Garmin GPSMAP 66i In-Depth Review & How-To Guide

[@thedevhow]

Thanks for the very detailed review. I have used Garmin devices on my motorcycle travels, Zumo 500, Zumo XT and 276CX now. I wanted to buy an InReach device for the SOS function, the reviews say you should get Mini 2 these days which is 350 where I live and GPSMAP 66i is just 150 more and you get a fully dedicated navigation device that could be used for hikes, on a bicycle etc. This review just confirmed it's a worthy purchase at 500. These days a lot of people are preaching smartphones but if you take the time to understand the ecosystem and don't expect iPhone Pro Max speed when panning the map there's no comparison with smartphones as they simply turn off in direct sun heat or extreme cold, have dim screens, UI elements not made to be operated with gloves etc etc etc. You have to learn to love these quirky navigation tools by Garmin and appreciate a certain level of ruggedness, then it's all good in my humble opinion.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, the processor and experience don't hold a torch to a phone UNTIL the conditions get wet/cold/extreme, and then the buttons and simple interface make a lot more sense. These days I use the phone when conditions are good and then the 66i when they're not. I wish there was some more competition with outdoor handhelds to accelerate the improvements, but even without that, this thing just works.

[@jeepyhen]

Thank you -- I bought this device at the end of 2021 and have been looking for a comprehensive and honest guide to making the most of the unit -- you've summed it up superbly and taken my use of it to the next level!

[@Hikingguy]

Ah great to hear, glad it was helpful! 👍

[@jamiejfowler]

Great job, this is the video I needed. Even though it’s an older video it’s still very relevant. There are so many 10 minute “reviews” that don’t tell you anything about how to actually use these devices. Thanks for your in depth video, heading to your website next!

[@shanerRC]

Thanks for all the videos. I just got a 66i as my first ever gps unit. The learning curve has been steep and I've been frustrated, but your videos have been a tremendous help. They are the best on youtube for this. Thank you.

[@Hikingguy]

Ah that's great, I'm glad it's been helpful. And yea, don't feel bad, we've all been there. I wish Garmin would hire someone from Apple to redo the interfaces and the way it all works, but I'm not holding my breath...

[@68lee92]

​@@Hikingguy한국어 지원되나요?

[@Hikingguy]

@@68lee92 yup

[@68lee92]

​@@Hikingguy감사합니다

[@kiethlowry2862]

Got mine last week You are right it was cumbersome to set up. Still working on geo cache sync. Looking forward to trying it out on geocache searches here in New Mexico

[@wfodavid]

Best in depth review on the web. Purchased this because of the SOS as well as the GPS unlike my in reach. I'm an Adventure motorcycle rider that likes to take it to the extreme. Thanks again.

[@Hikingguy]

Awesome, thanks for the feedback and glad it came in handy. Have fun out there!

[@stephanhaeke589]

hi, what a great review. I'm gone use mine for the first time next week for my trip trough Sweden and Norway. your lesson was just what I needed. stay safe!

[@Mandarin110631]

Bought my GPSMAP 66i through your link at REI- setting it up today i had bought the montana but it was to big and too clunky and after reading your review i sent it back through a large online retailer, went to your site, and got the GPSMAP66i-thank you for the thorough review!

[@Hikingguy]

Thanks for your support! I still use my 66i all the time. I wish there were things that were better but in terms of handheld GPS with inReach & nav, it's still the best bet.

[@RAPAHOEKID]

Got one on Tuesday, lots to learn, but your presentation has been most helpful. Thank you for making the effort to help out.

[@Hikingguy]

Glad it helped and have fun with it. Still using mine on every hike. Check out my other videos and website - more resources like this > kzbin.info/www/bejne/eJ7SaKCXqpljp9k

[@Fanotesemara]

Thank you for your time. I just bought the 750i and this was a phenomenal review.

[@mikeolmsted328]

I got one for Christmas. I did the update right away and it is fine. I have had Garmin before so I had no problem figuring it out. The maps are basically Topo 2008 with updates and trails - I think they are fine. The technology and my life is certainly worth the cost.

[@marcellosantosdemattos9367]

I’m a paraglider and paramotor pilot and this will definitely going to add great things to me

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, this will be a great tool for that, 100%

[@Wallace526]

¡El mejor tutorial para el Garmin 66 que he encontrado en internet!

[@Hikingguy]

Gracias!!!! 👍👍👍

[@bryankerr69]

That unit is jam packed. Looks pretty awesome. More than I would ever need. Think I’ll go with the GPSMAP 64st. Thank you for sharing.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, if you want to save some $$$, the 64 is great still. Only thing I'd say is that if you're buying one for the long haul, one of the 66 models might make more sense.

