use garmin nuvi as a tft display brands

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Afghanistan, Africa, Albania, American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Aruba, Austria, Azerbaijan Republic, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, British Virgin Islands, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Cayman Islands, China, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Fiji, Finland, French Polynesia, Georgia, Gibraltar, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guernsey, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, Jersey, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macedonia, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mexico, Micronesia, Middle East, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands Antilles, New Caledonia, Nicaragua, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Russian Federation, Saint Kitts-Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South America, Sri Lanka, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Sweden, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City State, Virgin Islands (U.S.), Wallis and Futuna, Western Samoa

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Brand Garmin Color Black/Orange Are Batteries Included Yes Screen Size 3 Inches Human Interface Input Buttons Display Type Color TFT Item Dimensions LxWxH 6.4 x 2.6 x 1.4 inches Connectivity Technology Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi Map Type Topographical Battery Life 16 Hours

UPDATE: Screen visibility took a major leap forward recently with the Garmin Oregon 450, and it appears that later production runs of the 550 series now include the improved screen.

The new Garmin Colorado and Magellan Triton series (and now the Garmin Oregon too) have higher resolution screens than anything we’ve seen before in handheld GPS receivers. But those gorgeous and detailed displays come at a cost. Many early adopters have been surprised by the decreased visibility of these units in their natural habitat — the great outdoors.

To understand what’s going on here, let’s take a brief look at the technology involved. Handheld units typically use thin film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal displays (LCDs). These TFTs use a polarizing filter that determines how light is used. There are three different TFT technologies that can be used in displays:

The problem is the increased number of pixels per square inch in these new, high resolution, receivers. Basically, more pixels equals less reflectivity. I’m no expert in this technology, but a couple of folks have tried to address it over at Groundspeak in this thread on the Garmin Colorado backlight.

I found it usable under light canopy, but severely limited in the brightest conditions. Interestingly enough, my Garmin Colorado 300 is more legible in full sun than in cloudy conditions, though in general it seems to outperform the Triton screen (I hope to have a full review of the Colorado 300 posted in the near future). These companies may be using different transflective technologies; the Triton 1500’s performance is also impacted by the additional touch screen layer.

“Our engineers pushed the limits of technology with the Colorado’s vivid 3-inch display, working to bring Garmin’s customers the best resolution and readability without conceding quality in either category,” said spokesman Jake Jacobson.

I don’t think this is a deal-killer on these units. Just don’t expect a super-bright screen in all conditions. Which is something you may have on your current GPS!

GPSMAP 65 is a Garmin mountain GPS that will keep you on the road through its multiband technology and expanded GNSS support (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and IRNSS ). This device has a 2.6-inch color screen and a resolution of 160 x 240 pixels.

The configuration of this device contains preloaded maps that will show you streets, roads, characteristics, the surface, existence of buildings, coasts, lakes, rivers, streams, among others. Its maximum capacity is 32GB and if you want you can add a micro SD memory. If you pair your smartphone you will be able to receive emails, messages and alerts.

For its operation it requires 2 Aa batteries (not included) and Nimh or lithium is recommended with autonomy is 16 hours. If you wish. You can connect the device with Bluetooth and Ant +. You will be able to know through its calendar, the fishing season as well as 250 points per route.

- Multi-band technology and expanded GNSS support (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and IRNSS) provide optimal accuracy in steep country, urban canyons and forests with dense trees.

- Preloaded TopoActive Europe maps provide detailed views of routable street and off-road networks, waterways, natural features, land use areas, buildings and more.

- Plan, review and sync waypoints, routes and tracks by using the Garmin Explore app1 and website. You can even review completed activities while still in the field.

Are you looking for materials from Garmin and specially Garmin GPSMAP 65 GPS? At trekkinn, you can find a complete list of Electronics products and outdoor accessories. Place all your orders through our online store trekkinn. You have 75 ways of payment. Check the catalogue and get special outdoor promotions. And if you are not satisfied we will return your money.

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The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is at the top of its class in terms of accuracy and reliability, earning it our top honors. It boasts a powerful quad-helix antenna and reliably connects to more satellite networks with greater accuracy than most other models. Even in less than ideal locations, like under thick tree cover or in a tight slot canyon, the GPSMAP 66st is able to maintain a satellite connection. When in the range of cell service, this unit can pair with your smartphone to overlay real-time weather data on your maps. Its 16GB of internal memory is more than double most other units and comes preloaded with topo maps for the US and Canada, as well as subscription-free access to Garmin"s Bird"s Eye Imagery.

