Best Handheld GPS for Outdoor Enthusiasts in 2024: Top 10 Devices
Looking for the best handheld GPS to guide your outdoor adventures? Whether you’re hiking, hunting, or just exploring the wild, the right GPS can make all the difference. In this article, we’ve tested and compared the top 10 devices to help you find the one that suits your needs without getting lost in the technical jargon.
Let’s dive into the essential features, pros, cons, and insider tips for the leading handheld GPS units of 2024.
Overview of the Best Handheld GPS Devices
The best handheld GPS devices aren’t just about pointing you in the right direction. They come packed with a host of features that can enhance your outdoor experience. Here are the top picks for 2024:
- Best for Emergency Features: Garmin inReach Explorer
- Ideal for Serious Explorers: Garmin Montana 700i
- Compact and Efficient: Garmin inReach Mini 2
- Perfect for Anglers: Humminbird ICE HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4 All Season
- A Multisport Smartwatch: Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar
- Best Suite of Apps for Outdoor Activities: OnX Backcountry
Great tools for outdoor enthusiasts include:
- BaseMap Pro: Great for Virtual Scouting
- Garmin Alpha 200i: Top Pick for Dog Tracking
- Garmin Handheld GPS Units with SOS Feature: Essential for Safety
- HuntStand: Comprehensive Mapping Tools for Hunters
From compact and efficient devices like the Garmin inReach Mini 2 to comprehensive mapping tools like HuntStand, there’s a hiking gps for everyone. Whether you’re a serious explorer, a passionate angler, or a dog owner who loves outdoor adventures with your furry friend, you’ll find a device tailored to your specific needs.
Now, let’s proceed to the detailed reviews.
1. Garmin inReach Explorer: The Best for Emergency Features
The Garmin inReach Explorer has proven its reliability, especially in harsh conditions, making it appreciated among outdoor enthusiasts. During one of my alpine climbing adventures, the device proved to be a lifesaver. Its high-sensitivity GPS chipset allowed for precise navigation, while the SOS features ensured that help was always a button away in case of an emergency.
Despite its robust capabilities, the Garmin inReach Explorer does have some drawbacks. The navigation interface, for instance, is more limited compared to dedicated GPS units. Also, I found the battery indicator to be somewhat unreliable, leading to occasional surprises when I was out in the wilderness. However, using the Garmin Explore app can enhance your experience with the device. Despite these minor setbacks, the Garmin inReach Explorer is worth every penny for its unrivaled reliability and emergency features.
Specifications
- High-sensitivity & accuracy GPS chipset in the gps unit, making it an ideal gps watch
- Easy-to-navigate menus
- Rugged and waterproof
| Pros | Cons |
| – Reliable global navigation satellite systems (GPS) navigation – SOS features for emergencies – Satellite text messaging for two-way communication | – Limited navigation interface compared to dedicated GPS units – Unreliable battery indicator |
Rating
- Price: 3.5/5
- Design: 4/5
- Features: 4.5/5
- Performance: 4/5
- Overall: 4/5
2. Garmin Montana 700i: Ideal for Serious Explorers
The Garmin Montana 700i, featuring Garmin GPSMAP technology, perfectly fits the needs of serious explorers during their expeditions. Its large, 5-inch touchscreen display was a joy to interact with, offering clear visibility even under direct sunlight. The device’s robust construction also meant that it could withstand the harshest of environments.
However, the Garmin Montana 700i isn’t perfect. Its battery life is mediocre at best, and I encountered issues with the screen’s performance in wet conditions. But given the device’s impressive feature set and robust construction, these are compromises I’m willing to make. The Garmin Montana 700i is a reliable companion that has enhanced my exploration experiences.
Specifications
- Large, 5-inch, transflective touchscreen display
- Water, extreme temperature, shock, and dust resistant
| Pros | Cons |
| – Large, user-friendly touchscreen – Robust construction for durability – Comprehensive topographic detail and multi-GNSS support | – Mediocre battery life – Screen performance issues in wet conditions |
Rating
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 4/5
- Features: 4.5/5
- Performance: 3.5/5
- Overall: 4/5
3. Garmin inReach Mini 2: Compact and Efficient
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 has been a game-changing addition for minimalist backpackers. Its compact and lightweight design barely adds any weight to my pack, making it perfect for long treks. Its two-way messaging capabilities also allow me to stay connected with my loved ones, even in remote areas without cell service.
While the device does require a subscription for full functionality, I found this to be a reasonable trade-off for the peace of mind it offers. During my treks, I often found myself in areas with no cell service, and the Garmin inReach Mini 2 was my only means of communication. Despite its small size, this device packs a punch and is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
Specifications
- Compact and lightweight design
- Two-way messaging capabilities
| Pros | Cons |
| – Small and lightweight for easy portability – Two-way messaging for seamless communication – Long battery life | – Requires a subscription for full functionality |
Rating
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 5/5
- Features: 4/5
- Performance: 4/5
- Overall: 4.5/5
4. Humminbird ICE HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4 All Season: Perfect for Anglers
The Humminbird ICE HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4 All Season has revolutionized the experience for avid anglers. Its Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar provides clear and precise readings, making it easier for me to locate fish. The device is also versatile, perfect for both ice fishing and open water use.
