There was a post about this not long ago, I'm a mapping nerd so I like the Garmin- I can hook it up to any number or different mapping software and read the direct NEMA format to be used for mapping. I can also create my own maps and place them on the Garmin GPS, neither of these features are available with Larwence or Magellan.
The GPSMAP 60 X-series is the best they have for hunting/hiking/car applications. Screen is a little small in the car, but it's very nice for the rest. Others have liked the Magellan quite a bit, I have no experience with them because I can't use them with the software I want.
I'm not really that sold on the barometric altimiter and compass (the "S" part of the model name), but it can give you a little better elevation accuracy than the typical reading. Either model will allow you to use an external antenna, but reports from users of the "X" models have indicated that you may not need one, I use it all the time with my older GPSMAP 60. There are several other advantages to the "X" including faster lock-ups, higher resolution tracking and different firmware bugs. They have b een pretty good about fixing thoses though, and Garmin has first rate cust service.
