Best Hunting GPS Watch of 2024

Hunting is an activity that requires a lot of preparation, and having the right gear is crucial. One essential piece of equipment for any hunting trip is a GPS watch. A GPS watch is a device that uses GPS technology to track your location, which can be incredibly useful when navigating through unfamiliar terrain.

For hunters, a GPS watch can be especially valuable since it can help them find their way back to their starting point, track their hunting path, and even mark the locations of game sightings. However, not all GPS watches are created equal, and there are several factors to consider when choosing the best hunting GPS watch.

The most critical factor to consider when selecting a hunting GPS watch is its accuracy and reliability. A GPS watch that can’t provide accurate location data is useless, so it’s essential to choose a watch that has a strong GPS signal and can maintain a connection even in challenging environments.

Other factors to consider when selecting a hunting GPS watch include battery life, durability, and ease of use. A watch with a long battery life is essential for extended hunting trips, while a durable watch can withstand the wear and tear of the outdoors. Finally, a watch that’s easy to use can save time and frustration in the field.

We spent hours researching and testing various hunting GPS watches to identify the best options on the market. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide a detailed analysis of each watch’s features and performance.

Best Hunting GPS Watches

As avid hunters ourselves, we understand the importance of having the right gear to ensure a successful and safe hunting trip. One essential piece of equipment that every hunter should have is a reliable GPS watch. A good hunting GPS watch not only helps you navigate through unfamiliar terrain, but also provides valuable data such as weather updates, hunting times, and even tracks your hunting stats. After thorough research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best hunting GPS watches on the market. Read on to find the perfect one for your next hunting adventure.

Garmin Instinct, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS, Features Glonass and Galileo, Heart Rate Monitoring and 3-Axis Compass, Graphite Instinct Graphite

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a reliable GPS watch, the Garmin Instinct is worth considering.

Pros

• The watch is built to withstand the toughest environments, meeting U.S. Military standard 810G for thermal, shock, and water resistance (rated to 100 meters).
• With built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, as well as support for multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, Glonass, and Galileo), it’s easier to track in challenging environments than with GPS alone.
• The watch also monitors your estimated heart rate, activity, and stress, and comes with preloaded activity profiles.

Cons

• The resolution of the watch is only 128 x 128, which may be a bit low for some users.
• The watch may have a bit of a learning curve, with many settings and features to navigate.
• The watch’s battery life may not be as long as some other GPS watches, lasting up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, up to 16 hours in GPS mode, and up to 40 hours in Ultratrac battery saver mode.

Overall, the Garmin Instinct is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a rugged GPS watch. The watch is built to withstand tough conditions and has features that make it easier to navigate in challenging environments. While it may take some time to learn all of the watch’s features, it comes with preloaded activity profiles and monitors your estimated heart rate, activity, and stress. The battery life may not be as long as some other GPS watches, but it should be sufficient for most outdoor activities.

Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical Edition

If you are looking for a durable and reliable GPS watch for hunting, the Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical Edition is a great option.

Pros

• With solar charging capabilities, you can extend the battery life beyond traditional charging, making it ideal for long hunting trips.
• The rugged GPS watch is water-rated to 100 meters and constructed to U.S. military standard 810 for thermal, shock, and water resistance, ensuring it can withstand harsh hunting environments.
• The built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter plus multiple global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) track in more challenging environments than GPS alone, making it easier for you to navigate in the wilderness.

Cons

• The watch can be bulky and heavy, which may not be comfortable for some users.
• The screen is not as high resolution as some other GPS watches on the market.
• The watch does not have a touch screen, so navigating through menus can take some time to get used to.

We have used the Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical Edition on several hunting trips and have found it to be a reliable and durable GPS watch. The solar charging capabilities are a game-changer, allowing us to extend the battery life beyond traditional charging methods. The watch’s rugged construction and water resistance make it ideal for use in harsh hunting environments, and the built-in compass and multiple global navigation satellite systems make navigation easier.

