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iPhone GPS vs. getting a used GPS?


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Hey cachers! I've looked around but don't see any posts that address this specific question (sorry if I didn't look hard enough!)

 

I've been caching using my iPhone and the geocaching app. It usually gets me within 32 feet, sometimes 16, but seems to jump around a lot (compass jumps - go this way! no, go that way! and distance jumps too - 45 feet away! no, 14 feet! Now you've been walking for well over 14 feet but the distance has not changed!) I love to cache. But it's discouraging, all the DNFs I get because the last few feet are so unclear. Does a GPS system get a better read? Or more consistent? Or is something wrong with my phone? my app? Maybe I'm doing it wrong?

 

I just don't want to invest the $$ in a GPS unit if it's not going to be more accurate than my iphone. Also, I have a detachable in-car GPS system - I haven't looked in awhile, but if I am able to enter coordinates, maybe that would work better?

 

Any and all advice appreciated!

 

twinigma

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Why not get a new GPS? There are many GPS units for under $200. The benefits of a GPS VS iPhone are better battery life, you can use rechargeable batteries, or common alkaline batteries. You can hold thousands of caches-more than you'll ever find. And you don't need a cell signal, or data connection to use them. The advantages of a smartphone are that you don't have to pre-download caches(Which is actually easy) and the info is instant. You can see logs from 10 minutes before you get to the cache. But you also have to remember there are times when it won't matter what you use, the GPS system may get messed up. Solar flares, or under lots of cover such as in trees, around tall buildings, in canyons.

 

For most GPS units, including phones, you can expect it to get you within 30 feet. Sometimes better, but then you have to remember the cache may not be exactly at the co-ords. Start looking for the cache, read the hint, look at previous logs.

Edited by T.D.M.22
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IMHO, 16 ft. accuracy is pretty good for any GPS, iPhone or otherwise. I know the newer phones and GPS units that add Russian GLONASS capability are supposed to improve reception if you're in dense urban / canyon / forested areas. I think the general consensus is that when you get close to GZ, put the GPS away and start looking around. This is where cache descriptions and hints come in really handy. But for those hiders who toss out micro-spew caches in the woods, it can be difficult regardless. Plus, you're using your GPS to look for coordinates hidden by another GPS. Depending on how accurate the hider's GPS was at the time of cache placement can also introduce a fudge factor.

 

I think the real reason to go for a standalone GPS is to avoid damaging your phone and/or draining its battery while caching. You mentioned a detachable car GPS -- I know some folks have figured out how to add caches to those, depending on the brand and model.

 

If you decide to go for a GPS unit, I'd pick something that can handle paperless caching, downloadable maps (lots free online at GPS File Depot), and has expandable memory. Having a built-in magnetic compass (similar to your iPhone) is a plus. Many places have been clearing out the Garmin GPSMAP 62S for around $200.

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If you decide to go for a GPS unit, I'd pick something that can handle paperless caching, downloadable maps (lots free online at GPS File Depot), and has expandable memory. Having a built-in magnetic compass (similar to your iPhone) is a plus. Many places have been clearing out the Garmin GPSMAP 62S for around $200.

 

I also recommend the 62S......I much prefer caching with it to my iPhone .....the iPhone is nice for up to the minute info. if you need it.

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I have an iphone 5 and both the 62s and Oregon 600. The "accuracy" reported by any unit does not mean that the position reported is not inaccurate or any further away from where the cache actually was placed. When I compare my phone to the handhelds, they are usually within a few feet of each other. Sometimes the phone will get me closer to the cache, but have had all my units jump at times as I near a cache. It usually means that it's time to put the unit away and let it settle down as I start to look.

 

I usually rely on the paperless features of my phone. The app I use (Geosphere) displays the caches beautifully, with the intended graphics, so it is better for earthcaches or those that rely on the cache page. The gpsr features are good for a quick look, but have less value if I need anything more. My phone also let's me update searches, filter, map, and even export the results to my gpsr. I usually have it with me regardless of whether I take the gpsr so there have been times when I have started with handheld and by the end of the day have switched to the phone.

 

Still, there are times when I am glad to have the handheld - when it is either more fun to use or a little more secure (such as today's kayaking trip). But I have dropped my gpsr and broken it. I have dropped my phone without incident. So sometimes things can happen to either. I n the end, if I had to choose between one unit it the other I would go with the phone. But it's nice to have both.

Edited by geodarts
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