The best outdoor GPS device will let you navigate, track your route and monitor your performance wherever your sense of adventure takes you. If you’ve been thinking about getting a GPS device, we’ve reviewed seven of the best from Coros, Wahoo and Garmin.
From a range of watches, handheld and cycling GPS devices, we’ve reviewed the most versatile and functional. Those that are going to give you the best performance across a range of outdoor activities. The basic function of an outdoor GPS is to pinpoint your location, but these devices are capable of a whole lot more.
To find the very best, we’ve compared the main functions of each GPS device, as well as the features, size, weight and battery life. Whether you want to leave the trails behind, explore new destinations or just have a backup safety device – we’ve got you covered with these excellent outdoor GPS devices.
| Type | Screen size | Weight | Battery life | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch | GPS Watch – Black and White Screen | 23 x 23mm | 53g | 14 days in smartwatch mode |
| Coros Apex Pro GPS Watch | GPS Watch – Touchscreen | 1.2-inch | 59g | 30 days in smartwatch mode |
| Garmin eTrex 10 | Handheld GPS – Black and White Screen | 36 x 42mm | 142g | 25 hours |
| Garmin eTrex 32x | Handheld GPS – Colour Screen | 35 x 44mm | 141.7g | 25 hours |
| Garmin Oregon 750t | Handheld GPS – Touchscreen | 38 x 63mm | 209.8g | Up to 16 hours |
| Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT Cycling GPS | Cycling GPS – Colour Screen | 2.2-inch | 68.38g | 15 hours |
| Garmin Edge 830 Cycling GPS | Cycling GPS – Touchscreen | 2.6-inch | 79.1g | 20 hours |
GPS WATCHES
Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch
Garmin’s Instinct 2 Solar watch has the potential for unlimited battery power and all the right features for your outdoor adventures. Garmin is the market leader when it comes to GPS and it’s hard to go past their reliability and performance.
The Instinct 2 Solar is one of the most durable watches in the Garmin range, with thermal, shock and water resistance built in. The case is made from fibre-reinforced polymer, while the screen has a scratch-resistant, high-contrast display for use in all levels of light.
In terms of GPS navigation and tracking, there is a built-in compass and barometric altimeter. It also connects to multiple satellite systems for more accurate coverage. You can use the Garmin Explore app to plan your route in advance, and the TracBack feature will help you return to your starting point if you get lost.
Additional features include heart rate, activity and stress monitoring, using a range of preloaded activity profiles.The battery life ranges from 14 days in smartwatch mode to 16 hours in GPS mode. However, because it is solar rechargeable, you can charge while out on the trail, and won’t have to worry about low battery levels ever again.
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Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch
Specifications:
- Type: GPS Watch – Black and White Screen
- Screen size: 23 x 23mm
- Weight: 53g
- Battery life: 14 days in smartwatch mode
Buy now from Amazon
Coros Apex Pro GPS Watch
The Coros Apex Pro is a versatile outdoor GPS watch – that you can wear on just about any adventure. For a lower price, you still get great functionality and features that are usually reserved for higher-end GPS watches.
Coros builds devices for the outdoors, with constant upgrades to include the latest technologies. Its Apex Pro is an upgrade of the original Apex GPS watch and has an improved antenna design for better connectivity. It can connect to five major satellite systems and has dual-frequency GPS for better accuracy in tricky areas.
Other upgrade features include a pulse oximeter, altitude advisory and touchscreen, all which give this watch a whole lot more functionality. You can switch between the various modes and settings using both the touchscreen and outer digital dial.
The navigation system is boosted by features such as the barometric altimeter, compass, checkpoints, return to start navigation and alerts if you go off-route. It also has incredible battery life, ranging from 40 hours to 30 days depending on the profile you are using.
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Coros Apex Pro GPS Watch
Specifications:
- Type: GPS Watch – Touchscreen
- Screen size: 1.2-inch
- Weight: 59g
- Battery life: 30 days in smartwatch mode
Buy now from Amazon
Handheld GPS
Garmin eTrex 10
If you’re after an entry-level handheld GPS, Garmin’s eTrex 10 has basic features, good usability and a low price. It is ideal for tracking or geocaching, and is particularly simple for anyone just getting started using GPS devices.
The best thing about the Garmin eTrex 10 is its usability. Set up is simple, the black and white screen is easy to read and it’s not overloaded with complex features. Pinpointing your location and tracking your hike or run is easy with the use of both the GPS and GLONASS systems.
The device supports GPX files for downloading geocache details. It also stores and displays key information including location, terrain, difficulty and descriptions, meaning you can go paper-free to hunt down geocaches.
It is small and lightweight with a toggle that is useful in cold or wet conditions and a screen that can be read easily, even in different light levels. If you’re after a basic GPS for tracking or geocaching, there’s no need to look any further.
