Best Geocaching GPS

8 Best Geocaching GPS Devices To Find Your Way Around The World

Last updated on February 11th, 2024

Geocaching is a super fun outdoor activity that has gained immense popularity nowadays. Geocaching is the art of exploring and looking for hidden treasures that have been hidden by other people. Imagine having caches buried around you but all these days you had no clue! With the help of a geocaching GPS, you can use the hints to reach to your cache. The location of the cache usually varies.

It can be somewhere outskirts of town or in the middle of a busy metropolis. Once you find your cache, the right time to take that would be when no one’s looking otherwise someone else might take it and you can get “muggled” (Harry Potter reference).

Each cache contains a different kind of elements. Some might contain a coordinate, some might give you a riddle to solve to get to the cache. You must have a GPS that will give you proper navigation to find your cache. Even though it’s a harmless innocent game, it’s not always perceived in that manner by others who don’t know about it.

For example, in South Carolina, you’re not allowed to hide Geocaches in historical places or cemeteries. There are many GPS that you can use to track the caches out in the wild. GPS has become a mere substitute for old-school compasses and maps as they provide a lot more accuracy and ease of use.

Your device must be able to guide you through the long journey with accuracy as it’ll be your only mode of guidance in the wild.

Getting your hands on a good geocaching device will ease your path toward finding the caches. Undoubtedly, they’ll make the task much smoother and a lot more fun.

Let’s have a look at our top ten finds of the best Geocaching GPS that will navigate you with utmost precision to the cache.

 Comparisons of Best Geocaching GPS

[amazon table=”3514″][amazon table=”3515″][amazon table=”3516″]

10 Best GPS For Geocaching – Reviews

Garmin eTrex 20x

If you want to take your geocaching experience up a notch then the Garmin eTrex 20x is your guy. It’s incredibly lightweight with a compact size that fits well in palms.

It has a 240 x 320 display that provides superior readability even when you’re under direct sun. Running out of space is a common issue with the regular geocaching GPS.

However, the eTrex 20x features a whopping 3.7 GB of internal memory so that you can download tons of maps without having to worry about space.

Even though the eTrex 20x has a compact size it has an extremely rugged build quality.

Unlike your phone, you can drop it off your hands but it’ll still work well as new.

It runs on two AA batteries and offers a battery life of 20 hours of non-stop usage. This device provides everything that you need to find the caches.

You can make GPX files, plan your routes, mark your waypoints, and navigate to your waypoints, etc. However, one thing that the eTrex 20x lacks is the topographic map.

It comes with a very basic map that might not suffice all the time. Although you can find free topographic maps that you can send here and plan your next route.

On the other hand, the eTrex series by Garmin is the first consumer-grade receiver that can track GPS as well as GLONASS satellites.

If you wish for high-quality graphics and lots of extra features, this Garmin GPS may not be for you.

However, if you want to find an inexpensive Garmin GPS that gets the job done, there’s no need to look any further than the eTrex 20x.

Pros

  • Expensive
  • Sufficient internal memory
  • Outstanding display with bright settings
  • Compact size
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • No built-in topographic map

Garmin GPSMAP 64s

The GPSMAP 64s is another splendid creation by Garmin that’s adored by geocachers all around the world. It has a robust build quality that can take some rugged activity without a hitch.

It weighs around 230g which is not certainly the lightest in the market but it’ll fit in your palm easily. It also includes a carabiner grip so that you can carry it around easily.

The GPSMAP 64s has a 2.6” color display with a resolution of 160 x 240 pixels that offers excellent readability under direct sunlight.

The GPSMAP 64s is waterproof and it has superb durability.  it is not a touchscreen.

It runs with two AA batteries and you can also use rechargeable batteries, however, it provides the best performance with Polaroid AA batteries.

When it comes to navigation, it provides accurate ones.

The 4GB internal memory will allow you to download tons of maps. There’s also a built-in electronic compass and you also get a heart rate monitor to check up on yourself when you’re out there looking for caches.

