I love to spend time outdoors, and I have even put together a survival kit for activities such as hiking and camping. One item that is always included in my kit is a button compass.
The last thing you want while spending time outdoors is to lose your direction. While you can always pull up the GPS on your smartphone, you need to be prepared in case you lose service or battery life.
I want everyone who spends time outdoors to be prepared, so I have put together a guide on choosing the best button compass for your survival kit.
As you read through my guide, you can find:
- The best button compasses on the market today.
- The features of different button compasses.
- A list of must-have accessories for your button compass.
I made sure to do my research on various websites and videos to find the best button compass for your survival kit.
According to National Geographic,
Chinese scientists may have developed navigational compasses as early as the 11th or 12th century. Western Europeans soon followed at the end of the 12th century.
You can find more information and reviews on button compasses by checking out my guide.
My Top Pick
I want to start my guide to the best button compasses by highlighting my top pick. In addition, I am planning to share other great button compasses for your survival kit.
MecArmy Hiking Compass →
What’s Inside?
- Made of high-quality TC4 titanium or brass.
- Interface glows in the dark for up to one hour.
- Waterproof for various activities and emergencies.
- Teardrop-shaped with a D-type key ring.
- Also available in handmade titanium.
Killer Feature: Flawless performance in temperatures ranging from -10 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Buying Options
The MecArmy CMP Titanium/Brass Grade IPX5 Hiking Compass is perfect for hiking, camping, military use and emergencies. It can perform in temperatures ranging from -10 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The compass also features a glow-in-the-dark interface that lasts for up to one hour. This hand-held compass features a teardrop-shaped design with a D-type key ring to create a convenient product.
Also Great
I feel the following button compasses are great for most survival kits.
SUUNTO Clipper Compass →
What’s Inside?
- Liquid-filled compass with luminescent markings for low-light operation.
- Also works for underwater navigation.
- Compact design for easy packing.
- Made of durable materials.
- Does not require batteries.
Killer Feature: Attaches to sleeve, map edge or smaller accessories to create a hands-free gadget.
Buying Options
The SUUNTO Clipper Compass is a compact gadget made of durable materials. It can easily attach to your sleeve or accessories to create a hands-free experience. In addition, the rotating bezel and luminescent markings of this liquid-filled compass are perfect for areas with low light. Batteries are not required to operate this mechanical button compass.
You can rest assured that the SUUNTO Clipper Compass is a high-quality gadget.
To quote I Like Outdoor,
Suunto clipper compass is also well known for its accurate and safe navigation.
Bayite Button Compass Set →
What’s Inside?
- Hard-shell design to create a durable product.
- Compact design for making a paracord bracelet.
- Clear dome top with a bottom that is black and flat
- Easy-to-read compass dial.
- Comes in a pack of 10 for multiple people or backup compasses.
Killer Feature: Liquid-filled to ensure the compass works in emergencies.
Buying Options
The Bayite Hard Shell Liquid Filled Button Compass Set comes in a pack of 10 to provide extra or backup compasses. Each compass comes in a compact size for making a paracord bracelet, which is perfect for creating a hands-free experience. The durable hard-shell design, easy-to-read dial and liquid-filled interface are ideal features for emergencies. This compass also features a clear dome top with a black bottom.
You also want to be prepared for your geocaching trips. In this article, I explore the best GPS gadgets for geocaching.
Buyer’s Guide
A buyer’s guide can be very helpful when purchasing a new button compass, especially if this is your first compass. After all, you want to ensure you are choosing the best compass for your survival kit.
I have taken the time to put together a buyer’s guide to help you find a new button compass. It is broken down into several categories to create an easy-to-read guide.
My goal is to help you narrow down your search to the button compasses that work for your survival kit.
Step One: Material
The first thing you want to check is the material of the button compass.
#Museum30 Day 13 – Something tiny
How do you hide your compass so the enemy won’t notice it?
Disguise it as a shirt button!
Love this tiny button compass from @TheDDayStory pic.twitter.com/NtaZOZncVo
— Kate Shuttleworth (@KShuttleworthMR) November 13, 2021
You can find button compasses made of materials such as titanium and brass. In addition, the compass may feature a clear-dome top or hard-shell design.