[@Airbornealltheway88]

Bryan Kerr I got the 64sx and love it. Was going to get the one in the video but way to much stuff I was never going to use. And the price was a killer for me.

[@Hikingguy]

@@Airbornealltheway88 Nice, good to hear, enjoy it!

[@Velemacheo]

Thank you Hiking Guy! Beautiful work you do. I have had trouble with Active Weather app on the 66i not providing summary information for months. This is the top left tab seen upon opening Active Weather. “Waiting for Data” is all I ever get. Did the service get disconnected? The other weather tabs, radar, cloud cover, temperature, and wind seem to provide updated data correctly. iPhone 14/Verizon/latest iOS updates/rebooted countless times/Sync/reset location/Bluetooth toggle. All tried…

[@Hikingguy]

I would try updating your firmware. Also, check on the Explore app and see if you are getting all the weather data. If all that fails, I'd contact Garmin support.

[@sambutler3273]

Excellent review, I ended up getting the 66st and really liking it so far as I already had an inreach. Thanks again for good information.

[@Hikingguy]

Awesome, glad to hear it! 👍👍

[@Escabar74]

Got one few days ago. For me (i'm from Siberia) one of the most important things about 66i is "NOTE: The device does not charge when it is outside the approved temperature range (from 0 to 40 C)." I don't know yet how it will work in our mountains in winter (below -20 C). If charge it under jacket, i worry that usb-port has corrosion and the device brakes down quite fast. If 66i has replaceble battery it will be a perfect device ever (for me, who used garmin dakota 20 for more than 12 years. Dakota stiil alive:))).

[@Hikingguy]

Interesting to know, I haven't taken it to those temp extremes and tried to recharge. I have been using it heavily for almost 2 years and no corrosion for me, just some scratching and wear on the plastic.

[@deanwoodward9194]

Thank you so much for this review, I find it fully comprehensive and fair. I have brought now and will go on my trip with peace of mind

[@billwilliams2703]

HI, Thank you for putting this together, very helpful. I chose the 66i mainly for the InReach capability and will be using it while fly fishing. I am a bit disabled and my wife wants to see where I am and be able to communicate via text if needed. My question to you is the following: Given this was done 3 years ago could you address the updates Garmin may have made to this unit like the user interface, Birdseye technology, firmware issues, etc. Or is there a newer version of this video that I could watch with all the latest information and how to's? Thank you sir..

[@Hikingguy]

Yes, new firmware has made this stable and it's solid now. Birdseye not great but weather is good and overall is a solid unit.

[@jameskeough4620]

Thx for the informative and well-done vid. Why not go inside to avoid the traffic/aircraft/wind noise? I realise gps needs satellite view, but this unit works pretty well indoors.

[@2000ssh]

Great review. This is more than a review your knowledge of the features of the Garmin 66i made it really easy compared to how much time I have put into other Garmin or Inreach products. Thanks again.

[@Hikingguy]

Ahh.. so glad to hear that it was helpful. The videos end up being long but my hope is that I can resolve some frustration for folks.

[@pierre-emiledefay6718]

Thank you so much for the video, it really help me to understand how my 66I works !

[@johndugenske4686]

Really helpful. Thank you for making the effort to post this.

[@jongoldberg5031]

Got one on ~02/02/2020. The Doppler RADAR is feature is working now.

[@Mauronic100]

Thanks for the info

[@ancientplayground]

Awesome video. I do a lot of back country stuff (mainly kayaking/ canoeing) and use a GPS quite a bit. I have been in the market for an upgrade AS WELL as getting a device that will allow me to talk to my people back in civilization and allowing them to see where I am at. This looks to be the answer for what imam. Looking for.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you 👍 and yes, this unit should be great for that - there's also the 86i which floats but I'm not sure if they have the topo maps - but you can load marine charts onto it >>>> amzn.to/3EUaYzD

[@mbgvyt1]

Thank you for a review and very helpful and easy to consume how-to-guide. I have just made this purchase and got a Garmin refurbished unit on n Amazon for $100 off. In my view its 100% like new. HI have for the past several years futzed around with an Oregon 600 and have come very close to tossing it off a cliff several times. Im also now going to ditch my Spot tracker and feel that the ability to do custom messages as well as interaction with GEOS is well worth the premium for Garmin In Reach.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, I wouldn't rely on a SPOT anymore. They were great years ago but today the ZOLEO and inReach blow it away in almost every way. And congrats on the refurb buy!

