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.
Our top 3 hiking GPS devices
Explore our selection of 3 essential models: one highly versatile GPS watch and two robust handheld GPS, ready to follow you on any trail and provide accurate data to help you get the most out of every outing.
Head out on your adventures with confidence thanks to the Garmin GPSMAP 67: its durability, accuracy, and wide range of features make it an essential companion for hiking and outdoor exploration enthusiasts.
Garmin GPSMAP 67: Handheld GPS for hikers
The Garmin GPSMAP 67 stands out with its ultra-tough design built to military standards and impressive battery life of up to 180 hours in GPS mode. Its transflective colour display ensures excellent visibility even in direct sunlight, while its advanced navigation and connectivity features make this hiking GPS a top companion for all your adventures.
Key features:
- Transflective TFT colour display for optimal outdoor readability
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery offering up to 180 hours of battery life in GPS mode and 840 hours in Expedition mode
- IPX7 water resistance rating and military-grade construction (MIL-STD-810) for enhanced protection against water, shocks and extreme temperatures
- Multi-satellite and sensor support: compatible with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, Beidou, Irnss, barometric altimeter, and compass
- Advanced navigation features: point-to-point navigation, TracBack, area calculation, sun/moon data, and Geocaching mode
- Connected features: Connect IQ, smart notifications, live weather updates, Virb remote control, and compatibility with Garmin Connect and Garmin Explore
- Inreach compatible to stay in touch even when off-grid
- 16 GB internal memory, expandable via microSD card (up to 32 GB) for storing maps, satellite images, and tracks
- Built-in LED torch for illumination when needed
- Optimised dimensions (6.2 x 16.3 x 3.5 cm) and weight of 230 g including battery for easy carrying
- Includes TopoActive Europe maps for detailed route coverage
The Garmin eTrex 22x is a dependable GPS device designed for hiking and trekking. Its compact build, clear colour display, and high-sensitivity tracking make it a perfect companion for navigating even in challenging environments.
Garmin eTrex 22x: a compact and reliable GPS for your outdoor adventures
The Garmin eTrex 22x GPS is a must-have for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. Its 2.2-inch anti-reflective colour display with a 240 x 320 pixel resolution ensures easy map reading in bright conditions. Preloaded with TopoActive Europe base maps, it covers both hiking trails and cycling routes. The device supports GPS and GLONASS satellite systems for reliable tracking, even in challenging environments. It also includes a 3-axis electronic compass and offers up to 25 hours of battery life in GPS mode using two AA batteries (not included). Built to IPX7 water resistance standards, it can withstand submersion in up to one metre of water for up to 30 minutes.
Key features:
- 2.2 in anti-reflective colour display with 240 x 320 pixel resolution for excellent readability outdoors
- Includes TopoActive Europe base maps for hiking and cycling paths
- Dual satellite: GPS and GLONASS for accurate tracking in difficult terrain
- 3-axis electronic compass for precise directional information
- Battery life: up to 25 hours in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries (not included)
- Water resistance rating: IPX7 (immersion up to 1 metre for 30 minutes)
- Additional functions: turn-by-turn navigation, area calculation, calendar, sun and moon data
- Internal memory: 8 GB for map storage and data
- Compact and lightweight: dimensions 5.45 x 10.3 x 3.3 cm, weight 141.7 g
- USB cable included for charging and data transfer
With the Polar Grit X Pro, set off on your adventures with confidence and enhance your performance—whether you're climbing or simply out for a walk. A true companion for tracking and analysing your daily activities.
Polar Grit X Pro: a watch for exploring every path
The Polar Grit X Pro combines toughness and versatility to follow adventurers during hikes, walks, or multisport training. Its stainless steel case built to military standards and sapphire glass provide enhanced durability, while its generous battery life (up to 40 hours in training mode) lets you head out with peace of mind. With built-in sensors (compass, barometer, assisted GPS) and continuous heart rate monitoring, you get reliable data to optimise every outing—whatever the terrain or weather.
Key features:
- Ultra-rugged design: stainless steel case with smudge-resistant sapphire glass
- 3 cm transflective colour touchscreen, readable even in direct sunlight
- Long battery life:
- Up to 40 hours in training mode
- 100 hours in power-saving mode
- 7 days in watch mode with continuous heart rate tracking
- Accurate GPS: compatible with GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS for fast and reliable positioning
- Advanced sensors: barometer, compass, and elevation tracking for your mountain treks
- Sport functions: heart rate monitoring, route tracking, elevation data, and compatibility with various Bluetooth sensors (cadence, power, etc.)
- WR100 water resistance: suitable for hiking in the rain and light water activities
- Smartwatch features: time, date, alarm (with snooze), timer, stopwatch, and smart notifications
- Comfort and lightness: weighs 79 g and uses interchangeable standard 22 mm straps
You now know the key criteria for choosing a hiking GPS or GPS watch that suits your needs. Thanks to our selection of the best devices, you have an overview of the latest trends and the essential features not to overlook. 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!