It is also best to determine the material that fits your needs. For example, durable, hard-shell material is ideal for rugged activities such as hiking and camping.
Step Two: Durability
You also want to ensure the button compass in question is a durable product. The last thing you want is a compass that falls apart or stops working in the middle of outdoor activities.
You may be wondering how to check the durability of a compass you have not purchased or used. Start by checking the customer reviews on the retailer’s website.
He’ll be borrowing his younger brother’s compass.
a button compass from my survival training in 1995 I gave him when he asked about the north star @CompassForLife pic.twitter.com/LdWHCORES4
— Matt Whitfield (@7milesaminute) June 27, 2020
Another idea is to do an online search of the button compass. You may find a blog, video or website that reviews the compass, which is a great way to find out if it is durable.
If the compass receives more negative than positive reviews, it is best to cross it off your list. Compare the button compasses with more positive than negative reviews to determine which is best for your survival kit.
Step Three: Waterproof
It is important to look into a waterproof button compass for your outdoor activities. You may be planning to go swimming or diving, so you want to ensure you have the proper GPS for the trip.
Another reason to look into a waterproof button compass is you cannot predict the weather. If you get caught in a downpour, you do not want your compass to stop working.
Perhaps a small button Compass like this one could be grafted into the skin instead. pic.twitter.com/uxXTWZ25bQ
— Kwisatz Haderach (@FremenofArrakis) July 12, 2018
In addition, you never know when you may accidentally spill your water on your compass. I can tell you from experience that this is very possible.
You can find out if the button compass in question is waterproof by reading the product description and reviews. If the compass is not waterproof, you may want to reconsider the product.
Step Four: Сompass Accuracy
You also need to ensure your button compass is accurate before adding it to your cart. Taking part in an outdoor activity with an inaccurate compass can become frustrating or even dangerous.
The best way to ensure your compass is accurate is to read the various customer reviews. Most retail websites allow customers to ask questions about the product, so you may want to ask about the accuracy of the compass.
Using a compass in magnetic fields or near big metal objects can ruin the compass’ accuracy, increasing your chances of getting lost. When using the compass of your Paracord Bracelet, unclip the buckle so that the metal fire starter doesn’t interfere with your reading. pic.twitter.com/BCzMqKkNp0
— AmmaSurvivor13 (@AmmaSurvivor13) December 9, 2021
Another idea is to purchase the compass well before your trip. This way, you can test the compass in advance with enough time to make an exchange or return if necessary.
Compass accuracy should be at the top of your list when putting together your survival kit.
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1. MecArmy Hiking Compass →Best for professional-grade hiking compasses that operate flawlessly in extreme weather. My Top Pick |
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2. SUUNTO Clipper Compass →Best for compasses that attach to small accessories such as a sleeve, map edge or backpack strap. Also Great |
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3. Bayite Button Compass Set →Best for liquid-filled compasses designed for emergencies. Also Great |
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4. NDUR Button Compass →Best for durable, high-quality button compasses. |
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5. Survival Button Compasses →Best for liquid-filled compasses that work in sub-freezing temperatures. |
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6. KanPas Mini Button Compass →Best for button compasses with a luminous design for nighttime and dark areas. |
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7. Air-damped Plastic Compasses →Best for purchasing a value pack of air-damped compasses. |
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8. LoveinDIY Button Compass →Best for liquid-filled compasses made of plastic. |
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9. 200 Pieces Button Compass →Best for purchasing a value pack of liquid-filled compasses. |
You may have noticed there are nine button compasses on the above table. For this section of my guide, I am going to review all nine button compasses.
I am hoping to share enough information to help you purchase a high-quality button compass that meets your needs.
In addition to your button compass, it never hurts to add other types of compasses and GPS devices to your kit. According to Survival Sullivan,
The Button compass is the kind of compass you would find in a car. Button compasses work fine for simply “getting your heading” or figuring out which direction is North if you’ve gotten turned around.
After all, I only want you to add the best products to your survival kit.