As to be expected, all of these attributes come at a high price point. If you intend to go on a bunch of expeditionary trips or need high accuracy for field research, the Garmin GPSMAP 66st is worth every penny. For casual recreation, this device may be overkill. Even additional features, such as wirelessly linking to your phone, require a cumbersome setup process. While this unit doesn"t feature a built-in touchscreen, we appreciate the large buttons and intuitive layout. The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is undoubtedly a powerful device, but it"s also easy to use, even in the most extreme field conditions.

For those seeking a straightforward GPS that doesn"t sacrifice much in terms of pure navigation performance, the Garmin eTrex 32x boxes well above its weight class when compared directly with more advanced units. An excellent value that does not skimp in terms of reception and processing speed, this device even comes preloaded with Garmin"s TopoActive basemap, which offers sufficient data for those who don"t want to mess with having to find and upload individual maps. The available accuracy linking both GPS and GLONASS networks is only improved by the addition of a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis digital compass — two sensors often only reserved for much more expensive GPS units. Yet, this enhanced capability somehow doesn"t affect its size and weight. Just as small and lightweight as other models in the eTrex line, this compact GPS can easily be stashed away in a pack or tossed into a pocket for a day hike.

There are still some limitations to this otherwise impressive handheld. Even though it has the ability for routable navigation, the relatively tiny screen is not reasonable for finding your way around a new city via car or even daily driving. It is also still very much a base-level GPS unit — although it supports Garmin"s BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, it doesn"t offer the same level of connectivity as more advanced units. Similarly, many used to modern user interfaces will find the joystick and T9-style keyboards clunky or tedious compared to the normalized convenience of a touchscreen. But as either a plug-and-play option for simple navigation or a durable, compact, and capable GPS for expeditions, the eTrex 32x presents an affordable option with more advanced capabilities.

The Garmin inReach Explorer+ is a standout, multifunctional device that keeps you reliably connected, even deep into the backcountry. With GPS navigation, SOS features, and satellite text messaging, the inReach Explorer+ is a standout as a highly capable device. We used it for a wide range of trips, from alpine climbing in Alaska to trekking in the Patagonian backcountry. Although it is primarily a messaging and SOS device, you can also use the inReach Explorer+ as a handheld GPS. It"s easy to share your tracks and location via text messaging and social media. In addition to downloadable maps, the ability to preload waypoints and routes is helpful for planning long trips over complex terrain.

The Explorer+ has far fewer navigation features and a more limited interface than dedicated GPS models. Still, it works well for simple navigation and tracking. The Explorer+ is also an emergency personal locator beacon, and we caution against navigating with and draining the batteries of your lifeline. But, if you"re okay relying on a single device and willing to carry a backup power source, this is the way to go. For anyone wanting to travel deep in the backcountry with a device featuring both messaging and navigation capabilities, the inReach Explorer+ is unparalleled. (We recommend the more compact inReach Mini as a personal locator and messager if you also have another means of navigating.)

To test these devices, we put together an all-star crew of outdoor adventurers. Our head testers include: Chris McNamara, the founder of OutdoorGearLab, who at one point was calculated to have spent 3% of his life on El Capitan in Yosemite; Amber King, who when she"s not teaching science to her students, can be found covering long distances running, biking, or rafting in Colorado; Ethan Newmanwho is a climbing and canyoneering guide in Southwest Utah; and Aaron Rice, a ski patroller, avalanche instructor, and wilderness guide in New Mexico.

These lead testers — plus scores of friends and partners — took to testing these GPS units in real-world situations. From mountaineering in Alaska to ski touring in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado to winding through the canyon country of the Southwest, our testers used these GPS units in whiteouts, in slot canyons, and while temporarily stranded by flash floods to bring you insight into each device, pulled from real adventure epics. Our rigorous assessment process combined time in the field with objective testing, where we evaluated everything from reception accuracy to memory capability to size and weight. We compiled research, closely examined features and ease of use, and noted when some devices shine and when others completely failed. We utilized the expertise of our science-minded, adventure-obsessed testing crew so that we can provide the most accurate, objective reviews available on the internet.

