Off-roading with a tablet

The iPad, among other tablets, is becoming increasingly popular with 4x4 enthusiasts, thanks to its ease of use on the road and its versatility.

The iPad, the nav' with a twist

Setting off on adventures in unfamiliar terrain requires a good navigational tool. Numerous devices are available on the market, most of them offering similar functions, with navigation systems adapted to roads or trails, and sometimes weather forecasts. In recent years, smartphones and digital tablets have also entered this sector.

Thanks to orientation apps such as iPhiGéNie, TwoNav or ViewRanger, an iPad can offer the same information as specialized GPS units. You can download all IGN maps, view your geographical position on screen at any time, record your route with various statistics (time, distance covered, speed...) and plan a route with alarms as soon as you stray off course. What's more, these applications often offer additional features, such as aerial views of the area, very useful for anticipating obstacles.

But the main difference between digital tablets and conventional GPS devices is their ergonomics and the size and quality of their screens. On these points, tablets are unquestionably ahead of the game: screen use is more intuitive, reaction to screen touch is better, and display sharpness is incomparable. All this makes for better legibility and more comfortable access to map details, especially as the screen size is generally larger.

Securing and protecting your iPad

When it comes to on-board mounting, you obviously need a sturdy, shake-resistant installation that impedes visibility as little as possible, both on the road and on the dashboard. On this point, the size of the iPad can pose a problem, in which case we prefer theiPad mini, which still offers great reading comfort despite its smaller screen.

What's more, you need to be able to detach it easily to take your tablet with you, if only to avoid tempting thieves. In this respect, a suction-cup system is ideal, especially as it can be easily repositioned to adapt to the vehicle's use (data consultation at a standstill, slow passing, high-speed driving on a track, etc.). You'll find different mounting solutions on our website.

It's also essential to protect your device from dust and dirt: you need to be able to handle it without fear with dirty hands after clearing a rut in your vehicle. As dust is omnipresent as soon as you get off the tarmac, it's best to have effective protection for your iPad, which could otherwise be damaged. Click here to see our range of reinforced, waterproof cases.

Useful links

Recommended applications
How about an iPad in your 4x4? on forum4x4.org
Forum about using an iPad in a 4x4 on 4x4earth.com