CompassOnly

CompassOnly is a brand and product line of ultra‑compact magnetic compasses designed for use by outdoor enthusiasts, military personnel, and emergency services. The instruments are noted for their high sensitivity, minimal drift, and the ability to operate accurately in environments where traditional GPS units fail. The compass instruments are typically produced in a small, tablet‑sized case and can be powered by a single small battery or, in specialist models, by a 3‑volt DC input.

The CompassOnly company was founded in 2014 by a team of surveyors and electronics engineers in Colorado and began commercial production in 2016. The launch of the CompassOnly Pro model in 2017 established the brand as a market leader in niche navigation accessories. Subsequent models added features such as electronic heading correction, data logging and Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smartphones. While the company maintains a focus on ruggedness and battery life, it has also released a line of disposable, one‑shot compasses for use in disaster‑relief operations.

Key specifications of CompassOnly instruments include a digital angular resolution of 0.1°, a magnetic accuracy of ±2°, and a maximum operating temperature range from –40°C to +60°C. Many users appreciate the device’s lightweight design, which weighs less than 30 grams, and the fact that it provides direction even in metal‑laden urban environments where satellite signals are unreliable. CompassOnly data are commonly stored in a proprietary memory chip that can be downloaded via a USB/Micro‑USB connector for analysis in engineering software.

The company’s products are distributed worldwide through specialized outdoor retailer networks and direct sales. Companion literature emphasizes the use of CompassOnly devices in a variety of tactical and recreational contexts, including mountaineering, urban navigation, search and rescue, and planetary exploration. Non‑commercial use is recommended for scenarios requiring reliable absolute orientation in the absence of terrestrial navigation aids.