We tested these handheld GPS devices over the course of years — hiking, skiing, mountaineering, canyoneering, kayaking, mountain biking, mapping plant populations, and more. We have marked and navigated to waypoints, compared map drawing speed, and tested the compasses of each unit against a trusty old, magnetic standby. We logged hundreds of miles on foot in Colorado, Washington, Utah, New Mexico, and Alaska. More than a dozen people — who range from GPS experts to complete novices — used these units to provide diverse feedback and bring you a review of some of the best handheld GPS units on the market.

We rated our selection of handheld GPS units on six scoring metrics: reception, ease of use, display quality, speed, weight and size, and versatility. It is important to note that these are some of the best and most popular options available on the market; while scores may vary, the numbers are based on how well each device compared to the competition. Some of these qualities are undeniably more important than others, namely reception and ease of use. Without the accuracy of a satellite and the efficiency of a GPS, you might as well be using a map and compass.

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. Often it"s used to refer to devices — in this case, handheld — that can track and store timing and positional data. Though it may seem counterintuitive, they"re often intended to be used in conjunction with a traditional map and compass. They are designed to be resistant to water, shock, thermal stress, and any other harsh conditions you"d typically run into out in the wilderness. High-performing devices come with extras like cameras and topo maps and better antennas, more memory, altimeters, or internal electronic compasses. Baseline models tend to be lighter and simpler and can often boast better battery life. Before buying your next GPS, consider if you need one, what you intend to use it for, and how much you"re willing to spend. It is important to consider your specific needs before purchasing, as these units often carry a hefty price tag.

The price of a handheld GPS tends to be tied directly to its performance, features, and amount of memory storage. The Garmin GPSMAP 66st has every feature you may ever need — with more memory than you possibly could ever need — but it"s near the top of the price spectrum. Alternatively, our most price-point model, the Garmin eTrex 10, carries only the bare essentials for tracking.

No GPS unit can substitute for basic orienteering skills, situational awareness, and common sense. They simply tell you where you are and where you"ve gone. In the unlikely event that you need to call for help, a Personal Locator Beacon is what you want. The only unit in this review that functions as both a GPS and a PLB is the inReach Explorer+.

Alternatively, most people these days have smartphones with GPS capabilities and inexpensive apps that offer topo maps and tracking functions. Although this combination isn"t as accurate as a real deal GPS unit, they are good enough for many folks.

So, who needs a handheld GPS? Those who love to hike off the main trail, serial bushwhackers, backcountry skiers, and climbers who frequently descend on unfamiliar and poorly marked trails. Adventurers of this breed will benefit the most from a GPS, which can pinpoint their exact location and allow them to re-orient themselves on a map and find the way home. A GPS is also helpful in bad weather conditions (heavy rain, snow, or fog) or when hiking on a dark, cloudy, or moonless night. It"s also good when traveling over snow-covered terrain when the ordinary trail is buried and the tracks of those who came before you may be unreliable (they might be just as lost as you — believe us, we"ve been there).

No. We strongly recommend carrying a map and compass when in unfamiliar terrain. Maps don"t run out of batteries or break if accidentally dropped off a cliff. They serve as a fail-safe backup to any electronic device.

The reception of your smartphone simply may not prove reliable in the backcountry. Smartphones rely on the combination of a cheap GPS device and triangulation between cell towers (and even WiFi) to dial in your location. Yet, many of the best hikes are in the mountains, deserts, or pristine backcountry areas where there is no reliable cell support, and so your smartphone"s GPS sensors might not cut the mustard.

Still, in situations where they do work, smartphone apps like Gaia, Avenza, or Topo Maps are great and can quickly identify your location on established trails before resuming map navigation. Smartphone GPS works best if you are in a region where cell signal is available, but it may become unreliable when you get into the backcountry. Just don"t forget to download maps before leaving cell or WiFi signals behind. A touchscreen model with automatic routing — like the Garmin Montana 700 — is a great option that can double as both a driving GPS and for off-road travel.

In contrast to smartphones, handheld GPS units are burlier, with much better GPS satellite reception, more powerful navigation features, and supply better battery life in cold climates. A few questions will help narrow your search for the perfect handheld. After you figure that out, you can start thinking about all the bells and whistles — i.e., features.

