OutdoorGearLab

The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is at the top of its class in terms of accuracy and reliability, earning it our top honors. It boasts a powerful quad-helix antenna and reliably connects to more satellite networks with greater accuracy than most other models. Even in less-than-ideal locations, like under thick tree cover or in a tight slot canyon, the GPSMAP 66st can maintain a satellite connection. When in the range of cell service, this unit can pair with your smartphone to overlay real-time weather data on your maps. Its 16GB of internal memory is more than double most other units and comes preloaded with topo maps for the US and Canada and subscription-free access to Garmin's Bird's Eye Imagery.
As expected, all of these attributes come at a high price point. If you intend to go on expeditionary trips or need high accuracy for field research, the Garmin GPSMAP 66st is worth every penny. For casual recreation, this device may be overkill. Additional features, such as wirelessly linking to your phone, require a cumbersome setup process. While this unit doesn't feature a built-in touchscreen, we appreciate the large buttons and intuitive layout. The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is undoubtedly a powerful device, but it's also easy to use, even in the most extreme field conditions.
Read more: Garmin GPSMAP 66st review

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Budget Pick

For those seeking a straightforward GPS that doesn't sacrifice much in terms of pure navigation performance, the Garmin eTrex 32x performs well above its weight class when compared directly with more advanced units. An excellent value that does not skimp in reception and processing speed, this device comes preloaded with Garmin's TopoActive basemap, which offers sufficient data for those who don't want to mess with having to find and upload individual maps. The available accuracy linking GPS and GLONASS networks is improved by adding a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis digital compass &mdash; two sensors often only reserved for much more expensive GPS units. Yet, this enhanced capability somehow doesn't affect its size and weight. Just as small and lightweight as other models in the eTrex line, this compact GPS can easily be stashed away in a pack or tossed into a pocket for a day hike.
There are still some limitations to this otherwise impressive handheld. Even though it has the ability for routable navigation, the relatively tiny screen is not reasonable for finding your way around a new city via car or even daily driving. It is also still very much a base-level GPS unit &mdash; although it supports Garmin's BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, it doesn't offer the same level of connectivity as more advanced units. Similarly, many used to modern user interfaces will find the joystick and T9-style keyboards clunky or tedious compared to the normalized convenience of a touchscreen. But as a plug-and-play option for simple navigation or a durable, compact, and capable GPS for expeditions, the eTrex 32x presents an affordable option with more advanced capabilities.
Read more: Garmin eTrex 32x review

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