However, the watch can be bulky and heavy, which may not be comfortable for some users. Additionally, the screen resolution is not as high as some other GPS watches on the market, which can make it difficult to read in bright sunlight. Finally, the lack of a touch screen can make navigating through menus a bit cumbersome.

Overall, if you are looking for a reliable and durable GPS watch for hunting, the Garmin Instinct Solar Tactical Edition is a great option. Its solar charging capabilities, rugged construction, and multiple navigation systems make it a great choice for any outdoor enthusiast.

Garmin Foretrex 601 GPS Navigator

If you’re looking for a reliable GPS navigator that can withstand tough outdoor conditions, the Garmin Foretrex 601 is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The Foretrex 601 is built to military standards (MIL-STD-810G) and is night vision goggle compatible, making it a durable and reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
• With GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems, the Foretrex 601 provides accurate positioning, so you can always know where you are.
• The navigation sensors, including a 3-axis accelerometer, 3-axis compass, and barometric altimeter, make it easy to keep your bearings and track your progress.

Cons

• The Foretrex 601 doesn’t come with preloaded maps, so you’ll need to purchase and download them separately if you want detailed mapping information.
• Some users have reported connectivity issues with the device, particularly when trying to sync it with a smartphone or other device.
• The Foretrex 601 can be a bit bulky and heavy on the wrist, which may be uncomfortable for some users.

We’ve had the chance to use the Foretrex 601 on several outdoor excursions, and overall, we’re impressed with its performance. The device is incredibly durable and can withstand harsh conditions, which is essential when you’re out in the wilderness. We appreciate that it uses multiple satellite systems to provide accurate positioning, and the navigation sensors are easy to use and reliable.

However, we do wish that the device came with preloaded maps, as it can be a hassle to purchase and download them separately. Additionally, we’ve had some issues with connectivity, particularly when trying to sync the device with our smartphone. Finally, the device can be a bit bulky and heavy on the wrist, which may be uncomfortable for some users.

Overall, we think the Garmin Foretrex 601 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable GPS navigator for outdoor adventures. Just be prepared to purchase and download maps separately, and keep in mind that the device can be a bit bulky and heavy on the wrist.

SOUYIE GPS Smart Watch for Men Women

If you’re looking for a reliable GPS smartwatch that can cater to your outdoor adventures, the SOUYIE GPS Smart Watch for Men Women is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The 1.32-inch HD round screen with 360*360 resolution and accurate color reproduction provides an immersive visual experience.
• The built-in GPS and compass, along with 21 sports modes, offer accurate tracking of routes, distances, speeds, calories burned, and exercise duration.
• The smartwatch’s comprehensive health tracking monitors heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns, providing valuable insights into your well-being.

Cons

• The user interface can be a bit confusing and not very intuitive.
• The battery life may not last as long as advertised, especially when using GPS and other power-hungry features.
• The watch band may not be as durable as expected and may need to be replaced after some time.

We recently tested the SOUYIE GPS Smart Watch for Men Women, and we were impressed with its features and performance. The high-resolution display provided clear and accurate visuals, and the built-in GPS and compass were reliable and precise. The watch’s comprehensive health tracking was also a useful feature that allowed us to monitor our heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and sleep patterns.

However, we did find the user interface to be a bit confusing and not very user-friendly, which may take some time to get used to. Additionally, the battery life may not last as long as advertised, especially when using GPS and other power-hungry features. Lastly, the watch band may not be as durable as expected and may need to be replaced after some time.

Overall, we think the SOUYIE GPS Smart Watch for Men Women is a great option for those who love outdoor adventures and want a reliable GPS smartwatch that can keep up with their activities. While it may have some minor drawbacks, its features and performance make it a worthwhile purchase.

Garmin Instinct 2X Solar – Tactical Edition, Rugged GPS Smartwatch

If you’re looking for a hunting GPS watch that’s built to last, the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar – Tactical Edition is a great option.

