Best Altimeter Handheld GPS of 2026

The Garmin GPSMAP 65s is a button-operated handheld GPS device with an altimeter and compass, expanded satellite support, and multi-band technology. It has a large 2.6” sunlight-readable color display for easy viewing, and includes routable TopoActive mapping and federal public land map (U.S. only). It is compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app, and has a battery life of 16 hours.

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is designed to keep up with your outdoor adventures by using solar power to extend battery life significantly. You can wear it all day and enjoy practically unlimited battery life in smartwatch mode if you spend a few hours outside in bright sunlight. When using GPS, it lasts up to 48 hours with continuous solar exposure, perfect for long trips. The watch also offers specialized tactical features like Jumpmaster mode and waypoint projection, helping you navigate and plan with precision. Plus, stealth mode lets you turn off wireless signals for discreet use. This makes the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar a reliable companion for both everyday wear and rugged, tactical missions.

The Garmin eTrex 32x is a rugged handheld GPS navigator that is preloaded with Topo Active maps and supports GPS and GLONASS satellite systems. It features a 2.2” sunlight-readable color display, 8 GB of internal memory, a 3-axis compass, and barometric altimeter. With 2 AA batteries, it offers up to 25 hours of battery life in GPS mode. It is perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

The Garmin Instinct 2S Watch is built tough for outdoor adventures, featuring a durable design that resists water up to 100 meters, shocks, and extreme temperatures. This makes it perfect for users who need a watch that can handle rough conditions. Its battery lasts up to 21 days in smartwatch mode, so you can rely on it for long trips without frequent charging. You’ll also appreciate smart notifications and app compatibility when connected to your phone, keeping you informed on the go. Plus, with multiple navigation systems and a built-in compass and altimeter, you can confidently track your route and elevation wherever you explore.

The Garmin Foretrex 801 is a wrist-mounted GPS navigator that offers advanced navigation features and longer battery life. With its monochromatic screen, it is easy to read in various lighting conditions. Equipped with a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis compass, and barometric altimeter, this device helps you navigate the terrain with precision. The upgraded multi-band signal reception technology ensures improved position accuracy. Additionally, the Foretrex 801 offers features like stealth mode to protect your privacy, a kill switch to erase device memory for security purposes, and night vision compatibility. You can also connect it to the Garmin Explore app to plan and review your adventures, and receive smart notifications when paired with your smartphone.

The Garmin GPSMAP 67i GPS is a rugged handheld device designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It supports multiple satellite systems like GPS and Galileo, helping you get accurate location data even in tough environments. The built-in sensors, including an altimeter and compass, offer important information about elevation and direction, making navigation easier. Its bright 3-inch screen shows detailed maps that you can download via Wi-Fi, helping you plan routes and explore with confidence. Plus, the device syncs with the Garmin Explore app on your phone, letting you manage waypoints and messages smoothly during your trips.

The Garmin Alpha 200i Dog Tracking Handheld is a reliable and user-friendly device for keeping track of your dogs. With its sunlight-readable 3.5” capacitive touchscreen display and a button-operated, dog-focused design, you can easily set up and monitor up to 20 dogs from up to 9 miles away with a 2.5-second update rate by using multiple global navigation satellite systems. The dog list and group management feature lets you keep inactive dogs in the system for easier setup. With interactive SOS alerts and two-way messaging, you can stay connected with your dogs via the 100% global Iridium satellite network. Moreover, the Preloaded TopoActive maps, direct-to-device BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, and built-in three-axis compass and barometric altimeter make it an all-in-one device for hunting and outdoor activities.

The Garmin Foretrex 701 is designed for adventure, built to meet military standards, ensuring durability even in tough conditions. It supports multiple satellite systems like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, giving you precise location data no matter where you are. With advanced navigation sensors, including a 3-axis accelerometer, compass, and barometric altimeter, you can confidently track your path. Additionally, smart notifications keep you connected by allowing you to receive messages and alerts right on your device, making it easier to stay informed while on the move.

The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a rugged, water-resistant handheld GPS with a high-resolution color display and scratch-resistant, fogproof glass. It features increased memory to save and track 10,000 waypoints, 250 routes, and 300 fit activities, and supports multiple satellite constellations for reliable tracking around the world. The device comes preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts, has a built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass, and a barometric altimeter that tracks changes in pressure to pinpoint your precise altitude. The battery life is up to 20 hours in GPS mode.