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the 30 is the old model and much cheaper. But from what I can gather it's the same as the 32x but with a smaller memory. However there is a slot to insert more memory.
They sound great for multi day touring (AA batteries)
Plus mtbing in new places and some walking
Check software compatibility with Garmin basecamp etc, I think the later model has more compatibility and supported better.
I've got a 30. It works well, you can pair sensors via ANT+, e.g. HRM and cadence
A set of AA rechargeables will work for several days of 2 or 3 hour rides
I use free maps, plan routes online and save them as GPX tracks. These are saved to the micro-SD card
You can edit routes in any notepad-type software or use more complex online sites and software. You can upload to Strava from the device or from the internal GPX-file. You don't need Basecamp, Connect, etc.
The only drawbacks are that:
The screen is sometimes a little small (it obvs stays the same area, but for ease it could occasionally be bigger)
Garmin's updates broke one, it's replacement has been solid for years though
It's GPX-routes have limitations, i.e. turn-by-turn, but I just use GPX-tracks, which gives you a line to follow and is perfect for me
The handlebar mount wears loose quickly. A lanyard is essential and a rubber band helpful
I have the old Etrex 20. Used to use it for biking but its painfully slow compared to my newish Edge 530. On the plus side the batteries last forever and obviously replaceable which is super useful for multiday bikepacking.
For hiking / trekking it's brilliant though.
Thanks guys. What do you mean painfully slow? Working through the menu's or the actual maping (zooming out etc)
Mine is slow to boot, couple of minutes(?) but it's fine once started
You can add contact details to the boot screen, but that delays start-up
Zooming in and out, routing etc is slow compared to the newer bike Garmins. Like @timba I just used mine to follow premade GPX track lines.
There used to be a website where you could select grid spaces from a big world map and create a custom 'lite' version of the map area you were riding / walking. I'm sure it was https://www.openfietsmap.nl/downloads/worldwide but I can't find this feature on that site any more. Using those maps made the device a lot faster.
I downloaded talkytoaster maps on to my Etrex  30 which are very good. It varies the amount of detail according to the zoom ratio. I would agree it is good for hiking but the map area is quite small.
doesn't have the compass like the 32x
My e30 has a compass
Timed the boot, including contact details screen delay, 52secs. Not a couple of minutes as I thought