What To Look For
When looking for a GPS device, the first choice you need to make is whether you want a handheld device or an automobile GPS. Handheld devices are used for outdoor recreation and automobile units for vehicle navigation. But both can be used for the other task if necessary. An outdoor GPS should be light-weight and weather resistant. A automobile GPS should have a larger screen, a dashboard mount and a database of street maps.
Common Pitfalls
When buying a GPS unit it is important to make sure that the unit you purchase has a large quantity of maps. You also want to ensure that you have an avenue to update and download new maps if necessary. Things change and you don't want to purchase a unit that can't be updated to reflect changes in street names or road layouts. Also, many people don't think audible driving instructions are important, but this feature helps you keep your eyes off the GPS and on the road. Look for a unit that gives specific audible instruction, with both distance and street names.
Where To Buy
GPS units are sold at sporting good stores, department stores, home electronic stores and at big box retail stores like Target and WalMart. A home electronics store like Best Buy will have a decent selection of GPS models along with competitive pricing.
Cost
GPS units can cost as low as $100 to upwards of $750. Garmin, Tom-Tom and Magellan are the leading manufacturers of GPS units. Garmin units tend to rate well with consumers and the experts at Cnet.com. The Garmin Nuvi 205W is a good budget automobile GPS model, and as of September 2010 it costs between $100 to $200. The Gamin eTrex Venture HC is a good budget handheld model and it costs between $120 to $200 as of September 2010.
Member Comments