Best Handheld GPS For Finding Coordinates
A handheld GPS device is extremely useful when hiking, trekking, or mountaineering in the wilderness because it allows you to navigate easily even when visibility is poor or the landscape has few or no distinguishing features. A hiking or outdoor GPS unit can easily determine both of these things, saving your face and preventing a minor navigational blunder from snowballing into potentially dangerous territory.
How do you know which hiking GPS device is best for you when there are so many options? Let’s get the party started and see what we can find out.
Best Handheld GPS For Finding Coordinates
Garmin eTrex 22x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator
The eTrex 22x handheld device comes with road-routable TopoActive maps that include streets and trails, allowing you to travel off the beaten path. You can now learn about your surroundings, such as waterways, natural features, buildings, international borders, and other features. There are also thousands of places to visit, including shops, restaurants, universities, parking lots, and lodging.
The eTrex series employs both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, allowing the receiver to track in more difficult conditions than GPS alone. Paperless geocaching is supported by the eTrex 22x. Geocaching.com’s GPX files can be directly uploaded to your device, allowing you to view key information such as location, terrain, and hints.
Because of the microSD card slot and 8 GB of internal memory, you can easily download additional maps for wherever your adventure takes you. eTrex is a handheld GPS that can also be used on ATVs, bicycles, boats, and on foot thanks to a variety of compatible mounts. Use the rugged mount for your motorcycle or ATV, or the auto mount with City Navigator NT maps for turn-by-turn driving directions. eTrex has the mapping and mounts to take you wherever you want to go.
Features
- Explore confidently with the reliable handheld GPS
- 2” sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability
- Preloaded with TopoActive maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
- Support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone
- 8 GB of internal memory for map downloads plus a microSD™ card slot
- Battery life: up to 25 hours in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries
Garmin Oregon 750T, Touchscreen Handheld GPS
The Oregon 700 GPS and GLONASS handheld puts even more of the great outdoors at your fingertips, thanks to a redesigned antenna for improved satellite reception. This rugged navigator is ready for anything, whether you’re hiking, hunting, climbing, kayaking, trail riding, or whatever.
With preloaded top U.S. 100K Maps, Birdseye satellite imagery subscription, built-in 8 Megapixel auto focus camera, and bright 3-inch touchscreen display, the Oregon 750T handheld brings extra-sharp focus to your outdoor adventures. In difficult conditions, a redesigned antenna for GPS and GLONASS satellite reception ensures optimum tracking. Additionally, Active weather forecasts and Animated overlays on the Map are supported.
A 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, expanded wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ant+), automatic geocache downloads, and more are among the features. You can use your compatible device to download software, receive smart notifications, upload your adventures to our Garmin connect online community, and even share your LiveTrack location data or geocache finds with other compatible devices.
Features
- Touchscreen – 3-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen display with Dual orientation (landscape or portrait view)
- High-sensitivity dual GPS and GLONASS satellite reception
- 3-axis compass with accelerometer and barometric altimeter sensors
- Expanded wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ANT+ capable)
- Bluetooth-enabled smart notifications and automatic uploads to Garmin Connect online community
- Garmin Connect compatible (online community where you analyze, categorize and share data)
- Ruggedized for the outdoors – ergonomic, rugged design that Stands strong against dust, dirt and humidity -and it is water-rated to Ipx7
Garmin Montana 700, Rugged GPS Handheld, Routable Mapping for Roads and Trails
The Garmin Montana 700 is a tough, water-resistant handheld that has been tested to US military standards and has a glove-friendly 5″ touchscreen that is 50% larger than previous Montana models. Use the preloaded topographical maps for the United States and Canada to navigate your adventures. View contours, elevations, coastlines, rivers, landmarks, and other features. The display of federal public land boundaries on topographical maps is optional, but it helps you know you’re going where you’re supposed to go.
