10 Best GPS Compasses 2025 in the United States

The Garmin eTrex 22x is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable handheld GPS. It offers impressive accuracy, thanks to support for both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, which ensures better tracking in difficult environments. This is crucial for activities like hiking and cycling where precision is paramount. The battery life is commendable, lasting up to 25 hours on two AA batteries, making it suitable for long adventures without frequent recharging.

Its durability is another strong point, with a rugged design that can withstand rough handling and challenging weather conditions. The 2.2-inch sunlight-readable color display, though relatively small, provides clear visibility in different lighting conditions. Preloaded Topo Active maps make it easy to navigate trails and roads right out of the box, adding to its convenience.

However, the internal memory of 8 GB may feel limiting for users who need extensive map storage, although this can be expanded with a micro SD card. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity is a modern touch, but it might not be as advanced as some higher-end models that offer more robust wireless features. The Garmin eTrex 22x is a durable and reliable GPS navigator with solid battery life and accurate tracking, ideally suited for hikers, cyclists, and campers. Its main drawbacks are the smaller screen size and limited internal memory, but these are counterbalanced by its functionality and dependability.

The Garmin GPSMAP 65s is a feature-packed handheld GPS compass that stands out with its high accuracy and reliability in challenging environments. This device utilizes expanded global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and multi-band technology, ensuring precise location tracking even in steep, urban, or densely forested areas. The 2.6-inch color display is sunlight-readable, which makes it easy to view maps and data in bright outdoor conditions.

Its mapping capabilities are enhanced with preloaded TopoActive maps and federal public land boundaries (U.S. only), providing detailed and useful navigation information for outdoor activities like hunting, camping, and hiking. The 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter enhance navigation and provide additional data for users. Additionally, it offers connectivity through Bluetooth, allowing users to manage tracks, routes, and waypoints via the Garmin Explore website and app when paired with a compatible smartphone.

On the downside, the device operates with buttons instead of a touchscreen, which might be less intuitive for some users. The display resolution is relatively low at 160 x 240 pixels, which may not provide the sharpest view. Furthermore, it requires 2 AA batteries, which are included, but frequent replacement might be necessary depending on usage, potentially affecting convenience. At 7.7 ounces, it is lightweight but may feel bulky for some. Despite these drawbacks, the Garmin GPSMAP 65s excels in providing accurate and reliable navigation support for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Garmin eTrex SE GPS Handheld Navigator is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers and campers. One of its standout features is the impressive battery life, which can last up to 168 hours in standard mode and a remarkable 1,800 hours in expedition mode with 2 AA batteries, making it highly reliable for long trips. The device is also water-resistant with an IPX7 rating, ensuring durability in various weather conditions. Its 2.2-inch high-resolution screen is easy to read even in bright sunlight, which is a significant plus for daytime navigation.

In terms of accuracy, the Garmin eTrex SE excels with its Multi-GNSS support, providing access to multiple satellite systems, thereby enhancing tracking in challenging environments. The digital compass also offers accurate bearings even when the user is stationary. However, the small screen size might not be ideal for those who prefer larger displays for detailed mapping.

On the mapping front, the device pairs with the Garmin Explore app, offering additional mapping capabilities, trip planning, and real-time weather updates, although this requires a compatible smartphone to fully utilize. Connectivity is strong with Bluetooth and USB options, but the reliance on a smartphone for some features might be seen as a limitation for users seeking a fully standalone device. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin eTrex SE is a rugged, reliable GPS navigator with extensive battery life and excellent multi-satellite support, making it highly suitable for outdoor adventures.