[@theshakajournals5113]

Whew ! That was a close one. Almost bought an Explorer+. I didn't even know this one existed until I saw your "other" video about weather on the 66i. Started looking into the 66i and now I am convinced. The wife and I are going to be using it for sailing, hiking, fishing the Sea of Cortez / Baja Mexico area on a 1 year long dream adventure starting Jan 2021. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into this video. It will definitely be my go to guide. (with a few tweaks to retrofit this info into a marine environment). Appreciated. Paul

[@Hikingguy]

Nice, that sounds like a great trip, and you should be well served by the 66i. There's also a similar model called the 86i that you can load Bluechart maps on if you're going to use it as a primary nav device for sailing. Don't forget to load free OSM hiking maps too >>> guide is on my website.

[@theshakajournals5113]

@@Hikingguy DAMN !! Now I gotta research the 86i. Guess I need to do a lil more reading before I drop 600 bones on one of these things. Thanx again. Big help.

[@nirvana613]

It amazes me that Garmin produces such high quality products yet have not looked into upgrading the software. Even old androids are better software wise than Garmin. It doesn't seem like it would be that hard to implement, it could even be outsourced to another software company. Either way great review as always !

[@Hikingguy]

Agree 100% - some thoughts here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2OZoKCbfNOMn5I

[@spartyhikerfromme5492]

Note on multi-band features for 66 (and 67) series. All models have GPS and Galileo, and that is all that the 66i offers. The 66s and 66st add GLONASS, while the 66sr adds both GLONASS and QZSS. The new 67i adds QZSS (but not GLONASS) while the 67 has all 4. All of this information is taken directly from the Garmin website.

[@CascadeBackcountry]

I just got the 66i and I LOVE IT... but.. the setup is so clunky and convoluted. It is getting easier now that the setup is complete but I still have so many questions. The devil's in the details. Thanks for the in depth review!

[@Hikingguy]

You're welcome, glad I could help! And yea, the setup and sync is very clunky and I wish Garmin did a better job with their ecosystem of apps and programs. They need to hire away some engineers from Apple or something to smooth some stuff out. But once it's dialed-in it just works so hopefully that's some comfort.

[@geoffsalvestro9681]

very informative review , should have watched this before purchase but has now alleviated any buyers regret , looking forward to using this in our upcoming 65 mile hike

[@Hikingguy]

Glad it was helpful and have a great hike. Doing a 40 miler tomorrow myself...

[@thinblueline385]

Awesome review! I bought one 2 days (ago) prior to this video being posted. I tried it out on the A.T. yesterday and love it so far.

[@Hikingguy]

Cool, good to hear, if you find anything funky/exceptional/noteworthy let me know!

[@KoolJourney]

This is a GREAT video! It is long, but it is just what I needed. Real world use and explanations. I am pretty sure I will get one of these units, based on what I learned here. Garmin should cut you a check for the sales they no doubt make from what you do. Thanks!

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you 👍🙏 Yea, I struggle with keeping these short / succinct but there's so much functionality and different things are important to different folks, so I try to give it all justice. And I've reached out to Garmin over the years for loaner units to test but radio silence. I guess my Instagram shots aren't cool enough for them.... Thanks again for the note and hope you enjoy your new 66!

[@yokehuatgoh]

Got one. The Stealth Mode Infrared Hyper CoMotion Expedition Hybrid Live Tracker feature is working now.

[@Hunters_Laptop]

I was waiting for that! I Liked the Stealth Mode Infrared Hyper BI-Motion Expedition Hybrid Live Tracker feature but by combining BOTH Hybrid Live Tracker features into one feature, I am sold! Wheeeeeeeeeeeeee!

[@yokehuatgoh]

LOL :)

[@mp6071-y1f]

Just got mine a couple of days ago. This has been really helpful, thanks!

[@robertm3769]

Great video! Look forward to viewing more and checking out your website 👍

[@jctxcboy36]

Just got my 66i ready for an elk hunt, still figuring out the device

[@xavieragnelli5426]

This was very helpful thank you! There is a lot to learn on this device. It’s somewhat confusing.

