Are you considering which Garmin GPSMAP handheld GPS device to buy? The table below compares the latest Garmin GPSMAP models available to buy from ActiveGPS including the Garmin GPSMAP 67i and Garmin GPSMAP 79s and Garmin GPSMAP 86i.
The comparison table below highlights the main comparison features e.g. screen size, inReach satellite messaging, battery life, wireless connectivity, preloaded mapping and whether the unit floats on water, to enable you to identify and see the difference between the Garmin GPSMAP models.
Want to compare the Garmin GPSMAP series alongside other Garmin handheld ranges e.g. Montana, Oregon and inReach? Please see the full handheld GPS comparison table.
Garmin GPSMAP Features Comparison
| Model | Screen | Satellite Messaging | Battery Life | WiFi / Bluetooth / ANT+ | Preloaded Mapping | Floats on Water | From | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Garmin GPSMAP 86i |
3-inch | Yes (inReach) | Up to 200 hours (Expedition mode) | Yes | Worldwide Basemap | Yes | £499.99 | Dual land and marine use, with autopilot/FUSION remote control |
 Garmin GPSMAP 79s |
3-inch | No | Up to 19 hours | No | Worldwide Basemap | Yes | £299.99 | Affordable floating handheld for hikers who do not need satellite messaging |
 Garmin GPSMAP 67i |
3-inch | Yes (inReach) | Up to 165 hours (tracking mode) | Yes | TopoActive Europe | No | £499.99 | Longest battery life plus inReach messaging for multi-day trips |
Satellite network abbreviations:
‣GPS - Global Positioning System
‣GLONASS - Global Navigation Satellite System
‣GALILEO - European Space Agency
‣QZSS - Quasi-Zenith Satellite System
‣IRNSS - Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System
Want to compare other Garmin handheld ranges?
The above table only features the Garmin GPSMAP models that you can buy from ActiveGPS. If you would like to compare handheld models from a different Garmin range e.g. Montana handhelds, please click on the relevant link below to compare models:
‣Garmin inReach comparison table
‣Garmin Montana comparison table
Want to compare the Garmin GPSMAP series alongside other Garmin handheld ranges e.g. Oregon, eTrex and inReach? Please see the full handheld GPS comparison table.
Frequently asked questions
Q. What is the difference between the Garmin GPSMAP 86i, 79s and 67i?
A. All three models share a 3-inch button-controlled display, a compass and altimeter, and support for paperless geocaching. The GPSMAP 86i and 67i both include inReach satellite messaging for two-way communication and SOS, whereas the GPSMAP 79s does not. The 86i is built for dual land and marine use, with autopilot and FUSION remote control support, while the 67i offers the longest battery life. The 79s is the simplest and least expensive of the three.
Q. Which of these Garmin GPSMAP models has inReach satellite messaging?
A. The Garmin GPSMAP 86i and GPSMAP 67i both include built-in inReach satellite messaging, giving you two-way messaging and SOS coverage via the Iridium satellite network with no mobile signal required. The Garmin GPSMAP 79s does not include inReach or any wireless connectivity, so it is best suited to hikers who do not need satellite messaging or app pairing.
Q. How long does the battery last on each model?
A. Battery life varies significantly by model and depends on which power mode is used. The Garmin GPSMAP 67i offers up to 165 hours in tracking mode, the GPSMAP 86i offers up to 200 hours in Expedition mode, and the GPSMAP 79s offers up to 19 hours. These figures are not directly comparable as each is measured under different conditions - check the individual product page for details on the mode used.
Q. Do any of these Garmin GPSMAP models float on water?
A. Yes, the Garmin GPSMAP 86i and GPSMAP 79s both float on water and are waterproof to IPX7, making them suitable for use around lakes, rivers or at sea where there is a risk of dropping the device overboard. The Garmin GPSMAP 67i does not float, so extra care, or a floating accessory, is recommended for water-based use.
Q. Which Garmin GPSMAP model is best for marine use?
A. The Garmin GPSMAP 86i is the best choice for marine use. As well as floating on water and being waterproof to IPX7, it can act as a remote control for a compatible Garmin autopilot or select FUSION marine products, making it suitable for dual land and marine use. The GPSMAP 79s also floats but does not offer autopilot or FUSION remote control.
Do you own an older Garmin GPSMAP handheld device? Are you looking for accessories?
As well as selling the latest Garmin GPSMAP models and their accessories, we also sell a vast selection of genuine Garmin accessories for Garmin GPSMAP devices that have since been discontinued. Discontinued Garmin GPSMAP outdoor systems we sell original parts for include the Garmin GPSMAP 60 series, Garmin GPSMAP 62, Garmin GPSMAP 62s, Garmin GPSMAP 62sc, Garmin GPSMAP 62st, Garmin GPSMAP 64, Garmin GPSMAP 64s and Garmin GPSMAP 64st.
Alternatively, view accessories for all Garmin GPSMAP models, including accessory and parts for the very latest. Parts available include; retractable lanyard, swivel belt clip and mains charger.
Garmin Authorised Internet Retailer
We are official Internet Retailers of Garmin products and we sell genuine Garmin accessories and maps. We purchase from the Garmin UK distributor. We do not buy on the grey market and we do not sell counterfeit products. You can rest assured that by purchasing from ActiveGPS.co.uk you will receive the full support of Garmin.
This page was last updated on: 16th September 2026
