Garmin Montana 700 Review

The Garmin Montana 700 is the ultimate GPS handheld device for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its rugged construction, this device is built to withstand even the harshest conditions, as it is rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water, and vibration. The 5″ glove-friendly touchscreen display is 50% larger than the previous model, allowing for easy viewability no matter the weather or lighting conditions. Equipped with multi-GNSS support, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, and preloaded TopoActive maps, this device ensures accurate and reliable navigation on both roads and trails. The Garmin Montana 700 also offers a range of pro-connected features such as ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity, and BLUETOOTH wireless networking, providing direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support, and more. Additionally, it is compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app, offering a comprehensive platform to manage waypoints, routes, activities, and collections, as well as review trip data from the field. With its impressive array of features and capabilities, the Garmin Montana 700 is the ultimate companion for any outdoor adventure.

Why Consider This Product?

When it comes to outdoor adventures, having reliable navigation is crucial. That’s where the Garmin Montana 700 comes in. This rugged GPS handheld device offers a multitude of features and benefits that make it a worthy investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

Firstly, the Garmin Montana 700 boasts a rugged construction that is rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water, and vibration. This means that it can withstand the harshest of conditions, ensuring that it will be able to handle whatever nature throws at it during your expeditions.

Another standout feature of the Garmin Montana 700 is its 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display. This touchscreen is 50% larger than the previous model, allowing for easy viewability even in bright sunlight. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or off-roading, you’ll be able to clearly see your maps and navigation information on this responsive and user-friendly display.

In addition to its robust construction and large touchscreen, the Garmin Montana 700 offers multi-GNSS support. This means it can connect to GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellite systems, providing you with superior accuracy and reliability in pinpointing your location. The device also comes preloaded with TopoActive maps, ensuring that you have detailed and up-to-date maps for roads and trails right out of the box.

Lastly, the Garmin Montana 700 is pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Bluetooth wireless networking. This allows for direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support, and more. With these connectivity features, you’ll have access to a wealth of additional resources and functionality to enhance your outdoor adventures.

Features and Benefits

Rugged Construction for Durability

The Garmin Montana 700 is built to withstand the toughest conditions you may encounter during your outdoor activities. It is rated to MIL-STD 810 for thermal, shock, water, and vibration, providing peace of mind that it can handle rugged terrains, extreme temperatures, and even accidental drops or submersion in water.

Large Glove-Friendly Touchscreen Display

With its 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen display, the Garmin Montana 700 offers easy viewability and touchscreen responsiveness, even when you’re wearing gloves. This is especially important when you’re out in the field, as you won’t have to remove your gloves to operate the device. The larger size of the touchscreen compared to previous models also ensures that you can clearly see your maps and navigation information, even in bright sunlight.

Multi-GNSS Support and Preloaded TopoActive Maps

The Garmin Montana 700 supports multiple satellite systems, including GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo. This multi-GNSS capability ensures that you have enhanced accuracy and reliability in determining your position, regardless of your location. Additionally, the device comes preloaded with TopoActive maps, providing detailed and up-to-date mapping data for roads and trails. With these features, you can confidently navigate through unfamiliar terrains, ensuring you stay on the right path.

Pro-Connected with ANT+, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth

With its pro-connected features, the Garmin Montana 700 offers a wide range of connectivity options. It is equipped with ANT+ technology, allowing you to connect to compatible sensors such as heart rate monitors or temperature sensors. The device also has Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling you to easily download additional maps, software updates, or access features like BirdsEye Satellite Imagery. Furthermore, Bluetooth wireless networking allows for seamless integration with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones or wireless headphones. This connectivity opens up a world of possibilities, including location sharing, app support, and more.

Compatible with Garmin Explore

The Garmin Montana 700 is fully compatible with the Garmin Explore website and app. This provides you with a convenient platform to manage your waypoints, routes, activities, and collections. You can also use tracks to navigate through previously recorded routes or review trip data from your outdoor adventures. The Garmin Explore ecosystem ensures that all your important information is easily accessible and organized, allowing you to focus on enjoying your outdoor experiences.

Versatile Mounting Options

To further enhance its usability, the Garmin Montana 700 is available with versatile mounting options. This ensures that you can securely attach the device to your preferred mode of transportation, whether it be on a bike, ATV, or in a vehicle. The ability to easily mount the device allows for hands-free operation and minimizes the risk of accidental damage or loss.

