What is the Top Hunting GPS Device Under 200 Dollars?

The best hunting GPS under $200 represents a top tool to get you orientated out in the wild. The days of paperback maps are long gone and you now have the ability to use a modern GPS for better overall results. Even more, it is important to find the right solution from the start as most users are not likely to update their technology equipment at least for a few years.

The good news is that there are some great designs to work with and you thus have the ability to work with a solution which is fast and which allows you to control even the modes you use the device in which can include climbing, hiking, cycling and even the fish mode for added versatility.

Best Hunting GPS Under $200

Garmin eTrex 30x 010-01508-10 Handheld Navigator - Top Pick 4.5 out of 5 stars
Garmin etrex Touch 254 out of 5 stars
Magellan eXplorist 350H Handheld GPS3.5 out of 5 stars
Bushnell 360500 Back Track Hunt3.5 out of 5 stars
Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro3 out of 5 stars

How to choose the best hunting GPS?

Choosing the best hunting GPS is always a matter of seeing it the device with the help of the technologies it comes with. This allows you to maximize its performance even beyond what many think is actually achievable. So what do you need to consider with the best hunting GPS?

Maps

The maps of the GPS represent the most important characteristic to consider, especially since they are always updated with fresh information. This means that you need to ensure your device always has the latest maps before you actually go out hunting.

Not all maps are the same and this is why it is important to see the options you have with today’s manufacturers. Some brands purchase their maps from different software companies. Others offer their own maps which are developed in-house. Of course, at a first look, there is no way to tell which type of maps you are dealing with or which maps are better. This is why it is worth comparing the options you have which is always the best idea, at least for the first purchase when you might not know what to expect specifically.

Controls

The controls of the GPS are also very different from model to model. This is why you can find some solutions which are easy to work with and which allow you to maximize your speed as well. Even more, there are many designs which combine touchscreen control with physical buttons for a more up to date experience.

It is also worth noting that a combination of controls might be a good way to go if you need quick and professional access to the most important configurations. For most users though, controls do not represent a major concern if speed is not of primordial importance.

Battery life

One quality indicator comes with battery life. The more complex and high-tech the screen of the GPS, the more the battery life gets affected. Even more, constantly connecting to satellites drain the battery faster.

The good news is that even in this budget you can find a good solution which can often last up to 16 hours. There is thus plenty of time to cover a long hunting session. If you plan to spend multiple days out hunting, it is a very good idea to take an mobile battery with you to have a spare since you will most likely need to recharge your GPS.

Size

The size of the GPS is not a big issue unless you specifically need a large screen. Most hunting GPS options come with a rather compact design and this means that it should actually fit into your pockets. Even with a small screen, you get the ability to choose a solution which is right for your and which doesn’t weigh too much. With a compact design, you also get the added benefit of space-saving, especially since you might be carrying hunting equipment.

Durability

The durability of the GPS is influenced by many of its characteristics. For example, the battery life is always decreasing and this is why you might want to assess how this affects the durability of your device.

But hunters know that there are other more prominent problems than battery life when it comes to durability. The biggest concern comes with shocks. This is why you see an increasing number of devices which actually come with extra shock protection. These devices are often better when it comes to durability as you can even drop them or hard surfaces such as rock with no impact on the way they perform. Even more, it is important to not the options you have when it comes to storage as in most cases, you will need to keep the GPS in a pouch or bag away from moisture or extreme temperatures.

Warranty

The warranty is an important characteristic when it comes to the best GPS. It represents the peace of mind the manufacturer gives you when it comes to long-term plans. The warranty information is displayed by the seller as a requirement of law. The good news is that many devices come with a coverage of at least two years and this means that you can experience a device which is capable to work well even with software updates and with mild shock-absorption for at least a few hunting seasons.

Hunting limits information

The hunting limits information represents the distinct characteristic of these devices. The hunting GPS represent a top solution when it comes to certain limitations in space or even season end. This is why so many modern devices are actually constantly updated with the latest information, making them a reliable tool when it comes to the possible prohibitions you might be facing in your hunting area. So which are the best solutions to choose from and what strengths do they have?

Best Hunting GPS Under $200

Garmin eTrex 30x 010-01508-10 Handheld Navigator - Top Pick 4.5 out of 5 stars
Garmin etrex Touch 254 out of 5 stars
Magellan eXplorist 350H Handheld GPS3.5 out of 5 stars
Bushnell 360500 Back Track Hunt3.5 out of 5 stars
Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro3 out of 5 stars

① Garmin eTrex 30x 010-01508-10 Handheld Navigator

The Garmin eTrex 30x 010-01508-10 Handheld Navigator represents one of the most recommended solutions on the market. Made with in-house software, the Garming device manages to offer one of the best solutions when it comes to a compact device which comes with preloaded maps such as the world base map. With 3.7GB internal memory, it can always be updated with the maps you need. Even more, the device also comes with wireless technology and this recommends it when it comes to quick data transfer.

