10 Best Off Road Gps Units 2025 in the United States

The Garmin GPSMAP 65s is a solid choice for off-road enthusiasts who need reliable navigation in tough conditions. Its 2.6-inch color screen is sunlight-readable, which helps when you're outdoors, though the resolution is on the modest side, so details aren't super sharp. The device excels in satellite reception by using multi-band technology and supporting multiple global systems, meaning it stays accurate even in challenging environments like dense forests or steep terrain.

Battery life lasts about 16 hours on two AA batteries, which is decent for day trips but might require spares for longer adventures. The GPSMAP 65s comes preloaded with detailed TopoActive maps and U.S. public land boundaries, useful for hikers and hunters navigating off the beaten path. It also includes an altimeter and 3-axis compass for extra orientation help. The button-operated interface is straightforward but may feel less modern compared to touchscreen models; however, it's more reliable when gloves are on or in wet conditions.

Bluetooth connectivity allows syncing with the Garmin Explore app to manage routes and waypoints easily, though it requires a smartphone to use this feature fully. While not the lightest or smallest unit, its build quality is rugged enough to handle outdoor use. This model is designed for users who prioritize strong navigation features and durability over high-resolution displays or extensive battery life. It serves as a dependable tool for serious off-road navigation but might feel a bit basic for those wanting advanced mapping or longer battery endurance.

The Garmin eTrex 22x is a reliable handheld GPS unit designed for off-road adventures like camping and hiking. It features a 2.2-inch color display that is sunlight-readable, making it easier to view maps and data even in bright conditions. While the screen size is relatively small, the display resolution of 240 x 320 pixels ensures that details remain clear.

The unit is rugged and designed to withstand various outdoor elements. The device runs on 2 AA batteries, offering up to 25 hours of continuous use in GPS mode, which is quite impressive for extended outdoor activities without frequent battery changes. Preloaded with Topo Active maps, it includes routable roads and trails for both cycling and hiking, enhancing its navigation capabilities.

The eTrex 22x supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, providing better tracking accuracy in challenging environments like dense forests or deep valleys. With 8 GB of internal memory and a microSD slot, users can download additional maps as needed. The user interface relies on physical buttons, ensuring usability even with gloves on, though some might find it less intuitive compared to touchscreens. Weighing just 5 ounces and with compact dimensions, it is easy to carry around. With a robust design and strong functionality, the eTrex 22x is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts, though users seeking a larger screen or touchscreen interface might find it less appealing.

The Garmin eTrex 32x is a rugged, handheld GPS navigator designed for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Its 2.2-inch sunlight-readable color display with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels ensures good visibility in various lighting conditions. However, the screen size might feel small for users who prefer a larger display for easier navigation. The unit is built to withstand tough environments, making it a reliable choice for off-road adventurers. It boasts a battery life of up to 25 hours in GPS mode using two AA batteries, which is quite impressive for extended outdoor use.

The eTrex 32x comes preloaded with TopoActive maps that include routable roads and trails, enhancing its navigation capabilities. Additionally, it supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, offering improved tracking accuracy, especially in challenging environments. The device includes a 3-axis compass and a barometric altimeter, which are valuable tools for precise navigation and altitude measurement. With 8 GB of internal memory and a microSD card slot, users have ample space for additional map downloads.

The user interface, operated via buttons, may not be as intuitive as touchscreen models, but it is straightforward and reliable. Connectivity features include ANT+ technology, although it lacks modern wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which could limit some functionalities. The Garmin eTrex 32x ranks well in terms of durability, battery life, and mapping features. However, its smaller screen size and limited connectivity options might be drawbacks for some users. It's particularly suited for outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable and long-lasting GPS unit for their adventures.