While most towns and other urban areas are well signposted and provide little difficulty for navigation, this may not always be the case in rural and less densely populated areas. When driving in such areas, you may find that you are more reliant on maps and compass points for navigation. While many cellphones have built-in maps and GPS apps, they are reliant on cell phone signals to work. So, how do you ensure correct navigation without street signs or a cell phone signal? The answer is to invest in a car compass. This ensures that you are always able to determine your direction of travel, regardless of any external signs. However, there are a wide variety of compasses on the market, many of which are less than suitable for use within a vehicle. So, how do you ensure that you purchase the best car compass for your needs? Our panel of automotive experts has compiled a list of the best car compasses to help point you in the right direction.
The Best Car Compass
Ritchie Navigation Explorer Car Compass
The Ritchie Navigation Explorer Compass is versatile and easy to use. It is bracket mounted, which allows the compass to remain at the proper viewing angle, regardless of whether it is mounted on your vehicle’s dash or on the deck of a boat. The fully adjustable compass comes complete with night lighting, making it easy to navigate in low light conditions and has a 2 ¾” direct read dial. The built-in compensators ensure that the compass is easily adjusted for any deviation, while the powerful DirectMotive magnets provide fast heading lock-on. The compass has a scientifically matched Sapphire jewel and hardened steel pivot dial movement for accuracy and durability and a movable sunshade for easier reading in direct sunlight.
PROS
- Large, easy to read compass dial
- Bracket mounting allows for proper viewing angle
- Night lighting enables easy navigation in low light
- High-quality pivot point offers accuracy and durability
CONS
- Difficult to calibrate
- Limited use in low light as the night lighting is dim
Suunto Clipper Car Compass
The compact Suunto Clipper L/B Compass is specifically balanced for the northern hemisphere. Measuring just 4 inches wide, the compass can be clipped to a range of surfaces, including a sleeve, backpack, map edge, or watch strap. The liquid-filled jewel bearing compass has luminous printed cardinal points, making it easier to read in low light, and a rotating bezel with 10-degree increments. The multifunctional compass is ideal for use in vehicles and can also be used for underwater navigation.
PROS
- Compact and easy to attach to a range of surfaces including watch straps and map edges
- Luminous cardinal points make it easier to use in low light
- Can be used underwater as well as for vehicle navigation
CONS
- Some reports that it lacks durability
- Concerns over the strength of the connection between the compass and the clip
Ritchie Navigation X-10-A Blue Dial Auto Compass
The Richie Navigation Blue Dial Auto Bracket Compass can be attached to almost any surface. The compass works just as effective whether it is attached to a horizontal surface or at an angle, thanks to its reversible bracket and built-in compensators. The compass also features 2-inch direct-reading dials that make reading the compass points easy. The internal green night lighting is designed for easier navigation in low lighting, while its high-temperature composite construction adds to its durability.
PROS
- The built-in compensators and reversible bracket mean that the compass can be attached to almost any surface regardless of its angle
- It is usable in low light due to its internal green lighting
- Durability is improved by its high-temperature composite construction
CONS
- Reports of calibration issues in vehicles
VICTOR PRODUCTS Suction Cup Mini Car Compass
If you are looking for a compass that is easy to attach and can be removed easily, then the VICTOR PRODUCTS INC Suction Cup Mini Compass might be just what you need. The suction cup compass is a free-floating ball that works effectively even over the roughest routes thanks to its liquid dampening, which provides quick settling. The large letters make the compass easy to read from any angle, while the suction cup can be attached to most clean surfaces.
PROS
- Suction cup mounting makes the compass easy to attach and to move if needed
- The liquid damping helps the ball to settle quickly even on rough terrain
- Large lettering makes the compass easy to read from any angle
CONS
- Some attachment difficulties have been noted
- Some reports of inaccurate readings
Ritchie S-53 Explorer Car Compass
The Ritchie S-53 Explorer is designed with a low profile so that it sits flush to your dash without the need to cut a hole. The surface mounted compass includes a 12V green nightlight to help with navigation in low light situations. It also features a 2 ¾ inch direct-read dial, making it easy to use. The compass includes built-in compensators and a scientifically matched sapphire jewel and hardened steel pivot dial movement. The moveable sun shield makes it easier to read the dial at any time of day, and the high-temperature composite construction makes the unit strong and durable.