The device is made for proper shock absorption. While this makes it thicker, it gives you the confidence you need when it comes to ensuring the best durability. Even more, since the device comes with WiFi technology, you can easily connect it to other mobile devices to share your location information. With a simple design, it manages to offer the protective solution for long-term user many hunters look for.

Pros

Pros
  • 7GB internal memory
  • Base world map
  • WiFi connectivity

Cons

Cons
  • Thick design

② Garmin etrex Touch 25

The Garmin etrex Touch 25 represent a similar solution from the same respected manufacturer. Made with impressive durability and shock-absorption design, it manages to offer one of the best solutions when it comes to a modern design that even comes with a base world map. With a 2.6 inch touchscreen display, the device also comes with some pre-loaded maps. It lacks the wireless connectivity, but its compact size makes it perfect for travel.

The GPS proves to be a durable solution as well. Made with an impressive shock-resistant design, it manages to offer one of the best solutions when it comes to a modern design and this is why it is worth to consider, especially since many of the solutions you see on the market cannot combine the touchscreen controls with a shock-resistant design and a great software base. If you don’t mind the lack of wireless data transfer capabilities, it represents a durable solution which is worth to consider for any hunter.

Pros

Pros
  • Compact design
  • Touchscreen technology
  • Preloaded maps

Cons

Cons
  • No WiFi

 Magellan eXplorist 350H Handheld GPS

The Magellan eXplorist 350H Handheld GPS represents a compact solution which is dedicated to hunters. It even comes with a camo design which means you can fit it in with your hunting equipment. Most importantly, the device comes with hunting-specific icons and with other information such as hunting boundaries. With easy to use controls, it manages to offer a good solution to be used in up to 40 states.

If you need a dedicated solution which comes with specific hunting information that even impresses the user with hunting icons, the GPS can be a good solution. Even more, it proves to be a great option for those who are fans of compact designs. While it is not the fastest option on the market, it manages to offer a great solution when it comes to added information value which can make it a top option, especially for beginners.

Pros

Pros
  • Compact design
  • Dedicated hunting information and icons
  • Maps in 40 states

Cons

Cons
  • No touchscreen

④ Bushnell 360500 Back Track Hunt

The compact Bushnell 360500 Back Track Hunt represents a good solution when looking to work with a design which covers all the basic information you need. Even more, it can save up to 25 previous location and can predict animal behavior with a series of indicators. It shows distances, time and even elevation which makes it a good choice when it comes to mapping new hunting areas. With sunrise, sunset and moon phase information, it is a dependable solution.

If you need a compact solution with a good battery life, the GPS can prove a great option, especially if you want to predict animal behavior by recording some data. Even more, it manages to show you the distances and the elevation and together with information on the sunrise and sunset, it can be the foundation for better hunting results.

Pros

Pros
  • Save previous locations
  • Shows time, distance and elevation
  • Great for animal behavior

Cons

Cons
  • No color screen

⑤ Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro

The Bad Elf 2200 GPS Pro represents an up to date solution for many users who need better battery life. Although it looks like an outdated device, it actually comes with up to date technology. Thus, it is able to wirelessly connect to up to 5 devices using the Bluetooth technology. Even more, it manages to offer one of the most interesting solutions when it comes to pre-recorded data which you can use to create your own profile. With 100+ hours of tracking data, you can get a better overview of your hunting area.

The device thus manages to inspire with its simplicity and overall capabilities. Even more, it is considered as a top option when it comes to quick data transfer as it uses the Bluetooth technology. Even more, it manages to offer an extra-long battery life since it comes with a minimalistic screen. With IPX4 weather sealing, it is a great solution for any type of weather conditions.

Pros

Pros
  • Bluetooth technology
  • IPX4 weather sealing
  • 100+ hours of tracking data

Cons

Cons
  • Design

Conclusion

Choosing the best hunting GPS under $200 proves to be one of the inspiring decisions for many people. There are some great options to consider and the best part is that many hunters are now looking towards better wireless technologies integration where sharing data can prove to be a great advantage. Even more, the battery life also seems to be improving for many devices.

The Garmin eTrex 30x 010-01508-10 Handheld Navigator proves to be the best solution for most users. With good internal memory and the ability to download the latest maps, it proves to be a potent device. Even more, its rugged construction is unmatched and this makes it the top option when it comes to durability. With a color display and plenty of additional buttons for quick configurations, the GPS is also an up to date solution. This is where its wireless capabilities prove to be of great use, especially for the modern hunters who like to share location information. With a pre-loaded base world map and an included barometer, the GPS is the best solution for the complex hunter. It covers all the information you need and the best news is that it does this in the most durable body in its class.

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