Comparison

Grid Ref GK vs GL Connect

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Grid Ref GK

This app helps you find your precise location using the Gauß-Krüger coordinate system, providing both GK grid references and WGS84 latitude/longitude. It displays the accuracy of your device's readings and allows you to easily share your location data via text, email, or other services. While primarily designed for use in Germany, it functions internationally and includes a guide to the GK system.

Highlights
  • Gauß-Krüger grid reference
  • WGS84 Latitude and Longitude
  • Device reading accuracy display
  • Location sharing (text, email, tweet)
  • Copy location to clipboard
  • Graphical guide to GK system
  • International operation
Features
Read full description

For use with maps / location data / topology using the Gauß-Krüger-Koordinatensystem. Find out where you are on the Gauss Kruger (GK) system, immediately, and accurately. App Provides: Gauß-Krüger Grid Ref, and WGS84 Latitude and Longitude values. The Accuracy of Readings, as indicated by your device, will also be shown. Share your Location via Text, Email, Tweet etc, or Copy to the Clipboard. (Sharing options and services will vary, depending on the device setup). Though aimed at use in Germany, the app will operate internationally. App includes a graphical guide to the GK Coordinate System. Ideally suited for use by walkers, hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. It is recommended that you should always carry a map and physical compass when on outdoor pursuits.

About

GL Connect

Read full description

GL Connect is the official companion app for full featured control and setup of RTK GNSS receivers GLRM and GLR from General Laser. It provides a powerful and intuitive interface to configure, monitor, and operate your GLRM and GLR receiver across a range of professional applications including surveying, mapping, and construction. NTRIP client included, right from your phone or tablet. Real-time accuracy for surveying, mapping, and geolocation on the go. Configure your GNSS receiver, manage NTRIP connections, monitor RTK status, and capture accurate positions—all in one app. Key Features: * Instant Bluetooth Pairing: Connect quickly and securely to your GLRM device using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). * NTRIP RTK Support: Configure and manage your NTRIP client to receive real-time correction data and achieve centimeter-level accuracy. * Full GNSS Control: Select satellite constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, etc.), configure signal bands, and apply elevation and SNR masks to optimize your fix. * Real-Time Status Monitoring: * GNSS fix type, number of satellites, and position accuracy * RTK status indicators with LED sync * Battery level and temperature readouts * Device firmware and hardware info * Tilt Compensation (FW 1.7+): Accurately capture GNSS points with up to 60° of pole tilt using real-time IMU calibration. View compensated coordinates and heading directly in-app. * Custom Configuration Options: * Set antenna type, offset, and height * Adjust position/satellite info streaming rates (1 Hz / 2 Hz) * Personalize your device name for easier tracking * Firmware Updates: Manual firmware update flow to keep your GLRM receiver running the latest features and fixes. * 2D Mapping Interface: Visualize antenna and tilt-compensated positions on an OpenStreetMap-based view. Applications: Field engineers, surveyors, GIS professionals, and construction teams who demand accurate GNSS data in a streamlined, mobile workflow. Supported Devices: GLRM and GLR GNSS Receivers

Screenshots

Grid Ref GK3 screens
GL Connect4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: GL Connect at none against Grid Ref GK's 1. GL Connect also leads on update cadence (every 3 months vs every 12 months). Grid Ref GK's advantage is iOS requirement (11.0 vs 14.0). On price, ads and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Grid Ref GK sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. GL Connect asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Grid Ref GK ships an update every 12 months, GL Connect every 3 months. The most recent releases landed on October 20, 2026 and October 24, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 6 level
Grid Ref GK versus GL Connect: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterGrid Ref GKGL Connect
PriceFreeFree
Rating4.3 (3 ratings) — better—
Number of ratings3 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 12 monthsEvery 3 months — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFree—
DevicesiPhone, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod — better
Requires iOS11.0 — better14.0
Further details — not scored
Size5 MB21 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperMike IrvingGeneral Laser GmbH

In-app purchases

1 purchases

Grid Ref GK

One-time1
  • Go Ad Free$0.99
None

GL Connect

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is Grid Ref GK free?
Grid Ref GK is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is GL Connect free?
GL Connect is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do Grid Ref GK or GL Connect have ads?
Neither Grid Ref GK nor GL Connect shows ads.
Which is updated more often, Grid Ref GK or GL Connect?
Grid Ref GK ships an update every 12 months, and GL Connect every 3 months. Most recently, Grid Ref GK was updated on October 20, 2026 and GL Connect on October 24, 2026.

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