Garmin Foretrex 801 Wrist-Mounted GPS Navigator
- 100 hours in navigation mode, 1000 hours in expedition mode
- Multi-band GNSS with GPS, GLONASS and Galileo
- 2.2 inch monochrome screen, night vision goggle readable
- Altimeter, compass, accelerometer sensors
- Water-resistant to 1 m for 30 minutes, military tested
- Stealth mode, kill switch, Jumpmaster mode
- Bluetooth smart notifications, inReach pairing
- 2 AAA alkaline batteries and a cleaning cloth included
Last refreshed Aug 4, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A wrist-mounted GPS built for hiking, hunting and tactical use, with long battery modes and a screen that reads under night vision goggles. The screen is monochrome and small, so it suits wayfinding rather than detailed map browsing.
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ASIN: B0DK3XNCX8Model: Foretrex 801Category: Handheld GPS Navigators
Overview
A multi-band satellite receiver, an accelerometer, a compass and a barometric altimeter feed this wrist-mounted navigator, which tracks position and elevation. A monochrome screen stays readable in varied light, and a strap holds the unit on the arm.
Battery modes and rugged testing lead the case for it, with tactical features such as stealth mode, a kill switch and a Jumpmaster mode for release-point calculation. Smart notifications and inReach messages work when linked with compatible devices. This bundle adds batteries and a cleaning cloth.
Who it's for
Outdoor users who navigate by position, bearing and altitude and want security features for sensitive trips. Buyers wanting rich color maps, music or fitness tracking should look at a color GPS watch.
Pros and cons
- Long expedition battery mode
- Multi-band satellite positioning
- Readable with night vision goggles
- Stealth mode and kill switch
- Basic topographical maps
- Shallow water resistance rating
- Smartphone needed for notifications
Performance notes
Multi-band reception combines more than one frequency from the satellite systems, which improves position accuracy in poor sky view. The barometric altimeter and compass supply elevation and heading, and expedition mode trades update rate for far longer battery life. Stealth mode stops storing and sharing GPS data and disables wireless links.
Specifications
| Brand | Garmin |
|---|---|
| Model | Foretrex 801 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Screen size | 2.2 inches |
| Dimensions | 2.9 x 8 x 0.9 inches (L x W x H) |
| Weight | 8.8 ounces |
| Power & efficiency | |
| Battery life | Up to 100 hours navigation mode, 1000 hours expedition mode |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Mounting type | Wrist Mount |
| Warranty & support | |
| Satellite systems | GLONASS, GPS, Galileo |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
| Other details | |
| Map type | Topographical |
| Display | Enhanced monochromatic LCD or LED |
| Control | Touch, Buttons |
| Touch screen type | Capacitive |
| Sensors | 3-axis accelerometer, compass, barometric altimeter |
| Water resistance | 1m/30mins |
| Sport type | Camping & Hiking |
| Included | Wrist Strap, 2 AAA alkaline batteries, microfiber cleaning cloth |
Frequently asked questions
How big is the Garmin Foretrex 801 on the wrist?
The listing gives 2.9 inches long, 8 wide and 0.9 thick, with the strap, and a weight of 8.8 ounces.
What comes in the Garmin Foretrex 801 bundle?
The navigator with strap, 2 AAA alkaline batteries and a microfiber cleaning cloth.
What does the kill switch do on the Garmin Foretrex 801?
The listing says that in case of security issues, hitting the kill switch erases the device memory.
Does the Garmin Foretrex 801 work with an inReach communicator?
Yes. The listing says it can pair with a compatible inReach satellite communicator and show messages on the screen.