GPS Antennas

All GPS receivers have one of two types of built-in antennas. Either Quad-Helix or Patch. The differences are important depending on the use.

Quad-Helix antennas perform better under tree canopies. You'll notice that the Garmin GPS 72 mentions "better satellite tracking even under tree canopy". That's because this receiver has a quad-helix antenna. Many other receivers we carry have quad-helix antennas as well.

Patch antennas work better near steep cliff walls or tall buildings. You'll often find a patch antenna in true recreational receivers designed for hikers, such as the eTrex series.

Just about all external antennas are patch antennas. This kind of makes sense, because most of these are designed to be placed on the roof of a car. Much more likely that your Cadillac El Dorado will be near a tall building than in the middle of a cypress bog.