| Aspect | Orienteering | Adventure Racing | Land Navigation |
| Purpose | Recreational and competitive navigational sport blending physical and mental activity | Multisport endurance race navigating via checkpoints | Primarily military; some use for search & rescue, hiking |
| Maps | Detailed maps (1:4000 to 1:15,000 scale); oriented to magnetic north so declination adjustment is not needed | Topographic or race-specific maps (1:20,000 - 1:50,000 scale); usually oriented to true/geographic north | Topographic maps; oriented to true/geographic north |
| Compasses | Thumb or baseplate compasses | Baseplate compasses | Lensatic, prismatic, mirror or baseplate compasses |
| Skills Emphasized | Understanding and using the map, with some compass use | Teamwork & multi-discipline (run, bike, boat, climb) | Using a compass, with some basic map work |
| Who Does It | Individuals or groups; outdoor enthusiasts, families, hikers, youth groups, adventure racers; all ages and all skill levels | Teams; adventure racers, outdoor enthusiasts, athletes; adults aged 25 - 50 | Individuals; military personnel, adventure racers, outdoor enthusiasts |
| Where Are Events | Parks, forests, and cities | Remoter areas with rougher terrain | Forests, mountains, wilderness areas, military bases |
| How Long Are Events | Classic events: 0.5 - 3 hours; Sprint events: under 1 hour | Generally 8 - 24 hour or multi-day | Varies |
| Cost | $5 to $20 per person | Varies; often $50 to $200 per person | Varies; classes start around $85 |
| Sources/Calendars | QOC, OUSA, Attackpoint, REI | EX2, USARA, REI, Attackpoint | REI |