Most modern GPS units are incredibly accurate and can pinpoint the device"s location to a resolution of 10-meters. According to Garmin, units that use the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) can be accurate to 3-meters or less. All the devices we tested use WAAS. To get even more accuracy, you can buy a differential beacon receiver and antenna to utilize a distance correcting Differential GPS (DGPS). Modern smartphones, in contrast, offer GPS accuracy of around 4.9 meters, according to GPS.gov.

Tall buildings, canyons, and trees can interrupt satellite signals, slowing them down and reducing your device"s accuracy. Clouds and weather, however, shouldn"t affect reception. To get the best signal with the satellites, it"s best to carry your device outside your pack or in a light waterproof layer.

We found that the highest performing — but unfortunately, also often the most expensive — models tend to achieve the best satellite reception. Units like the GPSMAP 66st include quad-helix antennae, which are quite sensitive even in dense cover. Electronic compasses — as opposed to a mechanical, differential compass — also improve accuracy when on the move and are included in expensive units like the Montana 700, but surprisingly in more affordable units like the eTrex 32x. Even without these additions, however, all of the Garmin units we tested provided quality reception. All of the units we tested carry receivers that accept both GPS and GLONASS satellites, so even price-point models — like the eTrex 10 — offer nearly top-notch reception in almost every situation.

GPS units usually come with a very rudimentary basic base map that distinguishes roads but not much else. As we mentioned above, you can buy a GPS unit preloaded with topo maps or buy them separately after the fact. You can also download maps and satellite imagery for free and transfer them to your unit. The United States Geological Survey offers a wealth of free spatial data. Most states in the US also have a website that distributes spatial data. If you want the best maps, often for free, spend some time tinkering with this data. If you want more convenient, straightforward map access, you can get them for around a hundred bucks from your GPS manufacturer.

The US National Agricultural Imagery Program (NAIP) shoots high-quality, free satellite imagery (aerial photos stitched together) for the entire continental United States. You can also buy satellite imagery. Often this is unnecessary because you can plan your routes in Google Earth and then send files to your mapping software and device. Satellite imagery is hard to see on most GPS units and is rarely necessary for the backcountry. Like the GPSMAP 66st, some units come with a free subscription to Garmin"s database of Birdseye satellite imagery that can be downloaded on WiFi.

Each GPS manufacturer offers software designed to organize, analyze, and display the waypoints and tracks you collect with your GPS. Garmin"s Basecamp is our favorite. It"s simple, intuitive, cross-platform, and provides everything a basic GPS user needs. For example, you can easily see waypoints or tracks in Google Earth. It is also an essential feature on really basic models like the eTrex 10, which due to its lack of mapping capability, would otherwise be rendered useless.

Do you want a compact version like an eTrex 32x, or are you willing to haul extra weight — like the Montana 700 — for perks like a larger screen? Is a big GPS screen more important because you would like to be able to quickly see information at a glance while driving? Or are you willing to squint for a more portable unit? Since all of the units in this review are handheld, none are huge — but there is definitely a difference in screen size and display quality between them.

The Montana 700, with a 5-inch diagonal screen, offers the largest screen and also the highest quality resolution. Its smartphone-like touchscreen makes navigation easy, particularly in a car. The Oregon 750t and GPSMAP 66st both have a 3.75 square-inch screen — nearly half the size — but more than adequate for a handheld unit. However, the major difference is that the Oregon 750t is a touchscreen, while the GPSMAP 66st is button-controlled.

So then, buttons or touchscreen? Touchscreens have a quicker response time than button units. However, they eat up battery life faster, can potentially freeze in cold climates, and aren"t the most compatible with thick gloves. We also found the majority of touchscreen GPS devices we tested weren"t as advanced as smartphones. Button devices, however, work with thick gloves, have better battery life, and are more reliable in extreme temperatures. The downside is they operate slower, and typing waypoints is more time-consuming. What it comes down to is your personal preference. Do you prefer a more modern unit that operates quickly? Or do you value reliability above all else?

