Personal Review: Garmin Alpha XL review
When we first got hands on the Garmin Alpha XL, we were definitely excited to see how it worked, and overall, it delivered on its promises and expectations. Here's a short breakdown of my experience:
Pros:
- Large, Clear Display:
The 10” touchscreen is bright, crisp, and easy to read even in direct sunlight. The screen size makes navigation and tracking simple, especially in fast-paced hunting environments. - User-Friendly Interface:
Garmin did an excellent job of keeping the menu navigation aligned with their Alpha 200 and 300 series. If you're already familiar with those systems, transitioning to the Garmin Alpha XL feels seamless. - Reliable Tracking Performance:
We did not experience any major issues with dog tracking while using it. The distance felt strong and consistently tracked as expected compared to other Alpha Devices, in fact, it worked so well there was hardly a need to use an Alpha 300 except when walking to the tree. For distance, Expect the same from the previous Alpha systems using the Truck antennas. Don’t expect an increase, but also you should not see a decrease in distances. - Easy Setup:
Getting started with the Garmin Alpha XL is incredibly straightforward. Simply connect the power and attach the antenna, and you’re ready to go. The included windshield mount makes it easy to get up and running in just 5 minutes, allowing you to focus on tracking your dogs without unnecessary delays, also included inside the box is a more permanent Dash mount. - Bright and Intuitive:
The display remains clear, and the menus are mostly organized very similar to an Alpha 300 which makes the device easy for those users familiar with the Alpha Line.
Cons: Can it be improved, what’s missing?
Software Tweaks Needed:
As with any new device, there’s room for improvement, we expect Garmin to continuously enhance the software based on user feedback. A few suggestions for improvements: A ton of features... Perhaps simplifying the device to focus more on dog tracking features and let those who want more turn on more premium features. For example, in the Map Layers menu, when trying to download Outdoor Plus maps, there are 17 different layers and options, which can easily overwhelm users. I’d prefer to see just the basics: Topo, satellite, city maps, landowner, and maybe US quad maps. The XL shows layers like POI, PLSS, and Hydro, most of the time if you asked hunters what those are, they aren’t familiar with these and may not find them useful. It can feel overwhelming at first. (While the device does a ton, we want to remind Garmin to prioritize the #1 task at hand—hunting with our dogs. That’s what we do with these.
As with any new device, there’s room for improvement, we expect Garmin to continuously enhance the software based on user feedback. A few suggestions for improvements: A ton of features... Perhaps simplifying the device to focus more on dog tracking features and let those who want more turn on more premium features. For example, in the Map Layers menu, when trying to download Outdoor Plus maps, there are 17 different layers and options, which can easily overwhelm users. I’d prefer to see just the basics: Topo, satellite, city maps, landowner, and maybe US quad maps. The XL shows layers like POI, PLSS, and Hydro, most of the time if you asked hunters what those are, they aren’t familiar with these and may not find them useful. It can feel overwhelming at first. (While the device does a ton, we want to remind Garmin to prioritize the #1 task at hand—hunting with our dogs. That’s what we do with these.
- Overuse of Icons can be confusing what buttons do what.
Garmin leans heavily on picture-based icons in this device, which can sometimes leave you guessing their function. For first-time users, tasks like clearing a dog track aren’t as intuitive as they could be. More text-based options would help users complete the tasks they are trying to do. - Mounting Challenges:
While having a large screen is undoubtedly a pro, we are going to mark it as a con in certain setups. The screen is big—maybe too big for some vehicles. Using the included windshield mount can obstruct visibility when driving, making it less ideal for smaller cabs. Personally, opting for an aftermarket mounting solution which lowers the screen on the dash, giving the driver a clearer view of the road and a more secure placement. Users should strongly consider all the mounting options. - Direct Wire Option Not Included:
While the device works well with the provided 12V adapter, we would have preferred Garmin included a direct wire option in the box. Luckily, it's available as an accessory but having it included standard would make installations easier for many users. Many newer trucks turn off the power port, when the vehicle is turned off, which causes the Garmin Alpha XL to stop tracking dogs. A direct wire setup ensures continuous power and avoids this issue. - Software Updates Needed and can fix allot of our issues in the future:
Most of the issues, like menu clarity and usability are easily corrected with software. Garmin has a track record of improving functionality through updates, so don’t be surprised if some of these minor frustrations could be resolved in future releases.
Special Notes:
Antenna Options:
Garmin includes a standard magnet antenna with the Garmin Alpha XL, which performs well and is a great starting point for those new to setting up a hunting truck. However, for more dedicated users, there are far better options available. Many hunters opt for robust magnet or long-range antennas that provide superior performance, especially in challenging environments where additional range and durability are critical. One major weakness of Garmin's included antenna is that it can be knocked over by brush in dense or rugged areas, limiting its effectiveness in such conditions.
The good news is that the Garmin Alpha XL is fully compatible with your existing truck antenna, allowing you to plug it in directly without the need for adapters. This ensures an easy upgrade path for those who already have a preferred antenna setup while maintaining the flexibility to enhance the device's tracking capabilities as needed.
Final Thoughts:
While the included windshield mount power cord and antenna provides a quick and easy setup out of the box, we anticipate that most users will want to customize their installation to better fit their specific truck or side-by-side setup. It's difficult for Garmin to offer every possible solution, Garmin did a great job of covering the essentials. However, customization will likely involve personal preferences, as every truck setup is different. Taking the time to consider mounting locations, power connections, and antennas will greatly enhance your experience first use experience and usability when hunting with your new Garmin Alpha XL.
Long story short, buy it. we don’t think you're going to regret this one... The Garmin Alpha XL is a perfect investment for your truck. Built for serious Houndsmen that spend a lot of time in a Hunting truck chasing dogs. Our biggest advice is to just plan ahead to add a little extra budget when exploring your mounting options and keep an eye out for software updates to get the most out of it.
Jason Duby's Personal Review
“The Alpha XL is exactly what I’ve been waiting for. While the recently discontinued DriveTrack scratched an itch it always left me wanting more. Garmin has heard our plea for a dedicated standalone truck unit and delivered big on this one, real big. The Garmin Alpha XL allows me to track, train and communicate with my collars without having to worry about my handheld unit until its time to walk into the dogs. I was pleasantly surprised with the ease of setup from pairing dogs to setting up training pages and my vehicle profile. As a varmint hunter I can say this is the most excited I’ve been about a new Garmin product. If you’re hunting varmint, deer or big game from a vehicle I would highly recommend checking out the Garmin Alpha XL!"