[@StephenMendes]

I just bought the 66st (basically the same thing minus In-Reach) ...... thanks for video ..... and I subscribed to your channel 😊

[@Hikingguy]

Nice, the 64st is a solid choice, it should serve you well - && thanks for the sub 👍

[@StephenMendes]

@@Hikingguy I have both the 64s AND the 66st (along with lots of older models) .... I am going to make some videos about getting OSM maps onto these easily 😊 .... unfortunately, COVID has sort of turned hiking into a SOLO activity .... worst of all, it has locked us into whatever part of the world we happen to live.... hopefully it will have an end .... thanks for responding and love your channel 😊... take care of yourself

[@Hikingguy]

@@StephenMendes Thank you and yea, I hear you on COVID... thankful that I'm in SoCal with lots of great trails but I did have to cancel some very fun trips during this whole thing. Fingers crossed the end is in sight. And re:OSM maps - have you seen this guide from my site: hikingguy.com/hiking-gear/how-to-get-free-garmin-gps-maps-for-hiking/ - also have this which might be helpful hikingguy.com/how-to-hike/how-to-create-and-download-garmin-custom-maps/

[@StephenMendes]

@@Hikingguy Yes .... thanks I watched them ..... but I just did a beautiful map with Splitter and Mkgmap ..... it's not as easy to use as your software though 😊.... will be watching your channel in the future 👍

[@Hikingguy]

@@StephenMendes ahh nice, just subbed to you, looking forward to checking it out

[@billhackley3540]

found a good price and picked it up. the blend of gps and inreach, yeah. finished the video this morning, thanks for posting

[@Hikingguy]

Cool cool - have fun with it && glad the video was helpful

[@EarlPartridge]

Thanks for the review! Got my 66S (going to add the maps eventually) the other day. Looking forward to test it in the great outdoors!

[@Hikingguy]

Nice, have fun with it & glad the review was helpful!

[@KevAlberta]

I took the device out and used it on a back country / mountain hiking summit trip. And have a few remaining questions hahaha. I guess I know the difference between a course and a route, but when should I prefer one vs the other? And how does the device calculate my eta to destination while hiking? It was never actually accurate at any point on my trip. The link to this video should be printed on every 66i box lol

[@Hikingguy]

Ha thank you and glad you're getting some trail time with the 66. 1 - If you're planning on the device, routes are much easier. If you're using Garmin Connect or the Explore app - you have to use a course. The experience of following is largely the same. 2 - ETA is never great on these devices. I don't think it adjusts for moving speed effects of elevation changes.

[@mainpilot]

Love your Videos & how informative they are. What would U recommend for a SOS device with route Navigation. I can’t decide between this or the Mini.

[@Hikingguy]

If you want good standalone nav (without a phone) the 66i is the move

[@thinblueline385]

An update was pushed out to my 66i today to receive weather. Awesome!

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, working well here, going to make a new video today covering it... about time....

[@thinblueline385]

@@Hikingguy Awesome! Have you paired yours with Facebook? I have been trying but no luck so far. There are no videos on the topic either.

[@Hikingguy]

@@thinblueline385 I have not but I did with my old Explorer and it worked.

[@Hikingguy]

@@thinblueline385 I have not but I did with my old InReach Explorer... will give it a try

[@Hikingguy]

For anyone that wants to check it out, InReach weather video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z6rIgYypiNarjLc

[@thewanderer8]

Really helpful review. It's the gps for me so will be buying in the next day or two.

[@2675142]

I just Ordered mine 2 days ago. Thank you!!

[@Hikingguy]

Cool cool - enjoy it!

[@danlux4954]

I have the Montana 680 and an inreach explorer, I think I’ll wait to get this one once they make it work like the Montana. Thanks for the info.

[@jimbobxcityguy5338]

What I did as I love the Montana ( the wife has a 66) as well was to get a PLB. ResQlink plus. by ACR. It will defineatly get help were as the 66i doesn't do the same frequencies. I looked long and hard on a PLB that would rescue us if needed. The ResQlink won't text etc but when you flip the button for rescue you will get it no mater were you are. No subscripton needed as well. Just every 5 yr's $100 get the battery changed and unit inspected by ACR. The 66i and it's type of inreach can't do that for certain. Believe me. If not search all the data and ACR has a good video explaining the differences. You have to watch the whole thing to get the picture.

[@danlux4954]

JimBob XCityguy what’s a PLB?

[@kpcscience]

Thanks for all of the great information you share on these Garmin devices. I was wondering if you were able to tell me if Proximity Alarms do not work when the device is in battery saver mode and is asleep? I normally have mine go to sleep after about 10 sec to preserve battery life but notice that I was not getting any proximity alerts? Thanks

[@hollernathan]

Can you do a tutorial on the Garmin explorer app for making routes and tracks? I have the 66sr and would love to learn how to best use the app with this device. Thank you for all of the lessons.

[@Hikingguy]

Good idea, I'll make a video for the Explore app for sure, stay tuned!

