Garmin BaseCamp for Mac: What's changing and the best alternative
For many years, Garmin BaseCamp has been the go-to application for Mac users wanting to manage GPX routes, organise waypoints and transfer data to their Garmin GPS devices.
If you're a Mac user, however, it's time to start thinking about the future.
The good news is that there is no need to panic. BaseCamp isn't suddenly going to stop working overnight. However, Garmin has confirmed that future versions of macOS will no longer support the technology that BaseCamp relies upon. That means its days on the Mac platform are, unfortunately, numbered.
At GPS Training, we've been preparing for this for some time, and after months of testing we believe we've found a workflow that is not only more future-proof, but actually simpler for many users.
Key Points
- Garmin BaseCamp still works on current versions of macOS.
- Future versions of macOS will no longer support the technology BaseCamp relies on.
- There's no need to panic, but now is the ideal time to learn an alternative workflow.
- GPS Training now recommends using Garmin Connect and Garmin Express.
- Full video tutorials (in the GPS Training online resource) and Podcast 126 explain the new process.
What is Garmin BaseCamp?
Garmin BaseCamp is Garmin's free desktop application that has been available for both Windows and Mac computers for many years.
It allows users to:
-
View maps and routes on a larger screen.
-
Organise collections of GPX files.
-
Create and edit routes and waypoints.
-
Manage GPS devices.
-
Transfer GPX routes and tracks to compatible Garmin handheld GPS units.
For countless walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, BaseCamp has become an essential part of planning adventures before heading outdoors.
Why is Garmin BaseCamp Coming to an End on Mac?
The issue isn't that Garmin has suddenly decided to remove BaseCamp.
Instead, Apple is continuing to develop macOS, and Garmin has confirmed that future versions of the operating system will no longer support the underlying technology that BaseCamp depends upon.
Whilst the software continues to work on current versions of macOS, it isn't being redeveloped to keep pace with Apple's latest technologies.
In simple terms, BaseCamp will eventually reach the point where it can no longer run on newer Macs or future macOS updates.
Should You Stop Using BaseCamp Today?
Not necessarily.
If BaseCamp is working on your Mac today, there's no reason to uninstall it.
However, we wouldn't recommend building your future workflow around software that is approaching the end of its supported life.
Instead, now is the ideal time to become familiar with the newer approach, while you can still make the transition at your own pace.
The Workflow We Now Recommend
Over the past few months we've spent a considerable amount of time testing different ways of transferring GPX routes onto compatible Garmin GPS devices.
After evaluating a number of options, we've settled on a workflow using Garmin Connect and Garmin Express.
We've found this approach to be:
-
Easier to learn.
-
Supported by Garmin.
-
Compatible with both Windows and Mac.
-
Better suited to future software developments.
-
More straightforward for many users than the traditional BaseCamp workflow.
Like any new process, it takes a little getting used to, but once you've followed it a couple of times it quickly becomes second nature.
Why We've Changed Our Training
At GPS Training we've been teaching Garmin GPS units for over two decades.
When we first became aware that BaseCamp's future on the Mac was uncertain, we didn't want to recommend an alternative until we'd thoroughly tested it ourselves.
Over several months we've worked through different workflows, refined the process and updated our training materials so that we're confident in recommending a solution that should continue to work well into the future.
Rather than waiting until BaseCamp eventually stops working on the Mac, we believe it's better to help our customers make the transition now, whilst they still have time to learn the new system without any pressure.
Step-by-Step Training Available
If you're one of our GPS Training Online Resource members, we've already created a series of detailed training videos covering the new workflow.
Where to find the training
Courses → Premium Ordnance Survey Route Planner
Module 2
Garmin - Transferring Downloaded GPX Routes to Your Compatible Device via a Windows or Mac Computer Using a USB Cable Connection
The videos guide you through the complete process step by step, making it easy to follow along using your own computer and GPS device.
Listen to Podcast 126
We also discuss this topic in detail in GPS Training Podcast #126.
In the episode, we explain:
-
Why Garmin BaseCamp is reaching the end of the road for Mac users.
-
What's changing.
-
Why we've adopted a different workflow.
-
What this means for Garmin GPS owners going forward.
If you're affected by these changes, it's well worth listening before making the switch.
Ready to Make the Switch?
We've already created step-by-step video tutorials explaining the new workflow.
Looking Ahead
Technology is always evolving, and whilst many of us have used Garmin BaseCamp successfully for years, this is simply another example of software moving on.
The encouraging news is that there is a straightforward alternative.
In fact, after spending many months testing the new workflow ourselves, we believe many users will find it quicker and easier than the traditional BaseCamp method.
We'll continue to monitor developments from Garmin and update our training whenever changes occur. In the meantime, if you're a Mac user, we'd encourage you to start using the new workflow now rather than waiting until a future macOS update forces the change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Garmin BaseCamp being discontinued?
Garmin hasn't announced that BaseCamp is being discontinued altogether. However, the company has confirmed that future versions of macOS will no longer support the technology that BaseCamp relies upon. Whilst the software continues to work on current versions of macOS, its long-term future on Apple's platform is limited.
Does Garmin BaseCamp still work on a Mac?
Yes. At the time of writing, BaseCamp continues to work on current versions of macOS. If it's already installed on your Mac, there's no need to stop using it immediately. However, we would recommend planning for an alternative workflow before a future macOS update makes BaseCamp unusable.
Why won't BaseCamp work on future versions of macOS?
Apple regularly removes support for older software technologies as macOS evolves. Garmin has confirmed that BaseCamp relies on technology that will no longer be supported in future versions of macOS, meaning the software is unlikely to function indefinitely on newer Apple computers.
What is the best alternative to Garmin BaseCamp on a Mac?
At GPS Training, we're now recommending a workflow using Garmin Connect together with Garmin Express to transfer GPX routes to compatible Garmin GPS devices. After extensive testing, we've found this approach to be simpler, more reliable and better suited to future software updates.
Can I still transfer GPX files to my Garmin without BaseCamp?
Absolutely. You don't need Garmin BaseCamp to transfer GPX files to compatible Garmin GPS devices. Our recommended workflow uses Garmin Connect and Garmin Express, and we provide step-by-step training videos showing exactly how to do it.
Does this affect Windows users?
No. At present, this issue only affects Mac users because it relates to changes being made to macOS. Garmin BaseCamp continues to work on Windows, although it's always sensible to keep an eye on future developments.
Where can I learn the new workflow?
Members of the GPS Training Online Resource can watch our dedicated training videos by logging in and navigating to:
Courses → Premium Ordnance Survey Route Planner
Then select:
Module 2 – Garmin – Transferring Downloaded GPX Routes to Your Compatible Device via a Windows or Mac Computer Using a USB Cable Connection
The videos take you through the complete process step by step.
Should I stop using Garmin BaseCamp now?
Not necessarily. If BaseCamp is working well on your Mac, you can continue using it for the time being. However, we'd recommend learning the new workflow sooner rather than later, so you're prepared when a future macOS update eventually brings support for BaseCamp to an end.
Don't wait until a future macOS update forces you to change. Learn the new workflow now whilst BaseCamp is still working and you can make the transition at your own pace.