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Compare Best Handheld GPS head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
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#5 on this list
GPSMAP 86sci
Garmin
A floating, big-screen handheld with full inReach SOS — the right device for sea kayaks, canoes, and open boat decks where a dunking is a when, not an if.
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- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#6 on this list
eTrex SE
Garmin
The cheapest credible handheld: multi-band GNSS, very long battery life, and simple navigation that leans on a paired smartphone for setup and detail.
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- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | GPSMAP 86sci | eTrex SE |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Garmin | — |
| Series | GPSMAP 86 | — |
| Key Feature | inReach Satellite Communication | — |
| Display | Color, sunlight-readable | — |
| Water Resistance | Floats, IPX7 rated | — |
| Power Source | Rechargeable Li-Ion battery | 2x AAA (user-replaceable) |
| Display Type | — | Monochrome MIP |
| Battery Life | — | Up to 168 hours (GPS mode) |
| GNSS Support | — | Multi-band (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS) |
| Connectivity | — | Bluetooth |
| Physical Buttons | — | Yes |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
GPSMAP 86sci
- Integrated inReach satellite communication for global messaging and SOS
- Floats in water, significantly reducing loss risk on marine expeditions
- Large, clear color display is easy to read in direct sunlight
- Robust, sealed construction with IPX7 rating for extreme durability
- Reliable GPS accuracy and robust mapping features
- Higher price point due to integrated satellite capabilities
- Heavier and bulkier than non-inReach GPS units
- Requires active inReach subscription for satellite features
- Battery life can be shorter with heavy satellite tracking
eTrex SE
- Exceptional battery life on standard AAAs
- Precise multi-band GNSS for reliable positioning
- Rugged, weather-resistant construction with physical buttons
- Easy to read monochrome display in all light conditions
- Lightweight and compact for easy carrying
- Affordable entry into dedicated handheld GPS
- No integrated detailed maps, relies on smartphone pairing
- Monochrome screen lacks visual richness of color displays
- Navigation interface is basic, not feature-rich
- Requires a smartphone for full planning and data transfer
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.