10 Best Garmin Handheld Gps 2025 in the United States

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is designed for outdoor lovers who need a reliable way to communicate while hiking or camping. Its standout feature is the ability to send two-way messages and trigger an SOS signal via satellite, which is essential for safety in remote areas. The device is compact and lightweight (weighing only 3.5 ounces), making it easy to carry on any adventure. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 14 days in tracking mode, which is a big advantage for extended trips. Additionally, the TracBack routing feature allows users to easily navigate back to their starting point, enhancing its utility as a navigational tool.

On the downside, the screen size is relatively small at just 1.27 inches, which may make it challenging for some users to read maps or messages clearly. The display resolution is also modest, possibly limiting the detail visible on the screen. While the device is water-resistant, it may not be fully waterproof, so users should still exercise caution around water. Moreover, an active satellite subscription is required for most features, which adds an ongoing cost that potential buyers should consider.

The inReach Mini 2 pairs with the Garmin Explore app, enhancing trip planning with topographical maps and waypoints, but this feature might confuse those not familiar with tech. Despite these drawbacks, its functionality and safety features make it a great choice for serious hikers or those venturing into more remote locations.

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i is a rugged handheld GPS designed for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers and campers. One of its standout features is the 3-inch sunlight-readable color display, which ensures clear visibility even in bright conditions. The device boasts impressive battery life, offering up to 165 hours in tracking mode and an extended 425 hours in expedition mode, which is ideal for long trips where charging may not be feasible.

This GPS device excels in mapping and navigation, with preloaded TopoActive maps for North America and multi-band GNSS support that improves accuracy. Additionally, it allows for two-way messaging and location tracking through the Iridium satellite network, which can be invaluable for safety in remote locations. Utilizing these satellite features requires an active subscription, which may be a drawback for some users.

While the GPSMAP 67i is built to withstand the elements, its durability and waterproof rating make it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures. It also supports connectivity with smartphones for real-time weather updates and geocaching, enhancing its usability. The device may have a learning curve for those unfamiliar with GPS technology, though its user interface is relatively intuitive. The need for an additional subscription for premium mapping content through the Outdoor Maps+ service might also deter budget-conscious buyers.

The Garmin Montana 700 is a robust handheld GPS designed for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Its standout feature is the 5-inch touchscreen display, which is glove-friendly and provides a clear, easy-to-read interface with a resolution of 480 x 800. This is a significant improvement over previous models, making it user-friendly even in challenging conditions. The device is built to withstand tough environments, meeting MIL-STD 810 standards for thermal, shock, water (IPX7 rating), and vibration resistance, ensuring durability and reliability on all your adventures.

Battery life is supported by a lithium-ion pack, although exact duration isn't specified, users have found it dependable for extended trips. With multi-GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, the device offers comprehensive coverage and accurate tracking. Additionally, it comes preloaded with TopoActive maps and includes useful navigation sensors such as a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter. Connectivity is another strong point with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ANT+ allowing for seamless integration with Garmin's ecosystem, including direct BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads and support for the Garmin Explore app for detailed trip management.

However, one potential downside is its weight, at 14.6 ounces, which might be on the heavier side for some users. The device also offers versatile mounting options, making it adaptable to various outdoor vehicles. Despite a slightly high price point, the Garmin Montana 700 delivers a blend of durability, advanced navigation, and user-friendly features that make it an excellent choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.