GPS Receivers

Recent GPS Receiver Reviews

Garmin Instinct

The Garmin Instinct is meeting my needs and lifestyle. I’m quite happy with this purchase...happy enough that I‘m contemplating getting a second one when they’re on sale again. I‘ve only had this watch for about six weeks but in that time I’ve come to appreciate it. All the features that come with it seem pretty accurate when I compare them to other devices/known points of reference. This is one of the most comfortable watches I’ve ever worn...I really don’t notice it’s on my wrist. Full review

Garmin Forerunner 645

A modest looking GPS, heart rate monitor, and smart watch that delivers reams of training information. Pairs with a mobile phone to deliver loads of other features and is fully customizable. A good choice for athletes engaged in systematic training, it also works well for more casual users that can put the smart watch features to use. I (almost) never would have bought this watch for myself. I’m not that serious or systematic about training. I just go out and run by feel, and these days that usually… Full review

Garmin GPSMAP 66i

The 66i is garbage. Don’t buy it. You can’t download maps onto it. I spent two hours trying to do so and gave up. The 66i, once plugged in, powers down so that the computer doesn’t recognize that it’s connected. The computer just searches endlessly for the 66i. It’s a fatal flaw that doesn’t let you download maps onto the 66i. What good is the 66i if you can’t download a topo?? I suppose the SOS feature has marginal value. But at the price point? Forget it. See above. Don’t buy this… Full review

Garmin Foretrex 401

Precision, but not accuracy. The ForeTrex 401 is useless for elevation. The AUTO CALIBRATION uses GPS to calibrate the Elevation (Calibration by GPS is accurate to +/-400 feet; Calibration by barometric pressure is accurate to +/-50 feet). I did both ways and put the ForeTrex 401 on the desk stationary for two hours, the elevation changed 500 feet. Everyone has the same issue. Full review

Garmin GPSMAP 66i

Not for everyone, but uniquely wonderful for those who need it. The Garmin GPSMAP 66i introduced in June 2019 is the world’s first consumer handheld device that combines a full-featured GPS navigation tool and a satellite text message system in one half-pound, rugged, battery-efficient device. And it has a new feature, Expedition Mode, that greatly reduces power requirements. Its attributes are easy to describe to anyone familiar with past Garmin products: Take Garmin's best GPS receiver and combine… Full review

Garmin Forerunner 235

GPS watch that can track a variety of activities and generate a load of helpful data about your activities. Stand-alone GPS means you can leave your smart phone at home. Waterproof with outstanding battery life, so fit for bad conditions, swims, stream crossings, and trips. Can download apps that add functionality. The Garmin Forerunner 235 falls in the middle of its wrist-worn GPS units. Garmin sells a few less-expensive fitness trackers and running watches; the 235 is a step up from those in terms… Full review

Garmin Fenix 5X

A complex, high functionality watch that blew me away with all of its features! For three weeks now I've enjoyed getting more out of my trail runs, hikes, treadmill runs and gym sessions and all the other daily tracking capabilities! I find the GPS excellent and HR monitor superior to some I have tried before. For me, definitely worth the price so far! As a first time Garmin user I am impressed, but I suppose that is to be expected with the Garmin Fenix 5X! The GPS accuracy has been on point for… Full review

Garmin eTrex 30x

Not the biggest screen and most functionality, but sufficient for even the toughest backcountry use. I agree that it could use a strap and battery in the package. SD card is personal. I bought a 32MB and it works fine. I kind of agree with other review person, but I do my research and found a site to use free Open Source maps that can be converted to Garmin maps. I knew beforehand I wasn't going to buy those expensive Garmin maps, but for the general public this could be a real downer. Full review

Garmin eTrex 10

Supurb basic GPS I use for all my ultra running mountain events and mountain leadership, mainly to save tracks and also follow GPX routes I have designed on Strava and downloaded. Works as a USB stick in essence, so no need for Garmin software except to update firmware. You can use maps on it, but its a hack involving replacing the basemap, YouTube shows you how!! This is a basic GPS that you need to go and learn how to use. IF you do you get a cheap but effective receiver you can design routes… Full review