This device uses direct-to-device BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads to see photo-realistic views and create waypoints based on landmarks (no annual subscription required). An altimeter for elevation data, a barometer for weather monitoring, and a 3-axis electronic compass are all ABC sensors that can assist you in navigating your next trail. Users can also get up-to-date Active Weather forecasts using cellular connectivity via the Garmin Connect app (when paired with a compatible smartphone).
Features
- Rugged construction is rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water and vibration
- 5” glove-friendly touchscreen display (50% larger than the previous model) offers easy viewability; available with versatile mounting options
- Multi-GNSS (GPS, GLONASS and Galileo) support
- Preloaded TopoActive maps
- Outdoor navigation sensors include 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
- Pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity and BLUETOOTH wireless networking, giving you direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support and more
- Compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app to help you manage waypoints, routes, activities and collections, use tracks and review trip data from the field
Garmin Montana 700i, Rugged GPS Handheld with Built-in inReach Satellite Technology
Montana 700i will keep you connected and on track. This tough GPS handheld combines TopoActive and City Navigator mapping for routable on- or off-road navigation with global two-way messaging and interactive SOS via inReach satellite technology for routable on- or off-road navigation (active satellite subscription required; some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the use of satellite communications devices). The 5″ color touchscreen has a full QWERTY keyboard and a display that is 50% larger than previous models.
This GPS’s Multi-GNSS support, as well as sensors for the 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, give you access to a world of outdoor navigation options. In addition, wireless pro-connectivity gives you direct access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, and Connect IQ app support, among other things. Active Weather forecasts can be accessed using a compatible smartphone. With the new ultralow-powered Expedition mode, you can extend battery life for up to a week. The IPX7-rated unit syncs with compatible Astro or Alpha series handhelds (sold separately) to assist hunters and trainers in tracking sporting dogs in the field.
Features
- Rugged military-grade construction
- A 5” touchscreen display that’s 50% larger than the previous model
- Offers easy viewability and includes versatile mounting solutions
- You can trigger an interactive SOS to the GEOS 24/7 monitoring center
- Multi-GNSS (GPS and Galileo) support
- Preloaded TopoActive maps and City Navigator street map navigation
- Navigation sensors include 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
- Pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity and BLUETOOTH wireless networking, giving you direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support and more
- Compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app to help you manage waypoints, routes, activities and collections, use tracks and review trip data from the field
Garmin 010-01879-00 InReach Mini, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator
The inReach Mini is your go-to connection when you need to stay connected while you’re off the grid. Garmin’s palm-sized satellite communicator is designed for adventures where size and weight are important. You can use inReach Mini to send and receive text messages, track and share your location, and, if necessary, send an SOS alert to contact the GEOS emergency response team 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your family and friends will be able to stay in touch around the world with inReach connectivity.
The inReach Mini is tough, durable, impact resistant (MIL-STD-810F), and waterproof (IPX7). The device is powered by an internal, rechargeable lithium battery that can last up to 50 hours in the default 10-minute tracking mode and up to 20 days in power saving mode. Battery life varies depending on the settings. Use the microUSB power cable or the 12-volt in-vehicle charger to charge.
Features
- Small, rugged, lightweight satellite communicator enables two-way text messaging using the global Iridium network
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center (satellite subscription required).
- Access downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more by using the free Garmin Earthmate app and compatible devices
- Optional inReach weather forecast service provides detailed updates directly to your inReach Mini or paired device, basic and premium weather packages available
- Send and receive inReach messages through compatible Garmin devices, including connected wearables and handhelds
Garmin GPSMAP 66i, GPS Handheld and Satellite Communicator
Even on less difficult trips, the Garmin GPSMAP 66i allows you to stay connected. This handheld uses inReach technology (subscription required) to send an SOS to the GEOS 24/7 emergency response team for interactive assistance in an emergency. It also allows two-way messaging and LiveTrack location sharing via the Iridium satellite network, which is 100% global, so you can stay in touch with loved ones, teammates, headquarters, and more.
