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Navigation is essential in the bush and on the water. Handheld GPSs are the most reliable navigators for route finding, tracking, and geocaching. Outdoor GPS devices let you plan, track, and share trips. Our top picks show that Garmin dominates the market. Their mapping software and lineup features are unmatched. . Our Best Garmin GPS Devices picks are below.
As you will see in this feature, one company dominates this market: GPS giant Garmin. The mapping software and feature set offered by its lineup is currently unmatched. Prices vary significantly, and choosing between touch screens and buttons is a major factor. For more information, see our comparison chart and buying tips; our pick of the Best Garmin GPS units for 2022 is below.
Here is the list of Best Garmin GPS Devices
Garmin GPSMAP 66st
Easily one of the best Garmin GPS Devices available on the market, The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is best in class for accuracy and reliability, earning it our highest honor. It features a powerful quad-helix antenna that reliably connects to more satellite networks with greater accuracy than most other models. Even in less than ideal locations, such as under dense tree cover or in narrow canyons, the GPSMAP 66st can maintain satellite connectivity.
Within cellular coverage, this unit can connect with your smartphone to overlay real-time weather data on your map. Its 16GB of onboard storage is more than double that of other devices, and comes preinstalled with free access to Garmin’s bird’s eye images as well as topographic maps of the U.S. and Canada.
Garmin GPSMAP 65s
If mapping is a priority, the Garmin GPSMAP 65s may be the best hiking GPS for you. While this variant has a shorter feature list than the others in our ranking – it lacks communication capabilities in the first place and is rechargeable rather than battery powered – it shines when it comes to immense mapping power. Adding an altimeter and 3-axis compass to the standard model, the 65s combines familiar push-button operation with state-of-the-art global mapping capabilities.
This is good because the buttons give up malfunctions and are still very easy to operate in the rain or with gloves, and the new satellite tools speed up location exponentially and tracking accuracy is greatly improved. The Garmin GPSMAP 65s GNSS means it can access satellites from GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and IRNSS constellations.
Garmin Drive USA LM GPS
The 5-inch Garmin Drive 50LM GPS navigation system is one of the most affordable models to come out of the ranks of the giant GPS manufacturers. It has some really powerful speakers and comes equipped with lifetime map updates. The Garmin Drive 50LM sports a brilliant 5-inch touch display with a resolution that makes the display come alive. The screen also serves as your navigation panel as you make searches and commands all through the 5-inch display.The Garmin Drive 50LM is super easy to use.
The GPS-only navigational system is The dual orientation display makes using the device a fun and wonderful experience. There is also a Driver Alert feature that aims to keep drivers constantly aware. It informs the driver of curves, bends, school zones, speed changes, and many other locations.
Depending on the model you get, you will either get a fully detailed map of the United States or one preloaded with a map of the United States as well as a map of Canada. Thus, this product is one of the best Garmin GPS Devices available right now.
Garmin GPSMAP 66i
The Garmin GPSMAP 64sx was our number one for a long time, but last year we replaced it with the GPSMAP 66i. 66i offers top-notch Garmin navigation in a rugged package, plus satellite messaging and inReach for SOS functionality has been added.
For explorers venturing out into areas without cellular service, the ability to send and receive messages, share tracks, access weather forecasts, and initiate rescue operations is a game-changer, albeit at an additional cost of $250. In addition, the 66i’s hardware is best-in-class in the GPSMAP lineup, with a 3-inch high-resolution screen, excellent battery life (200 hours in power-saving mode), 16GB of storage, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Garmin etrex Touch 35
The eTrex Touch 35 looks much more modern than the eTrex 10 and has more useful features than one would expect in such a small device. the 65,000-color reflective touch screen is easy to read even on bright days, and, like more expensive devices, the map image can be adjusted to rotate with the compass and The map image can be adjusted to rotate with the compass, just as on more expensive devices.
The refresh rate is not very high, but it is adequate for hiking. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the ANT+ connectivity and full 3D measurement with the altimeter. eTrex Touch’s U.S. version comes preloaded with 250,000 geocaching routes. Currently, this is one of the best Garmin GPS Devices that you can buy right now.
Garmin Nüvi 2789LMT Portable GPS
This Garmin Nüvi 2789LMT 7-inch portable GPS will always take the front seat. It comes with a large 7-inch screen along with a dual-direction and pinch-zoom display.The 7-inch glass screen is responsive and offers a large screen on which it is even easier to identify details.The 7-inch glass screen always displays driving maps and traffic information is displayed on the side. The up-ahead feature makes it easy to locate gas stations, hotels, motels, restaurants, and other places without leaving the map.
The Garmin nüvi 2789LMT 7-inch portable GPS also features a voice navigation function that allows users to receive direct, conversational instructions without having to type in addresses, etc. The Garmin nüvi 2789LMT 7-inch portable GPS, along with Bluetooth connectivity, shares information between smartphones and GPS devices The Garmin nüvi 2789LMT 7-inch portable GPS supports Smartphone Link, which allows users to share information between their smartphone and GPS device along with Bluetooth connectivity.
Garmin eTrex 32x
The Garmin eTrex 32x far exceeds its weight class compared to more advanced devices. Excellent value for money without compromising on reception and processing speed, this unit even comes preinstalled with Garmin TopoActive basemaps that provide ample data for those who do not want the hassle of searching and downloading individual maps.
Accuracy between the GPS and GLONASS networks is enhanced by the addition of a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis digital compass, sensors found only on more expensive GPS devices. However, these enhanced features do not affect size and weight. Still, it is one of the best Garmin GPS Devices that you can consider.
Garmin inReach Mini 2
The Garmin InReach Mini 2 looks a little different from most GPS devices, but weight-sensitive explorers should definitely take a closer look. inReach Mini’s primary features are satellite messaging and SOS, but it also offers tracking, weather forecasts, maps, and navigation, among other features.
And with recent updates, the “2” is better than ever. Multiple GNSS and digital compass support for improved accuracy, more storage space for preloaded maps and routes, and noticeably improved battery life. Small, lightweight, and fairly affordable – it’s no secret why the InReach Mini 2 has become an essential tool for avid hikers, climbers, skiers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Garmin eTrex 30x
The design of the Garmin eTrex 30x hasn’t changed much in a while, and its appeal hasn’t diminished, even in the face of slightly brighter handheld GPS options. Its IPX7 waterproofing and the combination of side buttons and joystick means it can be used in all weather, and reviewers found it reasonably compact and light, weighing about 150 grams including only batteries.
Users also praised its fast satellite fix, indicating that it rarely loses connection, and were impressed that it matches some features of more expensive models with features such as wireless sharing, a 3-axis compass, and Garmin Chirp technology. Overall, it is one of the best Garmin GPS Devices that you can buy.
Garmin Montana 700
Portable GPS devices have not always been easy to use, but the Garmin Montana 700 is as good as it gets. The main feature is the colorful 5-inch touchscreen: instead of using archaic buttons, an inconvenient choice, the Montana offers the convenience of a modern smartphone.
Scrolling through functions and navigating maps is easy, and the Montana’s Gorilla Glass screen is easy to read, even in direct sunlight. It should be noted that the upgraded design also slightly reduces performance; the Montana 700, like the aforementioned GPSMAP 66i, features an ABC sensor, multi-GNSS support, and enhanced topographic maps.
Final Words
These are some of the best Garmin GPS devices; GPS devices are great when you need them, but they are not cheap. A smartphone could help you until you go on a multi-day trip in the countryside, exploring some difficult routes, guided by a map and compass, or doing long hours of field research. If you get this far, there is no substitute for a dedicated and accurate portable GPS navigator, so invest in one.