[@charlesdada6434]

I just ordered one, based on this video. Thanks for all the info.

[@Hikingguy]

Awesome, have fun with it. I'm still using it on every hike.... best handheld out there...

[@fritzchen2333]

@@Hikingguy awesome review

[@JimRodgers]

I've been using the Garmin GPSMAP 62s since 2011 and it's still going strong. In 2015 I purchased the DeLorme inReach SE and it's performed well. But now I'm looking at the GPSMAP 66i as a replacement for both, which it seems to be. One thing no one has covered yet is the navigation tracking - when you turn the unit on and start walking, does it automatically start basic navigation tracking? (I'm not referring to "LiveTrack"). I'm assuming it does but I haven't heard it mentioned in any review yet. Great review, thanks for taking the time!

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you, glad the review was helpful. The 66i should fit the bill perfectly. The unit does standard tracking like other Garmin units. You can save a track, reset the trip log, continue your track when you power on, etc.

[@charlottewade2614]

Awesome video. I just recently brought this 66i and this video was a huge help to get me going and understand it. thanks alot

[@Hikingguy]

Cool cool, glad it was helpful! 👍👍👍

[@gmg2987]

Thank you for the great in-depth review, based on other reviews I was on the fence about the 66i. This review pushed towards the purchase. This is truly an awesome unit, that overall I find to be very intuitive and easy to use. Especially with the lastest firmware update , which included the InReach weather just you predicted a future update would. Thanks again for taking the time to make and post such an in-depth and informative review.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you! Glad the guide came in handy. Yea, I use mine all the time now, although I do love the size and weight of the Mini. But having the mapping and tools on the 66i gives me some more tools on the trail and it's worth the small extra weight for me. Have fun with it!

[@StuffbyPWC]

Solid review and info. Helped me to make a decision. I appreciate the efforts and time it took to put this together.

[@PT9KK]

Great video. I frequently go to ranches within Pantanal in South America. The battery display level not available whenever charging via computer USB and the weather forecast really bug me. Apart of those, I do like the device. Fell in love first time I used it.

[@Hikingguy]

Try this widget, it's working well for me: apps.garmin.com/en-US/apps/a9c9b981-1f4c-4399-a270-7d6c7317893e

[@PT9KK]

I did upload the widget but haven't been able to see it on my 66i display. Any tricks to make it work?

[@Hikingguy]

@@PT9KK when you tap the power button to get the screen with the brightness and lock keys, hit the left or right arrow key

[@PT9KK]

@@Hikingguy It amazingly works! Thank you so much for your efforts, time and patience.

[@Hikingguy]

@@PT9KK 👍👍👍

[@toddfrench2822]

You have done a really nice job w this tutorial. Thank you!

[@matthewspecker]

Your reviews are top notch. Thanks!

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you! Glad it was helpful.

[@lissycoley9859]

This was fabulous! Based on your video, I bought this as I do a lot of solo hiking off trail in canyons in southern Utah. I know it will be good, but if it weren't for your 'how to' video, I would be completely lost. Thanks a million! The Garmin site was opaque. Do you have other step by step idiot guides that are not on your website?

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you! So glad the the guide came in handy. I have some route planning and free maps guides on HikingGuy. Any requests on topics I can cover to help out?

[@paxvenus6476]

Thanks for the great in-depth review, amazing. I read your article as well, and there's a couple of things I'd like your advice on: 1) Which is faster for communicating / locating a satellite, this or the InReach Explorer, given the same weather conditions / location? 2) You say at 20:48 that you can also use with live track and hibernation mode (you also demonstrate this a couple of minutes on) - this seems to be contradictory, could you explain how this works? 3) My reason for getting a device is so that when I'm on my hikes I can use it to find out current position with accuracy. I won't be using it much for navigation as I'll be using my phone for that but I would like something that would give me much more detailed accurate location determination than a compass in case I need it. It sounds like this one is better than the InReach Explorer for that, what do you think?

[@Hikingguy]

Some answers >>> 1) 66i 2) Expedition mode shuts everything down and just does track points at your interval. 3) You can probably get away with the GPS on your phone if you want to save a few bucks and you're using it already. In terms of this vs Explorer, I'd get the 66 unless you want to save $$

[@paxvenus6476]

@@Hikingguy Thank you!

[@lisaanderson1186]

Excellent video. Thanks taking the time to put it together.

[@Hikingguy]

Thanjk you! 🙏

[@jackpitonyak5057]

Great review I’m looking for a gps to buy , which one would you recommend for a snowmobile?

[@Hikingguy]

You'd probably do well with the Montana 700i or this 66i.