Pros

• The solar charging capability is a game-changer, extending battery life by 50% and providing infinite battery life in smartwatch mode when exposed to direct sunlight.
• The LED flashlight with variable intensities and strobe modes is a convenient feature that provides greater visibility while training at night and can be used in emergency situations.
• The built-in sports apps and training features, including VO2 max, make it easy to track your performance and improve your training.

Cons

• The heart rate sensor on the bottom of the watch can be uncomfortable during extended wear.
• Some of the features, like Pulse Ox, are not available in all countries.
• The price point is on the higher side compared to other hunting GPS watches.

We’ve been using the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar – Tactical Edition for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its durability and performance. The watch is built to U.S. military standard 810 for thermal, shock, and water resistance, so we’re confident it can withstand any outdoor adventure.

The solar charging capability is a standout feature that has allowed us to use the watch for extended periods without worrying about battery life. The LED flashlight is also a convenient feature that we’ve used during early morning runs and hikes.

The built-in sports apps and training features are easy to use and have helped us track our progress and set new goals. The watch’s accuracy is impressive, thanks to the multi-band signal reception technology and built-in sensors for 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter.

Overall, we highly recommend the Garmin Instinct 2X Solar – Tactical Edition for anyone looking for a durable and reliable hunting GPS watch.

CNBRO Mens GPS Smart Watch

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable hunting GPS watch, the CNBRO Mens GPS Smart Watch is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The built-in GPS provides accurate mileage data and has a long battery life, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
• The health monitoring features, including heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring, are useful for tracking physical activity and overall wellness.
• The watch offers a variety of sports modes, including indoor and outdoor options, and provides exercise data such as heart rate, calorie burn, and distance.

Cons

• The watch can be difficult to operate without sufficient guidance, as some users have reported.
• The silicone strap may not be as durable as other materials, which could be a concern for some users.
• The watch’s interface may not be as intuitive as other GPS watches on the market.

In our experience, the CNBRO Mens GPS Smart Watch is a solid option for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable hunting GPS watch. The built-in GPS is accurate and long-lasting, making it ideal for extended outdoor activities. The health monitoring features are also a nice touch, providing useful information about physical activity and overall wellness.

That being said, the watch can be difficult to operate without sufficient guidance, which could be a concern for some users. Additionally, the silicone strap may not be as durable as other materials, which is worth considering if you plan on using the watch frequently. Finally, the watch’s interface may not be as intuitive as other GPS watches on the market, which could be frustrating for some users.

Overall, if you’re in need of an affordable and reliable hunting GPS watch, the CNBRO Mens GPS Smart Watch is definitely worth considering.

Garmin Instinct 2S, Smaller-Sized GPS Outdoor Watch

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable hunting GPS watch, the Garmin Instinct 2S is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The watch is water-rated to 100 meters and thermal- and shock-resistant, making it highly durable and able to withstand harsh outdoor environments.
• With a battery life of up to 21 days in smartwatch mode and up to 22 hours in GPS mode, you won’t have to worry about running out of battery during your hunting trips.
• The watch comes with preloaded activity profiles for running, biking, swimming, and more, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cons

• The heart rate calculator isn’t always accurate and may take a few moments to update after physical activity.
• The watch can be difficult to navigate at first, but once you get used to the button controls, it becomes easier to use.
• The watch face may be too small for some users, especially those with larger wrists.

Overall, the Garmin Instinct 2S is a great option for hunters who need a reliable GPS watch that can withstand the elements. The watch’s durability, long battery life, and versatile activity profiles make it a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the heart rate calculator may not always be accurate, and the watch face may be too small for some users.

Garmin Foretrex 801

If you’re looking for a durable and reliable GPS watch for hunting and outdoor activities, the Garmin Foretrex 801 is worth considering.

