Hi Chuck,
I'm not one of the members who has had experience with both brands. However, I have a 2610 and really do like it.
Before the Garmin I used a Delorme GPS antenna plugged into my notebook, and running Map'N'Go. The disadvantage of that system was that being the only driver, and my wife unable to navigate due to very poor eyesight, it simply was not convenient to futz with the notebook propped up on the doghouse.
Mind you, I could have built a nice little stand for the notebook--there are plans for such in the forum's files. Now I am completely inept when it comes to handyman jobs--what the hell am I doing with a motorhome, you ask

; good question-- so I took the $1200 CDN solution and bought the Garmin.
In truth I'm glad I did.
Ciao,
Doug