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10 Best Compasses 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Garmin Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS, Features Glonass and Galileo, Heart Rate Monitoring and 3-Axis Compass, Graphite

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,261
Accuracy
Durability

Most important from
24147 reviews

Accuracy
The watch's GPS, heart rate monitor, altimeter, and waterproofing receive high marks for accuracy and reliability.
Durability
The watch is highly durable and can withstand rough handling, although the tactile feedback of the buttons may diminish over time.

The Garmin Instinct is a rugged outdoor watch that excels in challenging environments, making it a great choice for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter provide accurate navigation and elevation tracking, which is essential for hiking, camping, or exploring remote areas. With support for multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, Glonass, and Galileo), it enhances accuracy, especially in tricky terrain where GPS alone might struggle.

Durability is a standout feature; this watch meets U.S. Military standard 810G for thermal, shock, and water resistance, rated up to 100 meters. This means it can withstand rough handling and harsh weather conditions, which is a significant advantage for users engaged in outdoor activities.

In addition, the Instinct offers smart notifications and automatic data uploads to the Garmin Connect community, keeping users connected even in the wild. The battery life is impressive as well, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, which is beneficial for long trips when charging options are limited.

There are a few downsides to consider. While it performs well as a compass and GPS device, the watch is relatively bulky and might not be the most comfortable for all-day wear, especially for those who prefer a sleeker style. The display, while functional, is smaller and may not be as visually appealing as other smartwatches on the market. Additionally, some users might find the learning curve a bit steep when navigating through its various features and settings.

The Garmin Instinct is ideal for serious outdoor adventurers and fitness enthusiasts who need reliable navigation, durability, and connectivity. Those looking for a more stylish or lightweight option might want to explore other alternatives.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,261
Accuracy
Durability

Most important from
24147 reviews

Accuracy
The watch's GPS, heart rate monitor, altimeter, and waterproofing receive high marks for accuracy and reliability.
Durability
The watch is highly durable and can withstand rough handling, although the tactile feedback of the buttons may diminish over time.
#2

Garmin eTrex 32x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator

Rating
9.8
Accuracy
Durability
Additional Features

Most important from
561 reviews

Accuracy
For backcountry hiking, the eTrex 32x offers good accuracy, clear graphics, and impressive battery life.
Durability
The device's ability to run on AA batteries instead of lithium-ion is appreciated, as it ensures longevity and ease of maintenance.
Additional Features
It performs excellently even in areas where cell service and phone GPS fail, making it a reliable choice for emergencies and camping.
Size and Weight
There can be a noticeable lag-time for the screen to refresh, which, though minor, can be a nuisance.

The Garmin eTrex 32x is a rugged handheld GPS navigator that serves well for outdoor enthusiasts. This device includes a 3-axis compass, which is essential for accurate orientation. The 2.2-inch sunlight-readable color display ensures readability in bright conditions, and the 240 x 320 resolution provides clear visuals. The inclusion of preloaded TopoActive maps, which cover routing for roads and trails, is a strong point for hikers and cyclists.

Additionally, it supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, enhancing its accuracy and reliability in challenging environments where GPS alone might struggle. The eTrex 32x has an impressive battery life of up to 25 hours on two AA batteries, making it suitable for extended outdoor use. Its durability is another positive, designed to withstand rugged conditions. Weighing only 5 ounces and with compact dimensions, it is portable and convenient to carry.

However, it lacks advanced declination adjustment features found in some other high-end compasses. The device's internal memory of 8 GB, expandable via a micro SD card slot, is adequate for additional map downloads. One minor drawback is the reliance on physical buttons for interface navigation, which might be less intuitive compared to touchscreens. The eTrex 32x might not meet the needs of individuals who require advanced declination adjustment, but it excels in durability, battery life, and additional features, making it a solid choice for most outdoor activities.