However, one downside is that it doesn’t come with a carrying case, which can be an inconvenience. Despite this, the device’s high-quality sonar readings and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for any serious angler. It’s not just a fish finder—it’s a tool that enhances the whole fishing experience.
Specifications
- Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
- Built-in GPS with Humminbird® Basemap
| Pros | Cons |
| – High-quality sonar readings – Versatile for both ice fishing and open water use – Preloaded with comprehensive maps | – Does not come with a carrying case |
Rating
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 4.5/5
- Features: 4/5
- Performance: 4/5
- Overall: 4/5
5. Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar: A Multisport Smartwatch
For multisport enthusiasts, the Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar is more than just a smartwatch. It’s a highly capable device that caters to all my fitness needs. With over 60 preloaded sports apps, the watch supports a variety of activities, including:
- Running
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Hiking
Despite the watch’s impressive feature set, there are a few drawbacks. Some functions, such as optimal cycling analytics, require an additional power meter. Also, the wrist-based heart rate monitor was less accurate compared to chest straps. However, these are minor issues considering the watch’s overall performance and functionality.
The Garmin Fenix 7 Sapphire Solar is a premium offering in the smartwatch segment, and it’s worth every penny.
Specifications
- Solar-enhanced GPS multisport smartwatch
- Over 60 preloaded sports apps
- GPS watches
| Pros | Cons |
| – Improved battery life with solar harvesting – Versatile with over 60 preloaded sports apps – Smart connectivity features | – Some functions require an additional power meter – Wrist-based heart rate monitor can be less accurate than chest straps |
Rating
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 4.5/5
- Features: 4.5/5
- Performance: 4/5
- Overall: 4/5
6. OnX Backcountry: Best Suite of Apps for Outdoor Activities
The OnX Backcountry suite of apps proves incredibly useful for those who engage in a variety of outdoor activities. The apps offer excellent base maps with property boundaries, making it easy to plan my adventures. They also support different sport options, catering to a wide range of outdoor interests.
However, one drawback is that using the apps can drain your phone battery quickly. Despite this, I found the OnX Backcountry suite of apps to be a reliable companion for all my outdoor adventures. Whether I’m hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, these apps provide all the tools I need to:
- Plan my routes
- Navigate with GPS
- Track my progress
- Find points of interest
- Share my experiences with friends and family
Specifications
- Mobile and desktop mapping application
- Base maps with property boundaries
| Pros | Cons |
| – Excellent base maps with property boundaries – Different sport options for various outdoor activities – Easy tracking and waypoint creation process | – Drains phone battery fast |
Rating
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 4.5/5
- Features: 4/5
- Performance: 3.5/5
- Overall: 4/5
7. BaseMap Pro: Great for Virtual Scouting
BaseMap Pro is an invaluable tool for virtual scouting, beneficial to hunters. The app offers an impressive selection of map layers, including topo maps, providing a wealth of information at my fingertips. It also features an upgraded offline map experience, allowing me to access maps even when I’m out in the wilderness.
One issue I encountered was a sluggish response when accessing offline maps. Despite this minor flaw, BaseMap Pro has significantly enhanced my hunting experiences. Its map layer selection and improved offline map experience make it well worth the subscription fee.
Specifications
- Mobile and desktop mapping application
- Impressive map layer selection for virtual scouting
| Pros | Cons |
| – Impressive map layer selection for virtual scouting – Upgraded offline map experience – Faster map downloading | – Occasional sluggish response in accessing offline maps |
Rating
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 4/5
- Features: 4.5/5
- Performance: 3.5/5
- Overall: 4/5
8. Garmin Alpha 200i: Top Pick for Dog Tracking
The Garmin Alpha 200i is a game-changing device for dog owners who enjoy outdoor adventures with their furry friends. The device allows me to track my dog’s location and even give corrections using just one device. It’s also waterproof and durable, perfect for outdoor use.
However, the device does come with a hefty price tag. Additionally, the placement of the charging port is not ideal, making it difficult to charge on the move. Despite these drawbacks, the Garmin Alpha 200i is a worthwhile investment for its advanced tracking and training capabilities.
Specifications
- Enables dog tracking and training
- Pairs with a TT 15X or TT 15 Mini collar
| Pros | Cons |
| – Allows you to track your dog’s location – Can give corrections on one device – Waterproof and durable | – Expensive – Charging port location is not ideal |
Rating
- Price: 3/5
- Design: 4/5
- Features: 4.5/5
- Performance: 4/5
- Overall: 4/5
9. Garmin Handheld GPS Units with SOS Feature: Essential for Safety
The Garmin Handheld GPS Units with SOS Feature is an essential safety tool for those who often venture into the wilderness. The devices are equipped with inReach technology, enabling two-way messaging and an SOS function for emergencies. This means that help is always a button away when I’m out in the wilderness.
