Top 10 Best GPS For Car And Hiking Reviews

The global positioning system GPS comes in handy in several different ways. Whether you want to find an exact location of a nearby hotel or check your route if you are about to enter unfamiliar territory, these devices can help you find your way with no problem. Wherever you are going, by car or a hike, have a smoother trip with them.

These dedicated navigation devices are simply life-saving, and getting lost will be a problem of the past. They make sure you are always in touch even if you venture far beyond cellular networks’ reach. There are GPS devices specifically for car navigation and handheld portable receivers for hikers. This article will give you a clear distinction between the two, and the best in the market if you intend to purchase one.

gps device for car and hiking use

What Are the Best GPS For Car and Hiking Use on the Market?

For Car:

For Hiking:

 

Are There Any GPS for Both Car and Hiking Use?

what are the best gps for hiking and car

Yes, several handheld GPS devices can be used for both hiking and driving. GPS devices come in many styles, and there are those specifically for hiking and car use. Since these two types are well suited for their navigation varieties, you can use either for both the purposes of driving and hiking.

It is more practical to use a handheld GPS device for driving rather than the other way around. If you are looking to use a handheld GPS for driving, make sure it comes with a large display. A larger screen makes it easier for you to navigate your position without putting yourself in danger.

Can Handheld GPS Be Used for Driving?

This is a common question, especially for budget-conscious commuters. These people aim to use the same navigating device for hiking and in their cars. There is no hindrance to using a handheld GPS navigator in the car. You can use it that way, or connect it with a laptop to enhance your view. All you are required to do is to enter the desired location and leave everything to the unit. However, handheld GPS devices cannot match the accuracy of a car-based navigation system. It is, however, handy and functional.

Hiking GPS Vs. Car GPS

gps system for car and hiking

Purpose

GPS navigators come in a wide variety of styles, with the common ones being automotive navigators for commuters and those who love to spend their time behind the wheel and handheld GPS units for those love outdoors and go off the grid adventures. Though both types of GPS units provide navigational data, there is a clear distinction between the handheld portable receivers for hikers and the myriad of GPS units for other uses such as car navigation.

Maps included

The chief difference between hiking GPS and a car GPS is the included maps. All the GPS units make use of satellite data to plot location on the globe. Still, they then compare that position to an internal map database to display relevant information to users. Car-based navigation systems are stocked with millions of roadmaps, whereas handheld GPS units may include topographical maps. There may be an overlap between the maps of a car GPS and a hiking GPS, but each is well-suited.

Internal designs

The design is also different between hiking GPS and car GPS. Car GPS devices typically assume a square shape similar to that of a TV, broader and taller to keep drivers concentrated on driving. Hiking GPS almost resembles a cellular phone with a narrower and taller screen. Moreover, car GPS devices feature a large display for easy viewing while driving, whereas handheld GPS usually incorporates a smaller display. Handheld GPS devices are smaller to reduce weight so the users can easily carry them or store them in a pocket.

Durability

Another thing is, handheld GPS devices have a rugged design to withstand harsh outdoor environments. For example, most of the models are water-resistant, with scratch-resistant screens for durability. The display is also designed to enable visibility in bright sunlight and nighttime.

Usages and Accuracy

Handheld GPS devices are specially for hiking and cannot match the accuracy of a car-based navigations system. For one, car-based navigation systems come with street maps features for easy navigation while hiking GPS does not. Besides, they have a power cord that lacks in a handheld GPS.

Extra features

There are extra features that are specific to car GPS and hiking GPS. For instance, a car-based navigation system may feature an FM receiver, cellular modem, voice controls, etc. A handheld GPS, on the other hand, may feature a TrackBack feature, heart rate monitors, compass, altimeter, and so on.

