Oh, technology!
You never cease to amaze me! Nowadays, you can explore any wilderness at the touch of your fingertips with an app. Can you imagine?
You no longer have to wait for someone to take you to those new places you’ve been dreaming of; find the routes and head there yourself. I’ll take you through some apps that will make your outdoor life much easier.
AllTrails has a more extensive trail database, but with Backcountry, it’s small-scale. Premium onX Backcountry goes for $29.99 per year, while for AllTrails, you pay $35.99 annually.
Time lost is never regained, so let’s quickly swing into action!
A Quick Comparison Table
| Product Description | onX Backcountry | AllTrails |
| Trail Database | Small | Large and detailed |
| Cost | $29.99 annually | $35.99 annually |
| Map Modes Available | Trail, Snow | Satellite, Road, Topographic |
| Map Drawing Technique | Slightly complex | Easy |
| Offline Functionality | Excellent | Good |
| Free Versions | Tracking of trips, Markup inclusions, Satellite maps, Topographic maps | Basic AllTrails, AllTrails Pro |
| Ease of Use | Quite challenging | Beginner friendly |
Key Differences Between onX And AllTrails
- Trail Database
Get to view accurately hand-curated trail information using your favorite hiking app!
The onX Backcountry allows you to access trail maps, directions, and navigation for multiple seasons.
You can find tips for skiing, biking, and hiking using the search tool.
Unfortunately, the data is not as large and informative as you’d want it to be.
On the other hand, AllTrails has a vast database providing you with detailed information.
You can browse over 300,000 trails to view maps, reviews, trail information, and even photos courtesy of millions of adventure enthusiasts like you.
Better yet, you can return the favor, share routes, and give responses or feedback to others. And truth be told, sometimes all we are looking for is simple inspiration, which you can get from comprehensive data.
Also Read: Differences Between Huntin Fool And goHUNT.
- Cost
Before anything, you need to go through the registration process. Once you are done with that, you can proceed with the payment.
For onX Backcountry, you need to pay $29.99 annually for the premium. Even better, you receive a free seven-day trial to test whether you feel the app and enjoy spectacular features. From the second year forward, you must pay $39.99.
On the other side, the AllTrails app is slightly pricier. First, they have two subscriptions that you can choose from. There is the basic membership, which is free and has fewer benefits.
This free subscription is perfect for anyone who rarely goes out. And there is a Pro membership. The second subscription is best for people who regularly go out, and the price per year is $35.99. But if you prefer to pay monthly rather than yearly, the cost is $2.99.
- Map Modes Available
Once connected to the internet, you can easily access the tools in map mode to edit, view, or add your location’s information. onX navigation has two map modes; trail and snow.
The trail mode has one activity present; hiking. In this segment, you can view hiking trails or wildfires. Oppositely, snow has variety; snowshoeing, ski touring, slope angles, and cross-country skiing.
Contrarily, AllTrails offers satellite, road, and topographic maps. And to make matters even better, there are both 3D and 2D dimensions. Click on the view’s top right corner to activate the mode you want. Easy-peasy!
- Map Drawing Technique
There are different ways to draw a map depending on your navigating tool.
In onX Backcountry, the first step is to click the area shape button to measure the area and sketch a shape.
Once you’re done, hit the map to include lines on your location.
Or, to make the work easier, click the drop-down button to draw points at the center.
On the other hand, drawing a map is much easier for AllTrails.
On the top header, tap on ‘Create map’ and then position your map on the desired location.
You can also select ‘draw route,’ which enables you to search by filling in the address or location.
- Offline Functionality
Are you into an app with an excellent functionality system? Good news! onX Backcountry lives up to its claim. The tool allows you to efficiently and quickly download maps while offline.
Gone are the days when outdoorsy enthusiasts had to carry large booklets of maps. Now, you only need a tablet or a phone to have all the mapping data you require in check (remember to bring a power bank if you are off for long trips!)
In opposition, AllTrails has limitations when it comes to offline use. With this app, you need the Pro version to download maps when you don’t have a data signal. You can also check map details and use your incorporated phone’s GPS to navigate.
- Free Versions
onX Backcountry provides free provisions in hybrid, satellite, topographic maps, markup inclusions, and tracking of trips. You can unravel exciting adventures and new trail guides without paying a single cent.
However, the free package doesn’t include guided-quality pursuits, recreational locations, trail descriptions, and offline downloading capability. Therefore, you must upgrade to premium membership to enjoy those fantastic features.
In contrast, a free version is given to the basic AllTrails and Pro, where you can identify plan directions and new trails. Nonetheless, if you don’t have a steady mobile connection, you won’t be able to download the maps. You don’t need to input your credit details for the free package.
- Ease of Use
Have you ever come across an app that has too much complexity?
It can get frustrating.
What if I tell you I know of an adventure app that is super easy to operate?
AllTrails has a beginner-friendly interface that makes it easy to read, review, and customize apps.
What’s more, you can smoothly and quickly navigate what lies beyond.
On the flip side, onX Backcountry is slightly tricky to use.
Before getting used to it, you must be patient, as it can get challenging.
Which App Is The Better Option?
It’s hard to rule off one option since they are both so incredible and full of striking features. But at the end of the day, a choice has to be made.
onX Backcountry costs slightly less and has exceptional offline functionality. On the contrary, AllTrails is easy to operate, has a quick map drawing technique, and has a vast database.
Also Read: HuntWise Or OnX Hunting App?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If we are to look at an app that’s ahead of AllTrails regarding features and performance, my immediate answer would be Gaia. The app is the best for hiking, with slightly better navigation operations and maps.
onX Backcountry provides free topo, satellite, and hybrid maps services. In addition, markups addition and tracking of the trips are done for free.
onX Backcountry is the latest app to be developed for campers and backpackers that came after Hunt did marvelously. The Backcountry tool offers the most comprehensive and navigating provisions for outdoor activities.
OnX Offroad has excellent maps that efficiently and accurately give guidance. And on top of that, the app has remarkable land accessibility details, provides immense user functionality, has one of the best GPS, and is hands down one of the best navigation tools.
Final Thoughts
Should we call it a day? I believe you’ve fully grasped the onX Backcountry and AllTrails comparison. So, no more getting lost in the woods!
onX Backcountry is a spectacular choice based on lower costs and unmatched offline performance. But if you want an app with an all-inclusive database, easy to use, and with a smooth map-drawing process, hats off to AllTrails!