You also get a barometer so that you can plan your day according to the temperature fluctuations. On top of that, you can connect it to your mobile phone which will enable you to transfer data or receive notifications.

Pros

  • Accurate navigation
  • 4GB internal memory
  • In-built barometer and compass
  • Connectivity with mobile

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Bulky

Garmin eTrex 30x

Garmin GPS never fails to amaze us and the eTRex 30x is no different. This is another gem by the eTrex series that is loaded with awesome features with superior functionality.

It has a 2.2-inch display with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels that’s well readable under sunlight.

It has a very durable build with a compact size with a dimension of 2.1″ x 4.0″ x 1.3″. It has a huge internal memory of 3.7GB that allows downloading maps from various sites such as TOPO 24K, HuntView, BlueChart g2, etc.

This device also stores important factors such as the difficulty level of the terrain, location, description, etc.

You no longer need to manually print it out because the eTrex 30x has you covered.

The eTrex series is known for its ability to track both GPS and GLONASS satellites simultaneously.

It enables you to create a trip plan that you share with your friends and family to double up the fun.

There are several built-in sensors such as a barometer that will help you monitor the pressure of the atmosphere when you’re out in the wilderness. There’s also an electronic compass to help with the navigation process.

Pros

  • Sturdy construction
  • High resolution with good sunlight readability
  • Supports both GPS and GLONASS
  • Large touch display
  • 7 GB internal memory

Cons

  • Expensive

Garmin eTrex10 GPS

If you don’t want to break the bank for buying the GPS then the Garmin eTrex10 is a perfect option for you. It’s budget-friendly yet offers superb performance and it can give many expensive GPSes a run for their money.

It provides accurate navigation thus you’ll face no problem with this while out in the wilderness. The robust build will tag you along in the rough terrains. It has a 2.2” monochrome display that’s reader-friendly under all kinds of light settings.

It has pre-installed basecamp maps, however, you can upload maps and waypoints through the USB cable that comes with the device.

It runs on standard two AA batteries and for a basic GPS, it has quite a long battery life of 25 hours.

The eTRex10 is water-resistant and the gear rubber edges will save it from breaking even through harsh falls.

The built-in compass is placed on the opening screen so your navigation process will be a lot smoother with this device.

Like other eTrex models, this one also supports both GPS and GLONASS satellites. The trip-planning software also enables you to update your friends and family about your trip details.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Preloaded with basecamp maps
  • Long battery life
  • Durable

Cons

  • Monochrome display

Garmin Epix-Best GPS Watch For Hunting

The Garmin Epix is one of the most advanced GPS watches in the market that is worth the splurge. Owning this bad boy will be the best purchase decision you’ve made if you’re an outdoorsy person as it not only helps with Geocaching but also helps with multiple outdoor activities.

In terms of design, it’s quite a hardy. However, it’s incredibly lightweight as well as comfortable. It’s water-resistant up to 50 meters and it can take quite some beating as it has a very rugged construction.

It features a standard worldwide map but you can download many Birdseye, topographic detailed maps on this device.

The Epix has a whopping 8 GB of internal memory so you can download plenty of materials to find your way to the next cache.

However, the storage can be used to download maps and waypoints only.

That means you can’t use it for music or audiobooks. Being one of the most technologically advanced risk-based outdoor watches, it contains all the necessary features such as a barometer, temperature sensor, altimeter, and compass.

It also includes a bunch of health features such as activity and sleep tracking, alarms, sports profiles, etc.

It’s costly, but if you’re a highly active multi-sports person, it may be what you need.

Pros

  • Lightweight and sturdy
  • Water-resistant
  • 8 GB internal memory
  • 50 hours of battery life

Cons

  • Very expensive

Garmin Montana 680t

If you’re a big-screen person and the screen on other GPS seems too small to you then you might have found your guy.

The Garmin Montana has a 4-inch dual orientation and high-resolution display that will blow your mind away.