Product Quality

Garmin is a well-established and trusted brand in the field of GPS technology. The Garmin Montana 700 is no exception when it comes to product quality. With its rugged construction, multi-GNSS support, and versatile mounting options, this device is built to withstand the demands of outdoor adventures. Garmin is known for its commitment to quality and reliability, and the Montana 700 lives up to those expectations.

The device’s MIL-STD 810 rating ensures that it can handle extreme temperatures, shock, water, and vibrations, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who venture into challenging environments. When you’re out in the field, you need a device that you can rely on, and the Garmin Montana 700 provides the durability and ruggedness necessary to withstand the rigors of your adventures.

Garmin is also known for continuously updating and improving its products. This ensures that you have access to the latest mapping data, software updates, and additional features. The Garmin Explore website and app offer a seamless platform for managing and sharing your outdoor experiences, providing an added layer of value and convenience.

Overall, the Garmin Montana 700 exemplifies the high-quality craftsmanship and dedication to excellence that Garmin is known for. You can trust that this device will not only meet your expectations, but also exceed them in terms of product quality.

What It’s Used For

The Garmin Montana 700 has a wide range of applications and can be used in various real-life scenarios. Whether you’re a hiker exploring new trails, a mountain biker tackling rugged terrains, or a off-roader venturing into remote locations, this GPS handheld device can greatly enhance your outdoor experiences.

Hiking and Trail Exploration

One of the primary uses of the Garmin Montana 700 is for hiking and trail exploration. With its preloaded TopoActive maps and multi-GNSS support, you can confidently navigate through unfamiliar terrains with ease. The device’s 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter provide valuable information about your surroundings, allowing you to stay on course and monitor changes in elevation. Whether you’re hiking through dense forests, traversing mountainous regions, or exploring national parks, the Garmin Montana 700 will be your reliable guide.

Mountain Biking and Off-Roading

For mountain bikers and off-roaders, the Garmin Montana 700 offers essential features for tackling challenging terrains. The glove-friendly touchscreen display ensures that you can access navigation information while maintaining control of your bike or vehicle. The device’s rugged construction provides peace of mind that it can withstand the bumps, vibrations, and occasional falls that come with these activities. With the Garmin Montana 700, you can confidently explore new trails, push your limits, and conquer the great outdoors.

Geocaching and Outdoor Activities

Geocaching enthusiasts will find the Garmin Montana 700 to be an invaluable tool. Geocaching involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden containers, or caches, in outdoor locations. With its precise positioning capabilities and intuitive navigation features, the Garmin Montana 700 greatly enhances the geocaching experience. You can easily input coordinates, follow breadcrumb trails, and mark found caches directly on the device. Whether you’re searching for hidden treasures in urban areas or remote wilderness, this GPS handheld will be your trusted companion.

Fishing and Marine Navigation

The Garmin Montana 700 also excels in fishing and marine navigation. With its multi-GNSS support, you can accurately mark fishing hotspots, record tracks, and navigate back to your favorite locations. The device’s compatibility with Garmin’s marine charts and BlueChart g3 mapping allows you to easily plan and follow routes over water. Whether you’re fishing in lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, the Garmin Montana 700 provides the navigation tools you need to maximize your angling adventures.

Search and Rescue Operations

In search and rescue operations, time is of the essence. The Garmin Montana 700’s reliable GPS capabilities and rugged construction make it an essential tool for rescue teams. Whether you’re searching for missing persons, coordinating movements with team members, or marking critical points, this device provides the reliability and durability necessary for critical situations. The large touchscreen display ensures that you can view maps and vital information even in high-pressure situations. The Garmin Montana 700 is a powerful asset in search and rescue operations, increasing the chances of successful outcomes.

Product Specifications

Specification	Details
Display Size	5″
Display Type	Transflective color TFT
Display Resolution	480 x 800 pixels
Touchscreen	Yes
Water Rating	IPX7
MIL-STD 810 Rating	Yes (thermal, shock, water, vibration)
Memory	16GB
Waypoints	10,000
Routes	250
Track Log	20,000 points, 250 saved tracks
Battery Life (AA Batteries)	Up to 18 hours
Battery Life (Lithium-ion Battery)	Up to 17 hours
Wireless Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
GPS and GLONASS Compatible	Yes
Galileo Support	Yes
Sensors	3-axis compass, barometric altimeter
ANT+ Technology	Yes
Garmin Explore Compatible	Yes
Preloaded Maps	TopoActive Maps
Weight	14.5 ounces (with batteries)
Dimensions	2.9″ x 6.7″ x 1.4″ (2.9″ x 6.7″ x 1.7″ with included carabiner clip)

Who Needs This

The Garmin Montana 700 is a versatile GPS handheld device that is ideal for a wide range of individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. Here are a few examples of who can benefit from this product:

1. Hikers and backpackers: Whether you’re exploring well-known trails or blazing your own paths, the Garmin Montana 700 provides the navigation tools and durability needed for hiking and backpacking adventures.