1. MecArmy Hiking Compass
The MecArmy CMP Titanium/Brass Grade IPX5 Hiking Compass is ideal for hiking, camping, military use and emergencies. This high-quality compass can operate in extreme temperatures ranging from -10 degrees Fahrenheit to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. With a glow-in-the-dark interface that lasts for up to one hour, you never have to worry about dark areas or nightfall. This compass features a teardrop-shaped design with a D-type key ring for easy carrying.
Features
- Ideal for extreme weather.
- Interface glows in the dark for up to one hour.
- Waterproof for various outdoor activities.
- Teardrop-shaped with a D-type key ring.
- Available in TC4 titanium, handmade titanium or brass.
Pros
- Works in cold and hot temperatures.
- Provides a safe solution for darker areas.
- Waterproof to prevent water damage.
- D-type keyring provides convenience.
- Durable to create a long-lasting product.
Cons
- Compact design is easier to lose.
- Only glows in the dark for up to one hour.
- Some customer reviews state it is not as accurate.
Why I Choose It: I have researched many button compasses, and I feel the MecArmy CMP IPX5 Hiking Compass is the best option. The compass has more positive than negative reviews, and it works in a range of areas and climates.
MecArmy offers several button compasses, and this includes the EDC Key Chain Compass. In this video, White Glove Reviews shares an unboxing and review of this compass.
Buying Options
2. SUUNTO Clipper Compass
While the SUUNTO Clipper Compass has a compact design, it is made of durable materials to ensure it lasts for years to come. You can attach the compass to your map edge, bag strap, watch strap or even your sleeve for a hands-free experience. This liquid-filled compass features luminescent markings and a rotating bezel to make it easier to see in low-light areas.
Features
- Attaches to outerwear or accessories.
- Features luminescent markings for low-light areas.
- Features a rotating bezel.
- Ideal for underwater navigation.
- Durable materials for a long-lasting product.
Pros
- Great for low-light areas.
- Attaches to certain accessories for a hands-free experience.
- Compact but durable design.
- Batteries are not required.
Cons
- Easier to lose than other compasses.
- Only clips to small areas.
- Ends tabs may cause irritation.
- You may need to trim the end tabs.
Why I Choose It: I chose this compass because it is a great option for low-light areas. If you need to dive underwater or hike at dusk, this compass can help you get to your destination safely.
It never hurts to check out the reviews before purchasing a compass. This is why Outdoor Manly shares a review of the Suunto Clipper Compass in this video.
You can find a compass or GPS device for a range of scenarios. In this article, I share the best GPS for RC speed runs.
Buying Options
3. Bayite Button Compass Set
The Bayite Hard Shell Liquid Filled Button Compass Set is perfect for making a paracord bracelet. This way, you can hike, camp or explore with your hands-free. This liquid-filled compass features an easy-to-read dial, clear dome top and durable hard-shell design, which are ideal for emergencies. You can order this compass in a pack of 10 for additional or backup compasses.
Features
- Liquid-filled compass.
- Easy-to-read dial.
- Compact for making a paracord bracelet.
- Hard-shell design with a clear dome top.
- Comes in a 10-pack.
Pros
- Liquid-filled to work in emergencies.
- Easy-to-read dial for various activities.
- Clear dome top makes it easy to view the dial.
- Works as a paracord bracelet for hands-free activities.
- Hard-shell design offers durability.
Cons
- Compact design makes it easier to lose.
- Buyers may not want or need 10 button compasses.
- Some customer reviews state it is not as accurate
- Some compasses in a 10 pack may not work.
Why I Choose It: I love the idea of turning the compass into a paracord bracelet because I enjoy hands-free outdoor activities. The easy-to-read dial is another reason I added this compass to my list.
If you want to learn the similarities and differences between several button compasses, this is the video for you. InfoZhed Explore compares the button compasses in their collection.
Buying Options
What is the best wrist compass for your next adventure? You can check out my guide to the best wrist compasses by clicking here.
4. NDUR Button Compass
The NDUR Button Compass is made of high-quality materials such as synthetic to create a durable product. It is built for performance to ensure it always meets your needs, from hiking to camping to a drive through the woods. This button compass measures 5 inches by 5 inches by 5 inches for a compact design. Use this button compass to quickly determine your general direction.
Features
- Made of synthetic.