The cherry on top is that it also includes an 8-megapixel camera that will increase the fun of the geocaching hunt to a great extent. The camera automatically geotags photos so all your memories will come with a title.

It has pre-installed TOPO US 100K maps so you don’t spend money to get them from various sites.

You also get to avail free Birdseye subscription for one full year.

It also features 250,000 preloaded geocaches from Geocaching.com. Quite a steal, right?

The Garmin Montana 680t also comes with several other cool features such as a 3-axis tilt compass, altimeter, temperature sensor, etc. You can get access to both GPS and GLONASS satellites with this device.

It comes with a rechargeable battery and a USB cable to recharge the battery. If your rechargeable battery dies out, you can also use 3 AA batteries to run this bad boy.

Pros

  • 4” touchscreen display
  • TOPO US maps
  • Preinstalled geocaches
  • One-year Birdseye subscription
  • Rechargeable battery
  • 8 MP camera

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • It often takes time to sync with the satellite

Garmin Oregon 700-Most Accurate Handheld GPS

The Garmin Oregon 700 is another top-of-the-line GPS that will take your time out in the wilderness to the next level.

It features a large three-inch display that provides excellent readability under sunlight. You can also change the display orientation to landscape and portrait mode in this device.

It has an extremely superior robust construction which can take some rigorous beating with ease. The rubberized edge along with ergonomic design will provide you with a superb grip even in rough terrains.

So, you don’t have to worry about the GPS falling off the hands while looking for caches.

You can create multiple profiles with this GPS which will come in handy if you’re an outdoorsy person.

Other than geocaching, you can also create accounts for cycling, mountain biking, fishing, and many more.

You get both GPS and GLONASS satellite receptions with this device so you’ll face no problem getting synced with the satellite when you’re out in the wilderness.

The navigation is very accurate so you’ll be able to reach the cache with less effort. It also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, hence, you can transfer data for your mobile phone or download it from the web as well.

Pros

  • 7 GB internal memory
  • Supports multiple profiles for various activities
  • Rugged construction
  • Ergonomic grip

Cons

  • Short battery life

Garmin Montana 610 Camo

If you something rugged-looking to give your geocaching expedition that extra oomph then the Garmin Montana 610 camo is your guy. It looks quite different from the other GPS that we reviewed due to its camo prints.

Along with sturdy looks, it also features superior performance. It’s loaded with 250,000 geocaches from Geocaching.com to give a jump start to your cache hunt.

On top of that, it comes with pre-installed topographic maps and you’ll also get a one-year free subscription at Birdseye.com.

It features a four-inch touchscreen display that will provide a crystal clear view of all kinds of light settings.

The Montana 610 camo is loaded with useful features.

It has a built-in 3-axis compass that shows your heading even while you’re moving or you’re not on the level.

The Montana 610 accurately navigates your way and it has high-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS that syncs with the satellite with utmost precision.

No matter how deep in the wilderness you go while looking for the cache, this device will surely help you get to your way.

You can also organize maps and waypoints or plan your routes on this device. It also enables you to share your adventure and travel details with your fellow explorers, friends, and family.

Pros

  • Rugged looks
  • Sturdy construction
  • Accurate navigation
  • Pre-installed 250,000 geocaches

Cons

  • Expensive

Garmin GPS 60 Non-Mapping Personal Navigation Unit

The Garmin GPS 60 Non-Mapping Personal Navigation Unit is a super convenient GPS that offers a lot more functionality than a regular GPS.

It features a wrist strap so that you can hang it to your hand while looking for the cache. It comes with an external hard-drive cable and it also includes a WayPoint manager CD which is compatible with PC.

If you are new to the Geocaching world and you have no idea how a GPS works then don’t worry, Garmin GPS 60 got you covered. It includes a detailed user manual that will guide you step by step regarding all questions and queries.

The Garmin GPS 60 features a large grayscale display with bright backlit LED.