The GPSMAP 66i is equipped with the latest Garmin navigation technology. Garmin TOPO mapping provides detailed views of terrain contours, topographic elevations, summits, parks, coastlines, rivers, lakes, and geographical points that are preloaded on the device. Without an annual subscription, direct-to-device downloads of BirdsEye Satellite Imagery provide high-resolution photo-realistic views of your route, trailheads, clearings, and more. Multi-GNSS support, combined with altimeter, barometer, and compass navigation sensors, allows you to track and navigate in difficult situations.
The GPSMAP 66i has a large 3″ color display that can be seen even in bright sunlight and is operated by buttons. You can use Expedition mode to get up to 200 hours of battery life while using inReach technology if you’re out in the field for extended periods of time. You get up to 35 hours of battery life in the default tracking mode, and your device saves your location every 10 minutes.
Features
- Large 3 inch Sunlight-readable color display for easy viewing
- Trigger an interactive SOS to the geos 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center, two-way messaging via the 100% Global Iridium satellite network (satellite subscription required)
- Preloaded Garmin TOPO mapping with direct-to-device Birdseye satellite imagery downloads (no annual subscription)
- Compatible with the Garmin explore website and app to help you manage waypoints, routes, activities and collections, use tracks and review trip data from the field
- Internal, rechargeable lithium battery provides up to 35 hours of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode and 1-minute tracking mode (display off), 200 hours in Expedition mode with 30-minute tracking
See Also:
Best Handheld GPS For Finding Coordinates Buyer’s Guide
Battery life
The duration of a hike is unknown. On some days, you may choose to return home after a few hours. On other days, you might decide to go on a long-distance trip that will require you to camp overnight. You’ll want to get a GPS with a long battery life so you don’t have to worry about running out of power. A handheld GPS device’s battery life should be at least 10 -30 hours to avoid having to change batteries too frequently.
Ease of use
If you’re a newbie, make sure the safety features are simple to use. In case of an emergency, look for devices with easy-to-understand buttons and user interfaces, especially those with SOS buttons. When selecting a handheld GPS, keep in mind your level of experience with similar devices as well as your hiking ability. If you’re just getting started, go with a simpler model that gives you the basics.
Construction design
A handheld GPS device should have a sturdy design and be made of shock- and abrasion-resistant materials. A GPS device should also be water-resistant so that it can be used safely in wet conditions.
Durability
Hiking is a sport in which you push yourself to your limits in order to see incredible views and explore the abundant and beautiful natural world around you. If you like to climb to great heights and explore rough terrain, you’ll want to invest in a GPS that is tough and won’t break if dropped or otherwise damaged.
Display
A handheld GPS device should have at least a 2-inch display with good resolution for a good map overview. You should try the touchscreens, which will make operating the device much faster and easier. You should buy devices with high-resolution displays.
Weight
Hiking and mountaineering require lightweight equipment because it allows you to hike faster and more comfortably. Investing in bulky gadgets will make hiking more difficult.
FAQs For Best Handheld GPS For Finding Coordinates
Is a handheld GPS worth getting?
In areas where cellular service is unavailable, handheld GPS devices are unquestionably superior to smartphones for accurate mapping and positioning.
How do I choose a handheld GPS?
Consider the onscreen mapping, battery life, display, weight, and durability when purchasing a handheld GPS.
Is Hiking GPS necessary?
Yes. When you’re out in the woods, you need to be able to navigate. If you don’t have it, you can easily become disoriented and end up in a dangerous situation.
Conclusion
On the market, there are several good hiking GPS units, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. These Handheld GPS units are small, have a long battery life, and are extremely accurate when it comes to determining your exact location. Hiking GPS units have come a long way since their inception, and now range from simple, low-cost units for occasional use to professional-grade mapping tools that can pinpoint your location anywhere on the globe in seconds. After reading our review, we hope you’ll find one you like.