PROS
- The moveable sun shield and nightlight improve navigation at any time of day
- The high-temperature composite construction adds durability and strength to the compass
- The Built-in compensators ensure correct navigation regardless of the road surface
CONS
- Nightlight requires an external power source
- Some reports of deviation in navigation due to metal vehicle construction
- Size can make it obtrusive in smaller vehicles
Pyle Universal Car HUD & GPS Navigation Compass
If you are looking for a multi-purpose tool for your vehicle, then the Pyle Universal 3.5” Car HUD Multi-Color Windshield Screen Projector Vehicle Speed & GPS compass might be just what you need. The unit displays crucial driving data on the windshield in front of you, allowing you to track direction and speed without taking your eyes off the road. The GPS unit is simple to use and has a plug and play design, so no installation is required. The auto shut off allows it to power on and off when you start or shut down your vehicle. It can switch between kilometers and miles and features a speed alarm, so your safety is never compromised by going over the speed limit. Its built-in Dual Core processing provides reliable, real time data and is suitable for use in any vehicle.
PROS
- Shows speed and direction on the windshield, so you do not have to take your focus off the road
- Dual Core process ensures real-time data for speed and direction
- Simple to use; only requires plugging into the cigarette lighter and placing on a non-slip mat on the dash
CONS
- Some reports of directions being quite vague
- Difficulties with reading the display in direct sunlight
- Some difficulties with calibration
Ritchie Explorer Compass Dial for Car
If you are looking for a low-profile compass for your vehicle, then the Ritchie Explorer Compass Dial with Surface Mount might be just what you need. The surface mount allows the compass to sit flush with your dash without the need to cut a hole. The compass is easy to read, thanks to its 2 ¾-inch direct read dial, moveable sunshade, and 12-volt green nightlight. The built-in compensators and a scientifically matched sapphire jewel and hardened steel pivot dial movement ensure that you get exact navigation, even over rough terrain.
PROS
- Compass sits flush to your dash without the need to cut a hole
- Easy to read even in low light
- Exact navigation even over uneven terrain thanks to its built-in compensators
CONS
- External power source required for the nightlight
- Some difficulties reported with calibration
Ritchie Navigation Supersport Car Compass
If you are looking for a smaller compass that does not compromise on quality, then the Ritchie Navigation Supersport Compass might be right for you. The compass remains stable at any speed and is flush mounted with a 4-inch mounting hole. It includes a 3 ¾ inch blue PowerDamp Plus Flat-Card dial with highly visible, extra-large white numerals. The built-in compensators and 45-degree Lubber lines add to the accuracy of your navigation and ensures you can easily adjust for deviation. The compass also has built-in 12V green LED lighting and a moveable sun shield for ease of reading in any light conditions.
PROS
- Flush mounting saves space, making it ideal for smaller vehicles
- Large numerals are ideal for easy reading
- Built-in compensators ensure correct navigation regardless of terrain
CONS
- Requires you to cut a hole in your dash for proper fitting
- More expensive than many comparable compasses
HR Imotion Self-Adhesive Automobile Compass
The HR Self-adhesive Automobile Dashboard Compass is small, compact, and easy to fit to the dash of your vehicle. Its size and simplicity mean that it can easily be used on a bike or even while walking. The free-floating ball ensures that you gain the correct orientation regardless of how the unit is fixed.
PROS
- Easy to fix
- Can be used in any vehicle including on bikes
- Free-floating ball means that it can be fixed at any angle
CONS
- Cannot be calibrated
- No light or luminosity
- Easily affected by metal/magnets in vehicles
Best Car Compass Buying Guide & FAQ
One of the many difficulties related to finding the best compass for your car is the interaction between the compass and your vehicle. Metals and magnets can affect the workings of a compass and therefore, negatively affect its accuracy. An inaccurate compass can leave you completely lost, particularly if you happen to be driving off-road with no visible or at least recognizable landmarks. In this part of the buying guide, our panel of experts look at car compasses in more detail to help you make the right decision for your needs. We explore what you need to consider when buying a car compass, the benefits of a dashboard compass, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about car compasses.
What to Consider When Buying a Car Compass
Suitability is one of the key considerations when purchasing a car compass for your vehicle; however, it is not the only consideration. Budget, fit, size, calibration, and ease of use are also as important.