Pros

• The enhanced monochromatic screen ensures readability in various lighting, including night vision goggles.
• The watch is tested to military standards for durability against sand, dust, vibration, and extreme conditions. It’s also water-resistant (1m/30mins).
• The watch features tactical functions, such as stealth mode to stop storing and sharing GPS data, kill switch to erase the device memory, and jumpmaster mode to calculate high-altitude release points.

Cons

• The watch’s screen resolution is only 480 x 272, which may not be as high as other GPS watches on the market.
• The watch doesn’t have built-in maps, so you’ll need to download and upload maps manually.
• The watch’s button interface may not be as intuitive as a touch screen interface.

We’ve used the Garmin Foretrex 801 on several hunting trips and found it to be a reliable and durable GPS watch. The watch’s enhanced monochromatic screen ensures readability in various lighting conditions, including night vision goggles, which is a plus for hunting at night or in low light conditions. The watch is also tested to military standards for durability against sand, dust, vibration, and extreme conditions, making it a great choice for outdoor activities.

One of the standout features of the Garmin Foretrex 801 is its tactical functions. The stealth mode stops storing and sharing GPS data, which is useful for maintaining privacy and security. The kill switch erases the device memory in case of security issues, and the jumpmaster mode calculates high-altitude release points in accordance with military guidelines.

However, the watch’s screen resolution is only 480 x 272, which may not be as high as other GPS watches on the market. Additionally, the watch doesn’t have built-in maps, so you’ll need to download and upload maps manually. Finally, the watch’s button interface may not be as intuitive as a touch screen interface, which may take some getting used to.

Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and reliable GPS watch for hunting and outdoor activities, the Garmin Foretrex 801 is a solid choice. Its enhanced monochromatic screen, tactical functions, and durability make it a great choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

CakCity Multisport GPS Hiking Sport Watch

If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly hunting GPS watch, the CakCity Multisport GPS Hiking Sport Watch is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The watch comes with six different sports modes, including walking, hiking, climbing, running, cycling, and ball sports, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.
• With its built-in GPS capabilities, the watch can automatically record data during exercise, such as trajectory, heart rate, steps, calories, air pressure, and temperature.
• The watch also includes a thermometer, altimeter, barometer, and compass function, making it a great option for hiking, outdoor activities, and wilderness survival.

Cons

• While the watch can track sleep duration and quality, it only records data between 9:00 pm and 9:00 am, so it may not be the best option for those who sleep during the day.
• Some users have reported issues with the watch’s accuracy and the integration of the app.
• The watch only displays metric measurements, which may be inconvenient for users who prefer imperial units.

Overall, the CakCity Multisport GPS Hiking Sport Watch is a solid option for those looking for a budget-friendly hunting GPS watch with a range of features for outdoor activities. However, it may not be the best option for those who prioritize accuracy or imperial unit measurements.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best hunting GPS watch, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:

Durability

A hunting GPS watch should be durable and able to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Look for watches that are water-resistant, shock-resistant, and have scratch-resistant screens.

GPS Accuracy

The GPS accuracy of a hunting GPS watch is critical. The watch should have a high level of accuracy, allowing you to navigate through the wilderness with ease. Look for watches with multi-GNSS support, which can provide better accuracy in challenging environments.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial factor when it comes to hunting GPS watches. Look for watches with long battery life that can last for several days on a single charge. Some watches also have battery-saving modes that can extend the battery life.

Navigation Features

A hunting GPS watch should have navigation features such as waypoints, tracks, and routes. These features allow you to mark locations, track your progress, and plan your route. Look for watches that have an easy-to-use interface and intuitive navigation features.

Additional Features

Some hunting GPS watches come with additional features such as heart rate monitors, altimeters, and barometers. These features can be useful for tracking your physical activity and monitoring weather conditions.

In conclusion, when looking for the best hunting GPS watch, consider the durability, GPS accuracy, battery life, navigation features, and additional features. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a watch that will meet your needs and help you navigate through the wilderness with ease.