- Compact design.
- Measures 5 inches by 5 inches.
- Easy-to-read dial.
- Comes with a user manual.
Pros
– High-quality materials ensure a long-lasting product.
– Easy to see the white dial on the black compass.
– User manual makes it easy to use the compass.
– Perfect for quickly checking your general direction.
– Compass provides an accurate reading.
Cons
– The compact design may be difficult to use in some scenarios.
– It is easier to lose a smaller compass.
– Only comes with one compass.
Why I Choose It: I chose this simple button compass because of the customer reviews. Every review states that it is accurate and durable, which are two key components to choosing your next button compass.
It never hurts to learn about different GPS devices. In this video, you can learn all about button compasses with Pointshooter. The video includes a breakdown of different button compasses.
Buying Options
5. Survival Button Compasses
When you order this pack of Liquid-Filled Survival Button Compasses, you are receiving five compasses to keep as backup or to share with others. Each button compass can work under sub-freezing temperatures, which is ideal for various outdoor adventures. The back is flat to make it easier to level the compass as needed, or you can attach the compass to another surface. It measures 27 mm to create a compact design, but it also features a grooved edge for a lanyard.
Features
- Ideal to use under sub-freezing temperatures.
- Flat back for leveling and attaching as needed.
- Measures 27 mm in diameter and 8.5 mm thick.
- Grooved edge for a lanyard.
- Comes in a 5-pack.
Pros
- The compass works in very cold temperatures.
- Flat back makes it easier to use.
- Grooved edge for lanyard creates a hands-free experience.
- Easy-to-read dial.
- Provides an accurate reading.
Cons
- Easier to lose a compact design.
- You may only need one or two compasses.
- One reviewer found air bubbles in a few compasses.
Why I Choose It: Most customers feel this button compass provides an accurate reading, which is important in any compass. I also like that you can add a lanyard for easy carrying.
If you are adding a button compass to your survival kit, it is important to learn how to properly use it. You can learn how to use a survival button compass in this video from Andy Froy’s Bushcraft & Survival Guides.
Buying Options
6. KanPas Mini Button Compass
If you are looking for a safe, durable option for your survival kit, look no further than the KanPas Mini Luminous Button Compass. Designed for your watchband or lanyard, you can enjoy a hands-free outdoor activity. This liquid-filled compass is shockproof and waterproof to fit a range of activities, and the luminous design makes it easier to find north at night or in low-light areas. The magnetic durability provides a fast, accurate reading. The silicone base allows you to comfortably wear your compass as needed.
Features
- Liquid-filled compass with a luminous design.
- Waterproof for up to 60 meters underwater.
- Shockproof.
- Magnetic durability.
- Silicone base.
Pros
- Provides an accurate reading.
- Easy to read at night or in low-light areas.
- Can withstand water of up to 60 meters.
- Shockproof for safety.
- Silicone base for comfort.
Cons
- Smaller compasses are easier to lose.
- Magnetic durability means it is not suitable for metal straps.
- May not work near some metal items.
Why I Choose It: I chose this button compass because safety is just as important as durability. This compass uses magnetic durability to provide an accurate reading, so the compass needs to be shockproof as well as waterproof.
David Canterbury corrects a mistake he made during the modification of his button compass. He shares the correct modification of the compass in this video, and the button compass is modified to make it more accurate and alleviate lateral drift.
Buying Options
7. Air-Damped Plastic Compasses
If you want something other than liquid-filled button compasses, you can always look into the Air-Damped Magnetic Plastic Compasses. Air-damped compasses mean no liquid, leaking or air bubbles. Each compass features a low friction bearing and a highly magnetized compass needle. The compass is made of plastic to create a durable, budget-friendly option for your survival kit. This set includes 12 air-damped plastic compasses.
Features
- Air-damped compass.
- Made of plastic.
- Ultra-low friction bearing.
- Highly magnetized compass needle.
- Comes in a 12-pack.
Pros
- No liquid, leaking or air bubbles.
- Fast, accurate reading.
- 12-pack for sharing or backup compasses.
Cons
- Easier to lose tiny compasses.
- Bulk pack may not be necessary for some customers.
