The Best Handheld Mapping GPS Units
For Hiking And Backpacking

What is the best handheld mapping GPS unit for hiking and backpacking? In the crowded field of GPS devices, there are a few that stand out as the "cream of the crop"--the most powerful, reliable, and versatile mapping units for outdoor use.

Delorme Earthmate PN-40

The DeLorme Earthmate PN-40 is an insane value for a couple of reasons. First, it comes with complete U.S. topographic AND street maps on CD. No other unit does this.

Second, you get access to the Delorme Map Library with a $40 coupon to download more detailed 7.5 minute USGS quads, high-resolution aerial imagery, or nautical charts. And you can get unlimited map downloads for only $29.95 a year.

If your journeys require a lot of detailed maps, this is the unit for you. When you consider that other devices require you to buy limited map sets for $80 or more, the incredible value of Delorme's Map Library becomes apparent.

The PN-40 is no slouch when it comes to locating your position and displaying those maps, either. It has a high-sensitivity receiver for fast satellite signal acquisition and locking. A dual-core processor makes for fast map redrawing and screen switching.

One cool feature is that it can rotate the map display to match your direction of movement, so that features on your right show on the right of the display.

There's plenty of onboard memory and a memory card slot for additional storage.

As if that's not enough value, Delorme throws in a tri-axial electronic compass (accurate in any position) and a barometric altimeter for good measure. This is one seriously powerful mapping GPS receiver.

There are a few drawbacks. The screen is somewhat smaller than some of its competitors (2.3 inches). Also, it takes some practice and manual reading to learn how to use the unit and the feature-rich Topo USA software. Don't expect to just "grab it and go".

The next-generation Earthmate PN-60 might shorten that learning curve with a more intuitive icon-based interface.

Garmin GPSMAP 62S

A worth successor to the legendary GPSMAP 60CSx , the Garmin GPSMAP 62S boasts near-perfect accuracy with its combination of a quad helix antenna, high-sensitivity receiver, and HotFix technology.

Navigation is made easier with a 3-axis electronic compass and barometric altimeter, and you can share data wirelessly with compatible Garmin devices (such as the Colorado and Oregon).

1.7GB of memory and a microSD card slot ensure that you'll never run out of room for the maps you need.

Garmin Colorado 400t

The Colorado 400t has been superseded by the newer Oregon 400t, but it is still one of the best handheld mapping GPS receivers you can get. And it's less expensive than the Oregon.

The Colorado is not only a powerful handheld with advanced features, but it's very easy to use, right out of the box. Topographic maps of the entire U.S. are preloaded--no messing around with desktop software to choose your maps.

The intuitive, icon-based menus are accessed easily with one finger via the "Rock-n-Roller" wheel. The menus are customizable, with preset profiles for different activities.

3D view is a sweet feature that gives you a ground-level view of the terrain, so you can get a better sense of what's ahead.

Other high-end features include a large (3-inch) color screen, altimeter, compass, and the ability to share waypoints, tracks and routes wirelessly with other Colorado or Oregon units.

Garmin Oregon

The Garmin Oregon is arguably the best handheld mapping GPS receiver, bar none. The most advanced mapping features combined with the most intuitive user interface make it an excellent choice for everyone from novices to pros.

The distinguishing feature of the Oregon is the large color touchscreen, which makes menu navigation and data entry dead simple.

The Oregon 400T has all the features of the Colorado--preloaded topo maps, 3D view, activity profiles, and wireless data sharing--as well as HotFix, which predicts satellite positions before you even turn the unit on.

The Oregon 450t adds a tri-axial electronic compass, which doesn't need to be held level to get an accurate reading.

The Oregon 550t adds a 3.2 megapixel camera which takes geo-tagged photos--great for sharing detailed trip info with your friends.