iPad vs Garmin - Accuracy ?

[Username33]

Hey,

I need to install a GPS on my boat for fishing waypoints,
After a research I did I've found that MotionX on the iPad
is the most comfortable and easy way to navigate waypoints
plus it has the option to hear audio on the boat stereo.

But, my dilemma is about the accuracy..
Will iPad and Garmin will have the same coordinates ?
Because I have checked the position with a iPhone and Garmin
both in my hand and there was a change of 3-5 numbers on each coordinate between the iPhone and the Garmin 78s.

The Garmin uses multiple satellites, is the iPad doing the same ?
I have over 500 waypoints that use Garmin coordinates,
and I like the iPad more then the most expensive garmin product

Maybe I can use the iPad with Garmin receiver to remain with garmin coordinates, or is the GPS on iPad better then the iPhone ?

Please advise, thanks.

[Ti' Punch]

I think you would be fine with the IPad if that is what you like best. Garmin does not have their own fleet of satellites. All GPS units use the same US government satellites to obtain their GPS fix. Either unit should be able to get you close enough to your favorite fishing hole.

[s/v Jedi]

Originally Posted by Username33

a change of 3-5 numbers on each coordinate between the iPhone and the Garmin 78s.

oh dear... don't let the anti-chartplotter crowd find this

to the OP: a difference of 3-5 numbers isn't too bad, is it? You never know which one is right or may be both are off etc.

ciao!
Nick.

[David M]

You will average out to 2-3 meters of accuracy with either device. You can have some accrurcy degradation if you only receiving a few satellites, but this is a function of how much of the sky the antenna is seeing and has nothing to do with the brand.

Keep in mind an iPad is not waterproof but can be made waterproof with the right case. You are also limited to Apple approved applications with the iPad, but then you are also limited to Garmin approved chart software. Just a few more things to consider. iPads in direct sunlight are very hard to see, which could be its fatal flaw for this application. If an iPad gets too hot it will shut down and go into "cool down mode"...another fatal flaw? It just might do that in its waterproof case.

I'm just thinking you might want a device specifically engineered for you plan on using it for.