From 4LPH41337.com

Specs

• Model: Garmin Oregon 300
• Cost: MSRP $399.00
• Unit Dimensions: 2.3" x 4.5" x 1.4" (5.8 x 11.4 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 touchscreen
• Weight: 6.8 oz (192.7 g) with batteries
• Battery: 2 AA batteries (not included); NiMH or Lithium recommended
• Battery life: 16 hours
• Waterproof: yes (IPX7)
• Floats: no
• High-sensitivity receiver: yes
• Interface: USB and NMEA 0183 compatible
• Waypoints/favorites/locations: 1000
• Routes: 50
• Track log: 10,000 points, 200 saved tracks
• Accepts data cards: microSD™ card (not included) I've successfully installed the maximum recognizable, 4GB card. This is used for additional maps, not for track points.
• Manufacturer's link: Garmin

Accessories I use

• Carabiner clip for hiking
• Bike mount
• Waterproof PDA Case when paddling

Jack's Take

I purchased the Oregon 300, because I already own the Garmin Topo maps, so it was the better choice than the 400 model series, which comes with maps, for an extra $100. I think it's better to purchase the software separately, as it allows you to use it on your desktop as well. For $200 more, I have gotten the 550 model series that includes a camera, but the camera on that wasn't much better than the one on my cell phone (which I already carry with me). Just didn't seem worth the extra money. Supposedly, the screen is brighter, but the 300 was sufficiently bright for me.

The unit has a paperless Geocaching feature, that saves the full text and hints for each Geocache, just like you see on Geocaching.com. There's an easy interface on Garmin to allow you to bulk load a bunch based on a map view at Garmin's Go Geocaching page.

It takes a bit to get used to this GPS, if you are used to the older eTrex series, but it doesn't take long. Also note, this is not an iPhone type screen, you actually have to push the screen to register your touch.

The GPS sensitivity works great, sometimes it loses signal in the dense foliage of summer in North Georgia mountains, but normally, that's just for a short moment, then it's back. It can take a while to lock on the satellites on initial boot up in a new area, so it's best to turn it on during the drive up, then just clear the tracklog/odometer when you get there. This should prevent you from having to wait 1-5 minutes for it to lock on. It "remembers" it's last location, so if you turn it off and back on without moving much, it actually locks on pretty quickly.

One of the great features I like, is the ability to create custom points of interest (POI), that I couldn't do with my built-in GPS. The POI Factory is a great site for finding already created POI files and uploading your own. See the "Getting Started" link, but it's pretty easy to set up your own Custom POI files. Just install Garmin's POI Loader Software.

One of the most noticeable drawbacks to me would be the inability to upload directly to Garmin's MotionBased.com or Garmin Connect websites. See: Garmin Motionbased or Garmin Connect Workaround

I also own the Garmin Nuvi 500, which I use mainly in the car, but both GPS units have mapping capability, but as you might guess the one designed for the car (Garmin Nuvi 500 does a better job and is easier to read while driving.

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