Rating
9.8
Accuracy
Durability
Additional Features

Most important from
561 reviews

Accuracy
For backcountry hiking, the eTrex 32x offers good accuracy, clear graphics, and impressive battery life.
Durability
The device's ability to run on AA batteries instead of lithium-ion is appreciated, as it ensures longevity and ease of maintenance.
Additional Features
It performs excellently even in areas where cell service and phone GPS fail, making it a reliable choice for emergencies and camping.
Size and Weight
There can be a noticeable lag-time for the screen to refresh, which, though minor, can be a nuisance.
#3

SUUNTO MC-2/360/IN/D/NH Compass , White

Rating
9.7
Accuracy
Declination Adjustment
Additional Features

Most important from
5573 reviews

Accuracy
Reliability, accuracy, and ease of use make the SUUNTO MC-2 a top choice for serious navigation.
Declination Adjustment
The declination adjustment feature is praised for making complex calculations straightforward.
Additional Features
Glow-in-the-dark elements perform well in low-light conditions, though they need regular light exposure.
Size and Weight
Lightweight design is a noticeable improvement over bulkier, older compasses.

The SUUNTO MC-2 Compass is designed with serious outdoor activities in mind, making it a solid choice for hikers, skiers, and adventurers. One of its standout features is its global use capability, which is enhanced by the metric UTM scales and inch ruler, allowing for precise navigation in various environments. The compass excels in accuracy, even in low light conditions, thanks to its sighting hole and adjustable declination feature. This is particularly useful for those needing to correct for magnetic variation in different regions.

Durability is another strength of the SUUNTO MC-2. Made in Finland, it boasts a robust design that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The liquid-filled casing ensures stability and clear reading, which is crucial when you're trying to find your way in challenging terrains. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry without adding significant weight to a backpack.

The compass has excellent features for serious navigation, but it might be a bit overwhelming for casual users or those new to outdoor activities. The learning curve to fully utilize its advanced features, like the clinometer and declination adjustment, could deter beginners. Additionally, the plastic material, while durable, may not appeal to users looking for a more traditional or premium feel.

Rating
9.7
Accuracy
Declination Adjustment
Additional Features

Most important from
5573 reviews

Accuracy
Reliability, accuracy, and ease of use make the SUUNTO MC-2 a top choice for serious navigation.
Declination Adjustment
The declination adjustment feature is praised for making complex calculations straightforward.
Additional Features
Glow-in-the-dark elements perform well in low-light conditions, though they need regular light exposure.
Size and Weight
Lightweight design is a noticeable improvement over bulkier, older compasses.

Buying Guide for the Best Compasses

Choosing the right compass is essential for navigation, whether you're hiking, camping, or engaging in any outdoor activity. A compass helps you determine direction relative to the Earth's magnetic poles, ensuring you stay on course. When selecting a compass, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and provides accurate, reliable information.
Type of CompassThere are several types of compasses, including baseplate compasses, lensatic compasses, and digital compasses. Baseplate compasses are great for map reading and are commonly used by hikers and orienteers. Lensatic compasses, often used by the military, are known for their durability and precision. Digital compasses, which are often integrated into devices like watches and smartphones, offer convenience and additional features. Choose a type based on your specific needs and the activities you plan to undertake.
AccuracyAccuracy refers to how precisely a compass can indicate direction. This is crucial for ensuring you stay on the correct path. High-quality compasses typically offer better accuracy. For general hiking and outdoor activities, a compass with an accuracy of within 2-3 degrees is usually sufficient. For more precise navigation, such as in orienteering or professional use, look for compasses with higher accuracy, within 1 degree or less.
Declination AdjustmentDeclination adjustment allows you to account for the difference between magnetic north and true north. This is important because the Earth's magnetic field varies depending on your location. A compass with declination adjustment lets you set this difference, ensuring more accurate navigation. If you frequently travel to different regions, a compass with an easy-to-use declination adjustment feature is highly beneficial.
DurabilityDurability is important because a compass needs to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Look for compasses made from robust materials that can resist impacts, water, and extreme temperatures. If you plan to use your compass in harsh environments, prioritize models known for their ruggedness and reliability.
Additional FeaturesSome compasses come with additional features such as sighting mirrors, clinometers, and global needles. Sighting mirrors help with precise bearings, clinometers measure angles of slopes, and global needles work accurately in both hemispheres. Consider what extra features might be useful for your specific activities. For example, if you often hike in mountainous areas, a clinometer could be very helpful.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a compass can affect its portability and ease of use. Smaller, lightweight compasses are easier to carry and handle, making them ideal for backpacking and long hikes. However, larger compasses may offer more features and better readability. Choose a size and weight that balances convenience with functionality based on your needs.

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