This line of handheld GPS is the latest upgrade to their longtime GPSMAP 60 series line of devices. For those familiar with prior generations, these look a lot like the GPSMAP 62 series which was the predecessor to this series. All three entries of the Garmin GPSMAP 64 series have a transflective, 65-K color TFT display that measures 1.43″ x 2.15″. They run on 2 AA batteries with a 16 hour predicted battery life. You will want to use NiMH or Lithium batteries and recharge them if possible. All models are perfect for the geocaching enthusiast or for that matter, any outdoors activity. All three GPSMAP 64 models are the same size and the mounts that we will discuss will fit all models.
Garmin GPSMAP 64 – this is the base model. It includes 4GB of internal storage as well as an external microSD slot. The GPS can hold up to 5000 waypoints and 200 routes.
Garmin GPSMAP 64s – this includes all of the features of the base model and adds an electronic compass and barometric altimeter.
Garmin GPSMAP 64st – includes all the features of the 64s with boosted internal memory of 8GB as well as pre-loaded topographic maps.
Loading maps to your GPS can be a real pain, especially if you hike in a different location each time you will use the GPS so consider the GPSMAP 64st to avoid the loading. To me, the basic Garmin GPSMAP 64 is just a little too basic. The GPSMAP 64s is a good choice if you plan on using it in the same area of your state all the time.
The selection of mounts won’t be as difficult as the GPS. That’s because the same mount fit all three models of the Garmin GPSMAP 64 line. There are a lot of choices for mounts. The GPSMAP 64 series shares their mounts as some other Garmin GPS units such as the GPSMAP 62 and in some cases the Rino 650. So you may see models listed other than the GPSMAP 64 series in various titles and descriptions. The purpose of this article is to highlight mounts that will fit your GPS so if it’s listed here, they should fit your GPSMAP 64 just fine.
The Garmin GPSMAP series used to come with a basic belt clip. I never liked these very much as the GPS isn’t really usable while it’s hanging on your belt. So now Garmin includes their carabiner clip with these. That’s a clip that can be used to attach your GPS to a backpack of something that’s hanging from your neck.
If taking this GPS in a car or truck, the carabiner clip isn’t going to be very useful. You will need to consider a different solution such as the Garmin Friction Mount. This is the mount in the photo that accompanies this article. This mount is placed on your dashboard and has a non-skid bottom. It includes a clip that your GPSMAP will insert into. These fit a lot of Garmin handheld models including the older GPSMAP 62 series so if you are upgrading from this older model, you can likely use that mount.
This series can also be used for marine purposes and the Garmin Marine Flat Surface Mount is an excellent choice. Like the above mount, this one can be used for several different Garmin lines and the GPSMAP 64 series will slide into the mounting plate. The bottom has pre-drilled holes to screw down to your flat surface.
I find it surprising that Garmin does not offer a suction mount option for this line (nor do they offer one for the majority of handheld units) or one that can be used on an ATV or motorcycle. Fortunately the folks at RAM offer a Handlebar Mount for the Garmin GPSMAP 62 and 64. This is a well made mount. Constructed of metal with a custom plastic cradle, this comes with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. It fits handlebars up to a 1.25 inch diameter which is most motorcycle handlebars. There is a 3″ arm in the middle and you can adjust the mount from the base and the cradle as it is built on a ball and socket design.
As just stated, it’s also a mystery as to why Garmin would not offer a suction cup option on the mount. Fortunately RAM has a Suction Cup Mount for the GPSMAP 64. This includes a plastic mount and custom cradle with the typical adjustment points found on most RAM mounts at the base and cradle. These are great for use in your car or SUV. I’m not too keen on using these in high vibration environments such as a motorcycle or ATV. That’s just my opinion.
Lastly, Garmin offers a stem mount. It’s an inexpensive mount that uses twist-ties to fasten it to your stem or handlebar. Since the mount is permanent, be sure you like where you put it or you will need to cut the ties and buy new ones. This mount is good for a bicycle, not a motorcycle. A motorcycle has too much vibration and I don’t trust twist ties on anything other than a bicycle.
On a related note, I have seen some dealers offering screen protectors for the Garmin GPSMAP 64, 64s and 64st models. Please save your money and do not buy these. Most GPS units made over the past five years use an anti-scratch lens and under most normal use will not show any scratches. You will find a screen protector is unnecessary.