I still regularly hike and backpack with a Garmin eTrex Vista HCx from I think 2006. Anyone else still using an ancient device?
It takes AA batteries which is great because I can just pack extra batteries. It seems pretty rugged given that I haven't broken it during the past nearly 20 years of outdoor activities.
The 2GB max storage is very limiting and I have to keep a specific Mini USB cord around to transfer data to and from my PC but the thing keeps chugging along without complaining.
I can't say I'm not tempted to get a smartwatch with mapping capabilities. My wife has a Venu of some sort and it's very nice. I'm also eyeing other Garmin handhelds that combine satellite messaging and mapping capabilities because we currently bring a separate InReach device for SOS and it would be great to combine two devices into one.
I have an eTrex Legend HCx from around the same time. Actually had two but lost one on a trail a couple years ago. The other one the screw for the handelbar mount was ripped out so I had to drill through and put in a bolt though. I have replaced it with a watch, last year ago I bought an instinct 2s solar. It has 19 days of battery life and I top it off when I shower. So I can shower on sunday, skip shower on monday then to do a quick MTB ride tuesday evening and it still has enough battery life to keep going until I shower after the ride.