2. Mountain bikers and off-roaders: If you enjoy tackling rugged terrains on your bike or off-road vehicle, the Garmin Montana 700’s large touchscreen, glove-friendly operation, and rugged construction make it a must-have device to enhance your riding experiences.

3. Geocachers: For those who love the thrill of finding hidden treasure in the great outdoors, the Garmin Montana 700 is the perfect companion. Its precise GPS capabilities and intuitive navigation features greatly enhance the geocaching experience.

4. Anglers: Whether you’re fishing in lakes, rivers, or coastal waters, the Garmin Montana 700 offers valuable features for marking fishing hotspots, recording tracks, and planning routes, improving your overall angling success.

5. Search and rescue teams: The Garmin Montana 700’s reliable GPS capabilities, ruggedness, and large touchscreen display make it an essential tool for search and rescue operations, providing critical assistance when every second counts.

Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice adventurer, the Garmin Montana 700 is designed to meet the needs of anyone who craves reliable navigation and robust performance in challenging environments.

Pros and Cons

The Garmin Montana 700 has many advantages that make it a top choice for outdoor navigation. However, it’s important to also consider some potential drawbacks before making a purchase. Here are the pros and cons of the Garmin Montana 700:

Pros

• Rugged construction and MIL-STD 810 rating for durability in extreme conditions.
• Large glove-friendly touchscreen display for easy viewability and operation.
• Multi-GNSS support with preloaded TopoActive maps for accurate and detailed navigation.
• Pro-connected with ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for expanded functionality and connectivity features.
• Compatibility with Garmin Explore website and app for easy management of waypoints, routes, and activities.
• Versatile mounting options for secure attachment to various modes of transportation.
• Trusted and reliable brand with a history of high-quality GPS devices.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to basic handheld GPS devices.
• Some users may find the 5-inch display size too large for their preference or portability needs.
• Battery life may be shorter when using higher-power features such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
• Initial setup and customization may require some familiarity with GPS devices and software interfaces.
• The device’s larger size and weight may not be ideal for individuals who prioritize compactness and lightweight gear.

While the Garmin Montana 700 offers a wealth of benefits, it’s important to consider these potential downsides to ensure that the device aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

FAQ’s

Q: Is the Garmin Montana 700 waterproof? A: The Garmin Montana 700 has an IPX7 water rating, meaning it can withstand incidental exposure to water up to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes. While it is water-resistant, it is not designed to be fully waterproof or submersible for long periods.

Q: Can I add additional maps to the Garmin Montana 700? A: Yes, the Garmin Montana 700 has Wi-Fi connectivity and supports additional map downloads. You can access and download a variety of maps, including topographic maps, marine charts, and road maps, depending on your specific needs.

Q: How long does the battery last on the Garmin Montana 700? A: The battery life of the Garmin Montana 700 depends on various factors, such as usage, settings, and battery type. With AA batteries, the device can last up to 18 hours. With the lithium-ion battery pack (sold separately), the battery life can reach up to 17 hours.

Q: Can I use the Garmin Montana 700 for geocaching? A: Absolutely! The Garmin Montana 700 is well-suited for geocaching. With its accurate GPS capabilities, intuitive navigation features, and large touchscreen display, it greatly enhances the geocaching experience. You can easily input coordinates, follow breadcrumb trails, and mark found caches directly on the device.

Q: Is the Garmin Montana 700 compatible with other Garmin devices? A: Yes, the Garmin Montana 700 is compatible with other Garmin devices that use ANT+ or Bluetooth technology. This allows for seamless integration with a wide range of Garmin products, such as heart rate monitors, temperature sensors, smartphone connectivity, and more.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers who have purchased and used the Garmin Montana 700 have generally been highly satisfied with its performance and features. Many customers highlight the device’s durability, stating that it can withstand rough conditions and is built to last. The large touchscreen display and glove-friendly operation receive praise for their ease of use and visibility in various lighting conditions.

The accuracy and reliability of the GPS capabilities are frequently mentioned as standout features by customers. They appreciate the device’s ability to quickly acquire satellite signals and provide accurate positioning information, allowing them to navigate confidently even in remote or unfamiliar areas.

