10 Best Off Road Gps Units 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Tread Powersport Off-Road Navigator stands out as a reliable choice for off-road enthusiasts who need a durable and feature-rich GPS device. Its rugged design, with an IPX7 water rating, ensures it can withstand tough outdoor conditions, making it ideal for ATVs and snowmobiles. The 5.5-inch ultrabright touchscreen is glove-friendly, which is particularly useful when navigating in colder climates. It comes preloaded with extensive topographic maps of North and Central America, including detailed information on public and private lands, which enhances its utility for off-road adventures.

One of the significant strengths of the Tread is its mapping and navigation features, including access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery without a subscription, which is a fantastic perk for those who want to explore new areas. The built-in altimeter, barometer, and compass also add to its navigational capabilities, helping users tackle challenging terrains effectively. Plus, it can sync with the Tread app for seamless waypoint and track management across devices, which many outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The battery life, while decent at around 6 hours, may not be sufficient for extended off-road trips without access to charging options. Additionally, while it pairs with inReach satellite communicators for global communication, these devices require a separate purchase and subscription, which could add to overall costs. Some users might also find the user interface a bit complex if they're not familiar with GPS devices, so there could be a learning curve involved.

The Garmin Tread Overland 8” Powersport Navigator Bundle is a solid choice for adventurers seeking reliable off-road navigation. With its 8-inch ultrabright touchscreen, it provides great visibility in various lighting conditions, making it easier to read maps and navigate challenging terrains. Durability is a standout feature; this GPS unit is rugged and waterproof, designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, which is essential for off-road expeditions. The preloaded topographical maps and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery also enhance navigation, giving users access to important details about their surroundings.

Battery life is decent, lasting about 6 hours, but for long excursions, you may need to plan for recharging, although the bundled PlayBetter 5000mAh portable charger helps alleviate this issue. The built-in inReach technology is a key advantage, offering global satellite communication, two-way messaging, and SOS capabilities, which can be vital in emergencies.

On the downside, the device's interface may take some time to get used to, especially for those not familiar with GPS systems. Additionally, at around 4.3 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for some users who prefer lighter gear. While the device does have Bluetooth connectivity, it lacks some additional advanced features that other competitors might offer at a similar price point. The Garmin Tread Overland GPS is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a dependable, feature-rich navigator that excels in harsh environments. It's a great fit for ATVs and UTVs, but users should consider battery life and weight when planning their outdoor adventures.

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.