GPS units work by communicating with satellites orbiting the earth designed to read and triangulate signals sent from the unit. In the United States, the Department of Defense manages the GPS network, a series of 33 satellites that transmit both positional and timing data. When a GPS unit contacts at least four satellites, it can pinpoint your position with a decent degree of accuracy, although terrain and conditions can affect this. Some of the units we tested are also able to interface with other countries" satellites, including the 26 satellites of the Russian GLONASS system or 26 more from the European Union"s Galileo network. The more satellites, the faster and more accurately you can identify your position.

All handhelds also use the WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) to increase accuracy. Satellites send signals to WAAS master stations on the ground. This message is then relayed to compatible receivers (like GPS units) to provide a much more accurate location estimate. GPS units that use GLONASS, GPS, Galileo, and WAAS will offer the best reception.

The fastest — and most accurate — unit we tested was the Garmin GPSMAP 66st, as that is the only unit that was able to access all three of those satellite networks and improve its signal with WAAS. However, many of the other units we tested were able to achieve accuracy within 10 feet very quickly. Although the Montana 700 and inReach Explorer+ were nearly as speedy as the 66st, even basic units like the eTrex 32x impressed us with how quickly they were able to lock onto a signal after powering on.

We tested handheld GPS units. These units are very capable, able to mark waypoints, track your route, make notes, geocache, pull up altitude profiles, and often much more. But they are also small enough to wear around your neck or stash in your backpack. The Garmin inReach Explorer+, despite its two-way communication capability, is also very portable. But the more features you add to a portable GPS unit, the larger and heavier they become. Handheld devices are popular for backcountry navigation, particularly because they are so portable.

However, not all units are created equally regarding portability, so it is important to consider whether you"ll be carrying your GPS in your pocket or plan to stash it in a backpack. The Montana 700 is by far the largest and heaviest unit in our review but still weighs just 14 ounces and is only slightly bulkier than a modern smartphone. The eTrex line falls at the other end of the spectrum — both the eTrex 10 and more capable eTrex 32x are small enough to fit into a pant"s pocket.

Just as a point of comparison, there are also a variety of GPS Watches that can log backcountry travel information. These are popular among trail runners, mountain guides, hikers, and backpackers. They are a great alternative to handheld units if you"re looking to go light but have a much shorter battery life, a significantly smaller display, and may not offer the same capabilities as the handheld units featured here.

The majority of units we reviewed are astonishingly versatile; sporting functions well outside the realm of navigation, ranging from flashlight to calculator to texting. We won"t dive too deeply into every function of each model we tested but rather will discuss a few important ones.

You don"t need that many waypoints to get you through a trip, even a pretty long one. Even 500 waypoints — the minimum number on the units we tested, on the inReach Explorer+ — is likely more than most people would need at one time. They"re also very easy to save on a computer and then delete after you"re back home. If, however, you plan on holding on to waypoints from multiple trips, conducting involved science surveys, or embarking on a mapping mission — you might want to aim high. The eTrex Touch 35 offers the best capability in the smallest package. But for many of these units, you can also boost your unit"s memory with a microSD card; only the inReach Explorer+ and eTrex 10 don"t support extra external memory.

Geocaching is a relatively new outdoor activity, essentially using a GPS unit or GPS software for a scavenger hunt of sorts, looking for hidden treasures all over the world. Most GPS units are set up for this somehow, and some of the ones we tested have preloaded geocaches so you can unpack and play. A huge draw for the geocaching crowd is that a modern GPS unit — with text display — allows them to go paperless. For easy entry to this worldwide phenomenon, the Garmin eTrex 10, thanks to its accuracy balanced with affordability.

The cut-off point between basic units and more sophisticated ones is usually an electronic compass. This allows a unit to display your heading while held in place. In contrast, you have to be moving for a differential compass to work properly. For some, this is a great advantage — say during a whiteout next to a cliff edge. Many mountain guides prefer an electronic compass because it makes navigating faster and easier. Only the eTrex 10 doesn"t offer an electronic compass.

Another feature that separates high-performing devices from base models is a barometric altimeter, which uses a small sensor to detect air pressure and calculate altitude instead of relying on positional data alone. Barometric altimeters also allow you to track weather patterns and trends, which can be really useful in the mountains when knowledge of a coming storm is crucial. Only the baseline-level eTrex 10 doesn"t come with a barometric altimeter.

