Comprehensive Examination and User Guide for the Garmin GPSMAP 65s

The Garmin GPSMAP 65s handheld GPS is a compact device availing multi-band GNSS for improved precision, particularly in challenging conditions. In this review, I'll walk you through its features, compare it to other Garmin models like the GPSMAP 66sr, and share tips to maximize its potential. Whether you're a seasoned Garmin user or new to the brand, this review aims to shed light on the GPSMAP 65s' capabilities.

Unveiling the Contenders

Alongside the GPSMAP 65s, two other models rolled out offering the new multi-band functionality:

GPSMAP 65: Basic model featuring TopoActive maps and the new positioning system
GPSMAP 66sr: Essentially the GPSMAP 66i but with the new positioning system and minus InReach

Delving into the GPSMAP 65

If you're familiar with the Garmin interface, feel free to skip ahead. The GPSMAP 65 operates in much the same way as many Garmin handhelds. Here's a quick breakdown of the device's primary sections:

GPS

Map
Compass
Trip Computer (customizable data about your current trip)
Elevation Plot
Satellite (position fix information)
Setup
Waypoint Manager (lists all your waypoints)
Geocaches (allows connecting to geocaching.com)
Route Planner (create routes from POI database and waypoints, including multiple stops)
Proximity Alarms (alerts you when you approach a user-defined range of a waypoint)
Track Manager (lists all saved tracks)
Share Wirelessly (transfer waypoints, tracks, or routes to other Garmin handhelds)
Active Route (step-by-step directions if navigating a route)
Waypoint Averaging (takes multiple readings in one spot and averages them for a more precise location)
Sight 'N Go (select a distant point and navigate using the compass)
Profile Change (switch between different settings for various activities)
Area Calculation (calculate square footage by walking a perimeter)
Photo Viewer
Calendar
Calculator
Sun & Moon
Alarm Clock
Hunt & Fish (best times for outdoor activities)
Stopwatch
Collections Manager (lists Garmin Explore site collections)
Adventures (lists Garmin Adventures on the device)
VIRB Remote (remote control for Garmin VIRB camera)

USA

Onboard Maps

The GPSMAP 65 includes Garmin TopoActive maps, a solid option for outdoor activities. Since Garmin started using Open Street Maps (OSM) as a base, there has been a significant increase in trail coverage compared to older versions[4]. The maps are updated frequently, and purchasing a GPSMAP 65 grants you lifetime free updates.

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Please note that the device does not come with a Birdseye subscription. I don't find it worth the investment.

Positioning Performance

With the introduction of new technology, it's essential to understand the improvements. Here's what's new:

Multi-GNSS Support

GLONASS

GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and other GNSS systems refer to a country's satellite network accessible to the public for positioning. The GPSMAP 65 can access all these public GNSS networks available as of now[3].

Russia

Multi-Band Support

Most GNSS systems broadcast signals on multiple bands (frequency segments), each with varying precision levels for different user types. GPS units like the GPSMAP 65 are multi-band, meaning they can receive public and civil bands[3].

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The US government promises at least 25 feet of precision, 95% of the time[3]. Anything below 25 feet is considered a bonus.

The WAAS Conundrum

Previously, Garmin handhelds used WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System), a supplementary system for GPS that applied corrections for satellite or ionospheric abnormalities. The new GPSMAP 65 doesn't have an option for WAAS like earlier models. Instead, the GPSMAP 65, from what I've heard, calculates ionospheric error on its own and applies the correction to the GPS signal. Overall, the multi-band, multi-GNSS functionality may compensate for any signal abnormalities[3].

Positioning Tests

Galileo

In comparison to older Garmin GPS handhelds, the GPSMAP 65's new positioning offers about 25% better accuracy in challenging situations[3]. While the difference between 6ft and 8ft accuracy may not seem substantial, it's gratifying to have the best available consumer positioning without purchasing professional equipment[3].

In practical terms, the GPSMAP 65's multi-GNSS and multi-band system did not result in significant, helpful data in a mountainous Southern California setting. Test results showed that the GPSMAP 65 generally recorded tracks similarly to other GPS devices, with only a few feet of deviation[3].

Elevation Accuracy

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Elevation accuracy on handheld GPS devices is typically disappointing, but the GPSMAP 65s offers a significant improvement with a barometric altimeter, boasting +/- 50 feet accuracy[3].

GPSMAP 65 Battery

The battery life of the GPSMAP 65 is largely in line with Garmin's advertised 16 hours. I tested battery efficiency using "battery save" mode, which shuts off the screen when the backlight times out. I also turned off Bluetooth when not syncing with a phone to conserve power. Overall, I managed 14-16 hours of battery life, even without implementing additional power-saving techniques[3].

Occasionally, I received notifications that my backlight and tones would shut off due to low battery, even though the battery meter indicated full bars. While this only occurred occasionally, it was nonetheless annoying[3].

QZSS

The GPSMAP 65 can utilize alkaline, lithium, or NiMH batteries, depending on your preference. The device allows choosing the battery type in the settings[3].

Japan

The navigation features on the GPSMAP 65 function similarly to other Garmin devices. Since this review targets both veterans and newcomers, I'll provide an overview of key navigation elements[3]:

Asia

Trip Computer

Waypoints

Routing

IRNSS

Tracks

India

Connecting your GPSMAP 65 to a smartphone via Bluetooth allows transferring navigation information (waypoints, routes, and tracks) from the Garmin Explore app. This comes in handy for avoiding the need to USB-connect your device to a desktop computer to transfer files[3].

Asia

Setting Up the GPSMAP 65

Regardless of whether you intend to sync with the Garmin Explore app, I recommend updating the device's firmware and map data using the Garmin Express program on your computer[3].

Connect your GPSMAP 65 to your computer using the USB cable and follow these steps:

BeiDou

Install Garmin Express on your computer.
Add the GPSMAP 65 to Garmin Express.
Update the firmware and map data.

China

If you wish to pair your device with a smartphone for Bluetooth connectivity, the setup process entails several apps and can be convoluted. Follow these steps[3]:

Load the Garmin Connect and Garmin Explore apps on your phone.
Turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
Access the GPSMAP 65's settings and add a new phone.
Use Garmin Connect to pair the devices.
Open Garmin Explore on your phone and add the device.
Utilize Garmin Explore to sync your navigation items.

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Using the GPSMAP 65s Efficiently

Further Resources for the GPSMAP 65

Full specifications
GPSMAP 65 Online Manual
GPSMAP 65 PDF Manual
GPSMAP 65 Support Articles
Garmin Support Forums
Garmin User Discussion on Reddit
GPSMAP 65 Firmware Updates

The GPSMAP 65 and two other Garmin models, the GPSMAP 66sr, share the new multi-band GNSS functionality for improved navigation in challenging conditions, especially for outdoor activities.
The GPSMAP 65 contains TopoActive maps, which have seen increased trail coverage due to the use of Open Street Maps as a base.
With the integration of new technology, the GPSMAP 65 can now access all public GNSS networks available, including GLONASS, Galileo, and others.
The GPSMAP 65's multi-band, multi-GNSS functionality may provide compensation for any signal abnormalities, replacing the previous use of WAAS in earlier models.
The GPSMAP 65 offers a considerable improvement in elevation accuracy with a barometric altimeter, boasting +/- 50 feet accuracy.
Navigating your routes and transferring navigation information to your GPSMAP 65 from the Garmin Explore app is possible via Bluetooth on a smartphone.

Comprehensive Examination and User Guide for the Garmin GPSMAP 65s