The compatibility with Garmin Explore and the availability of additional mapping options through Wi-Fi connectivity are also well-received. Customers appreciate the seamless integration between the device, the Garmin Explore website, and app, making it easy to manage and share waypoints, routes, and activities.

Although there are some comments regarding the initial learning curve and setup process, customers generally find the device intuitive to use and appreciate the availability of online resources and customer support.

Overall, the majority of customers highly recommend the Garmin Montana 700, praising its reliability, durability, and advanced navigation features, making it a valuable tool for outdoor adventures.

Overall Value

Considering the features, durability, and reliability of the Garmin Montana 700, it offers excellent value for outdoor enthusiasts who rely on accurate navigation. The device’s rugged construction, MIL-STD 810 rating, and glove-friendly touchscreen display ensure that it can endure the harshest conditions and be easily operated while wearing gloves.

The multi-GNSS support and preloaded TopoActive maps provide accurate and detailed navigation information, allowing users to confidently explore various terrains. The pro-connected features, including ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, expand the device’s functionality and connectivity options, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Garmin Montana 700’s compatibility with the Garmin Explore website and app provides a seamless platform for managing waypoints, routes, and activities, adding value and convenience for users. Furthermore, the device’s versatile mounting options ensure that it can be securely attached to various modes of transportation, providing hands-free operation and minimizing the risk of accidental damage or loss.

While the Garmin Montana 700 is priced higher compared to basic handheld GPS devices, its advanced features, ruggedness, and reliable performance justify the investment. For outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize accurate navigation and robust performance in demanding environments, the Garmin Montana 700 offers exceptional value.

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

To maximize your experience with the Garmin Montana 700, here are some tips and tricks for best results:

1. Familiarize yourself with the device: Take the time to read the user manual and explore the various features and settings of the Garmin Montana 700. This will ensure that you can fully utilize its capabilities and customize it to suit your specific needs.

2. Customize the display: Adjust the display settings to optimize visibility for different lighting conditions. Experiment with brightness, contrast, and colors to find the settings that work best for you.

3. Download additional maps: Take advantage of the device’s Wi-Fi connectivity to download additional maps that are relevant to your activities. Whether you need topographic maps, marine charts, or road maps, having the most up-to-date mapping data will enhance your navigation experience.

4. Use Garmin Explore: Make full use of the Garmin Explore website and app to manage and share your outdoor activities. Familiarize yourself with the features and capabilities of Garmin Explore to efficiently organize and review your adventures.

5. Keep spare batteries or a power bank: If you plan on using the Garmin Montana 700 for extended periods without access to a power source, it’s a good idea to have spare batteries or a portable power bank on hand. This will ensure that you can continue using the device even when the battery is drained.

6. Use high-quality screen protectors: Invest in high-quality screen protectors to safeguard the device’s touchscreen display from scratches and impacts. This will help maintain optimal visibility and protect the device’s longevity.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make the most of your Garmin Montana 700 and ensure an enhanced navigation experience during your outdoor adventures.

Final Thoughts

Product Summary

The Garmin Montana 700 is a rugged GPS handheld device that offers a wide range of features and benefits for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rugged construction, large glove-friendly touchscreen display, and multi-GNSS support, this device is built to withstand challenging conditions and provide accurate and reliable navigation.

The Garmin Montana 700’s pro-connected features, including ANT+ technology, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Bluetooth wireless networking, expand its functionality and connectivity options. These features allow for direct-to-device access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads, location sharing, Connect IQ app support, and more.

Compatibility with the Garmin Explore website and app provides a seamless platform for managing waypoints, routes, activities, and collections. You can use tracks to navigate through previously recorded routes or review trip data from your outdoor adventures, making it easy to organize and share your experiences.

Final Recommendation

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who values accurate navigation and durability, the Garmin Montana 700 is a highly recommended choice. Its rugged construction, multi-GNSS support, and preloaded TopoActive maps ensure that you can confidently explore various terrains and remain on the right path.

The large glove-friendly touchscreen display, versatile mounting options, and extensive connectivity features enhance usability and convenience. Whether you’re hiking, biking, geocaching, fishing, or involved in search and rescue operations, the Garmin Montana 700 is a reliable companion that will enhance your outdoor experiences.

With its robust construction, extensive features, and trusted brand reputation, the Garmin Montana 700 offers excellent value for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a high-quality and reliable GPS handheld device. Invest in the Garmin Montana 700 and embark on your next adventure with confidence.

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