Satmap Active 20 GB Edition 50K

l £480 l www.satmap.com

iF You require a Gps solution for planning and navigating your landscape photography trips, the satmap Active 20 GB Edition 50K is a serious bit of kit. it provides a robust build for all-weather use and a high-resolution, bright screen for detailed mapping that’s easy to view.

the option reviewed here includes os Maps Full GB 1:50k landranger, but you can also purchase the unit without os Maps included (world base mapping is preloaded in all devices) with the option to purchase smaller map areas as well as maps for international destinations. there are more expensive editions that provide even more detailed maps, so you have some flexibility in terms of price and map detail. And as you’d expect, you can also plan routes and record trails.

With a large Gorilla Glass touchscreen and navigation buttons, the device can be used both with and without gloves to provide ease of use regardless of the weather. this device is essentially a handheld computer dedicated to navigation, which makes it smooth in use, and Wi- Fi connectivity allows for easy updates. it’s not a Gps unit that you can simply take out of the box and use without reading the quickstart guide, but this short document provides all the information you need to get started.

of particular interest to those who regularly undertake multi- day trips into the wilderness, the Active 20 provides up to 16 hours of use on a single charge. the unit comes with a rechargeable battery and can be charged from the mains or a battery pack via usB. An AA battery caddy can also be purchased, making this arguably the most versatile option in terms of power in the test. the satmap Active 20 is clearly aimed at the outdoor enthusiast who requires a robust and long-lasting power in a Gps unit. And while the price point won’t appeal to all, for photographers who spend much of their time in the outdoors and off the beaten track, this device is hard to beat.