A handheld GPS is an essential tool for hikers, campers, and anyone else who wants to stay oriented while outdoors. There are many different models on the market, with different features and prices. To help you choose the best one for your needs, we’ve compiled a comparison table and buying advice. Our top picks for handheld GPS in 2022 are listed below. ..
Here is the list of Best Handheld GPS
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
The Garmin GPSMAP 64sx was our top pick for a long time, but it was replaced by the GPSMAP 66i last year. The 66i offers Garmin’s premium navigation tools in a rugged design, as well as satellite messaging and SOS via inReach.
The 66i is a great GPSMAP model that has a high-resolution 3-inch screen, long battery life, 16 GB of memory, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The Garmin 66i GPSMAP offers an external antenna, ABC sensors, and multi-GNSS support. These navigational tools will suffice for the majority of users, but keep in mind that devices such as the GPSMAP 66sr and GPSMAP 65s offer improved accuracy and expanded satellite support.
Garmin eTrex 32x
Garmin’s eTrex 32x is a budget-friendly option that outperforms more expensive units. It comes preloaded with Garmin’s TopoActive basemap, which provides enough data for those who don’t want to mess with finding and uploading individual maps. This device is an excellent value that doesn’t skimp on reception or processing speed. ..
The eTrex 20 GPS is a compact, lightweight unit that improves accuracy when linked to the GLONASS network. ..
Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS
The Bushnell BackTrack Mini GPS is a great option for someone who is new to using a GPS or doesn’t need all of the bells and whistles of more expensive options. The main function of this GPS is to “backtrack” you back to your starting point, and the display depicts your route as a series of breadcrumbs. You can also place waypoints along the way. ..
The BackTrack Mini is a small, simple GPS device that provides the essentials for navigation without being weighed down by unnecessary features. The display is simple and uncluttered, making it easy to use. This product is one of the best Handheld GPS available right now.
Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide
The eTrex 10 is a great device that is accurate and useful. It employs GLONASS and WASS technology, which makes it easier to find your location.
The device can be connected to a Mac, laptop and PC using a USB cable (the socket is weatherproof) and geocaches can be downloaded from it (the memory of 2000 is more than adequate). The device has a mono screen that is easy to read in the sun, and the menu is simple with modes for recreation, geocaching, automotive, marine, and fitness. ..
Garmin inReach Mini 2
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a GPS device that has a few unique features. The primary function of the device is satellite messaging and SOS, but it also includes tracking, weather reports, maps, and navigation. Additionally, the “2” model has multi-GNSS support which makes it even more accurate.
The inReach Mini 2 is a highly durable and popular handheld GPS that has a large storage space for preloaded maps and routes, as well as long battery life. It is also small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Garmin etrex Touch 35
The etrex Touch 35 is a small, but powerful, GPS navigation device that has many useful features not found on other devices. The 65K color reflective touchscreen is easily visible, and the map view can be set to rotate with the compass.
The US eTrex Touch edition of the eTrex is a great hiking and activity device. It has a refresh rate of 30 Hz, which is sufficient for hiking. The altimeter ensures accurate 3-dimensional readings. Additionally, the US eTrex Touch edition comes preloaded with 250,000 geocaching routes.
Garmin GPSMAP 66st
The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is the most accurate and dependable model in its class, earning it our highest rating. It has a powerful quad-helix antenna and connects to more satellite networks more reliably and accurately than most other models. The GPSMAP 66st can maintain a satellite connection even in less-than-ideal conditions, such as under dense tree cover or in a narrow slot canyon. ..
The Garmin Forerunner 235 is a great handheld GPS unit that can connect to your smartphone and overlay real-time weather data on your maps. It has 16GB of internal memory, which is more than most other units, and it comes preloaded with topo maps for the United States and Canada. Overall, it is one of the best Handheld GPS units that you can buy.
Garmin GPSMAP 66sr
The Garmin 66sr GPSMAP 66 series includes four models: the 66sr, the 66hd, the 67hd, and the 68hd. Though each model has a different outer casing, they all include a number of superior features that make them well worth the $500 price tag. The 66sr features a 3-inch color display with crisp and vibrant imagery. Many users say that the display is brighter and easier to see than other Garmin models. The 66hd also includes an internal speaker for making calls or listening to music while on the go. Lastly, the 67hd and 68hd both includeGarmin’s new ActiveTrack feature which allows you to track your activity even when you’re not connected to a computer.
The Garmin 66sr is a great GPS device that can be used in bright sunlight or in difficult environments. The multiband technology helps the 66sr stay connected even in these difficult conditions.
Final Words
The best handheld GPS for you depends on your needs and where you plan to use it. Consider what you need your GPS unit to do and where you’ll be using it the most. If you don’t have any specific needs, a basic model with all the features offered will work just fine.
