Garmin Alpha 300

The Garmin Alpha 300 is the current mid-tier Alpha and the unit most owners should start with: a 3.5-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen that tracks and trains up to 20 dogs at up to 9 miles. It has no inReach - that is the 300i.

Pros

  • Current-generation handheld without the inReach price premium
  • Tracks and trains up to 20 dogs at up to 9 miles
  • Wide choice of TT 25 collar bundles

Cons

  • No satellite messaging - choose the 300i for inReach
  • Handheld-only purchase still needs a collar

Key specs

Tracking rangeUp to 9 miles with a compatible collar
Update rateAs often as every 2.5 seconds
Training18 levels of stimulation plus tone and vibration
Dogs trackedUp to 20 with additional collars
Weight0.61875 pounds

Source: amazon.com

Why the 300 is the default pick

The 300 is the newest non-satellite handheld, so it has the current processor, screen and collar support without the inReach premium most hunters do not need. For running dogs within VHF range and training them, it does everything the 300i does.

Spend up only if you need satellite messaging (go 300i) or a big in-vehicle screen (go XL). Spend down if budget is tight and the 200 generation is enough. The comparison maps it out.

Collars, bundles and accessories

The 300 bundles with one or more TT 25 collars and reads the T 20, TT 15 and T 5. Multi-collar bundles are the cheapest way to kit out a pack. Round it out with a longer antenna, a spare battery and a case. The 300 also takes a microSD card for TOPO and BirdsEye maps.

Alpha 300 and bundles on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

Alpha 300 or 300i?

The only meaningful difference is inReach satellite messaging, which the 300i adds on a subscription. Our 300 vs 300i page breaks down whether it is worth it for you.

Does the Alpha 300 need a subscription?

No. The 300 has no inReach, so there is nothing to subscribe to - it tracks and trains out of the box. Subscriptions only apply to the i models and the LTE.

How many collars can the 300 run?

Up to 20 dogs at once. Add collars as a new dog in the handheld; the current TT 25 is the one Garmin bundles.

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