10 Best Handheld Gps Devices 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Black
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a very compact and lightweight handheld GPS device designed especially for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who want reliable global satellite communication. Its standout feature is two-way messaging and SOS alerts anywhere in the world, which requires an active satellite subscription. The device offers solid navigation tools like TracBack routing to help you retrace your path and a digital compass that works even when stationary. It syncs with the Garmin Explore app for easy trip planning and sharing your location with friends or family. The screen is small (1.27 inches) and monochrome, making it easy to read in sunlight but not ideal if you need detailed map visuals.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,352
Battery Life
Durability
Screen Size and Resolution
Most important from
2172 reviews
#2
Garmin inReach® Mini 3 Plus, Rugged Global Satellite Communicator with Touchscreen Texting, Photo & Voice Messaging, Emergency SOS Messages & Battery Up to 350 Hours with 10-min inReach® Tracking
The Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus is a compact, lightweight satellite communicator designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable connection beyond cell coverage. Its standout feature is global satellite communication via the Iridium network, allowing SOS messaging, two-way text, photo sharing, and even voice messaging when paired with a smartphone app. This makes it a solid choice for safety on remote adventures. The device offers excellent battery life, lasting up to 350 hours with periodic tracking, which is impressive for extended trips where charging options are limited.
Rating
9.7
Durability
User Interface and Ease of Use
Connectivity
Most important from
90 reviews
#3
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Orange - 010-02602-00
The Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a compact and lightweight handheld GPS device, making it ideal for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Weighing only 3.5 ounces, it is easy to carry and doesn't add much bulk to your gear. One of its standout features is the ability to send two-way messages and interactive SOS signals globally, provided you have an active satellite subscription. This can be a lifesaver in remote areas where cell service is unavailable.
Rating
9.4
Battery Life
Connectivity
User Interface and Ease of Use
Most important from
2175 reviews
Top 10 Best Handheld Gps Devices 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Black
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Black
Battery Life: 336 Hours
Screen Size and Resolution: 1.27 Inch, Monochrome, MIP
Mapping and Navigation Features: TracBack routing, digital compass
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: Buttons, Resistive Touch Screen
Chosen by 1352 this week
Garmin inReach® Mini 3 Plus, Rugged Global Satellite Communicator with Touchscreen Texting, Photo & Voice Messaging, Emergency SOS Messages & Battery Up to 350 Hours with 10-min inReach® Tracking
Garmin inReach® Mini 3 Plus, Rugged Global Satellite Communicator with Touchscreen Texting, Photo & Voice Messaging, Emergency SOS Messages & Battery Up to 350 Hours with 10-min inReach® Tracking
Battery Life: 350 Hours
Durability: Rugged, weather-resistant, IP67, scratch-resistant
Screen Size and Resolution: 1.9 Inches
Mapping and Navigation Features: North America maps, Garmin Explore app
Connectivity: Bluetooth
User Interface and Ease of Use: Touchscreen, buttons, voice commands
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Orange - 010-02602-00
Garmin inReach Mini 2, Lightweight and Compact Satellite Communicator, Hiking Handheld, Orange - 010-02602-00
Accuracy: Built-in digital compass
Battery Life: 14 days in tracking mode
Durability and Waterproof Rating: Water resistance
Screen Size and Resolution: 1.27 inches, 176 x 176 pixels
Mapping and Navigation Features: TracBack routing, MapShare
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: User-friendly interface, touchscreen input
Garmin inReach® Mini 3, Rugged Compact Global Satellite Communicator with Color Touchscreen, Two-Way Texting, Emergency SOS Messaging & Long Battery Life Up to 350 Hours with 10-min inReach® Tracking
Garmin inReach® Mini 3, Rugged Compact Global Satellite Communicator with Color Touchscreen, Two-Way Texting, Emergency SOS Messaging & Long Battery Life Up to 350 Hours with 10-min inReach® Tracking
Battery Life: 350 Hours
Durability: IP67 water resistant
Screen Size and Resolution: 1.9 Inches
Mapping and Navigation Features: North America maps, Garmin app
Connectivity: Bluetooth
User Interface and Ease of Use: 1.9-inch color touchscreen, buttons
SingularXYZ E1 RTK GNSS Survey Equipment GPS Receiver with IMU Rover & Base Handheld Collector Land Surveying Equipment, Navigation System Survey Software(Include Pole, Tribrach, Tripod)
SingularXYZ E1 RTK GNSS Survey Equipment GPS Receiver with IMU Rover & Base Handheld Collector Land Surveying Equipment, Navigation System Survey Software(Include Pole, Tribrach, Tripod)
Accuracy: centimeter-level precision
Battery Life: 20 Hours
Durability and Waterproof Rating: highly durable, waterproof
Screen Size and Resolution: 1 Inch
Mapping and Navigation Features: full-constellation tracking, IMU, 60° tilt
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, NFC
User Interface and Ease of Use: straightforward interface, SingularPad software
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Garmin Alpha 300 Handheld, Advanced Tracking and Training Handheld
Garmin Alpha 300 Handheld, Advanced Tracking and Training Handheld
Accuracy: Monitor 20 dogs up to 9 miles
Battery Life: 55 Hours
Durability and Waterproof Rating: Rugged use, waterproof
Screen Size and Resolution: 3.5 Inches, 320 x 480
Mapping and Navigation Features: Preloaded maps, satellite imagery, compass
