So you decided to join the new age and buy your first GPS system. Congratulations. Now you must decide on what type to buy. To help you in this decision, here are a few things to consider.
Why do you want this system?
Are you buying one for navigational purposes? If you are, where will you be using it the most? Will it only be used in your car? If this is the case, you may want an auto tracker. But will you also want to use it when hiking, biking or running? If so, you may want something that is more portable.
But then again, think about how you bike, run or hike. Is this just a leisurely type of activity that you do on occasion or are you a type of person who takes this really seriously? Are you training for an event? Are you really trying to improve your fitness level or time? Is this the main reason you need a GPS unit?
Yes, the purpose of the unit is the main thing you need to know before purchasing. If you don't know the main reason why you will be using it, you won't know what features you will need.
If you say you need it for driving and you drive more than one vehicle, than a portable GPS unit that has mapping capabilities may be what you need. You might want maps that have all the major highways all ready preprogrammed. You might want to be able to find out instantly (in real time) what areas are congested with traffic. You might want to be able to chart your driving course, know the approximate time it will take you to get to point a to point b and finally to your destination. You might even enjoy some extra features like being able to receive voice command direction turn for turn, finding out about the gas prices in the area and even fun points of interest.
Yes, you are able to buy GPS systems that have all of that included and even download software programs that will give you more functions.
You can also buy systems that will make your sports life more enjoyable by allowing you to chart your course, save your course onto a computer for viewing and editing, as well as estimating the time it should take you to run, hike or bike the course.
Knowing why you want this system is your first important decision.
Now that you know why you want it, you should start thinking about the functions you want.
For instance, is it essential that it is easy to use? Do you like units with easy to find buttons? What about how the programs and information is downloaded? Do you need this to be via a USB port or a serial port?
Then there is the display function? Do you prefer color? Most people say color displays are easier to read?
Keep these types of functions in mind.
What type of device do you want?
Do you wish to have a PDA with GPS functions added onto it? A cell phone with GPS additions? A GPS wristwatch? A basic handheld GPS unit and or tracker?
Now analyze your budget. What can you afford? Can you afford a monthly subscription? Yes, some services may require this.
Do the math before you go shopping. This makes it easier when choosing models, brands and types of devices.
Where and how do you want to shop for this system?
Do you prefer to do your shopping online? You can review many products without being bothered by a salesperson. You can also read reviews left at many sites by previous customers. Many sites even offer live operators to help you.
Do you prefer to do your shopping locally at an electronic store, sporting store or department store?
Maybe you would like to compare prices before you actually shop. You can do this easily online and at your local stores, by calling ahead and asking about prices.
Remember you can also save money sometimes by checking out sale items both online and at your local stores.
You should also consider how important warranties are to you?
Most local stores and online stores will offer you a small limited warranty. Is factory warranties important to you or does the option of buying an upgraded warranty appeal to you? Ask about your options when it comes to warranties and what they cover and entail.
By knowing what you want and having a game plan before shopping, you end up with a better deal and you end up buying something that is more to your liking. You should do this with all your major purchases, including GPS systems.