Choose the proper GPS handheld device for hiking and outdoor use:

Top-rated GPS navigation system for cars:

 

Best GPS For Car and Hiking Reviews

Best GPS for Car Reviews

#1. Best with Voice Guidance – AROVA GPS Navigation For Car Truck

gps for car use

Features:

  • Multiple navigation features
  • 7-inch high-resolution touch screen
  • Lifetime map updates for free
  • Built-in FM transmitter
  • All-inclusive package

The AROVA GPS navigation for cars is the ultimate lifesaver. This device features a touch screen and offers multi-function GPS navigation. It allows a lifetime free map update. The sat navs offer essential navigation, and finding your destination is simple from the search menu or touching a point on the map. The advanced lane guidance feature prepares the drivers for any intersections or exits by highlighting the correct driving lane. This GPS supports multiple vehicles, including motorhomes, cars, trucks, buses, taxis, etc.

Moreover, this GPS navigation supports driver alerts, school zones, nearby red light, speed control zones, real voice broadcasts, and convenience. It allows the customization of routes according to the user’s vehicle and driving usage. It has a large high-resolution touch screen for a great view. It has a built-in FM transmitter, and the package is all inclusive with all you may need.

Pros:

  • Seven vehicle modes
  • Lifetime free maps updates
  • Large screen for ease of use

Cons:

  • Does not have spoken directions

 

 

#2. Best with Lifetime Maps – Garmin Driver 51 USA LM GPS Navigator System

most accurate car gps

Features:

  • Direct access and foursquare data
  • Spoken turn-by-turn directions
  • Bright dual-orientation display
  • Preloaded lifetime maps
  • TripAdvisor ratings
  • Driver alerts

The Garmin Navigator system is a good value for your money. The incorporated innovative driver alerts help increase situational awareness, such as driver curves, speed cameras, speed changes, animal crossing, railroad crossing, etc. This navigator is easy to use with the bright 5-inch dual-orientation display. It comes preloaded with lifetime maps of the U.S and Canada. TripAdvisor shows ratings for travel points of interest, such as restaurants, hotels, and attractions.

Another thing is, this navigator features guides like a friend and uses recognizable landmarks, traffic lights, and buildings. It is designed to offer turn-by-turn spoken directions. With the drive access feature, it is easy for the user to navigate to complex destinations. This navigator shows millions of popular places thanks to the Foursquare feature.

Pros:

  • Features a spoken turn-by-turn directions
  • Bright dual-orientation screen
  • Lifetime map update

Cons:

  • Lacks FM transmitter

 

 

#3. Best with Touch Screen – Lttrbx GPS Navigation System For Car

accurate device for car

Features:

  • Large capacity configuration
  • Real-time voice broadcast
  • Lifetime map update
  • 7-inch touch screen
  • Smart reminder

Lttrbx GPS navigation for cars is a handy tool for drivers. This high-quality professional navigator offers the best service. It provides a real voice broadcast with over 40 languages. Also, this GPS navigator supports postcodes, POI search, and addresses for more convenience. Moreover, it provides an intelligent current speed camera alert, route planning, sound warning, street names broadcast, active lane assistance, current speed, estimated arrival time, and display remaining distance.

What’s more is, this navigator has a large touch screen for easy viewing. It provides seven-vehicle modes. The FM function serves to transmit the navigation audio into the car’s audio. It also has the latest GPS chipset, excellent in receiving the signal, accurate, and fast position fixing. For your entertainment, this navigator features an MP3 and MP4 function that can help relieve fatigue. It also comes with a lifetime map update.

Pros:

  • A real-time voice broadcast
  • A Large, easy-to-use screen
  • Large capacity CPU

Cons:

  • No TripAdvisor ratings

 

 

#4. Best with Direction Guidance – CARRVAS GPS Navigation System

affordable gps for car

Features:

  • 7-inch high-definition bright display
  • Multi-function and multi-compatibility
  • Integrated FM transmitter
  • Lifetime map free update
  • Battery upgrade
  • Quality service

CARRVAS GPS Navigation for car truck provides you the satisfied navigating service. It does support multiple vehicles, including trucks, RV, taxi, bus, ambulance, and cars with seven vehicle modes. There are also free lifetime map updates that offer high-quality GPS navigation. This navigator supports postal codes, points of interest, addresses, satellite coordinate search, 2D/ 3D map display, etc. The night and day modes switch on automatically.

