Garmin GPSMAP 86i
Last price we saw
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Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.
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Price facts
- Last seen at $537.12 at TWIST on Nov 8.
- Checked at 2 stores.
Our take on the Garmin GPSMAP 86i
The GPSMAP 86i is a floating handheld GPS with a 3-inch sunlight-readable display and physical buttons, built for marine use. Its standout feature is built-in inReach satellite messaging over the Iridium network, including two-way texting and an SOS button that works beyond cell coverage. It also streams boat data from compatible chartplotters and acts as a remote for Garmin autopilots and Fusion stereos. It suits offshore sailors, anglers and hikers who want navigation and emergency contact in one device; against the GPSMAP 66i it adds marine networking, and against a plain handheld GPS it adds satellite communication at the cost of a higher price and a subscription.
- Floats and survives splashes, so a drop overboard is recoverable
- inReach two-way satellite texting and SOS without cell signal
- Buttons work with wet or gloved hands
- Streams data from compatible Garmin chartplotters and instruments
- Controls Garmin autopilot and Fusion audio from the handheld
Garmin GPSMAP 86i prices at every store
- TWISTNew
Out of stock
$537.12+ $10.45 shippingChecked Nov 8 - The Twister GroupNew
Out of stock
$537.12+ $10.45 shippingChecked Nov 8
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Garmin GPSMAP 86i price history
Lowest price we've seen: $537.12 on Nov 8 at TWIST. Tracked across 2 stores since Nov 8.
What reviewers say
Owners treat it as a serious marine tool: they value the floating body, the reliable satellite messaging and the integration with their boat electronics. Complaints center on the subscription cost, the small screen and the fiddly button text entry.
- Satellite messagingPraisedOwners say inReach texts and SOS get through reliably beyond cell coverage.
- SubscriptionCriticisedBuyers dislike that satellite features need a paid inReach plan.
- DisplayMixedThe screen is readable in sun but small for chart work.
Questions and answers
- Does the GPSMAP 86i need a subscription?
- Yes. Navigation works without one, but inReach texting and SOS require an active inReach satellite plan.
- How is it different from the GPSMAP 66i?
- Both have inReach, but the 86i floats and adds marine networking: chartplotter data streaming and control of Garmin autopilots and Fusion stereos.
- Can it send an SOS without a phone?
- Yes. The SOS button contacts Garmin's emergency response center directly over the Iridium network.
- Does it work with my boat's electronics?
- It streams data from compatible Garmin chartplotters and instruments and can act as a remote for Garmin autopilots and Fusion marine products.
- What comes in the box?
- The handheld, a lanyard, a powered mount, mounting hardware and a USB to micro USB cable.
- Is it good for hiking too?
- Yes. It handles GPS navigation and satellite messaging on land, though it is heavier than a hiking-focused handheld.
- Where can I buy the Garmin GPSMAP 86i?
- 2 stores we checked sell it, including TWIST, The Twister Group.
