Best compass UK

Which is the best compass 2023?

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The 10 best compasses to buy in the UK

The top 10 list of the best compasses lists various brands and prices

Review10Best compares the best compasses in the UK and selects the one by Rhinocerosdance as the best compass. In a compass buying guide, you can read more about the features of the different compasses and see a recommendation on which compass to buy in the UK in 2023. By considering the top list of compasses, you can find the best compasses and save time shopping online.


Table of contents
  1. Read the ultimate compass buying guide
  2. View the compass picks and see how they rank in the top list

VIEW THE TOP 10 LIST →


Best compasses: A complete buying guide

All you need to know before buying a great compass

Picture of a compass

A compass is one of the most valuable navigation tools available, being a mainstay in the packs of many campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. However, anyone unfamiliar with the device may struggle when it comes to buying one, as knowing what the best compass is for your needs isn’t always obvious.

There are different types of compasses suitable for various forms of navigation, ranging from a basic model to more advanced and accurate devices. Any of these can be suitable, so it depends entire on the needs of the individual. Looking to buy the best compass you can? Check out this handy buying guide for all the info you need:

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What are compasses?

A compass is a device used for navigation and orientation. In its most basic form, it features a magnetised metal dial that sits loosely in the middle of the device, which naturally moves towards magnetic north.

Because the needle always points north, a good compass can be used determine your position on a map, establish your bearings, and navigate in a desired direction.

Why should you buy a good compass?

As one of the oldest navigational tools ever created, it’s safe to say that a compass is a very reliable tool for many. Not only does it help people navigate in areas they are unfamiliar with, the best compass devices are great for getting an accurate orientation on a map, helping you get your bearings and plan your journey in many situations. If you ever plan on going camping or hiking in the wild, then a compass is an invaluable tool that could end up saving your life. Better still, you find a great compass for an affordable price, and they are a compact and lightweight tool that can be easily added to any travel pack or survival kit.

How to choose the right compass?

Another picture of a compass

Choosing the best compass can be quite difficult if you are unsure what to look for. Here are some things to consider that will help make it easier to find a suitable compass:

  • Accuracy: The best compass tools are those that are most accurate, so you always want to buy one with reliable accuracy. Therefore, it’s a good idea to avoid cheap products - such as those made from plastic and without fluid-filled housings - as they are usually unreliable and susceptible to inaccuracies.
  • Durability: A good compass is always durable, as the last thing you need is to be exploring the wilderness with a broken compass. There is always a chance of dropping a compass as you use it, so ensure the device you buy is made from high quality, durable materials.
  • Features: All compasses come with the basic function of pointing towards magnetic north, which is certainly enough for many buyers, but you may prefer a device with additional features. For instance, and declination adjustment is a fantastic feature as it provides a more accurate reading of true north, while a sighting mirror makes it easier to match your destination with your line of vision.

What is the best kind of compass in the UK?

There are many types of compasses available, any of which may be worth buying.

  • Baseplate Compass: Perhaps the best-known compass, it features a compass that is mounted on a transparent plastic base. There are often additional features on the compass, such as a ruler and magnifying glass for easy map reading. A great compass for first time buyers that won’t need anything too advanced.
  • Thumb Compass: A small compass that is attached to the thumb, it’s great for getting quick readings on a map. A lack of a base plate does mean there can be inaccuracies, but it’s generally reliable and affordable.
  • Prismatic Compass: A much more advanced compass uses by various militaries, they are known for their incredible accuracy, durability and range of features, although they cost a lot more as a result. A great compass for getting bearing readings.
…are you ready for the best picks of 2023?

Top 10 list of compasses in the UK (December 2023)

The bestseller list compares brands and their compasses. Which compass is the best?
Best choice TOP 1
Image of Rhinocerosdance compass compass
Compass Military Compass Army Compass Waterproof Shockproof with Carrying…
  • Portable Carry the compass directly on your body thanks to the belt loop or stow…
  • Fluorescent, Waterproof and Shake Resistant After absorbing enough sunshine, the…
  • High Performance Engineer Metal The compass with high strength engineer metal case,…
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Offer TOP 2
Image of Mebamce MPU742-MBEB compass
Multifunctional Waterproof Navigation Compass Map Ruler Magnifier…
  • Packaging: 1pcs navigation compass map ruler
  • Compass is suitable for various trekking, mountaineering, adventure and other activities,…
  • The scale of the navigation compass map with adjustable lanyard can be easily adjusted…
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TOP 3
Image of Dragon Eight  compass
Dragon Eight Clamshell Compass Camping Gear Survival Gear Waterproof…
  • Excellent for hiking, camping and outdoor activities . A perfect outdoor navigation…
  • Portable design, convenient to carry.
  • Distinguish the direction and fix your position, Give you a right direction whenever…
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TOP 4
Image of Eidyer  compass
Eidyer Compass for Navigation, Vintage Pocket Compass with Luminous…
  • Multi-function: This waterproof compass is excellent for hiking, camping, orienteering…
  • Portable Size:The diameter of this small compass is 5cm, cute and portable for carrying…
  • Precise PositioningThe orienteering compass is built-in damping oil for better stability,…
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TOP 5
Image of NEOVIVID . compass
NEOVIVID Handmade Brass Push Open Compass On Chain with Leather Case,…
  • Handmade product, not sold as antique. Boy Scouts Compass, gift compass, father's…
  • Could be carried easily in pocket or worn as a necklace. Also makes a great gift…
  • Size of compass is 1.8 inches approx and weighs 2.5 ounces without chain and case.…
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TOP 6
Image of Trekrite CP003 compass
Trekrite Explorer Compass for Map Reading and Navigation
  • Designed and built to last: our products are designed by our UK-based family business…
  • 1:25000, 1:50000 and 1:63360 scales plus centimetre and inches ruler. Direction of…
  • Practical in every situation operates in temperatures -40C to +60C, durable and easy…
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TOP 7
Image of Sportneer  compass
Sportneer Compass Hiking Compass Navigation, Waterproof Shockproof…
  • FLUORESCENT LIGHT: Special design of fluorescent light allows you to read data in…
  • PORTABLE: Package includes a military compass with pouch & lanyard. Keep the…
  • MILITARY CONSTRUCTION: Made of Aluminum Alloy and covered by army green paint, which…
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TOP 8
Image of Rpanle Compass-PVC-Black compass
Rpanle Professional Compass, Reusable Metal Compass for Home Schooling…
  • Package contents: 1 metallic school compass and 1 pencil.
  • Wide Application: Ideal for school, woodworking, workshop or home, the best circular…
  • Easy to carry: 2 pieces enclosed in a clear box for protection and organization,…
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TOP 9
Image of SKYLETY Skylety-427729 compass
SKYLETY Navigation Compass Orienteering Compass Boy Scout Compass…
  • A wide range of applications: the navigation compass is a helpful instrument in your…
  • Luminous demonstration: the design of the direction of travel arrow, index line and…
  • Portable hanging belt: each compass is attached with a durable nylon rope, making…
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TOP 10
Image of Silva 37718 compass
Silva Compass Navigation - Classic - Beginner & Kids Compass -…
  • The compass housing features a stable, easy-to-read needle and red/black north-south…
  • Rotatable compass housing compatible with Silva 1-2-3 navigation system. Filled with…
  • The compass include a detachable safety-release lanyard. Dimensions: 8 x 5 cm. Weight:…
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Affiliate Disclosure

We participate in the Amazon Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For the list of the best compasses, we consider only products that are available on Amazon while the ranking is based on factors such as customer reviews, number of sales and keyword. It is not a compass test. Last Update: 2023/12/02.