What Is The Best Handheld Gps – Top 10 Reviews

Whether deep in the undeveloped area or backcountry or on open water, the best handheld GPS unit can be your best bet for proper navigation. No matter if you are looking for route finding, recording tracks or finding a geocache, you cannot find a more durable and long lasting navigator than a handheld GPS. Outdoor GPS devices enable you to plan, follow and share your recent adventures.

At the very beginning, a handheld GPS receiver mainly gained popularity with military personnel. In the early or initial 2000s, a series of personal GPS devices were launched aiming at recreational runners called the Forerunner. The handheld GPS has evolved a lot since then, and nowadays this is quite popular among day hikers, off-road mountain bikers, sailboat racers, and many other people.

It is not indeed an easy task to find out the best handheld GPS from the huge number of models available on the market. With a view to help you in this mission, we have brought together the best handheld GPS reviews here, which are popular in the market and passed the criteria of our judgment as well. We discussed each of these handheld GPSs shortly, so that you can know them in detail, and make the best choice according to your fair judgment.

How Do We Pick The Handheld GPS?

We picked the GPSs that deliver the most accurate performances regardless of the place it is in. The ones with long-lasting batteries were on top of our preference list. We kept on searching for the ones with the most versatile features.

We have tested the material, durability and many other facts as well. We care about your money, so we have not included any handheld GPS here which is unreasonably priced. We hope that our judgment was good enough to take you to the perfect handheld GPS that will be able to provide you the best quality and delight you with an amazing performance.

Our Top Rated 10 Best Handheld GPS Reviews

01 Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS

If you are directing the eyes for some top-notch, rugged and rich-featured handheld GPS units which excel in all spheres, then Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS can be a fine choice for you. When you are going for serious climbing or hiking, this GPS can be your perfect companion.

Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS comes with a 2.6-inch color screen which is very fluid when it comes to zooming in and out. It makes navigating direction quite easy and convenient. Also, there is a notable helix antenna which features both GPS and GLONASS technology.

Thanks to 8GB of onboard memory, you can add maps quite easily in Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS, which allows you even more topographical and detailed navigation information.

Specifications

Pros

• Sunlight readable color screen
• Dual battery system
• Smart notifications
• Expandable internal memory
• High-speed USB
• Tempe temperature sensor
• Style: With ANT+Bluetooth And US TOPO

Our Verdict

Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS delivers you a satisfactory performance, and it comes with a one-year limited warranty. The price of this top handheld GPS might not be the cheapest, but if you are looking for a good quality handheld GPS, then Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS would not disappoint you.

02 Garmin eTrex 10 Navigator Handheld GPS

If you are having a tight or inexpensive budget but also looking for a handheld GPS with some great features, then without any doubt Garmin eTrex 10 can be a perfect companion for your hiking, cycling or any kind of outdoor activities.

Garmin eTrex 10 comes with WAAS enabled GPS receiver and HotFix satellite prediction, which locates your position precisely and very quickly. It also provides IPX7 standard waterproof feature and very long battery life. You can also estimate time and distance between points by storing waypoints along your track with this device.

With this Garmin handheld GPS supports geocaching GPX files, you can download geocaches and details straight to your unit within a very short time. Garmin eTrex 10 also stores and displays key information, including location, terrain, difficulty, hints, and descriptions, so you don’t have to enter coordinates and paper printouts manually.

Specifications

Pros

• Worldwide base map
• Easy to read in any light
• Paperless geocaching
• 25-hour battery life with 2 AA batteries
• Fast positioning and a reliable signal
• Waterproof against splashes, rain, etc.

Our Verdict

Garmin eTrex 10 is one the cheapest and lightest handheld GPS which comes with long battery life, paperless geocaching, and IPX7 standard waterproof features. It will also provide you one-year consumer limited warranty. Considering all the facts and features, Garmin eTrex 10 is clearly a great choice for a budget sharp outdoor enthusiast.

03 Garmin Foretrex 401 Handheld GPS

Garmin Foretrex 401 Handheld GPS offers you a high sensitivity waterproof GPS receiver, electronic compass and barometric altimeter in an affordable price, which is ideal for hikers, skiers, and campers. You can easily connect this handheld GPS device to your computer via USB, or you can just send data wirelessly to another device.

You do not have to worry about getting lost as Foretrex keeps track of your path and shows your track as a dotted trail on the display screen. No matter where your venture takes you, by turning on Foretrex’s TracBack feature, you can easily retrace your path and go back to where you started.

You are going to thank Garmin for this outstanding and lightweight handheld GPS device. Garmin Foretrex 401 Handheld GPS also allows you to see all of the different routes that some of the 12 million users have uploaded.

