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 700i is a robust handheld GPS designed for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate reliability and advanced features. With a 5-inch touchscreen, the display is larger than earlier models, providing clear visibility even in bright conditions. This rugged device boasts military-grade durability and a waterproof rating, making it an excellent companion for various outdoor adventures. The multi-GNSS support, which includes GPS and Galileo, ensures accurate navigation, and the preloaded TopoActive maps and City Navigator street maps further enhance its usability.

One standout feature is the built-in inReach satellite technology, allowing users to communicate globally via two-way messaging, which can be crucial in emergencies. The interactive SOS feature adds an extra layer of safety, connecting users to a monitoring center whenever needed. Additionally, the connectivity options, including Bluetooth, ANT+, and Wi-Fi, enable users to access BirdsEye Satellite Imagery and other data directly on the device.

Potential users should keep in mind that utilizing the inReach satellite capabilities requires an active subscription, which might not be ideal for everyone. Battery life can also vary depending on usage, especially when utilizing features like satellite communication, which can drain the battery faster than standard GPS functions. The device is a bit heavy at 1.45 pounds, which might be a consideration for long hikes. The Garmin Montana 700i is ideal for avid outdoor adventurers and those who value safety and connectivity while navigating remote areas. Its combination of a large touchscreen, rugged design, and advanced mapping features make it a strong competitor in the handheld GPS market, despite some potential drawbacks related to weight and subscription costs.