[@mwest563]

I purchased through your Amazon link. Hope it all went through. Great review. Thank you. Headed to Costa in a Month.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you 👍👍👍👍

[@barnelleke]

Great video mate! I have a gpsmap 64 and last year I sold my inreach explorer. Now I see this, I’m thinking to buy the 66i. I think there’s a big difference between the 66i and the 64, not? Also great tip about caltopo! I’m going to try it. Thanks again!

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you! 🙏 And nah, if you have a 64 and you don't need InReach, the 64 will be fine, save your money.

[@barnelleke]

@@Hikingguy Sorry, made a mistake. I have the GPSmap 62s...

[@Hikingguy]

@@barnelleke Yea, same, if it works fine for you, no need to upgrade.

[@barnelleke]

@@Hikingguy caltopo is not succesfull for me...I made several markers but when I want to create a route, the program is not follow the lines at all...can't figure out why.

[@bustabass9025]

Just purchased this unit for hunting. Primarily, I want it for determining private from public lands so as to minimize trespassing issues. Does the included mapping indicate as such, or do I need to buy additional chips for the various states where I hunt? Is it compatible with BLM and other mapping sources, thereby giving land owner information and clear boundaries? Actually chose this model based on the higher cost figuring that the higher price equated to more useful bells and whistles. As I have learned from being a musician, it ain't necessarily so. Great review!

[@Hikingguy]

It's a solid unit and the onboard maps will tell you what public land you're in if you get info for a point. It doesn't have public land boundaries like the newer models though, but they should. You can also put custom maps with boundaries on it - check out my website for garmin custom maps

[@josh8058]

Great video mate I just purchased one but now you have me a bit concerned. Most of my use will be in valleys recording my own track local to the device, so hopefully the GPS works good enough. Your example with the track going up and down the side of the canyon concerns me a little.

[@Hikingguy]

The GPS works better than pretty much any other handheld GPS out there. The signal dropout when in the shadow of the wall of the Grand Canyon would happen with any GPS. If

[@richardmacpherson3924]

Excellent video. When I first pulled it up I wondered what could take over an hour to review. Every minute was helpful and it was over before I knew it. I will be buying the 66i based on this review. And I won't be disappointed when I encounter the weaknesses, aka cons, because I already know what they are. Thanks, Cris. Great job.

[@Hikingguy]

Ah, thank you, really nice note and glad the video was helpful. And believe me, when I made this video and saw how long it was so I cringed , but I thought everything was important and people's lives might potentially depend on this thing, so it is what it is. I still use my 66i on every hike, it's my goto GPS that I record all my trail guides with. Have fun with it and thank you again!

[@richardmacpherson3924]

@@Hikingguy Hi again, Cris. I bought the 66i and I've spent several hours (seriously) going through your video. Watch, pause, try it out, rewind, do it again, etc. I'm a slow learner. Anyway, I'm having trouble with the routing feature. I create the routes on BaseCamp and download them to the 66i. The problem is when I try to "go" it won't start because a whole bunch of "points" have been added, presumably by BaseCamp, and it exceeds the 66i's capability. I've researched this online and found many others have encountered this same problem. Some suggest an onerous workaround or other ways to deal with it. To me this is a huge problem and I'm hoping there is a simple solution. Any ideas, like changing settings or even another mapping program? Thanks again. -Rick MacPherson

[@Hikingguy]

@@richardmacpherson3924 So what's happening in that Basecamp is throwing in "shaping points" which are counting as route points in the 66i (I think). Can you try removing all the shaping points and set a max of 50 route points? Here's a screenshot > ibb.co/yyDZpTr

[@Hikingguy]

@@richardmacpherson3924 This may also be helpful > hikingguy.com/how-to-hike/what-is-a-gpx-file/

[@matthewprior3762]

A very comprehensive review and info. Thank you for the effort you put into this!

[@Hikingguy]

Glad it was helpful! 👍

[@guyyaffa8235]

Great review. Just purchase one today. One question ? Can you use the SOS feature if your not signed up to the Inreach service. ?

[@Hikingguy]

No unfortunately you need a subscription for SOS

[@edzed3865]

Thnx a lot! How do u get to the green that shows food and drink, hospitals, fuel services , cities, shopping, etc

[@Hikingguy]

POI database - hit the FIND button and you get a list

[@gabbette999]

And thank you so much for your in-depth and super thoughtful review and how to!!!!

[@jamescollins1272]

This is a LOT of work and attention to details. We dont think anyone else has gone to this level of energy in their explainations. Thanks Much! So .... do you recommend a better combination of GPS Unit and one of the other in-Reach units as a better combination for some people?