Specifications

Pros

• High-sensitivity GPS receiver with HotFix
• Supports dual position readout
• Keeps track of routes, tracks, and waypoints
• Up to 17 hours of battery life
• TracBack feature
• Easy to connect with computer and internet
• Batteries AAA Batteries Required (Included)

Our Verdict

Garmin Foretrex 401 Handheld GPS is a versatile GPS device which is best for those who love to spend their time by hiking, camping or skiing. This is one of the best handheld GPS devices that you will find on the market at such a good price. By looking at all of the features and detail information and by using it, you are going to love Garmin Foretrex 401 for sure.

04 Garmin Inreach Explorer Handheld GPS

Do you hate it when you are out of cell service in the middle of nowhere? Then Garmin Inreach Explorer Handheld GPS is clearly the best choice for you. This device offers you two-way texting via 100% global Iridium satellite network, which gives you most reliable and most wide-spread satellite network.

You can pair Garmin Inreach Explorer Handheld GPS with mobile devices using the free Earthmate app to enable even more capability and convenience. This product also allows you to get access to downloadable maps, U.S. NOAA charts, color aerial imagery and more via the Earthmate app. In addition, you can track and share your location with family and friends.

Specifications

Pros

• Two-way text messaging from anywhere
• Interactive SOS to the 24/7 search and rescue monitoring center
• Track and share your location
• Pair with your mobile devices
• Virtual keyboard for custom text messaging
• Up to 100 hours battery life tracking mode
• Waterproof against splashes, rain, etc.
• Display Type: Transflective Color TFT

Our Verdict

You can carry Garmin Inreach Explorer Handheld GPS as your primary communications and SOS device without any hesitation. It is packed with a load or stack of features, which are handy to have on top of the emergency essentials. When it comes to 2-way satellite communication then undoubtedly it is the leader and ruler of all handheld GPS devices.

05 Dual Electronics XGPS150A Handheld GPS

If all of our shiny gadgets are blessed with built-in GPS units, then they would be convenient for us considering that they can run navigation apps. Dual Electronics XGPS150 Bluetooth GPS Receiver solves this problem for you. This device works for any kind of smartphones and tablets including Apple iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch as well as Android, Windows, or Blackberry.

Wherever you are in the world, XGPS150A can determine your location signals from GPS satellites in the sky. It communicates with your device via Bluetooth wirelessly. In addition, you can connect your iOS devices via an app called “GPS status tool” by Dual Electronics.

The XGPS150 provides a non-slip pad so that you can use it in your car, bike or boat. It also includes two-piece armband for using the Dual GPS during hiking, jogging, cycling and other outdoor activities.

Specifications

Pros

• Add GPS wirelessly via Bluetooth
• GPS status tool
• Battery lifespan of 8.5 hours
• Wide area augment system
• USB charging cord
• Portable Attachments

Our Verdict

Dual Electronics XGPS150A Handheld GPS can be a perfect companion to your outdoor activities. You will be able to boost up and greatly strengthen your GPS signal on any device by connecting via Bluetooth within seconds.

06 Garmin GPSMAP 64s Handheld GPS

In case you are searching for a budget-friendly handheld GPS with good specifications, then Garmin GPSMAP 64s Handheld GPS should be on top of your priorities. This is indeed one of the best handheld GPS that comes at such a good price.

GPSMAP 64s has a built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, which will show your heading even when you’re standing still, without holding it level. Its barometric altimeter tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude, and you can even use it to plot barometric pressure over time, which can help you to keep an eye on changing weather conditions.

GPSMAP 64s has a built-in worldwide basemap, and it comes with a 1-year BirdsEye Satellite Imagery subscription. With photo navigation, you can download geotagged pictures from the Internet and navigate to them.

Specifications

Pros

• Sunlight Readable color display
• Expanded Internal Memory up to 8GB
• Dual battery system
• Smart notifications
• Tempe temperature sensor
• Heart rate monitor
• High-Sensitivity GPS and GLONASS Receiver
• Style With ANT+Bluetooth

Our Verdict

Compared to the other handheld GPS devices in the market, Garmin GPSMAP 64s Handheld GPS will give you almost same privileges but in a good & affordable price. If you are looking for quality but also you want it to be budget friendly, then Garmin GPSMAP 64s would be a fine choice for you.

07  Garmin Oregon 650t 64s Handheld GPS

Are you ready to come in or enter into a new world of handheld GPS device with high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS satellite tracking and multi-touchscreen display? The Garmin Oregon 650t is going to be a great choice for you.

Garmin Oregon 650t comes with an 8-megapixel digital camera with autofocus and digital zoom feature. You don’t have to convey the second device for taking pictures of your adventurous journey, though it is not DSLR photo quality is quite good enough. It also provides you with 16 hours of battery life with the advanced dual rechargeable battery system.

You can keep an eye on the changing weather conditions and make plans for your next trip with its Basecamp software. If the price or budget does not matter to you and you want some exclusive and brilliant features, then Garmin Oregon 650t would give you a wonderful and memorable experience.

