Several years ago, satellite-based navigation systems were only available as expensive, built-in options on new vehicles. Nowadays, portable GPS devices that can be set up and fully operational within minutes have become accessible and affordable to every driver, not just those with extra cash. I was amazed at how quickly portable GPS technology has advanced. I have a factory-installed GPS in my Infiniti that I rely on daily to guide me where to go. I used to struggle finding places, getting lost all the time, which became a real issue. Getting directions from people is time-consuming, and MapQuest isn't always 100% accurate, so having a reliable GPS has undoubtedly saved me a lot of time and gas money.
There are a few things to seriously consider before purchasing a portable GPS. Hopefully, we can help you find the portable GPS that's ideal for your specific needs and specifications. For most people, price is the first consideration. Portable GPS navigation devices (PND) range from as little as $129 to more than $2,000. Fortunately, there are many good portable options available for less than $500. The second question is what you want your GPS to do. If you want all the bells and whistles, you're obviously going to pay more. The pricier models feature things like Bluetooth hands-free technology, live updates, turn-by-turn directions, and more. However, if all you want from your GPS is to get to where you're going, accuracy and ease-of-use are obviously the top priorities. Most of the lower-priced models have smaller screens and require users to load their choice of maps onto a memory card that is then inserted into the unit. The higher-priced alternatives have larger screens with better graphics and don't require memory cards. In the $299-and-up category, most GPSs come pre-loaded with maps. Screen sizes range from 2.1 inches to 7 inches. I found the 2.1-inch screen too small. If you have to lean over and squint to read it, you're risking getting into an accident or getting lost because you can't see the thing without binoculars. On the other hand, the 7-inch screen (featured on some Garmin models) is too large, in my opinion. Hey, I just want to reach my destination. I have a big screen in my living room, thank you very much.
A GPS with a high-quality user interface should have menu systems that are easy to understand. Systems requiring the skills and knowledge of a computer programmer didn't make my list. I'm not a tech expert, so if it's hard to operate, I won't use it. This means I'll be back to asking locals for directions. If you're searching for hotels, gas stations, and restaurants, you shouldn't have to jump through a bunch of hoops. A good system should make this information available with no more than two steps using the navigation screen. The fewer screen taps, the better. Several of the top-tier systems complement the touch-screen user interface with dedicated hardware buttons that let you easily access frequently used functions.
Portability is another important factor to consider. Some units operate directly from a car's battery, while others have built-in rechargeable batteries that power the unit for 4 to 15 hours. Almost all portable GPS devices come with a suction-cup mounting bracket that adheres conveniently to your windshield. With a high-quality bracket, taking the GPS in and out of its holder should be effortless.
Text-to-speech is a technology that enables a GPS to pronounce any street name. Most GPSs will announce an upcoming turn with a phrase like, “In .5 miles, turn left.” Those with text-to-speech capability can announce a turn like this: “In 300 feet, turn right on Main Street.” Since the street name is announced, you don't have to take your eyes off the road to glance at the screen. If your GPS can't recognize voice commands properly, it can be a real pain. The other day, I was trying to get to Eddy Street in San Francisco. The built-in GPS in my car couldn't understand the word “Eddy.” It gave me “Annie,” “Ernie,” and “Army,” and I finally had to pull the vehicle over and type the street name into the system manually, which was a real headache. So, test any portable GPS system before you buy it. Try a few less common street names and see how it responds.
Another factor to consider is how to obtain updates once you've purchased your unit. Street and highway names change; new ones appear, and the database of destinations is shrinking and expanding all the time as new businesses open and old ones close their doors. With some systems, the updates are free and can be loaded into your unit very easily online. Others, like some Magellan units, will require you to purchase software updates, meaning you have to pay approximately $50-$70 and then ship them your unit so they can install the software.
The PND now features access to live traffic data fed directly into your navigation system to inform you about construction delays and accidents. TomTom Live and Garmin nuLink services are examples of how navigation systems benefit from live data updates. Even though GPS-enabled smartphones are becoming more popular, portable navigation devices still offer advantages over their smartphone counterparts. PNDs have larger screens that are easier to read and can display more information. Wireless technology provides real-time information such as traffic updates, weather, and gas prices. Maps are also built into the machines and won't suddenly disappear when the wireless network becomes weak.
When asked to review the best portable GPS systems on the market today, I decided to visit several retail stores and sift through the contenders and the pretenders. I also looked to see which ones were receiving the most favorable reviews online.