Overview

The Garmin 010-00970-00 is a handheld GPS navigator with a 2.2-inch monochrome display and a worldwide basemap. It is a straightforward unit for getting your position, marking waypoints, and keeping a track of where you have been without relying on the boat’s power system.

The receiver supports WAAS-enabled GPS with HotFix and GLONASS, which helps when you are moving between open water and more obstructed areas such as mangroves, steep shorelines, or marinas packed with towers. The housing carries an IEC 60529 IPX7 water rating, and it runs on two AA batteries for up to 25 hours.

If you want a compact handheld for a dinghy, kayak, small center console, or as a backup in the grab bag, this model keeps things focused on core navigation and tracking, with no map add-ons or data card expansion to manage.

Key features

• 2.2-inch monochrome display with 128 x 160 resolution for readable basics in changing light
• High-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver with HotFix and GLONASS support
• Worldwide basemap for general reference without loading additional cartography
• Stores up to 1,000 waypoints so you can mark ramps, fishing spots, anchorages, and hazards
• Track logging up to 10,000 points with up to 100 saved tracks for reviewing routes later
• IEC 60529 IPX7 water rating for exposure to spray and wet decks
• USB interface for connecting to shore-side gear for data management
• Supports spine-mounting accessories for a more secure stow or helm-area placement
• Runs on two AA batteries (NiMH or lithium) with up to 25 hours of runtime

Compatibility and fit

This is a self-contained handheld GPS, so it fits best where you want a separate navigation reference that is not tied into a fixed-mount system. It is easy to keep in a console, PFD pocket, ditch bag, or nav drawer, and it can be brought on deck when you need a quick position check.

Physical size is about 2.1 inches wide, 4.0 inches high, and 1.3 inches deep, with a weight around 5 ounces. That footprint works well on smaller boats where space at the helm is limited and you still want something that can be carried off the boat.

Installation and setup

For on-boat use, the most dependable approach is a secure placement plus a tether point so the unit does not go overboard when the deck is wet or the boat is moving. Spine-mounting accessory support helps when you want repeatable placement near the helm, on a bulkhead, or inside a console where it is protected and still easy to grab.

Before heading out, take a moment to set datum preferences and confirm your waypoint naming style. That small step makes it easier to share positions with a chartplotter or paper chart workflow later.

Power and water exposure

Because it uses two AA batteries, it stays independent from 12V and 24V house power and keeps running during electrical issues. Carry spare cells in a dry container, and swap batteries before a long run if the unit will be your primary handheld reference.

The IPX7 rating is well suited to rain, spray, and the kind of wet handling that happens at the dock. After saltwater exposure, rinse with fresh water, dry the case, and make sure the battery compartment area is clean before storage.

Use cases on board

This handheld is a practical match for boaters who want a simple position and track tool, especially for tenders, kayaks, small skiffs, and backup navigation during coastal cruising. It also suits crews who want a compact unit for marking waypoints and returning to the same spot without needing advanced mapping features.