Garmin Rino 530HCx review

NOTE: A newer model, the Garmin Rino 655t, adds many new features.

The Garmin Rino 530HCx is a handheld GPS that includes a two-way radio, and the ability to track another Rino user on your screen. Updating the Rino 530, the HCx model adds a high-sensitivity chipset and a micro-SD card slot for adding topo or highway maps (which must be purchased separately). The Rino has a bright, sunlight-readable screen, and is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery rated at up to 14 hours.

Like the Rino 530, the HCx has a five-watt transmitter, with a range of up to 14 miles. It also includes a barometric altimeter, electronic compass and seven-channel weather receiver, three features that you lose when you drop down to the Rino 520HCx. To see how the Rino stands up against other Garmin models, check out my Garmin handheld GPS comparison chart.

Compare prices on the Garmin Rino 530HCx

Before we get to the reviews, here's what Amazon has to say about the Garmin Rino 530HCx:

"Hit the trail in confidence with the Garmin Rino 530HCx, which combines a two-way FRS/GMRS radio with a high-sensitivity GPS navigator. The waterproof unit offers 22 channels and 5 watts of transmit power, so you can contact friends or rescue crews from up to 14 miles away (line of sight) over GMRS channels or up to 2 miles over FRS channels. The high-sensitivity GPS receiver, meanwhile, locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its GPS location even in heavy cover…"

More Garmin Rino 530HCx reviews

• GPS Lodge has posted a great, detailed review of the Rino 530HCx.
• The first consumer-authored Garmin Rino 530HCx review has been posted at GPSNow.
• And a consumer-written Garmin Rino 530HCx review has been posted at Amazon too.
• About.com reviews the Garmin Rino 530HCx, giving it a 4 out of 5 star rating.
• A mini-Garmin Rino 530HCx review thread is going on at Groundspeak.
• I'll be posting more hands on GPS reviews as they appear, but in the meantime, here are some…

Other Garmin Rino 530HCx resources

• A PDF version of the Garmin Rino 530 HCx owners manual.
• Compare different models using this Garmin Rino comparison tool.
• There is an active Yahoo Rino discussion group.
• From the official Garmin Rino 530HCx web page.

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Garmin Rino 530HCx

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• Check the current Garmin Rino 530HCx price at Amazon.
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