10 bestCompassof July 2025
112M consumers helped this year.
1
SUUNTO MC-2 Compass: Top-of-the-line compass for professionals & serious hikers
SUUNTO
9.8
2
Sportneer Military Lensatic Sighting Compass with Carrying Bag, Waterproof and Shakeproof, Army Green
Sportneer
9.6
13% off
3
Silva 58 Kayak Compass
Silva
9.5
4
Silva Compass 16DCL -6400 MILS/360 Degrees | Military Grade
Silva
9.2
16% off
5
Suunto MC2 Navigator Mirror Sighting Compass with Built-in Clinometer, Quadrant, Standard
SUUNTO
9.0
Other
Silva Ranger 2.0 Advanced Compass with Mirror, Slope Card, and Distance Lanyard, Black
SUUNTO A-10 Compass: Compact, Simple to use Recreational Hiking Compass
Olive Drab Cammenga Genuine Military Lensatic Phosphorescent Compass
SUUNTO M-3 NH Compass, Advanced Features for Navigation, Luminecent Markings for Use in Low Light
6
Silva Expedition S Compas | Night-Enabling Luminous Markings | Perfect for Navigation, Hiking, Trecking and Hunting
Silva
8.8
7
SUUNTO A-30 Compass: Compact, Hiking Compass with Luminous Markings in Low Light
SUUNTO
8.5
8
SUUNTO Clipper Compass, Micro Compass Attaches to Strap, Sleeve or Map Edge
SUUNTO
8.3
9
Orienteering Compass Hiking Backpacking Compass | Advanced Scout Compass Camping Navigation - Boy Scout Compass for Kids | Professional Field Compass for Map Reading - Best TurnOnSport Survival Gifts
TurnOnSport
8.0
10
Coghlan's Map Compass
Coghlan's
7.8
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A Guide to Selecting the Best Compass
Choosing the right compass is all about understanding your needs and the environments where you'll use it. Whether you're hiking, camping, orienteering, or just want a reliable tool for navigation, knowing the key features of a compass will help you make a smart choice. Focus on how you'll use the compass—do you need something simple for occasional use, or a more advanced model for serious navigation? By understanding the main specifications, you can find a compass that matches your activities and skill level.
Type of Compass
The type of compass refers to its design and intended use. The most common types are baseplate (or orienteering) compasses, lensatic (military-style) compasses, and digital compasses. Baseplate compasses are great for map reading and general outdoor use, lensatic compasses are rugged and precise for field navigation, and digital compasses offer electronic readings and extra features. If you’re a beginner or need a compass for hiking and map work, a baseplate compass is usually best. For more demanding navigation or military use, consider a lensatic compass. Digital compasses are handy if you want extra features, but they require batteries.
Declination Adjustment
Declination adjustment is a feature that lets you correct for the difference between magnetic north and true north. This is important because maps are based on true north, but compasses point to magnetic north. Some compasses have a built-in adjustment, while others require you to do the math each time. If you plan to use your compass with maps, especially in areas with significant declination, look for a model with easy declination adjustment. If you’re only using the compass for basic direction finding, this feature is less critical.
Sighting Mechanism
A sighting mechanism helps you take more accurate bearings by aligning the compass with distant objects. Some compasses have a mirror or a sighting notch, while others are simple and lack this feature. If you need precise navigation, such as in orienteering or backcountry travel, a sighting mechanism is very helpful. For casual use or basic direction finding, a standard compass without this feature is usually sufficient.
Baseplate Features
The baseplate is the flat, transparent part of many compasses, often marked with rulers and map scales. These features help you measure distances and plot routes on a map. Some baseplates also have magnifiers for reading small map details. If you plan to use your compass with maps, look for a baseplate with clear markings and useful scales. If you just need a compass for general direction, these features are less important.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability refers to how well the compass can withstand rough use, drops, and exposure to the elements. Compasses can be made from plastic or metal, and some are waterproof or shock-resistant. If you’ll be using your compass in tough outdoor conditions, choose one with a sturdy build and weather resistance. For light use or keeping in a backpack, a basic plastic model may be enough.
Luminescent Markings
Luminescent markings allow you to read the compass in low light or darkness. These are usually found on the needle, dial, or key points on the baseplate. If you expect to navigate at night or in dim conditions, look for a compass with good luminescent features. For daytime use only, this is less important.
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