- Some customers stated the compasses did not work.
Why I Choose It: Despite the mixed reviews, I think the accurate reading makes the compass a good addition to your survival kit. In addition, you may be able to use the set to introduce compasses to children.
There are many products that are great for a survival kit. You can learn about this four-in-one emergency pocket tool in this video from The Roaming Gnome. The tool includes a button compass, whistle, thermometer and magnification lens.
Buying Options
8. LoveinDIY Button Compass
The LoveinDIY 5pcs Explorer Oil Filled Button Compass is another great choice for a simple but effective compass. It comes in a set of five to ensure there is enough to share or use as backup tools. This plastic compass is oil-filled to create a stable product. It comes in a compact design for easy carrying and packing. You can use the oil-filled button compass for various outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking and camping.
Features
- Liquid-filled for stability.
- Made of plastic.
- Compact design.
- Ideal for outdoor activities.
Pros
- Stable compass for an accurate reading.
- Plastic material for a durable, budget-friendly gadget.
- Comes in a 5-pack for sharing or stocking up on tools.
- Compact design makes it easier to carry.
- Works for outdoor activities ranging from walking to camping.
Cons
- Compact design makes it easier to misplace.
- One or two compasses in a set may be inaccurate.
- May not work near magnetic items.
Why I Choose It: I chose this compass because it works for several outdoor activities, from a walk in the park to a camping trip. In addition, I feel it comes with a few extra compasses without giving you more than needed.
In this interesting video, Chasejdmartin shares an escape and evasion button compass. The compass is hidden inside an actual button to create a concealed tool.
Buying Options
9. 200 Pieces Button Compass
If you need to order a large set of button compasses, this 200-Piece Oil-Filled Button Compass set may fit your needs. When you combine the oil-filled interface with the plastic material, you have a set of accurate, durable compasses. Every compass features a clear scale and green direction label to create an easy-to-read dial. The compact design makes carrying and packing your compass a breeze. You can use your compass for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, camping, exploring and riding.
Features
- Pack of 200 oil-filled compasses.
- Made of plastic.
- Clear scale.
- Green direction label.
- Compact design.
Pros
- Provides an accurate reading.
- Easy-to-read dial.
- Green direction label prevents tired eyes.
- Plastic material provides durability.
- Pack of 200 to ensure you have enough.
Cons
- Small design is easier to misplace.
- Some may not be as accurate.
- You may realize you have more than necessary.
Why I Choose It: I think the combination of plastic and liquid is a great idea because it creates a durable, stable compass. It is also a good idea to order a value pack to ensure you have enough to meet your needs.
In this video, PreppingItForward explains and demonstrates map orientation and compass navigation. This is very useful if you need a reminder of how to read a compass and map.
Buying Options
Other Must-Haves
There are certain accessories that make it easier to carry your button compass. I call these items must-haves because they should be on your shopping list. After all, you want to create a hands-free outdoor experience.
You can enhance your outdoor experience by checking out my list of must-have button compass accessories.
TI-EDCTitanium Bead Ball Chain Necklace
There are some button compasses that can be worn on a necklace or lanyard. The TI-EDC Pure Titanium Bead Ball Chain Necklace offers a stylish way to carry your button compass. You can choose from a bead size and chain length of 2.4 mm or 3.0 mm to fit your needs.
ALFOCI KeyRings 3-Packs Kit
Another option is to place your button compass on the ALFOCI Key Ring to attach to your keys, belt loop or bag. This 3-pack of keyrings features a side-pushing quick release to make opening and closing each one a breeze. Each keyring measures 1.05 inches in diameter to ensure there is enough space for your compass.
TI-EDC Titanium Emergency Whistle
It never hurts to combine the tools in your survival kit, such as your button compass and the TI-EDC Titanium Emergency Whistle. You can attach your compass to the necklace or place both tools on the same key ring to keep them together as needed.
Add The Best Button Compass To Your Survival Kit
It is important to ensure you are adding high-quality compasses to your survival kit. After all, you want to ensure you never lose your direction while on your outdoor adventure. You can start by checking out the above button compasses and must-have accessories. I hope my guide helps you choose the best button compasses for your survival kit.