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you thank you! Glad it was helpful. If you want something different I'd go with an InReach Mini and cell phone with GaiaGPS. Just make sure you have some protection and power backup for the phone.

[@bw0541]

Thanks for the in-depth review! Ive been looking at purchasing this. It will be my first newer handheld GPS, so im trying to find the right one.

[@Hikingguy]

Cool, glad the review came in handy!

[@chanceth5957]

BW05 did you ever find a good one? I am looking for one as well, and was curious if you ever decided on something? I am looking for something well rounded with ease of use that has a long battery life. Thank you!

[@adrianramirezl.4388]

Greetins from Costa Rica. Thanks a lot for your nice and clear review about the 66i.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you! 👍👍👍

[@MiningMagnets]

Great review. I am going to say that after seeing your review I am leaning towards the mini. I was really hoping the weather data would be there. Looks like I would be better off using my phone for GPS and satellite images.

[@Hikingguy]

The weather is good now - check out the video I have in the description for the weather update. Works well for me since the update.

[@michaelschafer5493]

Any plans to update this? Garmin and maps site have changed. I still find the 66i to not be easy enough to feel useful. I plan to do a part of the jmt this summer and was hoping to use this device. Thanks.

[@Hikingguy]

I was hoping a new GPSMAP unit would have come out by now to look at. I might do a 66i "2023" update this spring though. Thanks for mentioning it.

[@ole-bboy5875]

Hey Cris just came across you channel looking for a new gps/satellite communicator. Great channel the info and depth you go into for all things hiking and outdoor adventure is excellent wish I came across your site sooner. I was looking for a satellite communication device a year ago and ended up purchasing a inreach explorer+ . I already had a Montana 680t and figured all I really needed was a communicator for the areas I hunt and fish with no cell reception. I'm really liking the 66i because it looks like combines both into one. Looks easy to toggle thru the screen modes and also takes a micro SD card for hunt maps. Think I'm going to sell my Montana and inreach explorer+ and get the 66i hopefully the newer ones the firmware will be already updated. Thanks for the indepth review.

[@Hikingguy]

Yea, the 66i is ideal if you want both devices in one. I've been using it for a few years now and it works great. Just update the firmware when you first get it to avoid some headaches.

[@AF1US]

Great review - do you still have a reference for the screen savers?

[@bearofthenorth7768]

Great video review. I just purchased one yesterday and found your review very helpful. Thanks very much!

[@Hikingguy]

Awesome, have fun with it!

[@ezrazbach6789]

Just checked the website, and it looks like the GPSMAP 66i now has inReach weather capability as of November 2020.

[@Hikingguy]

Yes watch the video listed as "weather update" in the description of this video.

[@mickilkr]

If used as a bike computer… is the 66i able to keep track of ‘hangtime’ for the length of a trip? Hang time being time spent in the air while hitting jumps. Any advice is appreciated, great videos and thanks in advance!

[@TheSimpleEnvironmentalist]

Super helpful review but also guide. I watched this after purchasing and learned a lot of valuable information. Thanks so much!

[@bigbr4]

Great review. Is the 66i offered with inreach weather now? The one on their website is saying it has it. Thanks.

[@Hikingguy]

Yup, check my video on that - link in the description

[@jerrysambrook4480]

Have they updated the software so that the "odometer" can be reset without losing all of your other settings?

[@SouthernGuy82]

Has the Birds Eye imagery gotten better since 4 years ago when you did this review?

[@suspicious_white_van]

Thanks. I'm learning mine and this has been a big help.

[@Hikingguy]

Good to hear, thank you 👍👍👍

[@footballfriends1742]

Thank you for the review.

[@kenm4678]

On the BirdsEye subscription, no mention of the USGS maps available, much more use-able on the small GPS screen. Satelite imaging on a 3 inch screen will never be as good as a computer screen or even cell phone screens. Otherwise a good review. I'm a long time user of GPS starting with Garmin GPS 12's thru all the Delorme products.

[@Hikingguy]

I wasn't aware that you can download USGS maps - where are you seeing that? I just have Garmin Topo, Birdseye (download), or externally imported OSM maps. Would love to have USGS quads on there.

[@kenm4678]

@@Hikingguy www.garmin.com/en-US/maps/outdoor/#tooltip-sub Birdseye Topo Raster Subscription download. $29 year subscription, buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/p/98816. I use these and GPS File Depot map files for a lot of upper mid-west navigation, BWCA and Quetico canoe tripping. Current latest unit a Garmin GPS 62st, backed up with Basecamp computer programing to display and print paper maps at home.