It has buttons on the front that show clear instructions of their functions.

It runs with two AA batteries and you’ll get about 28 hours of run time with it. The long battery life will enable you to have unlimited fun hours without any interruption.

This bad boy is also waterproof so be it rain or snow, nothing can stop you from finding the caches. On top of that, it also features a built-in alarm clock so that you’re never late for your expedition.

It also shows the best time for hunting, fishing, and the day’s sunrise/sunset times. Who doesn’t like a reminder, right?

Pros

  • Budget-friendly
  • Water-proof and moisture-proof
  • Long battery life
  • Durable

Cons

  • Greyscale display

Magellan eXplorist GC Waterproof Geocaching GPS

While Garmin is ruling the geocaching GPS world, Magellan has brought a top-notch device to give them a run for their money.

It’s a super cool device that has plenty of features to smoothen your road towards the cache hunt. It has a nice compact size that’ll fit in your palm easily.

It has a 2.2-inch bright LCD that will show your name, email, and address right after you turn it on.

However, you need to put this information on the device once you get your hands on this GPS.

It’s preloaded with plenty of geocaches and it offers easy connectivity to Geocaching.com.

The colorful graphics along with ease of use has made it quite a popular choice among the geocachers around the world. It does everything a standard GPS should. From creating routes to marking waypoints to trip progress, it does it all.

The Explorist is waterproof so sudden rain or snow wouldn’t be a problem on your way to the cache. Also, the vibrant display provides the best readability even under bright sun rays.

It has high-sensitivity SiRFstarIII microcontroller chips that enable it to have a three-meter accuracy that helps you find the cache easily.

Pros

  • Water-resistant
  • Bright LCD
  • Superb readability under direct sunlight
  • High-tech GPS chips

Cons

  • Short battery life

Buying Guide

Now that you know of the best geocaching GPS in the market, it’s high time to make the purchase. But, before you do that, you need to consider several factors that will play a crucial role in your overall decision.

We don’t want you to have any regret or cognitive dissonance after you buy the device. So, we have listed out the factors that you should consider before making your ultimate purchase decision.

Screen Size and Type

We’re somehow in captivity of touch-screen devices these days. However, there are some amazing GPS with buttons that provide performance just as good as the touch-screen ones.

We have reviewed both button and touch-screen devices so that you can weigh out the pros and cons of yourself to figure out which one will be the better option for you.

The price varies on the higher side for the touch-screen devices and buttoned ones are more economical. The screen size also varies from device to device.

If you’re not comfortable with a small screen and have a hard time operating them then do opt for a larger version. Also, Make sure the GPS you buy has good readability under sunlight.

Storage

Storage is a very crucial factor when deciding on the perfect GPS as it’s the determinant of how many you can store in the device. If your GPS comes with little storage facility then it’ll be an unworthy investment.

However, it’s not the same as your smartphone storage. GPS storage doesn’t allow you to keep movies, games, or audio files rather the Geocaching GPS stores maps, routes, and waypoints.

Maps

There are several GPS available that come with pre-installed maps. There are many sites available on the web from where you can download maps for free.

However, there are exclusive sites such as Birdseye that require a subscription and you need to purchase the maps from there.

Also, some of the GPSes include topographic maps which are quite different than the street maps we generally see. We have reviewed a few devices such as Garmin Epix that feature topographic maps.

So, if you prefer topographic maps over regular ones then go for the GPS that supports this feature.

Battery Life

Your GPS will be of no use it has a short battery life. Suppose you’re in the wilderness looking for a cache and your GPS dies. Absolute nightmare, right?

The battery life of GPS is a vital factor to consider to avoid such mishaps. GPSes that we reviewed have plenty of run time to serve you through the expedition.

Most GPSes run with AA batteries. Although, some of them have rechargeable batteries. If you’re into a rigorous no-stop hunt for your cache, we suggest you go for a device that offers at least 20+ hours of runtime to keep you covered.

