-5%New
Garmin eTrex 22x – Long, Detailed Feature Description
The Garmin eTrex 22x is a compact, durable, and GPS-enabled handheld navigator designed for outdoor enthusiasts who require reliable and accurate tracking without unnecessary complexity and is available at Mobihub Electronics Kenya. It builds on the proven eTrex platform by adding color mapping, increased storage, and multi-GNSS support, while maintaining a rugged, easy-to-use design suitable for hiking, cycling, geocaching, and backcountry travel.
1. Display and User Interface
The eTrex 22x features a 2.2-inch, 65K color sunlight-readable display, offering improved visibility and color mapping compared to earlier monochrome units. The display has a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which provides clear map detail while keeping power consumption low.
The interface is operated entirely with physical buttons, which are tactile and responsive. This ensures full control even in wet conditions, when wearing gloves, or in rugged environments where touchscreens may be less practical.
2. Rugged Construction
Designed to withstand harsh field conditions, the eTrex 22x has a durable, water-resistant body, rated to IPX7, meaning it can endure accidental splashes, rain, snow, and short periods of water immersion. The device is compact, lightweight, and impact-resistant, making it ideal for rough terrain, backpacking, or use on bike mounts.
3. Battery Life and Power Source
The device operates on two standard AA batteries, which can be either alkaline or rechargeable NiMH. It offers up to 25 hours of continuous use in GPS mode, making it suitable for day-long or multi-day excursions when equipped with spare batteries.
The battery compartment is easily accessible and well-sealed against moisture and dust. This user-replaceable power system is especially helpful in remote areas where charging isn’t feasible.
4. Mapping and Navigation
Unlike more basic models, the eTrex 22x includes preloaded TopoActive maps, which offer routable roads and trails for a wide range of activities such as hiking, cycling, and off-road travel. These maps provide detail on terrain contours, elevation, parks, coastlines, rivers, and more.
Users can also:
Add More Maps: The device supports additional mapping via microSD card slot. Compatible formats include BirdsEye Satellite Imagery (subscription-free via software), custom maps, or third-party topographic maps.
Waypoints and Routes: Save, edit, and navigate to user-defined waypoints and routes.
Track Logging: Record breadcrumb trails (tracks) of your path and follow them back using the TrackBack feature.
Trip Computer: Displays detailed statistics such as distance traveled, total ascent, average speed, and time.
5. Satellite Reception
The eTrex 22x supports multi-GNSS navigation, meaning it can simultaneously access:
GPS
GLONASS
This dual-constellation tracking enhances positioning speed and accuracy, especially in challenging environments such as dense tree cover, deep valleys, or urban canyons. The device uses a high-sensitivity receiver and a reliable antenna system to maintain consistent signal strength.
6. Geocaching Support
The unit supports paperless geocaching, allowing users to download geocache files in GPX format directly to the device. Geocaches display detailed information including descriptions, hints, and logs. This streamlines the geocaching experience by removing the need for printed sheets or manual data entry.
7. Memory and Expandability
The eTrex 22x comes with internal storage (approximately 8 GB), part of which is used by preloaded maps. It also includes a microSD card slot for map expansion, additional waypoints, or track and route data.
This allows users to add more detailed maps, including high-resolution topographic or marine charts, depending on their specific use case.
8. Additional Features
Custom Map Compatibility: Load raster maps or scanned paper maps aligned to GPS coordinates.
Electronic Compass (Basic): Displays directional data while in motion. (This is not a magnetic compass; movement is required for heading to update.)
Bike and Vehicle Mount Compatibility: Can be mounted to handlebars or dashboards using optional Garmin mounts.
User Profiles: Configure profiles for different activities, such as hiking, cycling, or driving.
9. Use Cases
Hiking and Backpacking: Rugged, long-lasting, and preloaded with routable trails.
Off-Road and Adventure Travel: Reliable GPS performance in remote and unfamiliar locations.
Cycling Navigation: Mountable to handlebars, ideal for bikepacking or trail riding.
Geocaching: Full support for modern paperless geocaching.
Field Research and Surveying: Tracks and stores field data for environmental monitoring or land use planning.
Summary of Key Features
2.2″ color sunlight-readable display
Up to 25 hours of battery life with 2 AA batteries
Preloaded TopoActive maps with routable roads and trails
Multi-GNSS support (GPS + GLONASS)
8 GB internal memory plus microSD card slot
TrackBack feature and detailed trip computer
Paperless geocaching support
IPX7 water resistance and rugged housing
The Garmin eTrex 22x is a powerful mid-range GPS navigator that balances affordability, durability, and mapping functionality. It’s an excellent tool for anyone who needs reliable navigation without the size or cost of more advanced handheld units.
