10 Best Off Road Gps Units 2026 in the United States

The Garmin Tread XL Baja Chase Edition is designed specifically for off-road racing support, featuring a large 10.1-inch ultrabright touchscreen that ensures visibility of maps and navigation details even in bright desert conditions. Its rugged IP67 rating allows it to withstand dust, water splashes, and rough terrain typical of off-road environments. The device weighs about 2.1 pounds and includes mounting options for quick transfer between chase trucks, which is convenient for team support during events.

The GPS unit offers strong mapping capabilities, including support for high-resolution satellite imagery and GPX course files to help users follow race routes and virtual checkpoints precisely. Its inReach satellite communication and team tracking features enable real-time location sharing and messaging, valuable for team coordination, although these require an active subscription and may have legal restrictions in certain areas. Additional navigation tools such as custom pacenotes and chase mode assist with route planning and tracking during races.

Potential drawbacks include the relatively short battery life of about 6 hours and the moderately heavy weight, which could be concerns during extended or handheld use. Bluetooth connectivity is basic and lacks more advanced wireless options. While the touchscreen interface is user-friendly, some users unfamiliar with Garmin’s system may experience a learning curve. This GPS unit is particularly well-suited for professional off-road racers and support teams requiring rugged, precise navigation and communication features in demanding environments.

The Garmin Tread SxS is designed specifically for powersport riders, making it a strong choice if you frequently go off-road on ATVs or UTVs. Its 8-inch ultrabright touchscreen is large and easy to read even in sunlight, and it’s glove-friendly, which is great when you’re riding. The device is built tough with dust and water resistance (IP67), so it can handle rough outdoor conditions without worry. However, the battery lasts about 3.5 hours, so you’ll likely need to keep it connected to your vehicle’s power for longer trips. Navigation-wise, it offers turn-by-turn directions on trails and roads using detailed preloaded topographic and road maps, which also factor in vehicle size for safer routing. This makes it helpful for exploring unfamiliar terrain, although map data might not be perfect everywhere, so common sense about road conditions is still important.

The built-in inReach satellite communication adds safety with global text messaging and SOS, but it does require a subscription. One standout feature is the Group Ride Radio, which lets you stay connected with up to 20 riders via push-to-talk and location sharing – a real bonus for group outings, though all riders need the same device, and vehicle power is required for this to work. The interface is user-friendly, pairing with a smartphone app for route planning and syncing trip data. Extra sensors like an altimeter and compass help with navigating difficult terrain. The Garmin Tread SxS is not the cheapest option, but it offers rugged durability, useful communication tools, and precise navigation tailored for off-road adventures, making it a worthy consideration if you want a specialized GPS built for powersport vehicles.

The Garmin dezl OTR720 is designed primarily for truck drivers needing reliable, truck-specific navigation. Its 7-inch high-resolution touchscreen is large and clear, making it easy to see maps and alerts even in the cab. While it’s built with durability suitable for vehicle use, extreme off-road conditions might require extra care as detailed ruggedness specifications are not emphasized. The battery life is decent with a lithium-ion battery included, but the device is mainly powered while mounted, so extended unplugged use may be limited.

A standout feature is the custom truck routing that considers your truck’s size and weight, along with useful alerts for bridges, sharp curves, and road hazards. This is complemented by Birdseye satellite imagery for detailed arrival previews and a community-driven system showing truck parking, loading docks, and secure entrances, which is handy for planning stops. Satellite reception is strong, supported by Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity that link with the dēzl app for enhanced features like wind speed overlays, PrePass weigh station notifications, and live weather alerts.

The user interface is friendly, featuring touchscreen interaction and clear menus, although some advanced features require pairing with a smartphone app. Connectivity options include Bluetooth and wireless connections, adding convenience but relying on smartphone integration. This GPS is best suited for truckers seeking specialized routing and community features rather than casual off-road explorers. For professional drivers, the Garmin dezl OTR720 offers a solid combination of navigation accuracy, useful mapping tools, and connectivity that can enhance route planning and safety.