Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-time climber, having a reliable altimeter is essential for a safe and successful trip. Altimeters measure the altitude of your location, which can be helpful in planning your route, estimating how much time it will take to reach your destination, and avoiding dangerous areas.
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing an altimeter, such as accuracy, durability, weight, and price. To help you find the best altimeter for your needs, we’ve created this list of the top-rated altimeters on the market. We’ve also included reviews from real users so you can get a better idea of what each product is like.
10 Best Altimeters | June 2023 (Reviewed & Ranked)
Last updated on June 12, 2023
8 minutes
OUR TOP PICKS
Top #1
Sun Company AltiLINQ - Dashboard Altimeter and Barometer | Altimeter for Car and Truck | Reads Altit...
click for price
Top #2
Sun Company Altimeter 202 - Battery-Free Altimeter and Barometer | Weather-Trend Indicator with Soft...
click for price
A Few Of Our Ranking Metrics:
Check below for our tips on purchasing the best Altimeters:
View Buying Guide
The 10 best Altimeters
Top #1
Sun Company AltiLINQ - Dashboard Altimeter and Barometer | Altimeter for Car and Truck | Reads Altitude from 0 to 15,000 Feet
84%
Customer
Satisfaction
100%
Overall
Score
89%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is easily mounts to the dashboard, has an adjustable dial for accurate readings, and is battery-free.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The holder can be taken when hiking.
It is good for personal use.
It is accurate.
Read More Reviews
Top #2
Sun Company Altimeter 202 - Battery-Free Altimeter and Barometer | Weather-Trend Indicator with Soft Leather Case | Reads Altitude from 0 to 15,000 Fe...
82%
Customer
Satisfaction
96%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is a soft leather case, has an adjustable dial, and is battery-free.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The bezel moves easily.
The device is accurate and easy to use.
The case can be a bit of a hassle, but it's mostly worth it.
Read More Reviews
Top #3
ZIPLEVEL PRO-2000 High Precision Altimeter
91%
Customer
Satisfaction
92%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is paper thin and has no line-of-sight or distance error.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to use and has always worked well.
It makes leveling easy.
It is impressive.
Read More Reviews
Top #4
SUNROAD Mini Multifunction Men's Barometer Altimeter Compass LCD Digital Thermometer Watches-Hygrometer Weather Forecast Hand-Hold Hiking Flashlight A...
76%
Customer
Satisfaction
92%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are the digital display, the rechargeable battery, and the charging line.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is affordable.
It has all the features that the reviewer wanted.
Read More Reviews
Top #5
Ueasy Professional Aluminum Accurate Altimeter Compact Handheld Clinometer for Measuring Heights Slopes Angles Silver
81%
Customer
Satisfaction
90%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are the professional altimeter, HD azimuth disk and clear scale dial, deflection angle lens, and small size.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The build is sturdy.
The string is attached above the eyepiece rather than below, which makes use very annoying. Correcting the design flaw would make it this product a good value.
It is affordable.
Read More Reviews
Top #6
SUNROAD GPS Tracker Barometer Altimeter Compass Weather Forecast Thermometer Barometric Pressure Tester GPS Route Tracking Multifunctional Meter
73%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product has a lot of features, including GPS navigation, a double-stalite locate system, speed and distance tracking, route tracking in 9 groups, altitude data recording and rending, altitude reminder with setting up to 200 meters, digital compass with 16 directions and target altitude setting. It also has an air pressure trend chart and temperature/humidity monitoring.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is light weight and convenient to carry.
The altimeter and barometer are accurate.
Read More Reviews
Top #7
Sun Company AltiPort - Detachable Windshield and Dashboard Altimeter and Barometer | Altimeter for Cars and Trucks | Reads Altitude from 0 to 15,000 F...
81%
Customer
Satisfaction
88%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The altimeter is accurate, easy to use, and battery-free.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is accurate over long distances.
The instructions are easy to read.
Read More Reviews
Top #8
ZIPLEVEL PRO-2000B High Precision Altimeter with 75-Feet Cord and User Guide
78%
Customer
Satisfaction
87%
Overall
Score
89%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is a rotary laser altimeter, it is easy to use and set up, it has a long battery life, and the accuracy is good.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to deal with.
It has been a high quality.
The level is accurate.
Read More Reviews
Top #9
LAD WEATHER Mobile Weather Device Altimeter Barometer Compass Hygrometer Thermometer Pocket Handheld Keychain Clip Climbing Camping Outdoor
71%
Customer
Satisfaction
87%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product has a variety of features that make it great for use in various situations. These include a barometer, weather monitors, and thermometer. Additionally, the compass is a useful addition for navigating in unfamiliar territory.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The learning curve.
But it's not wildly inaccurate so you can still get good use from the unit.
The size is right.
Read More Reviews
Top #10
Digital Altimeter Barometer, Digital Altimeter, IPX4 Waterproof Digital Barometer, for Outdoor Fans for Hiking Camping Climbing
75%
Customer
Satisfaction
86%
Overall
Score
89%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is a dual navigation system, has a digital altimeter, and is waterproof.
Read More Reviews
Altimeters Buying Guide : What You Need To Know
*Our top pick for the best Altimeters
Attributes Of High Quality Altimeters
- High quality altimeters are accurate.
- They are easy to read.
- High quality altimeters have a durable construction.
How To Choose The Best Altimeters
Altimeters are devices that measure altitude, usually in feet or meters. They are commonly used in sports such as hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. There are many different types and brands of altimeters on the market, so choosing the best one for your needs can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you choose the best altimeter for your needs.
1. Determine what type of altimeter you need. There are three main types of altimeters: barometric, electronic, and GPS. Barometric altimeters use air pressure to measure altitude, while electronic altimeters use sensors to measure changes in air pressure. GPS altimeters use satellite signals to determine altitude. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.
2. Consider the accuracy of the altimeter. Accuracy is important if you're using the device for navigation purposes. Most barometric and electronic altimeters have an accuracy of +/- 10 feet or +/- 3 meters. GPS altimeters are generally more accurate, with an accuracy of +/- 5 meters or better.
3. Consider the features offered by different brands and models. Some features that may be important to you include a built-in compass, multiple display modes, automatic calibration, and data logging capabilities. Other features such as heart rate monitoring and step counting may also be important to you if you're using the altimeter for fitness purposes.
4. Compare prices between different brands and models. Altimeters can range in price from around $50 to $500 or more depending on features and accuracy. Compare prices to find the best deal on the right device for your needs.
5. Read online reviews before making your purchase. Reviews can be a helpful way to learn about the pros and cons of different brands and models of altimeters before you buy. Be sure to read reviews from a variety of sources to get a well-rounded view of each device before making your final decision
What To Avoid When Looking For The Best Altimeters
When choosing the best altimeter for your needs, there are a few things to avoid. First, make sure that the altimeter is not made with cheap materials. Second, avoid altimeters that do not have a good reputation. Finally, make sure to get an altimeter that is durable and can withstand the elements.