Build Quality

Your Geocaching GPS must be able to survive through rigorous activities. The device needs to have an excellent grip and a carabiner would be a bonus. Geocaching GPSes generally have a rubberized body to sustain through falls or hits.

Weight and Dimension

When you’re traveling and looking for caches, you do want something lightweight that would not be an extra bother throughout the day. Well, we all agree with the fact that holding a bulky device for hours is quite annoying.

GPS devices have a robust build quality hence they’re not feather-light if you’re wondering. Most of these devices will fit in your hand and many of them have an additional hook where you can attach a carabiner.

Waterproof

Geocaching requires quite some vigorous activities and the GPS needs to last through rains or snows perhaps the apocalypse (pun intended).

When you’re out there to find the caches, the weather might not be in your favor. There are always possibilities for rain, storm, or snow. So, the device needs to be able to run smoothly even when it’s submerged in water.

Many GPSes have an IPX7 designation, which means the device will run smoothly even after it’s submerged in one meter underwater for 30 minutes. If you’re selected location has waterbodies around then opting for a device with IPX7 designation would be a wise choice.

Satellite Receiver

Make sure the device you choose syncs well with the satellite so that you don’t get lost in the wilderness. Garmin GPSes are compatible with GLONASS satellites along with GPS satellites to ensure better reach.

This satellite improves the receiver’s performance and helps to receive transmission even in the deep wild areas. Some GPSes have a WAAS-enabled receiver, which stands for Wide Angle Augmentation System.

This technology uses a network of satellites along with a ground-based station to improve the signal when the GPS signal isn’t strong or reliable enough. WAS-enable receivers will reduce the error made by GPS satellites and provide a more accurate result.

Other built-in Features

Nowadays many GPSes come with a preloaded barometric altimeter and 3-axis compass, temperature sensor, etc.

An electronic compass is a more advanced version of a handheld compass as it provides accurate results no matter which direction you’re holding the device.

Also, the barometer helps you figure out the pressure of the atmosphere around you which comes in handy while looking for caches so stay updated about the atmosphere around you.

Importance of a GPS for Geocaching

You might be wondering if your smartphone can perform many of these tasks. However, a geocaching GPS is more than a smartphone when you’re out in the wild.

Geocaching devices will not certainly fly you to the caches but they’ll certainly help you reach the cache more easily and efficiently.

Geocaching GPSes are easy and comfortable to use. They’re waterproof and they mostly have a rugged build quality so you don’t need to worry about the device while looking for the cache in rocky terrain or a harsh surface.

They sync well with the satellite to provide you with better accuracy and navigation throughout your cache hunt. Also, these devices mostly run on AA batteries so if you take some spares you can look for the caches worry-free for hours.

Final Words

Geocaching is a widely popular outdoor activity these days. There are countless caches around you and a good GPS will take you to the cache with utmost accuracy and precision.

The market is filled with many geocaching GPSes. With so many options in hand, finding the right one for yourself is quite an intimidating task.

We have reviewed the best devices available in the market to make your hunt for caches smoother and easier. The most expensive one doesn’t need to help you find the cache easily. Instead, they will help you with the navigation process by providing more accurate results.

Also, if you’re a beginner or you don’t want to splurge on the GPS then we’ve also reviewed several budget-friendly GPSes that offer tremendous performance for the price.

It’s important that you figure out the features that are more vital to you and then decide on your ultimate purchase. We have provided a detailed list of reviews to help you with the quest to find the best geocaching GPS. The pros and cons are there to guide you to make the decision. So, choose the one that suits your requirements the best, and have fun finding the caches!

At a Glance Bestseller List:

[amazon bestseller=”Geocaching GPS” items=”7″ template=”table”]

Read Other Posts:

Raymarine Dragonfly 5 Pro Review

Best Fishing Backpack

Best Cast Net Reviews

How to Become a Commercial Fisherman

Give a Comment

Show Buttons
Hide Buttons