Some users have reported challenges with the inReach messaging service, such as delays in receiving replies. Despite these minor issues, the Garmin Handheld GPS Units with SOS Feature provide peace of mind, making them a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
Specifications
- Equipped with inReach technology
- Enables two-way messaging and an SOS function for emergencies
| Pros | Cons |
| – Reliable GPS navigation – SOS features for emergencies – Two-way messaging for seamless communication | – Some users have encountered challenges with the inReach messaging service |
Rating
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 4.5/5
- Features: 4/5
- Performance: 4/5
- Overall: 4/5
10. HuntStand: Comprehensive Mapping Tools for Hunters
The HuntStand app proves to be incredibly useful for hunters. The app’s mapping tools allow me to create personalized maps of my hunt areas and mark important objects of interest. It also offers measurement tools for accurate area measurement, which is extremely helpful when planning my hunts.
However, one drawback is that using the app can drain your phone battery quickly. Despite this, I found HuntStand to be a reliable companion for all my hunting adventures. Its comprehensive mapping tools and ability to track game cameras make it a must-have for any serious hunter.
Specifications
- Mobile mapping application with preloaded maps
- Personalized hunt area maps with custom iconography
| Pros | Cons |
| – Comprehensive mapping tools for personalized hunt area maps – Ability to mark important objects of interest and track game cameras – Measurement tools for accurate area measurement | – Drains phone battery fast |
Rating
- Price: 4/5
- Design: 4.5/5
- Features: 4/5
- Performance: 3.5/5
- Overall: 4/5
Choosing the Right Handheld GPS Device
Several factors should be considered when choosing the right handheld GPS device. The size of the screen, for example, can greatly affect your navigation experience. Larger screens enhance readability and navigation, while smaller screens are more portable but require careful attention to detail. The type of control interface is another important consideration. Button-operated models are preferred for reliable operation in harsh weather and when wearing gloves, while touchscreens offer intuitive navigation.
Multi-GNSS support is a crucial feature that allows for robust navigation capabilities and offline map usage. Some handheld GPS devices also enable wire-free sharing of tracks and waypoints, along with smart notifications for text and social media updates on the device. Weight and size are crucial for handheld GPS units used in backcountry navigation, with more features often increasing the unit’s overall bulk and weight.
Furthermore, having ample memory storage in a GPS device permits more detailed maps and extensive data, with free downloadable maps and satellite imagery adding value. Handheld GPS devices are designed to withstand water, shock, thermal stress, and other rigorous conditions encountered in the wilderness.
Lastly, the type of battery and its life is a crucial factor to consider. Rechargeable battery packs, for instance, offer weight and cost savings, in contrast to traditional AA batteries. However, the placement of the charging port can be a deciding factor, as it can affect the convenience of charging on the move.
Remember, the best handheld GPS device is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. In the handheld gps market, whether you’re a serious explorer, a passionate angler, or a dog owner who loves outdoor adventures with your furry friend, there’s a handheld gps unit tailored just for you. With the rise of portable gps devices, finding the perfect GPS device has never been easier.
Summary
In conclusion, choosing the right handheld GPS device for your outdoor adventures is a personal decision that depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. From the compact and efficient Garmin inReach Mini 2 to the comprehensive mapping tools of HuntStand, there’s a device out there for everyone. Don’t compromise on your safety and enjoyment in the great outdoors – invest in a GPS device that’s just right for you. Here’s to many more adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best portable GPS system?
The best portable GPS system will depend on your specific needs, but top options include Garmin GPSMAP 67i, Garmin inReach Mini 2, Garmin eTrex SE, and Garmin Montana 700. If you’re in the market for a portable car GPS navigation system, consider models like the Garmin Drive 52 & Traffic, Garmin DriveSmart 86, TomTom Go Comfort, and TomTom Go Discover.
What is the most accurate GPS in the world?
The Galileo high-accuracy service (HAS) and the Trimble R10 GNSS receiver are among the most accurate GPS systems available today, offering sub-meter accuracy and professional-grade performance, respectively.
What GPS should I buy for hiking?
You should consider purchasing the Garmin GPSMAP 66i for hiking, as it offers a large, easy-to-read display, multi-GNSS support, preloaded maps, and inReach satellite communication capabilities. It is also lightweight and compact for easy portability.
Are there any handheld GPS devices suitable for both ice fishing and open water use?
Yes, the Humminbird ICE HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4 All Season is suitable for both ice fishing and open water use, making it a versatile choice for anglers.
Are there any handheld GPS devices that can track dogs?
Yes, the Garmin Alpha 200i is a highly recommended option for tracking and training your dog, as it can be paired with a compatible collar for this purpose.
Deeba & Matt
About the Authors
Intrepid content creators and relentless hiking enthusiasts. With a passion for travel and adventure, Matt & Deeba are never one to shy away from a daring challenge.