Customer Reviews

Suunto Escape 203 Handheld Altimeter

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This Suunto altimeter relies on barometric pressure and a correct altitude reference point to calculate absolute altitude. This means that as barometric pressure changes, the reference altitude must be reset. This is a disadvantage if one does not have a ready reference point (ie, if I knew what the altitude was, I wouldn't need the unit!). So in that respect, it's only accurate in measuring absolute altitude when the barometric pressure is stable (ie, time periods of a few hours, as opposed to over-nighters or changing weather conditions). But many trail guides list trailhead altitude, so the reference point can be easily set at the beginning of a day hike, and will remain accurate as long as the weather is stable.

However, one of my primary uses for the product is to keep a running log of my total altitude gained and lost on trails, and it does work well for this purpose. For example, trails that guidebooks list as having a gain of 2000' (from trailhead to highest point) may actually have a total gain of 2800' because of the rambling ups and downs of the path. This altitude gain/loss feature does not require an altitude reference point and is not altered by barometric changes, so it does not have the drawbacks discussed above with regard to absolute altitude.

Small, lightweight, and easy to read display.

This great little portable device seems to be highly accurate. My previous experience was with an aircraft altimeter. The Suunto Escape 203 gives the same readings as my aircraft altimeter when used side by side. The buttons are a little hard to push for a person with arthritic hands, but a younger person would have no problem. The manual is hard to understand; otherwise, I would give it 5 stars.

I wanted a compact altimeter. The smart-looking Suunto fit the bill and then some with barometer, temperature, time, and more. Amazon had the best price, and my husband is delighted with his gift.

Riding bikes, hiking, or just driving, I wanted to know "How high are we? How high was that hill we just climbed or descended?" (GPS can give altitude readings, too, but they are sometimes not that stable in the altitude mode, depending on how many satellites are being received.) If you have the same questions, you will love this product. It offers a large, stable digital readout with resolution to 3 feet; simple calibration for barometric pressure; it's fairly compact and lightweight; water-resistant; and has a well-made, elegant product feel. It can also be used as a barometric pressure and temperature monitor. Love it!

This is my second altimeter by Suunto.In fact it gets precise values
for altitude.