A camera, microphone, and voice recorder can be nice add-ons to fully document adventures or field data. You can use these media options to mark a waypoint instead of typing one. We loved this option when looking back at our past adventures. Photos also help keep you on the trail when following a track. This is especially helpful for outdoor guides or scientific surveys. While many options boast a photo viewer, the Oregon 750t is the only GPS in our review to include a camera. But extras like that also come at the price of the added size.

Credit: Garmin High-performing GPS devices are able to share wirelessly — these devices come equipped with Bluetooth technology. With a compatible receiver, you can quickly send track and waypoint files to another device, wire-free. One of our main testers mentioned that this is especially helpful if you have another group that is about to embark on the same route you just finished. In a matter of minutes, you can sync up devices and share your route. We recommend this for users intending to share track information with others. Bluetooth communication has become fairly commonplace, so only the two eTrex models do not have this capability.

Another great feature is smart notifications. You can sync your smartphone to your GPS and receive text messages or social media updates on the unit. High-end units like the GPSMAP 66st sport this high level of technicality, but it does take some time and know-how to set up. If you don"t want to take your phone out of the backpack while staying connected, this may be an option for you.

GPS units are great when you need them, but they don"t come cheap. A smartphone can probably get you by until you"re heading out on a multi-day backcountry trip guided by a map and compass, scouting multiple complicated routes, or conducting long field surveys. If you get to that point, you might as well invest because there"s no substitute for a dedicated, accurate handheld GPS unit.

Whether exploring the open road or the backcountry, riding a motorcycle offers one of the most thrilling and rewarding means of touring or transportation. With limited storage and cargo space, two-wheeled exploration has traditionally meant having to forgo many of the amenities and creature comforts of automotive travel, though GPS systems no longer fall into this category, as the space has been treated to a steadily-growing number of mobile satellite-based guidance systems that have been purpose-engineered for motorcycle travel.

Since the debut of the first motorcycle-specific GPS unit—Garmin’s zūmo 500 Series in October of 2006—the motorcycle GPS segment has been rapidly evolving, with each year seeing manufacturers bestow their respective offerings with more and more features, smart-tech, and functionality. The rapid speed at which this industry moves, however, can muddy the waters and make it difficult for the average rider to distinguish the latest, most cutting-edge systems, from yesterday’s old news. So, with this in mind, we’ve thoroughly scoured the segment, poring over every product release over the last few years to bring you this definitive guide to today’s best motorcycle GPS navigators.

With the ubiquity of modern smartphones, most of us are already carrying a GPS-enabled device that contains map applications. And while it may appear that this reality would render motorcycle-specific GPS navigators obsolete, this just isn’t the case. Moto GPS units come with a host of noteworthy advantages that make them objectively superior to smartphones when it comes to navigation applications.

On top of being substantially more durable and weatherproof than your typical smartphone and packing glove-friendly displays that can be read in direct sunlight, the latest moto GPS units are ultra-precise and are often outfitted with a slew of supplementary features such as weather tracking, onboard cameras, walkie talkie and two-way messaging capacities, and integrated SOS beacons, among quite a few others.

Pretty much every contemporary motorcycle-specific GPS system operates in the same basic manner and serves the same primary function. That said, there are some finer points that separate the different available moto GPS offerings. Below, we’ll touch on some of the more pivotal elements to consider when shopping for a motorcycle GPS navigator.

Durability: One of the biggest factors separating purpose-built moto GPS systems from handlebar-mounted smartphones is the former’s immense level of durability. Designed to be exposed to the elements, motorcycle GPS navigators typically boast incredibly rugged construction with robust ratings for impact, dirt and dust resistance, and weatherproofing. Often carrying mil-spec certification, many of today’s systems can also operate in extreme temperatures.

Sensors: A GPS system’s ability to perform tracking duties ultimately boils down to the device’s onboard hardware and sensors. Pretty much every system will feature a GPS sensor, but the more high-end, advanced models are also bestowed with GLONASS and Galileo sensors for mapping, as well as digital compasses and barometric altimeters for detecting altitude, pressure, and other relevant metrics. These items will also affect a system’s ability to relay 3D, photo satellite, or topographical maps.

