GPS equipped radios are hard to come by. The norm is to buy GPS and two-way radios separate from one another. However, there are a couple of manufacturers that have made the process simple for buyers. While there’s not too many of them, these GPS radios are the face of the GPS/radio hybrid technology. This innovation is still quite new, that’s why there’s so few of them.
Having one device that does two jobs might be more or less expensive depending on the manufacturer. However, what it will do is save you the hassle of trying to use two different devices at once for two different purposes.
Here are the best GPS Radios of 2018:
ICOM Marine
The ICOM Marine is a highly sophisticated hybrid radio. The GPS will plot your location, bearing, and speed but what’s really awesome about this radio its variety of functions. From distress calls to weather updates, the Marine is more of multi-tool than a hybrid radio.
A couple of its functions allow the user to know when it’s been dipped in water. Water is also repelled away from the receiver grill by a function called Aqua Quake. Not only is it a multi-tool, but it’s pretty durable when put up against the elements.
Standard Horizon HX870
The HX780 is also a pretty durable radio and has the ability to float in water (just to give you an idea of how waterproof it is). Aside from GPS, one of its notable aspects is that its display screen is very user-friendly. Some radios have problems with their channels and acronyms being difficult to understand (especially if one is new to radios and GPS’). When synced up with other HX870 or Standard Horizon devices, it will display a mini-map of the locations of your party.
When synced up with other HX870 or Standard Horizon devices, it will also display a mini-map of the locations of your party.
Garmin Rino 750
Garmin is widely known for its user-friendly and intuitive designs with fitness trackers. The Rino 750 is no exception as the newest member of the GPS/radio hybrid family. It is entirely touch sensitive on its main screen for most of its primary features. There are a couple of push buttons on the side for additional features.
As one of the fanciest and easiest to use GPS radios, it is also one of the most expensive. Garmin as a company is well versed in the tracking technology industry, so it would make sense for the Rino 750 have the latest and greatest in metric software.
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