[@deborahsmith3103]

Chris, I so appreciate your informative videos. Was tryring to decide between an Inreach and the 66i. Would like to support you by purchasing from REI, but I'm already a member and see no way to get the discount for the 66i. I hate to purchase form Amazon, but their price is better, even the tax. Any suggestions? Then, I will be watching to figure out how to use this thing!

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you for your support 👍 You can use my Amazon link and it does the same thing - amzn.to/3Oqpe73 - Wish I knew if a new model was coming out soon, but I have no idea, this one has been out for a while but def still a solid unit and updated with firmware regularly.

[@deborahsmith3103]

@@Hikingguy Thanks for your quick reply. We're both technologically challenged, so this should be interesting!

[@Bamaoutdoors]

Very helpful video! I do most of my adventures on water mainly rivers and swamps and I've been looking for a GPS I can use when I don't have cell service and can track me through a swamp. In your opinion would this be a good unit?

[@Hikingguy]

Yes, this is good. If you don't need inReach, get the 66sr, which as better positioning.

[@nathan0351]

Would you consider the use of Li-Ion rechargeable battery a disadvantage? I'm considering this GPS but I feel like something that runs off AAA/AA batteries would be preferable for backcountry use since I can bring additional batteries rather than relying on a power bank or something similar.

[@Hikingguy]

I used to feel that way and I know others do, but after a few years of carrying a USB pack, I've found that works fine without any hassles. And I can use it to charge other devices as well.

[@CraigShaw1970]

A bit late to the party, but as a (soon to be) 66 series owner, great in depth and real-life review that i found really useful. 👍

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you, glad it was helpful! 👍👍👍

[@johnc2825]

Great video, would you still recommend it after 3 years? I’m considering it primarily as a satellite communicator, but I do like the true GPS functionality. I’m also looking at the inreach Mini 2, and the zoleo. Thanks in advance!

[@Hikingguy]

If you want nav + inReach together, I think this is still your best bet. I wish they'd come out with an update (multi-band + quicker processor), it's been long enough.

[@johnc2825]

Great, thanks a ton! And thank you for making such high quality content across multiple platforms!

[@techies_gaming8091]

can we find like a campground, shopping places, national parks, zoos or etc directly on this handheld?

[@Hikingguy]

Yup there's a POI database on it with most of that stuff, and you can also load custom POIs

[@michaelfrymus]

Thinking of the 67i, and I'm wondering, can i customize the menu? Remove things i would not be using and reorder the icons?

[@Hikingguy]

Yup

[@Skylyned]

3 years later - which GPS device do you recommend for hiking and backcountry usage?

[@Hikingguy]

66sr is the best if you don't need inReach, otherwise I'd go with 66i, both very solid and still going strong

[@contacttimbre]

I appreciate your reviews but it seems from the OS and the maps that it has streets and street navigation and it has intersection navigation, without the install of the sd card, can you show using it to find an intersection and routing to it, such as if you walked away from your car at an intersection on a back country road?

[@elcontrastador]

Appreciate the review...well done. I'm a dirt biker and want a tough compact unit for exploring and to be lite for tracking my hare scramble races. Is this still the best unit available, in your opinion? Anything come out to look at since you've made this vid?

[@Hikingguy]

Thanks... and yea, this unit is far from perfect but prob the best dedicated handheld out there now. You should be good to bang and thrash this guy without much problem.

[@FlorinSirbu.]

Hey Chris, once again thank you for uploading this video and helping us getting the most out of it. I am gonna be trekking for 2 weeks in Arctic Norway and I was wondering if weather is best turning off my 66i activity/recording at the end of the day or should I just pause it and continue the following day What would be the best approach for these long days hikes? Regards, Florin

[@Hikingguy]

I'd do each day as a separate activity to play it safe and capture the data. Have fun on the trip, it sounds epic.

[@teddychristianjr.1211]

Has the weather function been updated? Bought from your link thanks again.

[@Hikingguy]

Thank you for using my link 🙏👍 & yes, weather working solidly now > kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z6rIgYypiNarjLc

[@teddychristianjr.1211]

@@Hikingguy Thank you. Sorry I have another question. Is there a list of the map icons? Do you know how to get them off of the map? I sent a test message from my house now that message icon will not go away.

[@Hikingguy]

@@teddychristianjr.1211 do you mean on the website? if so, there are filters to turn off messages display, and you can also delete them individually

[@martinmartin4958]

great detailed review, thank you.