Looking to start outdoor activities like geocaching? Need advise on a basic handheld GPS receiver? Here are some basic units to consider.

If you are just starting and do not want to invest too much to start, consider a Magellan eXplorist 100 or a Garmin eTrex (the yellow one). These are basic GPS receiver units with good accuracy and enough features to start.

The eXplorist 100 does not allow a PC connection, so you will need to enter coordinates by hand. But don't worry, as the unit is very easy to learn to use.

The Garmin eTrex (the yellow one) is similar to the 100 but has the ability to connect to a PC with an optional cable. This allows the uploading of coordinates.

Both units have a black&white screen and no internal maps.

Moving up a bit in price are several good basic GPS units that are easy to use. Magellan has the eXplorist 210 and Garmin has the eTrex Legend.

The eXplorist 210 is very similar to the 100, but has a basic basemap installed and has the ability to connect to a PC to upload coordinates and optional maps.

The Garmin eTrex Legend is similar to the basic yellow eTrex but has a basic basemap installed and has the ability to connect to a PC to upload coordinates and optional maps. I have seen a this unit packaged with very good topographic map software for under $200.This unit is a good pick if you have a premium membership on Geocaching.com (only $30 a year). Install the Garmin Communicator plug-in (free from Garmin) and upload cache information straight from the website to your GPS receiver.

Both units have a black&white screen and a basic basemap installed. Both have the ability to connect to a PC. Optional topographical maps are available.

These are 4 very good basic GPS receivers that can be obtained either new from major dealers or used on eBay. They all offer very good accuracy and simple interface that is easy to learn and use.