Question 1

What is the difference between the Garmin Montana and GPSMAP handheld GPS ranges?

Accepted Answer

The Garmin Montana series features large 5-inch colour touchscreen displays, making it well suited to use with detailed topographical maps and as an in-car navigation device when used with an optional vehicle mount. GPSMAP models such as the GPSMAP 67i use smaller 3-inch displays and are operated primarily via buttons rather than a touchscreen, making them more suited to use in cold or wet conditions where gloves may be worn. Both series support Garmin TOPO maps and are fully waterproof.

Question 2

What maps are compatible with Garmin handheld GPS devices?

Accepted Answer

Most Garmin handheld GPS devices support a wide range of mapping titles loaded via microSD card. These include Garmin TOPO maps for hiking and outdoor use, City Navigator NT maps for street-level road navigation, GB Discoverer maps based on Ordnance Survey data, and BlueChart g3 marine charts for coastal navigation. Compatible map titles are listed on each product page. Some models such as the Montana 710i and 760i come preloaded with TopoActive Europe maps as standard.

Question 3

Which Garmin handheld GPS devices include inReach satellite communication?

Accepted Answer

The Garmin GPSMAP H1i Plus, Montana 760i, Montana 710i, and GPSMAP 67i all include built-in inReach satellite communication, enabling two-way messaging and 24/7 interactive SOS from anywhere in the world via the Iridium satellite network. A subscription plan is required to activate the satellite communication features. The Garmin inReach Mini 3 Plus, inReach Mini 3, inReach Mini 2 and inReach Messenger are standalone satellite communicators designed to pair with a smartphone or compatible Garmin device.

Question 4

Can I use a Garmin handheld GPS for in-car navigation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, larger Garmin handheld GPS devices such as the Montana 760i and Montana 710i can be used as in-car sat navs when loaded with Garmin City Navigator NT street-level maps and mounted using an optional Garmin Montana suction cup vehicle mount. Smaller GPSMAP models are less suited to in-car use due to their smaller screen size.

Question 5

Are Garmin handheld GPS devices waterproof?

Accepted Answer

All current Garmin handheld GPS devices sold by ActiveGPS are fully waterproof. Most are rated to IPX7 standard, meaning they can be submerged to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes. The Garmin GPS 73 is a marine-rated handheld and is also buoyant, meaning it will float if dropped in water. If you specifically need a floating handheld for on-water use, see our range of marine handheld GPS devices.

Question 6

What is the battery life of Garmin handheld GPS devices?

Accepted Answer

Battery life varies by model. The Garmin GPSMAP H1i Plus offers up to 48 hours with inReach active, the Montana 760i and 710i offer up to 24 hours from their rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, and the GPSMAP 67i can run for up to 165 hours on AA batteries. If you need long battery life in the field without access to charging, models that accept AA batteries such as the GPSMAP 67i are ideal, as spare batteries can be carried and swapped out.

Question 7

Do Garmin handheld GPS devices come with maps preloaded?

Accepted Answer

Some models come preloaded with TopoActive Europe maps, including the GPSMAP H1i Plus, Montana 760i, Montana 710i, and GPSMAP 67i. Other models such as the GPSMAP 86i and GPSMAP 79s do not include preloaded maps and require a separately purchased map card. Compatible mapping titles are available from ActiveGPS on microSD card.

Question 8

What is the difference between the Garmin Montana 760i and Montana 710i?

Accepted Answer

Both the Garmin Montana 760i and Montana 710i feature 5-inch colour touchscreen displays, built-in inReach satellite communication, preloaded TopoActive Europe maps, and 32GB of internal memory. The Montana 760i adds an 8-megapixel digital camera for capturing photos of landmarks, waypoints, and terrain in the field. If photography is not a requirement, the Montana 710i offers the same core functionality at a lower price.

Garmin Handheld GPS Devices

Handheld GPS Buying Guide

Garmin Montana: Large Screen, Touchscreen Operation

Garmin GPSMAP: Compact, Button-Operated Handhelds

Garmin inReach: Standalone Satellite Communicators

Maps for Handheld GPS Devices

Accessories for Older Garmin Handheld GPS Devices

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