- Budget
It is important to set out how much you want to spend on a compass for your car. Compasses can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, and while the very cheapest are not likely to be very durable or accurate over the longer term, more expensive does not always mean better.
Consider how much you want to spend against what you want to gain from the compass. If you want one with additional features such as a digital display, night lighting, and built-in compensators, then you are going to need to be willing to pay more than if you want a simple floating ball with a suction cup base.
Consider the quality of the materials that are used in the construction of the compass as well as its features. A more expensive compass that is made from durable materials, fits well to your dash without moving, and above all is shielded from the metal and magnetic components of your vehicle is more likely to be worth the higher price that you may need to pay.
- Fit
There are numerous ways in which a car compass can be fitted to your vehicle. Suction cup fittings are one of the most common. This type of fitting allows your compass to be secured in place and moved when needed, either to be placed in a different vehicle or for storage when the vehicle is not in use. One downside of a suction cup fitting is that it can be affected by dirt, dust, and moisture; all of which can make the fitting less secure.
Adhesive strips are another common mounting aid. Once in place, these are difficult to remove, and new strips will be required in most cases if you remove the compass and try to reset it. Mounts can also be screwed to your dashboard; giving a more permanent attachment. Finally, there are flush fitting mounts that require you to cut a hole in your dash for the compass to sit into. The main benefit of this type of mount is the security of the fit. You can be assured that the compass isn’t going to move, slide, or otherwise fall off your dash. Such fittings also give a much lower profile to your compass, meaning that they are less obtrusive and take up less space. However, greater care needs to be taken with this type of fitting. Once you have cut the hole, repositioning the compass is difficult and will leave an unsightly hole in your dashboard.
- Size
Car compasses vary widely in size. If you purchase one that is too small, then you risk not being able to read it easily while you are driving. This could lead to a lack of attention being paid to the road in front of you. If it is too big for your dash, then it could fit poorly and get in the way. If the compass has a nightlight and is too big, you could find that this too interferes with your driving. Consider diameter and height measurements before making your final purchasing decision.
- Calibration
In order to work correctly, most car compasses need to be calibrated; some are easier than others. Take note of how to calibrate the compass, the possible interferences that you need to be aware of and ensure that the compass is designed to work in your hemisphere. Once calibrated, your compass should be accurate; however, it is worth looking for a compass that is free-floating or has built-in stabilizers. These features allow the compass to correct itself if it is jostled while going over uneven terrain or after taking several quick turns in direction. You do not want to have to wait while your compass keeps up with you.
- Ease of use
The purpose of having a car compass is to make navigation easier. If you have a compass that is hard to read, then this is not going to happen. Look for features that make the compass easy to use. This might include nighttime illumination, large compass point lettering, luminous or fluorescent lettering or numerals. Some compasses include a moveable sunshade to help reduce glare; others are capable of being mounted at any angle so that you can put them in the position that is most convenient for you.
Benefits of a Dashboard Compass
Having a compass in your vehicle allows you to navigate more precisely in areas without signage or a reliable GPS signal. However, traditional compasses are not designed or built to withstand the magnetic effects of your vehicle or to be used within metal surrounds, which can also affect a compass’ accuracy.
Dashboard compasses are specifically designed to be used with vehicles. They are built to withstand the rigors of driving as well as the issues of being placed within a moving metal enclosure. Compasses that are designed for your dashboard are also designed to stay put. They come with fittings that ensure that they attach firmly to your dashboard, reducing the risk of them sliding around or becoming a projectile should you need to stop suddenly.
Dashboard compasses are also designed to be easy to read while you are driving. This means that you do not need to take your hands off the wheel or your attention off the road to check your heading or position.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick is the Ritchie Navigation Explorer Compass. This is one of the best compasses because it is versatile and easy to use. It is bracket mounted, which allows the compass to remain at the proper viewing angle, regardless of whether it is mounted on your vehicle’s dash or on the deck of a boat. The compass comes complete with light lighting, making it easy to navigate in low light conditions and has a 2 ¾” direct read dial. The built-in compensators ensure that the compass is easily adjusted for any deviation, while the powerful DirectMotive magnets provide fast heading lock-on. The compass has a scientifically matched Sapphire jewel and hardened steel pivot dial movement for accuracy and durability and a movable sunshade for easier reading in direct sunlight.