Connectivity: Bluetooth
User Interface and Ease of Use: Touchscreen, Buttons
Garmin Montana® 710, Rugged GPS Handheld Navigator with Large 5-inch Glove-Friendly Touchscreen, Satellite Imagery and Maps for Routing on Roads and Trails
Garmin Montana® 710, Rugged GPS Handheld Navigator with Large 5-inch Glove-Friendly Touchscreen, Satellite Imagery and Maps for Routing on Roads and Trails
Accuracy: GPS, Galileo
Battery Life: 24 Hours
Durability: Meets military shock, vibration, water-resistant
Screen Size and Resolution: 5 Inches
Mapping and Navigation Features: Preloaded TopoActive, downloadable charts
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: Capacitive touchscreen, responsive, some complexity
Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus Satellite Communicator with Color Touchscreen, Two-Way Text Voice and Photo Messaging, Interactive SOS, LiveTrack Location Sharing and Up to 350 Hours Battery Life
Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus Satellite Communicator with Color Touchscreen, Two-Way Text Voice and Photo Messaging, Interactive SOS, LiveTrack Location Sharing and Up to 350 Hours Battery Life
Battery Life: 350 Hours
Durability: IP67 rating
Screen Size and Resolution: 0.9 Inches
Mapping and Navigation Features: Worldwide maps, trip planning, SOS
Connectivity: Iridium satellite, USB, smartphone pairing
User Interface and Ease of Use: Color touchscreen, touch, voice commands
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable Handheld GPS for Hiking, Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Black)
Garmin inReach Mini 2 Satellite Communicator, Lightweight Compact Rugged Design, Portable Handheld GPS for Hiking, Text Messaging Device Bundle with Accessories (Black)
Battery Life: 336 Hours
Durability: Military standard durability and water resistance
Screen Size and Resolution: 0.9 Inches, 176x176
Mapping and Navigation Features: TrackBack, compass, worldwide maps
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wireless, Ant+
User Interface and Ease of Use: Buttons and capacitive touchscreen
#10
Garmin GPSMAP 67 Rugged GPS Handheld, Multi-Band GNSS, Topo Mapping, Satellite Imagery, Color Display
Garmin GPSMAP 67 Rugged GPS Handheld, Multi-Band GNSS, Topo Mapping, Satellite Imagery, Color Display
Accuracy: advanced multi-band GNSS technology
Battery Life: 182h regular, 840h expedition mode
Durability: rugged, built for rough conditions
Screen Size and Resolution: 3-inch sunlight-readable color screen
Mapping and Navigation Features: topo maps, satellite images, compass
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB
User Interface and Ease of Use: buttons only, no touchscreen
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Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Gps Devices
When choosing a handheld GPS device, it's important to consider how and where you plan to use it. Whether you're hiking, geocaching, or navigating off-road, the right GPS device can make a significant difference in your experience. Focus on the key specifications that will impact your usage the most, and think about your specific needs and preferences to find the best fit for you.AccuracyAccuracy refers to how precisely the GPS device can determine your location. This is crucial for activities like hiking or geocaching where knowing your exact position is important. Accuracy can vary based on the number of satellites the device can connect to and the quality of its receiver. Devices with higher accuracy are generally better for detailed navigation, while those with moderate accuracy might suffice for general use.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the device can operate before needing a recharge or new batteries. This is especially important for long trips or remote areas where recharging might not be possible. Devices with longer battery life are ideal for extended outdoor activities, while shorter battery life might be acceptable for shorter, day-long excursions.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the device can withstand harsh conditions such as rain, dust, and drops. This is important if you plan to use the GPS in rugged environments. Look for devices with high durability ratings, often indicated by IP ratings (e.g., IPX7 for water resistance). More durable devices are better for extreme conditions, while less durable ones might be fine for casual use.
Screen Size and ResolutionScreen size and resolution affect how easy it is to read maps and data on the device. Larger screens with higher resolution provide clearer and more detailed views, which can be helpful for navigation. However, they may also consume more battery. Smaller screens might be more portable and energy-efficient but can be harder to read. Choose based on your preference for readability versus portability.
Mapping and Navigation FeaturesMapping and navigation features include preloaded maps, the ability to add new maps, and navigation aids like waypoints and route planning. These features are essential for finding your way and planning trips. Advanced mapping features are beneficial for complex navigation and exploring new areas, while basic features might be sufficient for straightforward routes.
ConnectivityConnectivity options such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ANT+ allow the GPS device to connect with other devices and accessories. This can be useful for syncing data, receiving updates, or using additional sensors. More connectivity options provide greater flexibility and functionality, but might not be necessary if you prefer a standalone device.
User Interface and Ease of UseThe user interface and ease of use determine how intuitive and straightforward the device is to operate. A user-friendly interface is important for quickly accessing features and making adjustments on the go. Devices with simpler interfaces are better for beginners, while more complex interfaces might offer advanced features for experienced users.