Supplementary Connectivity: In addition to displaying maps and directions via connection to satellites (or pre-downloaded maps), some of the more expensive motorcycle GPS offerings are also able to link to a bike’s vehicle sensors in order to relay real-time engine temperature, (GPS-tracked) speed (or distance), battery voltage, tire pressure, and engine RPM.

Power Source: This is an area that’s far too often overlooked for how important it truly is. Some GPS systems come with onboard batteries that afford a given lifespan, while other systems feature power sources that are hardwired to a bike’s battery. Both types have their own respective strengths and weaknesses, though hardwired is typically considered superior for off-road and off-grid riding applications as where battery-powered devices tend to be more conducive to road touring.

Onboard Extras: Alongside being markedly more hardwearing and easier to see and use, one of the best selling-points of modern moto GPS systems is the plethora of supplementary features baked into the navigation device. While different models are equipped with different extras, some of the more useful and noteworthy amenities include GPS pet tracking, group rider tracking, two-way text or radio messaging, onboard SOS beacons, built-in cameras, access to live weather reports, and connectivity to smartphone apps, just to name a few.

EatSleepRIDE is a smartphone app that turns any iPhone or Android device into a motorcycle GPS unit. Utilizing an advanced algorithm and a smartphone’s onboard gyroscope and accelerometers, the app is able to detect anytime the user is on a motorcycle and automatically records the user’s GPS route, lean-angle, speed, acceleration, and elevation. Furthermore, the GPS app lets you upload stories, photos, or other biker’s ride routes, making it perfect for discovering fun local riding roads. Best of all, the Toronto-based tech outfit also offers what it calls “CrashLight,” a premium service that can automatically detect a crash and then relay the rider’s GPS coordinates to a preprogrammed contact in the event that the rider is unresponsive. Unlike the rest of the app, the CrashLight service isn’t free, though at only $15 a year, it’s a wholly worthwhile investment considering it’s already saved lives and can afford peace of mind to friends or loved ones (plus it only comes out to less than a nickel per day).

Originally born out of an enormously successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter that achieved 600% of its original funding goal, Beeline is marketed as a modern smart moto GPS system. Rather than your standard GPS setup, Beeline uses an incredibly simple, straight-forward, and intuitive arrow guidance system that shows the current direction of travel, while a dot on the circular display indicates the direction of the next turn and the distance remaining until said turn. On top of its unique take on turn-by-turn navigation, this smart gadget also gives the option of running a compass mode that shows the directional bearing of your destination and your real-time distance from it. Sold in black, silver, or gunmetal gray housings, Beeline effortlessly attaches to an included universal elastic strap mount and an additional “Sticky Pad Modular Mount.” The device pairs with a smartphone app that lets you record and/or review your rides, share rides or look up other user-uploaded rides in your area. IP67-rated and largely shockproof, Beeline also packs a potent USB-rechargeable battery pack that affords 30 hours of use on a single charge.

Stepping up to our first modern color touchscreen item, we have the TomTom Rider 550. Powered by a Quad-Core processor, the Rider 550 can receive firmware updates via a wifi connection, is IPX7-rated, and is compatible with Siri and Google Now, as well as hands-free calling. The system’s 4.3” display offers light and heavy glove modes and displays text messages and other push notifications from your smartphone thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity. The system is kept alive via a Lithium-ion battery and boasts 16GB of internal memory and a preloaded map pack that contains detailed roads and info on the entirety of North America. Additionally, the Rider 550 offers live traffic reports, and can even alert you if you’re approaching a speed trap or speed camera. Its coolest feature, however, is unequivocally the GPS’s ability to let you search through or select a route based on its hilliness, windiness, or level of difficulty.

Combining many of the best elements from both off-road and street GPS units, Magellan’s TRX7 CS is an IP67-rated item with a generously-sized 7” touchscreen. The device offers turn-by-turn navigation for paved public roads and dirt routes and comes pre-loaded with more than 115,000 off-road trails, plus high-resolution 2D topographical and 3D mapping of America and Canada. Furthering its off-road functionality is the ability to set off-grid and trail waypoints and a searchable trail and off-road points of interest database. Thanks to the GPS’s precision, this device will also alert you should you start to veer off of the intended trail. You can also track and record your own rides or pore over routes and trails that have been uploaded by other Magellan off-road GPS owners. The CS-spec TRX7’s biggest update over its predecessor is almost certainly the addition of a built-in 5MP camera with an integrated and fully-functional LED flash. Lastly, this GPS system is also sold with an included dual mount from the industry leader, RAM Mounts that boasts a quick-release charging cradle.

