikes when we are traveling, and have a 24k map for the region where I live.

[sarge1967]

Thanks folks. My version is an older one.

[yogazoo]

I currently have the Topo 100k DVD what is the difference between it and the 24k... ?

 

Eh, about 76K. HA! Thanks folks, I'm here all week!

[+Egnix]

I have the 100k maps and have wondered if the 24k maps are worth the money. Thoughts from those who have used both?

[+coachstahly]

I've used both and find the 24K more valuable when hiking in an area with elevation changes. With greater detail comes better understanding of the terrain and being able to follow the ridgeline instead of perhaps walking along the side or up and then back down and then up and back down..... Other than that, I also like the routable aspect on my units with 24K mSD cards. The 100K works for me just fine in the northern half of my state as there aren't a lot of elevation changes in our mostly farmland area.

[yogazoo]

I've used both 100K and 24K and I much prefer the 24K. There are a number of advantages other than the resolution of topo lines to consider. The 24K gives you the ability to search for street addresses and street route to your destination. The 24K offers routable trails. The 24K has a higher resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) that generates the terrain shading. Not only does it give you better terrain shading but there are a few bits of data that are calculated using those DEMs and the higher the resolution the more accurate that data will be. For example many modern Garmin units allow you to see the terrain profile of the route ahead of you. The DEM is used in this calculation and the 24K elevation prediction will be better resolution. The "Vertical Distance to Destination" data field in the trip computer also uses the DEM to obtain the elevation of your destination. There are a few other data fields and processes that can be done with greater accuracy using the 24K maps.

 

There is also more resolution and inclusiveness of water features.

Edited March 19, 2014 by yogazoo

[dictum9]

In addition to being routable, 24K is much more accurate.

[+ecanderson]

In addition to being routable, 24K is much more accurate.

Not sure I'd call it more 'accurate', but it is certainly a great deal more 'detailed'. Much of the content in the 24K maps is missing in the 100K maps.

[Smaurer16]

I have a Garmin Montana and have an older dvd of 2008 Topo 100k USA and just ordered the 24k Topo of the SouthWest since I live in CO. Would there be any benefit to have both maps on my unit?

[+Timpat]

I have a Garmin Montana and have an older dvd of 2008 Topo 100k USA and just ordered the 24k Topo of the SouthWest since I live in CO. Would there be any benefit to have both maps on my unit?

If you wandered outside the 24K coverage you'd still have topo. That's how I have mine loaded- both. You can Enable/Disable it as desired.