The 9 Best Bluetooth GPS Receivers
This wiki has been updated 19 times since it was first published in January of 2019. The global positioning system satellite network is one of humanity's greatest achievements, and whether you're flying, driving, boating, or hiking, it helps to keep track of where you're located and can guide you to your destination. Here are some of the most powerful, compact, and affordable GPS receivers that can be controlled using common, Bluetooth-equipped devices. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Garmin Aera 660
2. Dual Electronics XGPS170D
3. Garmin GLO
Editor's Notes
November 05, 2020:
As smartphone and laptop technology gets better, the need for better supporting hardware increases. This is true of Bluetooth GPS receivers for your boat, bike, car, or when you are out hiking so you can find out where you are anywhere in the world. Some of these options are even powerful enough to use for aviation purposes.
We added the Qstarz BT-Q1000XT as it offers a lot of features for the price. The fact that it is compatible with Google maps was a factor, as was its ability to save 400,000 trips. It is incredibly accurate which makes it perfect for recording timed laps on a track, and it will connect to any operating system on any smartphone.
The Bad Elf GPS Lightning is a neat addition to any navigation software that you run on your Apple device. It was added to our list as a simple solution to any geolocation problem, and it fits in your pocket. Aviators can also use it for speed and altitude data as well as a simple GPS reading.
February 19, 2019:
GPS technology is an absolute requirement of modern life, even if it usually operates just below the surface. While smartphones typically have their own, built-in receiver, those are often somewhat underpowered. They're rarely, if ever, sufficient for flying, and sometimes even the interior of a car or truck is too shielded for them to give very accurate readings. If you're in the market for something to add precision to automotive travel, consider the Garmin GLO, Bad Elf, or either of the less-expensive Dual Electronics units. Aviators, who more often than not require the most dependable option available, should look at the high-end Garmin and Dual models, which are quite pricey, but are built specifically with pilots in mind. The top-level Garmin is basically a self-contained flight instrument, even offering 3D visuals to help with low-visibility flight. And while it's awfully expensive, the Emlid is an extremely interesting choice. It combines a handful of technologies, resulting in incredibly accurate reporting, and it features a wider variety of connectivity options than almost any other.
Special Honors
Levil 3 SW Portable Designed for serious aviators, the Levil 3 SW Portable does not have a screen but is designed to connect wirelessly with your existing monitors and systems. It features an internal battery as well as solar panels to reduce power problems, and three-axis gyros, accelerometers, and magnetometers professionally calibrated for aviation-grade performance. mypilotstore.com
4. Solmeta GMax-GD
5. Dual Electronics XGPS150A
6. Bad Elf GPS Lightning
7. Bad Elf 2300 Pro+
8. Qstarz BT-Q1000XT
9. Dual Electronics XGPS160
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.