Whether you're an occasional walker or a seasoned adventurer, having the right gear is essential to make the most of every outing in the great outdoors. Among the must-have accessories, hiking GPS devices and GPS watches stand out for their accuracy and ease of use. In this buying guide, we present our selection of the best GPS devices to help you on your adventures, along with a few tips to help you choose the device that best meets your needs.
Why use a hiking GPS or GPS watch for walking?
Using a hiking GPS or GPS watch offers many advantages. Firstly, they allow you to accurately track your route, know your location at any time, and anticipate changes in terrain (elevation gain, remaining distance, etc.). Regardless of the type of GPS, these devices are extremely useful for following a hiking route you’ve planned.
GPS watch vs handheld GPS: what are the differences?
- Size and portability: the GPS watch, worn on the wrist, is compact and easily accessible. A handheld GPS is slightly bulkier and heavier, but usually offers a larger screen for easier viewing of information.
- Battery life: GPS watches often provide good battery life in hiking mode, but handheld GPS devices can, depending on the model, last even longer—especially if you use power-saving features.
- Features: high-end GPS watches may offer advanced sports tracking functions (heart rate, VO2 max, etc.), whereas handheld GPS devices are specifically designed for outdoor navigation, with more detailed onboard maps and more comprehensive guidance options.
- User comfort: if you take part in several different sports (trail running, jogging, cycling…), the GPS watch is versatile and suitable for all activities. For more specific use (trekking, long expeditions…), a handheld GPS can be more comfortable to read and more accurate in map tracking.
It’s important to remember that technology can occasionally fail (battery issues, poor signal, temporary malfunctions). That’s why it’s always wise to carry a paper map and know how to use it with a compass—even if you have a hiking GPS. This ‘old-school’ approach remains essential for ensuring your safety and preparing for any unexpected situations in the wild.
You now know the key criteria for choosing a hiking GPS or GPS watch that suits your needs. To explore further and find the ideal device, browse our dedicated ranges of hiking GPS units and GPS watches — you'll discover our full range, suited to every type of adventurer. Don’t wait any longer to plan your next hikes with the best hiking GPS!