Best Compass 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.

Stay connected and safe on your outdoor adventures with the Garmin inReach Mini 2. This lightweight and compact satellite communicator enables two-way messaging and interactive SOS globally, with a special feature of Bluetooth and water resistance. You can navigate back to your starting point with TracBack routing and share your location with loved ones back home using your MapShare page or coordinates embedded in your messages. The digital compass provides accurate heading information even when you're not moving. Sync with the Garmin Explore app and website on your compatible smartphone for trip planning and topographical mapping. With a battery life of up to 14 days in 10-minute tracking mode, the inReach Mini 2 is a reliable companion on your adventures.

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar is designed to keep you going longer with its solar charging feature, which can provide unlimited battery life in smartwatch mode when you spend at least 3 hours daily in sunlight. This means you don’t have to worry about frequent recharging during your outdoor adventures. The watch also offers up to 48 hours of GPS use with continuous solar exposure, making it ideal for long trips. It comes with built-in sports apps that support activities like running, biking, swimming, and strength training, helping you track and improve your fitness. Plus, it connects to your smartphone for smart notifications and additional app options, keeping you linked to what matters while on the move.

This handheld GPS navigator by Garmin comes with a 2.2” high-resolution screen that is easy to read even in bright sunlight. It has long battery life of up to 168 hours in standard mode and up to 1,800 hours in expedition mode. The device supports multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS) to track in more challenging environments than GPS alone. You can pair it with the Garmin Explore app on your compatible smartphone for wireless software updates, trip planning, Active Weather, smart notifications and additional mapping. It also comes with a water-resistant design and digital compass.

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 Mini 2 is a compact and rugged satellite communicator by Garmin. It utilizes the Iridium satellite network, allowing two-way messaging globally. In emergencies, the Interactive SOS feature can trigger prompt support. The device's small size and durability make it perfect for outdoor adventures. With features like TracBack Routing, you can easily navigate back to your starting point. The bundle includes essential accessories for your convenience.

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.