On top of that, this navigator provides an audible warning, smart current speed alert, route planning, active lane assistance, street name broadcast, and remaining distance. With the intelligent voice broadcast, this navigator receives upcoming sharp turns, red lights, speed limit reminders, custom routes, high-speed camera voice notifications, etc. This GPS has an FM transmitter for enhanced functionality.

Pros:

  • A decent battery life
  • Multifunctional design
  • Large high-definition display

Cons:

  • No TripAdvisor ratings

 

 

#5. Best with Red Light Warning – CarGad GPS Navigation for Car

the best gps for car use

Features:

  • All-inclusive package
  • Multiple vehicle modes
  • Free lifetime map updates
  • Intelligent voice broadcasting
  • High-definition sensitive touch screen

CarGad navigation GPS comes in handy, so you will never be lost again. It supports postal codes, addresses, POI search, and coordinates. This navigator provides an intelligent current speed camera alert, route planning, sound warning, active lane assistance, current speed, street names broadcast, display remaining time, and estimated distance. The real voice broadcast features over 40 languages. This GPS also has seven vehicle modes.

Besides that, this navigator is equipped with the latest GPS chipset, ensuring excellent signal reception and fast and accurate position fixing. It has an FM function that works to transmit the navigation audio into the car’s audio system. As for your entertainment, this GPS features MP3 and MP4 functions to relieve fatigue.

Pros:

  • Seven vehicle modes
  • A large screen is easy to use
  • Features intelligent voice broadcasting

Cons:

  • No TripAdvisor ratings

 

 

Best GPS For Hiking Reviews

#1. Best Multisatellite – Garmin GPSMAP Handheld Hiking GPS

handheld gps for hiking use

Features:

  • Premium BirdsEye satellite imagery subscription
  • Multiple global navigation satellite systems
  • Expanded wireless connectivity
  • Large readable color display
  • LED flashlight function
  • 16-hour battery life

Garmin GPSMAP handheld hiking GPS is an excellent GPS for the price. It has a 3-inch color display for easy viewing. Also, it comes with a premium BirdsEye Satellite imagery subscription and TOPO maps. This rugged handheld navigator offers direct-to-device downloads and preloaded TOPO U.S and Canada maps so you can always find your way. The multiple global navigation satellite systems come in handy to track your travels in the more challenging environments.

The expanded wireless connectivity of this navigator supports weather for current forecasts and animated weather radar. It is compatible with the Garmin website and the app so you can easily manage routes, tracks, waypoints, and review statistics from the field. The LED flashlight function comes in handy for nighttime vision. The battery life is of 16 hours to support up to a one-week expedition on a single charge.

Pros:

  • A decent battery life
  • A large color display for easy viewing
  • Comes with a Led flashlight function

Cons:

  • Lacks a barometric altimeter

 

 

#2. Best Handheld – Garmin in Reach Explorer+ Satellite Communicator

small portable hiking gps

Features:

  • 100% global iridium satellite coverage
  • Digital compass and accelerometer
  • Pair with mobile devices
  • Preloaded TOPO maps
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Interactive SOS

The Garmin in Reach Explorer+ handheld satellite communicator is an ideal hiking companion. This device works as both a communicator and a navigator so you can explore anywhere and communicate everywhere. The GPS navigator uses a global Iridium coverage to provide 2-way messaging, interactive SOS, and tracking for virtually anywhere in the world. It comes with preloaded TOPO maps, a built-in barometric altimeter, and a digital compass so you will always find your way.

Furthermore, this communicator and navigator allow the users to track and share their locations with friends and family. It can also be paired with mobile devices via the Earthmate app to access downloadable maps, color aerial imagery, etc. This InReach Explorer+ device adds preloaded maps with the onscreen GPS routing plus accelerometer.

