Best Altimeters

Solar Power

A feature-packed, premium altimeter watch that you never need to charge.

A tough, dependable, and attractive multifunction watch. Solar batteries can last for 5 months on a single charge. Altitude range is -2,300 to 32,800 feet. Waterproof to 660 feet. Additional features include digital compass, barometer, thermometer, time, and alarms.

Pathfinder Multi-Function Sport Watch

Expensive. Some users found the display too dim.

Best Bang for the Buck

Casio

Great Deal

A perfect fit for mountaineers, this sturdy altimeter watch easily stands up to the elements.

Uses a triple sensor setup to measure altitude, temperature, and barometric pressure. Solar batteries are dependable and don't require maintenance. Watch measures altitude between -2,300 and 30,000 feet. Durable construction includes a stainless steel bezel and mineral glass. Very fair price.

Fenix 5 Fitness Watch and Altimeter

Determines altitude based on barometric pressure, so readings can be slightly off when the weather changes.

Garmin

Versatile Pick

This premium activity tracker is packed with features to satisfy any outdoor enthusiast.

A great pick if you're after a multi-sport, multifunction GPS watch. Features include navigation, a 3-axis compass, a gyroscope, a heart rate monitor, and a barometric altimeter. Garmin Connect app includes smart notifications, personalization, and access to the online Garmin fitness community.

Battery-Free Altimeter and Barometer

Quite costly. A bit bulky. Some users found the Connect app unintuitive.

Sun Company

Best for Beginners

A no-frills, handheld altimeter for hiking, backpacking, camping, or off-roading.

A very inexpensive pick. Made from durable ABS plastic. Includes a lanyard for hands-free carrying or backpack mounting. Adjustable dial lets you account for high or low pressure systems. Uses no batteries and requires no maintenance. Measures up to 15,000 feet.

Dashboard Altimeter and Barometer

Doesn't include a robust feature set like an altimeter watch.

Sun Company

Simple Yet Solid

A well-priced, high-quality altimeter that mounts to the dash of any vehicle.

This analog altimeter easy mounts to a dashboard with hook-and-loop attachments. Simple to read. Uses barometric pressure to determine altitude. Requires no batteries. Measures up to 15,000 feet. Comes with step-by-step instructions for setting up and adjusting.