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Garmin eTrex 10
Specifications:
- Type: Handheld GPS – Black and White Screen
- Screen size: 36 x 42mm
- Weight: 142g
- Battery life: 25 hours
Buy now from Amazon
Garmin eTrex 32x
A couple of models up from the eTrex 10, Garmin’s eTrex 32x is a mid-range handheld GPS with a great price point. Its connectivity, navigation systems and the inclusion of topographic maps make it suitable for a variety of outdoor adventures.
The eTrex 32x uses GPS and GLONASS systems for navigation and tracking. It also has a barometric altimeter and compass, and is preloaded with topographic maps. In addition, you can subscribe and download satellite imagery to integrate with your maps for more accurate mapping and navigation.
This is a device that you can use hiking, cycling, or even on ATVs and boats. You can also mount it in your vehicle to navigate while driving. The preloaded topographic maps include roads, trails and points of interest, plus you can upload extra maps if needed.
This GPS is built tough, with IPX7 waterproofing, a colour screen and toggle. The colour screen gives more clarity to the maps and data, while still being readable in sunlight. If you’re after a mid-range handheld GPS for navigating, the eTrex 32x provides the right features at a great price.
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Garmin eTrex 32x
Specifications:
- Type: Handheld GPS – Colour Screen
- Screen size: 35 x 44mm
- Weight: 141.7g
- Battery life: 25 hours
Buy now from Amazon
Garmin Oregon 750t
The Garmin Oregon 750t is a versatile, feature-packed handheld GPS device. It has presets for a range of outdoor activities, plus excellent connectivity and navigating systems. This top-of-the-line device boasts every feature you could want in a handheld GPS.
The standout feature of the Oregon 750t is the inbuilt camera. The 8MP camera allows you to take high-resolution photos, geotag the photo location and connect wirelessly to your smartphone to upload the images straight away.
For navigating, this GPS has barometers and compass, plus a one-year subscription to the BirdsEye Satellite Imagery is included along with topographic maps. There are presets for hiking, cycling, climbing and fishing already preloaded to the GPS and by connecting to your smartphone, you can upload maps and routes as needed.
The large colour touchscreen makes the Oregon 750t very easy to use. You can customise your display for your intended use and add extra mapping options to use it for navigating in a boat or vehicle. If you don’t mind the higher price tag, this GPS is going to be your best friend in the great outdoors.
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Garmin Oregon 750t
Specifications:
- Type: Handheld GPS – Touchscreen
- Screen size: 38 x 63mm
- Weight: 209.8g
- Battery life: Up to 16 hours
Buy now from Garmin
Cycling GPS
Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT Cycling GPS
Wahoo brings simplicity to its ELEMNT BOLT cycling GPS through good design, usability and enough features to satisfy any rider. It’s the second evolution of Wahoo’s ELEMNT – which was the first app-enabled GPS bike computer.
The upgrades to the original cycling GPS by Wahoo include refined features and a sleek integrated computer and mount. This stylish GPS can be used with Bluetooth, ANT+ and Wi-Fi, meaning you can connect to a whole range of apps for better usability and more functionality.
The device itself is easy to use thanks to the quick set up, and it has a customisable interface so you can load it with your own preferences. The latest edition has colour added to the screen for improved graphics and an ambient light sensor to ensure the screen is readable in all light conditions.
The ELEMNT BOLT contains 16MB of memory and can store maps and routes, as well as reroute on the go. It has 15 hours of battery life and is compatible with USB-C charging so you can boost the battery even as you are riding.
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Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT Cycling GPS
Specifications:
- Type: Cycling GPS – Colour Screen
- Screen size: 2.2-inch
- Weight: 68.38g
- Battery life: 15 hours
Buy now from Amazon
Garmin Edge 830 Cycling GPS
If you want Garmin value in a cycling GPS, the Edge 830 device will give you just what you are after. It is a touchscreen cycling computer with colour display and plenty of features packed in. One of the impressive new features is the ability to pair the Edge 830 with Garmin’s Varia rear-view radar and lights – for extra safety on the road.
The Edge 830 connects to GPS, GLONASS and GALILEO satellite systems and can be used for mapping and navigation, as well as for rerouting. The integrated Bluetooth and ANT+ allow you to connect to other devices and integrate a whole host of programs including Strava.
You can monitor your health and performance with features built for tracking VO2 max, hydration and recovery. There are also plenty of inbuilt metrics for on-road cycling as well as trail riding and mountain biking. It has a 2.6-inch touchscreen and three buttons which make it very easy to use while riding.
Overall, Garmin’s Edge 830 beats out the competition with its huge array of features and excellent functionality. If you don’t mind a higher price tag, we think you’ll find this cycling GPS well worth the investment.
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Garmin Edge 830 Cycling GPS
Specifications:
- Type: Cycling GPS – Touchscreen
- Screen size: 2.6-inch
- Weight: 79.1g
- Battery life: 20 hours
Buy now from Amazon
How we review products
4X4 Australia has been reviewing four-wheel drive vehicles, aftermarket products and camping gear for more than 40 years. When looking for the best outdoor GPS devices in Australia, there are some things that are essential to choosing the best device for your outdoor needs.