First unveiled in March of 2020, the Garmin zūmo XT is a cutting-edge moto GPS that’s compact, hardwearing, and feature-laden. Live traffic reports, a database of preloaded Tripadvisor-recommended local attractions and notable sites, Birdseye satellite imagery, campground network list, and on and off-road (topographical maps can all be displayed on the device’s glove-compatible 5.5” TFT touchscreen display that can be read while in direct sunlight. Despite tipping the scales at just 9.2ozs, this moto gadget is immensely durable, with an IPX7 rating for water-resistance and a rugged MIL-STD-810 certification for drop and impact testing. The system’s battery is good for six hours before needing a charge, and, not unlike EatSleepRIDE’s CrashLight service, the zūmo XT is equipped with a crash detection system that can alert a preprogrammed contact should you crash and be unresponsive. You can also get spoken turn-by-turn directions, listen to music from your smartphones or that’s preloaded onto the Garmin device, and use voice commands to control the GPS unit.

There’s a very short list of names that are more respected in the off-road and adventure motorcycle space than Trail Tech, and with insanely durable and highly-innovative products like the new Voyager Pro Kit, it really isn’t hard to see why. Toting a glove-friendly 4” TFT display, the Voyager Pro uses Bluetooth connectivity to allow the control of intercom, phone, and media playback controls, while its connectivity to a bike’s vehicle sensors lets you use the GPS unit as a primary display showing speed, RPM, gear position, engine temperature, and so on. What’s more, there are additional kits that allow for the monitoring of other elements such as a tire pressure monitoring kit. Another defining feature of the Voyager Pro is its proprietary Buddy Tracking feature that uses a color-coded (and named) system to monitor the real-time location of up to 20 riders on your device at once so nobody ever gets accidentally separated from the pack. This IP67-rated offering is also protected by a one-year factory warranty.

Part action camera, part spot beacon, and part off-road moto GPS system, Garmin’s Montana 750i is an ultra-precise and feature-heavy off-grid gadget with a built-in 8MP dash or action camera. Equipped with a 5” glove-friendly touchscreen, the Montana 750i meets MIL-STD 810 standards for thermal, shock, vibration, and water and boasts advanced navigation sensors, two-way messaging via a 100% global Iridium satellite network, and multi-GNSS reception, thereby giving access to all three GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO satellite networks. It’s wildly potent battery affords up to 330 hours of use in expedition mode and as many as 18 hours while in active GPS mode. And, on top of featuring InReach technology, this device has the ability to send and receive Interactive SOS alerts. Your $800 MSRP also gets you pet tracking, customizable and downloadable watch faces, live weather reports, satellite, topographical, and public land boundary maps. It’s not cheap, those its enormous suite of features and functionality allows it to double as a number of other devices, giving it a slightly better bang for its buck.

Manufactured by Garmin exclusively for BMW Motorrad, the Navigator VI is the latest top-of-the-line factory GPS add-on for the Bavarian brand’s big-bore adventure and touring bike models. The GPS sports a cutting-edge circular polarization filter that hugely mitigates glare and enhances contrast, and connects to late model BMW motorcycles, enabling it to be controlled via the handlebar-mounted switchgear buttons. The gadget comes preloaded with the user’s choice of North American or European maps and can receive free updates if connected to wifi. And, while the unit comes with 16GB of onboard internal memory, it also boasts Micro-SD card slots for SDXC cards as big as 64GB. On top of regular GPS guidance duties, the Navigator VI features filters such as “Avoid Major Country Roads” or “Winding Roads,” plus lets you opt for round trip journeys. This BMW GPS unit is also sold with a four-button charging cradle mount, though the Navigator VI fits in its V-spec predecessor’s same charging cradle. The German brand also offers an optional Smartphone Link upgrade that enables the device to relay up-to-the-minute weather and traffic reports.

Still haven’t gotten your fill of items from the high-tech two-wheeled realm? Then be sure to cruise on over to our guide to the best motorcycle gadgets for well over a dozen cutting-edge offerings to enhance your riding experience.