Pros:

  • Comes with a rechargeable battery
  • Can be paired with mobile devices
  • Preloaded with TOPO maps

Cons:

  • Lacks a flashlight function

 

 

#3. Best with Compass – Garmin GPSMAP 64sx Handheld GPS

portable gps for hiking use

Features:

  • 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
  • Water-resistant and rugged design
  • Preloaded TOPO active maps
  • High-sensitivity receiver
  • Altimeter and compass
  • Wireless connectivity

Navigate your next outdoor adventure with the Garmin GPSMAP Handheld GPS. This device has a water-resistant and rugged design that makes it suitable for hiking. It features a button operation and comes equipped with a sunlight-readable color display. This navigator is also preloaded with TopoActive maps that feature routable trails and roads for hiking and cycling. It comes with a 3-axis compass and a barometric altimeter.

What’s more is, this navigator has a high-sensitivity receiver with a quad-helix antenna and multi-GNSS support, so you always know where you are. It offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth technology and ANT+ technology. This navigator has a long battery life of up to 16 hours on GPS mode.

Pros:

  • Equipped with a compass and altimeter
  • Allows wireless connectivity
  • Has high reception

Cons:

  • Lacks flashlight function

 

 

#4. Best For Rugged Outdoors – Garmin Instinct Outdoor Watch with GPS

handheld watch gps

Features:

  • Built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
  • Rugged and durable construction
  • Preloaded activity profiles
  • Trackback feature

Garmin Instinct rugged outdoor watch with GPS is a fantastic life-saving device. It is well-built to withstand the harshest of environments. This reliable watch meets the standard 810G for shock, thermal, and water resistance. The case is of reinforced polymer fiber to add durability and strength. Also, the screen is scratch-resistant and chemically-strengthened with a high-contrast for excellent viewing in bright sunlight. The TrackBack feature helps the users to navigate the same route to the starting point.

Another thing is, this navigator has a built-in barometric altimeter and a 3-axis compass. These features, plus the multiple global navigation satellite systems, help you track your location even in the more challenging environments. It has an integrated monitor that works to monitor your activity, stress, and heart rate. You can also train with the preloaded activity profiles. It is compatible with most smartphones so you can stay updated with automatic data uploads and connected with smart notifications. This device has a decent battery life in all modes.

Pros:

  • Long battery life
  • Rugged and water-resistant construction
  • Comes with activity profiles for training

Cons:

  • Lacks a power-replenishing feature

 

 

#5. Best Multisports – Garmin Fenix 6X Pro Solar GPS Watch

best gps watch for hiking use

Features:

  • Rugged and sophisticated design
  • Unique power-replenishing feature
  • Internal rechargeable battery
  • Preloaded activity profiles
  • PacePro technology
  • TOPO and ski maps

Garmin Fenix 6X Pro Solar GPS watch is an excellent straight forward GPS. This premium multisport GPS watch has a large screen for easy viewing. It is solar-powered, so you can increase the battery life using the sun’s energy. There are an enhanced estimated wrist heart rate and pulse-Ox support altitude acclimation and advanced sleep monitoring. It also features advanced training features such as the PacePro that facilitates grade-adjusted pace guidance throughout your activity.

Additionally, this watch comes with preloaded TOPO maps, ski maps, and a multiple global navigation satellite system to always know where you are. It is also equipped with a 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter, and a gyroscope. It is comfortable for all-day wearability. The power manager modes are customizable so that you can control various sensors and settings.

Pros:

  • Solar-powered
  • A rugged design
  • Comes preloaded with TOPO maps

Cons:

  • Lacks a TrackBack feature

 

 

 

Conclusion

GPS devices for cars and hiking are handy, especially for off the grid adventures. They are ideal for adventure enthusiasts without compromising the peace of mind of their loved ones. These devices employ the latest GPS technologies, so you always know where you are. They are designed to offer great convenience and functionality. Add one to your car or backpacked while you go camping and experience the best part of it. Good Luck!

For Car:

For Hiking: