There are dozens of GPS devices on the market today, each one with a different set of functions, options and add-ons. Before you get hopelessly lost trying to find your way around the dizzying array of GPS gadgetry on offer, stop for a moment and consider some of the basic features you need to look out for.
Any time you’re on the road, there are a whole host of factors that can influence your ability to get from A to B in good time, even if you know the way. It’s a good thing GPS units can give you so many different kinds of useful information these days. Some models provide live traffic updates or tell you where to find local businesses, while others are voice-activated, or connect to your cell phone so you can make hands-free calls.
The first thing to do when selecting a GPS device to suit your lifestyle and budget is to decide on the screen size, and then make sure you get the maps you need. After that, you should consider which other functions are essential to you, and which ones would simply be nice to have.
Basic Features
Starting with the screen, you can get a really big one (the Nextar SNAP7 measures 7 inches) or a much smaller one (such as the 3.5-inch Navigon 2200T). Most GPS devices (like the Alpine PND-K3) come with a 4.3-inch display, which works just fine for most of us. Practically all models are preloaded with maps of the lower 48 states. There are some, such as the TomTom One 140-S, that give you maps of Hawaii and Alaska, and you can even get Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico too.
Don’t forget to check whether map updates are included in the purchase price. With some GPS units you get free lifetime updates and coverage additions, while for others you have to pay each time.
These days, you can expect to see a specific set of features as standard on your GPS device. Almost all units (the exception is the very basic Magellan RoadMate 1200) have text-to-speech conversion, which is a great safety feature that you simply should not be without. The GPS speaks street names out loud so that you can keep your eyes on the road and don’t have to keep checking the display. Unless you have a Goodyear GY145 or a TeleNav Shotgun, your device will also allow multi-segment routing, which is where you plot a route with more than just two locations.
All units contain a POI (points-of-interest) database packed full of info on restaurants, hotels, stores and local attractions at your destination and along the way. A typical GPS has a few million POIs (for instance the Magellan Maestro 4350 has six million). Many models give you added extras such as the Zagat guides and 3D landmark views that come with Navigon’s high-end 7200T and 8100T devices, or the AAA Tourbook listings supplied with Magellan’s Maestro range.
Traffic and Other Information
GPS devices are invaluable for showing you how to steer clear of traffic jams and other obstacles that can make driving such a hassle. Some systems even help you avoid getting a speeding ticket by alerting you to traffic cameras and speed limits along your route, in addition to giving you live traffic news. With some of Garmin’s top-of-the-range models such as the nüvi 755T you receive free 24/7 traffic updates via Navteq (on less expensive Garmin products you can choose this service as an optional extra, for $60 a year).
One of the latest developments in GPS technology is cellular connectivity that enables you to see live map changes, traffic jams and highway pileups right on your screen. This features is, so far, only available on a few models. The Dash Express, which came out last year but is already off the market, was the first standalone GPS with a cellular radio for live updates on the traffic and other local happenings. The TeleNav Shotgun now has a similar feature that uses GPRS radio, which is offered as a three-month trial and costs around $10 per month after that. TomTom’s initial foray into the world of connected GPS, the GO 740 LIVE, was announced at this year’s Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show.
Voice Control
If you don’t have a tight budget, take a look at a voice-controlled GPS, which lets you keep both hands on the wheel where they belong. The prize for best-ever voice control goes to the Garmin nüvi 880, which is highly accurate and lets you control virtually every single function by speaking to it. However, this model has now been superseded by the 885T, which also offers lane assist services and MSN Direct connections. You can also find some voice control options on the Navigon 7200T and 8100T, but they simply don’t work as well as the Garmin’s.
Media and Other Functions
On top of the standard navigation tools and information services, a lot of GPS devices have a full complement of multimedia features. Media players, which let you play music and videos and view photos in all the popular file formats, are commonplace. Some of the more sophisticated models, such as the Magellan 4350 and Navigon 8100T, will also let you make hands-free calls by connecting to your cell phone via Bluetooth.
If you still don’t know which way to go to find the ideal GPS unit, take a look at our latest GPS reviews. Make sure you compare prices before you buy, though. Remember that you can get some really good deals if you shop around online before making your final purchasing decision.
