Some of the better units come with an electric compas. The GPS will always track your true course and then if you need, you hit a button and the electric compas comes up and you can point that in any direction to get a reading. I'm only familiar with garmins, and their e-trex line as well as the 76 series i think have these. Otherwise, a generic GPS will only display a compas if you are moving and it will only be in the direction of travel. Hope this helps!!

Reid Rechel
N5.2
Lake Superior