Specifications

Pros

• Sunlight readable, multi-touchscreen display
• 8 megapixel Camera with autofocus
• Dual band GPS/GLONASS satellite positioning
• Dual battery system
• ANT or Bluetooth technology
• Advanced Elevation Plot
• High-speed USB
• Style: Topographic Maps & Digital Camera

Our Verdict

Garmin Oregon 650t gives you a whole new dimension to your adventure with its 8-megapixel digital camera, which takes surprisingly great quality photos. It may seem like a costly gadget, but by providing high-quality features and great performance, it does a proper judgment on the price.

08 Bad Elf 2200 Handheld GPS

Have a tight budget but cannot resist yourself from the accuracy and some good features? Then, this splash proof and lightweight Bad Elf 2200 Handheld GPS can be handy for you.

Bad Elf 2200 Handheld GPS comes with large LCD screen with backlight for night operation. In addition, you can connect up to 5 devices at a time via Bluetooth technology, which is compatible with the iPhone 5, new iPad, iPad mini, and iPod touch 5th generation.

You can also travel all day along with Bad Elf 2200 because this handheld GPS device offers you long-lasting battery life. Bad Elf 2200 can be a good companion to your hiking, camping, skiing or any other outdoor activities at such a moderate price.

Specifications

Pros

• Connect up to 5-devices at a time via Bluetooth
• Large LCD screen with backlight
• Extra-long battery life
• Rugged and splash-proof
• 10Hz reporting rate
• Standalone GPS data logger

Our Verdict

Bad Elf 2200 allows you to share your GPS in real time with your friends and family. Moreover, you can keep a record of your trip by taking advantage of the 100 hours of position storage. If money does matter to you, then Bad Elf 2200 wouldn’t let you down with its cool, brilliant and handy features.

09 Garmin Montana 610t Handheld GPS

Looking for a bold, tough and distinctive Camo-patterned handheld GPS device? Then here comes Garmin Montana 610t, which will give you all these privileges. Moreover, this best handheld GPS for hunting comes with a color touchscreen, dual-orientation and glove-friendly display that offers crystal clear, enhanced colors and high-resolution images.

Wherever you are in the deep woods or under heavy covers like tall buildings and trees, Garmin Montana 610t will locate your position quickly and precisely with its high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS reception and HotFix satellite prediction.

Garmin Montana 610t Handheld GPS includes 3-axis tilt compensated compass and barometric altimeter. This handheld GPS will also provide you 1-year Birdseye Satellite Imagery subscription.

Specifications

Pros

• Preloaded Geocaches
• High-sensitivity GPS AND GLONASS
• Track manager
• 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter
• 4-inch dual-orientation touchscreen display
• Wireless share

Our Verdict

Garmin Montana 610t is a versatile handheld GPS device for the outdoor enthusiast who demands both accuracy and exclusive look. If you consider the features, the price of this best hunting GPS will not bother you.

10 DeLorme AG 008727 Handheld GPS Units

Getting lost in the middle of nowhere, you do not want that right? Well, here comes the DeLorme AG 008727 Handheld GPS, which is considered the world’s first satellite communicator. This device lets you send and receive SMS/SOS and GPS messages and signals from any location, regardless of whether you’re in the deepest valleys or in the furthest corner of the world.

DeLorme AG 008727 comes with long-lasting battery life, and it also provides you a barometric altimeter, accelerometer, and digital compass. Moreover, you can pair it with your mobile device via Bluetooth technology. You can see your tracks, drop waypoints, and navigate with the on-screen map view. This life-saving GPS device can make you feel better in many ways.

Specifications

Pros

• Digital Compass
• Trigger an Interactive SOS
• GPS Navigation
• Send and Receive Text Messages
• Long lasting battery life
• Global SOS

Our Verdict

DeLorme AG-008727-201 is a great device that serves as both an emergency device and communication tool. It is a matter of the fact that its interface needs more improvement. But this device has such great functionalities that you can ignore this minor flaw.

Final Verdict

We have done our job by reviewing all these handheld GPS devices; now it is your turn to choose. You might already have found the most suitable GPS device for your upcoming ventures, but to take the best decision here, we present some ideas that will be helpful for you to take the best decision without any confusion.

If quality is the first thing to you, then the best option for you would be Garmin Foretrex 401 Handheld GPS. In case you want the most budget-friendly model, Garmin eTrex 10 Navigator Handheld GPS, and Dual Electronics XGPS150A Handheld GPS can be the best choice for you.

If the price does not matter much to you, then go for Garmin Inreach Explorer Handheld GPS. This handheld GPS device will not disappoint you. Want a good quality GPS device but also thinking about the budget? Then we would suggest you buy Bad Elf 2200 Handheld GPS. Still, by all means, the choice is yours. So, wait no more, and get ready for your next adventurous action!