Garmin Alpha® XL (Financed)
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Alpha XL Features Section:
Crystal-Clear Display
- High-resolution 10” touchscreen display.
- View maps in portrait or landscape mode.
Ultimate Dog Tracking & Training
- Track and Train up to 20 dogs within a 9-mile range (collar-dependent).
- Fully integrated tracking and training system. No additional Alpha device required.
- Bluetooth® connectivity for portable tracking (up to 10-yard range distance from Base).
Advanced Navigation & Mapping
- Preloaded TopoActive maps and street maps for North America.
- Satellite imagery, HD elevation maps, and built-in 3-axis compass.
- 3D maps
- Outdoor Plus Mapping available via subscription.
Powerful Training Tools
- 18 stimulation levels, tone, and vibration settings (collar-dependent).
- Easy-to-use training pages with customizable settings.
- Training pages are accessible from your map and compass pages just like other Garmin Alpha handhelds.
Rugged and Ready for the Hunt
- Backward compatible with most Garmin Alpha collars.
- Pair with other Alpha series handhelds for contact tracking and communication.
- Durable, quick-release magnetic charging base
Detailed Description:
The Garmin Alpha XL is your ultimate GPS dog tracking and training solution, tailored specifically for use in trucks and side-by-sides. Featuring a crisp, high-resolution 10” touchscreen, this device combines advanced tracking, navigation, and training tools into a seamless, user-friendly system designed for hunters and houndsmen alike. Whether you’re navigating unpaved trails or managing a pack of dogs, the Alpha XL ensures you stay connected and in control.
With the ability to track up to 20 dogs simultaneously, the Alpha XL gives you unmatched precision and reliability in the field. Preloaded with TopoActive and road maps for North America, it helps you navigate confidently through both urban and rugged terrains. For enhanced mapping capabilities, you can subscribe to Outdoor Maps + or integrate Garmin’s HuntView Plus SD cards to access premium hunting maps and updated content.
The Alpha XL also supports direct satellite imagery downloads via Wi-Fi, giving you access to 3D maps with road overlays. This feature is invaluable for hunters who need a comprehensive view of their surroundings, enabling better decision-making in real-time. Its pinch-to-zoom and map rotation capabilities add another layer of convenience, allowing you to customize the view based on your immediate needs.
Training your dogs is effortless with the Alpha XL’s 18 levels of stimulation, tone, and vibration settings. the Alpha XL offers the tools you need to train effectively and quickly. These training pages are easy to set up and fully accessible, even during your hunts.
Designed for limited portability, the Alpha XL is equipped with a quick-release magnetic charging base. The Alpha XL offers up to 2 hours of battery life when off the base and used wirelessly. This robust charging solution ensures your device is always ready for action when you want to take it outside your pickup to listen to your dogs.
The Alpha XL is Backward compatible with most Garmin Alpha collars which means that you can integrate your existing equipment seamlessly with the collars you are using now. (TT15, TT15X, T5, T5x, TT25, T20 collars all work. Although we have not tested them, TT10 collars might work with limited functions)
The Alpha XL can wirelessly send and receive individual dogs from other Alpha Devices. Dogs can also be added via the Track and Control Codes. Additionally, it can share groups with other Alpha XLs and Alpha 300/300i units.
Additionally, the Alpha XL allows you to save up to 250 dogs in its memory for quick switching between hunts. You can organize your dogs into Groups for easy management, this feature is especially useful for hunters who manage large packs or frequently change dog groups. However, it’s important to note that you can only actively track 20 dogs at a time.
Included in the box is a Windshield Mount and dash mount, however users might consider purchasing additional mounting accessories for their order. Double U Offers an assortment of different aftermarket mounting options, including beefier windshield mounts, Magnetic dash mounts, seat mounts, and console cup mounts, the Alpha XL can be adapted to your specific setup, ensuring optimal visibility and accessibility.
With its rugged design and cutting-edge technology, the Garmin Alpha XL is more than just a GPS tracking device. Stay informed with channel view features to avoid frequency interference, and monitor hunt metrics like speed, distance traveled, and time afield to evaluate your dogs’ performance. When paired with the Garmin Alpha app, you can expand the device’s capabilities further, enabling smartphone integration for tracking and navigation.
For hunters using multiple vehicles, the Alpha XL has some flexibility and options for switching trucks. I would recommend looking into getting an Additional base are available for sale, enabling you to easily transfer the device between two trucks or side-by-sides.
Whether you’re deep in the wilderness or navigating off-road trails, the Garmin Alpha XL delivers the precision, functionality, and durability you need to make every hunt a success. Experience the ultimate in dog tracking and training technology with this indispensable tool for outdoor adventurers.
City and In-Town Navigation:
The Garmin Alpha XL isn’t just for hunting trips; it’s also a robust navigation tool for everyday driving. With its preloaded street maps for North America, the device allows you to input addresses or search for points of interest (POI) for turn-by-turn directions. Whether you need to find a gas station, restaurant, or hotel, the Alpha XL provides reliable navigation that makes in-town driving as seamless as navigating the backcountry.
Planning a trip? The Alpha XL features intuitive route planning and rerouting, ensuring you find the fastest or most efficient way to your destination. Its large 10” touchscreen provides clear, easy-to-read directions even at a glance, making it a safe and effective companion for urban commutes. With road overlays and real-time updates (via Outdoor Plus Mapping or Wi-Fi), the Alpha XL adapts to your needs whether you’re in the field or heading into town for supplies.
Specifications:
|
Feature |
Details |
|
Display |
10” touchscreen; portrait/landscape |
|
Dog Tracking |
Up to 20 dogs; 9-mile range |
|
Connectivity |
Bluetooth® within 10’ |
|
Battery Life |
2 hours portable (undocked) |
|
Mapping |
Preloaded TopoActive & street maps |
|
Compatibility |
Most Alpha collars; Alpha app |
|
Power Source |
12V (direct wire recommended) |
FAQ Section:
Q: Is the Garmin Alpha XL compatible with my existing Alpha antennas?
A: Yes, the Garmin Alpha XL works with all Astro and Alpha antennas on the market as long as they use an SMA connection. The connector on the XL is identical to those used with previous Alpha and Astro devices.
Q: Can I use the Garmin Alpha XL in multiple vehicles?
A: Absolutely! We recommend purchasing an additional base (part #010-03397-00) for seamless transfers between vehicles.
Q: What mounting options are available?
A: Choose from windshield, dash, seat, or center console mounts, all designed to be ideal for trucks and side-by-sides. Placement varies based on personal preference and truck configuration.
Additional Benefits:
- Manage up to 250 dogs in memory for seamless switching between hunts, with the ability to track up to 20 dogs at a time.
- Channel view feature to minimize frequency interference.
- Expand your device’s capabilities with the Garmin Alpha app.
- Backward compatibility ensures your existing Alpha equipment works seamlessly.
Mounting & Setup Tips Section:
Three Key Considerations for Mounting the Alpha XL:
- Mounting Options: Explore windshield, dash, seat, and console mounts, all optimized for trucks and side-by-sides.
- Power Source: Use the included 12V adapter or opt for a direct wire connection for a cleaner setup.
- Antenna Setup: Ensure compatibility with SMA antennas; consider long-range truck antennas for optimal tracking.
Pro Tip: Try different placements (e.g., low dash or center console) to maximize visibility and accessibility.
DU 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.
Pros:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
| SKU | Garmin_AlphaXL-1 |
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