When we compared each of the GPS devices in the list with others on the market, we looked at the functions, size, weight, battery life and price. We also searched for additional features that make these GPS devices stand out from the rest.
We looked at hundreds of user reviews and drew on our own experience with outdoor GPS devices to make sure our recommendations are for the best on the market.
Disclosure: When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. We also include products that we do not earn a commission from.
Buyers’ Guide to Outdoor GPS Devices
Types of outdoor GPS devices
There are a lot of outdoor GPS devices on the market in Australia. To choose the best one, you really need to consider what you are going to use it for. We’ve reviewed three different types of outdoor GPS devices – watches, handheld and cycling – with an aim to find the most versatile and functional ones on the market.
GPS watches
GPS watches allow you to have navigation, tracking and performance monitoring functions, all in a compact device on your wrist. They are most commonly used for tracking performance during outdoor activities, but they can also be used to navigate while hiking, riding, climbing or even skiing.
An entry-level GPS watch will allow you to track your speed and distance, in order to evaluate your performance afterwards. However, they are not always suitable for complex navigation purposes.
A more advanced GPS watch will allow you to navigate on and off trails, as well as monitor your performance in real time. They may also feature training modes and heart-rate monitoring, making them more versatile to be used across a range of outdoor activities.
Handheld GPS devices
Also known as a hiking GPS, a handheld GPS can be used for navigating almost anywhere. A handheld GPS device is most commonly used for hiking, trail running, climbing or mountaineering where there is no phone reception.
A basic handheld GPS will be able to pinpoint your location and track your route as you hike/run/climb. They usually come with very basic maps and allow you to upload a route to the GPS before you set out. SOS alerts and satellite messaging are great safety features to have included, but they usually require a subscription.
As you go up in price, there are plenty more features to add to handheld GPS devices. Navigation is a key one, including being able to set a route while you are out on the trails. Features like a compass and barometric altimeter will give you more accuracy while navigating. The inclusion of topographic maps or satellite imagery will vastly improve the user experience as well.
Cycling GPS devices
Cycling GPS devices, also known as cycling computers, are designed to mount on the front of your bike and use while you are riding. Navigation, tracking and performance monitoring are the main reasons to use these GPS devices.
An entry-level cycling GPS will allow you to upload a route before you start pedalling, as well as track your ride. Generally, it has features that allow you to monitor your speed, distance and overall performance.
A more advanced cycling GPS gives greater versatility out on the road or trails with features like rerouting, touchscreens and metrics for different styles of riding. Rerouting is key if there is an obstruction or if you take a wrong turn – as the GPS will allow you to get back on track.
What to consider before buying an Outdoor GPS device
When buying an outdoor GPS device, you want to make sure it is going to meet your needs in terms of durability, connectivity and price. Whatever type of GPS device you are planning to buy – watch, handheld or cycling – here are some things you should look for.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of an outdoor GPS is important. Ideally, it will be lightweight so you can wear it, carry it or mount it easily, without it being a burden to use. However, you also need to be able to see what’s on the screen clearly, which can be harder on smaller devices. Try to look for a device that is portable, but doesn’t limit your capacity to navigate with maps or see important information at a glance.
Touchscreen, Toggle or Buttons
GPS devices will generally come with either a toggle or buttons for navigating through the software. Buttons and toggles are easier to use in wet or cold conditions as they are not affected by rain and can be used while wearing gloves. However, a lot of new models feature touchscreens. Touchscreens will use more battery power – but they are generally easier to read and have the same usability as a smartphone.
Battery Life and Charging
The battery life and charging options of a GPS are something you need to check before buying. The longer the battery life the better, however, most GPS units will specify the battery life for the device while it is being used in different modes. It’s a good idea to consider what mode you will use the most, then check the battery life and charging options.
Durability and Waterproofing
All outdoor GPS devices will have different levels of durability. Consider what conditions you plan to expose the device to (including potential unplanned conditions) and find a GPS that is durable enough to meet your needs. To do this, check the materials it is made from and also the waterproofing level. In general, GPS devices with touchscreens are less durable and more likely to have screen damage than other devices.
Satellite system Connectivity
If a GPS device connects to more than one Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) it will greatly increase the speed and accuracy of your GPS features. The main three satellite systems that most devices will potentially use are:
- GPS – American satellite system
- GLONASS – Russian satellite system
- GALILEO – European satellite system
Wireless Connectivity to your Smartphone
A GPS device that connects to your smartphone offers a lot more versatility in how it can be used. Many GPS units have a smartphone app that allows you to use extra functions for navigation, tracking and on-route performance monitoring. Look for GPS units that have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity to get the most out of your device.
Price
Prices can vary drastically between GPS devices in Australia. To ensure value for money, it’s better to choose a GPS device from a reputable brand – such as the ones we have reviewed. It’s also important to consider exactly what you intend to use the device for. You might just save a few hundred dollars by selecting a device with only the features and functionality that you will actually use.
Keyword: Best outdoor GPS devices in Australia 2023