Best Handheld GPS's That Work [TOP MODELS REVIEWED]

Having a handheld transmitter is undoubtedly one of the best purchases for nature lovers concerning personal security and direction. Whether you are starting on extended thru-hikes, doing some exploration in a hilly location, or simply indulging a passion for off-trail experiences, you will need a GPS. A handheld GPS is the best type for you.

The best handheld GPS that work are the Garmin 66i GPSMAP, Garmin 700 Oregon GPS, Garmin inReach Mini GPS, Garmin 22x eTrex GPS, Garmin 601 Foretrex, Garmin 700i Montana GPS, Garmin Overlander GPS, Garmin Explorer inReach GPS, Garmin inReach 2-Way Mini GPS, and Garmin 64sx GPSMAP Handheld GPS. 

Many have grown accustomed to relying on GPS-enabled mobile phones to track themselves in urban areas, but things work differently when you are out in the wild. A gadget with built-in maps and satellite positioning is the best option in isolated areas.

What Is The Best Handheld GPS?

Navigation is essential, whether deep in the woods or on the high seas. A handheld GPS is the most long-lasting and durable navigator for locating directions, documenting trails, or discovering a treasure. Outdoor GPS systems enable users to organize, follow, and discuss previous trips. Below are some of the best handheld GPS units.

Garmin 66i GPSMAP

The Garmin 66i GPSMAP provides Garmin's superior features and functionality in a durable design and includes satellite communication and SOS through inReach. The capacity to transmit and receive information, share a track, view weather predictions, and conduct rescue operations is a game-changer for adventurers heading into areas without phone coverage.

The 66i's hardware, which includes a high-resolution 3-inch display, excellent battery longevity, 16 GB of internal storage, and Wi-Fi connection, is ideal within the GPSMAP family. The 66i has ABC sensors, multi-GNSS compatibility, an external antenna, and is compatible with Birdseye satellite imaging and TopoActive mapping.

Most users will be satisfied with these navigational aids, but consider that gadgets like the GPSMAP 65s and 66sr offer improved satellite assistance and accuracy.

Garmin 700 Oregon GPS

The user experience is sometimes sacrificed when switching from a smartphone to a handheld GPS. While no GPS has yet successfully pulled everything together, the Garmin 700 Oregon GPS is the closest. To begin with, it is the ideal size for the purpose, with a wide, bright screen that is simple to view while remaining tiny and lightweight enough to fit into a pack.

Moreover, with reliable touchscreen functioning, dedicated profiles for different sports, and simple menus, the 700 model is a delight for hiking, cycling, paddling, and more. When comparing Oregon to a gadget like the 64sx GPSMAP, the choice between a touchscreen and buttons boils down to personal choice. The 700 Oregon is more contemporary, with an integrated antenna and a better menu system.

Garmin inReach Mini GPS

The Garmin inReach Mini GPS is not a genuine device, but it is worth exploring for weight-conscious adventurers. The inReach Mini's principal objectives are satellite communication and SOS. This feature is becoming more common on GPS devices, like the 66i GPSMAP, but it also pairs with a cellphone to provide simple directions on downloaded maps.

When you combine the inReach Mini's small weight and size, low cost, and long battery life, it is no surprise that it has become a preferred safety device among backcountry skiers, climbers, and hikers. The tracking feature is a favorite, which remembers your location at periodic intervals and maps the trail on a map for family and friends to monitor in real-time.

Best Handheld GPS For Hiking

When attempting to comprehend your way through the woods, one of the best hiking GPS devices can be lifesaving. It is critical to know your current location and where you want to go when you are outside. Hiking GPS systems have come a long way since their inception and now have a wide range of capabilities, pricing, and sizes. Below are some of the best handheld GPS units for hiking.

Garmin 65s GPSMAP Hiking GPS

The Garmin 65s GPSMAP Hiking GPS is one of the best handheld GPS for hiking. The 65s combines old-school keypad handling with modern pan-global mapping features, thanks to an extra altimeter and three-axis compass over the basic model. The TopoActive Europe maps are comprehensive and readily zoomable, allowing you to view your exact location and where you want to go.

These are excellent because the communications satellite options, multi-band technology, and enhanced GNSS compatibility make location efficiency significantly quicker and tracking accuracy considerably better, and buttons do not go wrong quickly. The GNSS capability of the Garmin GPSMAP 65s allows it to use satellites from the GPS, QZSS, IRNSS, and GLONASS constellations.

Suunto Baro 9 Titanium GSP

The Suunto Baro 9 Titanium GSP may appear to be a typical outdoor wristwatch in several ways. However, like most of its Suunto 9 brethren, the watch is equipped with a powerful GPS device capable of obtaining an instantaneous GPS location or following a series of landmarks. The battery life is 25 hours, but it may be extended to 170 hours.

The Suunto 9 Baro Titanium also provides access to the GALILEO, GPS, QZSS, BEIDOU, GLONASS satellite constellations, directional arrow, optical navigation, bearing navigation, POI navigation, and several route planning features. The only drawback is handling everything while on the go, as the watch's display real estate is restricted.

Best Handheld GPS For Hunting

Nowadays, finding the best portable GPS for hunting is difficult since the market is usually inundated with immaculate and similar versions. Having and utilizing the best handheld GPS for hunting might mean the difference between a great hunting trip and one that leaves you disappointed. Below is the best handheld GPS for hunting.

Garmin Explorer Plus inReach

The Garmin Explorer Plus inReach established the bar for integrating portable GPS with satellite communication technology. It is, without a doubt, the most preferred GPS alternative for individuals who frequently hunt, travel, or fish in remote, rocky locations where phone service is scarce.

These Garmin GPS systems use the Iridium satellite networks to connect through text messages, get accurate weather predictions, and include an SOS option that calls for help in an emergency. It has a decent display with a wide range of map choices and a hunt-and-peck keypad display for sending messages.

It is the only handheld GPS with practically complete communication capabilities. If you are going on a hunting expedition to a remote location or in the wilderness, where your mobile phone is likely to go dead, you can stay in contact with friends and family and give them peace of mind.

Best Handheld Golf GPS

Every golfer understands that course management is vital to lowering their scores. Developing your golf skill can be a long and challenging process; Fortunately, technological advancements have greatly simplified this process. The Handheld Golf GPS tracker is one of the most useful devices for golf; below is the best handheld golf GPS.

Garmin G80 Approach Golf GPS Handheld Device

The Garmin G80 Approach Golf GPS Handheld Device is the most sophisticated gear so far, and it is more than a rangefinder. It includes a solar-radiated 3.5-inch touchscreen and offers the most detailed flyovers and photos of 41,000 golf courses worldwide.

The G80 not only calculates distances to all portions of the green, but it also includes a special touch feature that enables you to calculate distances to any spot on the course. The G80's 'PlaysLike' function adjusts for downhill and uphill slopes, providing the most precise yardages for golfers.

Final Thoughts

Even though handheld GPS has been around for decades, new advancements have considerably enhanced the functionality of the options accessible in 2022. Several of the devices are dedicated to providing accurate GPS mapping and tracking. Some models have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, satellite messaging, touchscreen displays, altimeters, emergency functions, and compasses.