Compare Gps Systems

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Before You Buy Compare GPS Systems

I’m sure by now most of your friends and maybe a few family members have already taken advantage of the great portable navigation systems on the market today. How could they not? Many of them are pretty affordable and most provide customers with really accurate information that not only takes them to millions of locations around the country – and sometimes beyond – but they also link up to cell phones, play DVDs and provide many other features. In a sense, they are too great to pass up. So are you now convinced that you are ready to take the plunge? Well if you’re ready to make the purchase, we can first take a stroll down “shopping lane” to compare GPS systems in a few price ranges. This way, you won’t feel as if you’re taking a leap with no parachute.

More Expensive Brands ($600 and up)

First, let’s take a look at some of the more expensive brands on the market that have a great reputation but can be a bit high in the area of price. I know most people are not interested in spending a lot of money, but “a lot of money” varies from person to person – also, when quality is astounding, many people make price exceptions. If you are one of those people, I certainly don’t want to leave you out.

Audiovox's Jensen – Audiovox offers one of the more pricey models under $1000 (of course they can get much more expensive than this) but they offer several features for the price. Some include the XM satellite radio, a 4-inch screen, an 8 GB hard drive and an external SD slot. In addition, their map and navigational qualities are superb and extremely accurate; however, they don’t offer Bluetooth capabilities, which is a bit necessary for the $800 price tag they are asking for.

Garmin Nuvi 660 – If you’ve never heard of this brand and model, you are definitely new to these devices. When looking to compare GPS systems, many argue this is one device that can’t be compared to any other. There are many reasons for its popularity. One is that it has a very simple, user-friendly interface that allows those not technologically savvy to have a field day with it. You can take advantage of features that many cell phones and PCs offer, including an MP3 player, photo viewing, a clear color screen, an FM transmitter, and Bluetooth capabilities. Of course, you get great mapping and navigational features – so great in fact, that if you’re listening to the MP3 player, the voice-automatic system will pause the music to alert you of an upcoming exit, then start the song back again. However, for price ranges, it is on the high(er) end, costing about $700. While it is definitely not the most expensive, it is also not cheap, making some cringe at the thought of buying it until they take in all of the features.

Mid-Priced Devices ($300 - $600)

To properly compare GPS systems, you must look at mid-priced models as they usually have numerous features at a reasonable price. Let’s look at a couple:

Garmin StreetPilot c550 – Yes, Garmin is making the list again that quickly. This is because they truly know how to put out quality GPS products. In particular, the StreetPilot c550 makes the mid-priced list at about $410 because reviewers love its likeness to its more advanced sibling, the Nuvi 660. They both have preloaded maps of all of North America, an MP3 player, specific street text-to-speech functionality, and a free 3-month subscription to TMS Traffic. However, where they differ drastically is in screen size. While the Nuvi 660 offers a 4.3-inch screen, the c550 only offers 3.5 inches. This isn’t terrible for those with good vision (or contacts), especially when taking advantage of the antiglare coating great for sunny days. But if you have difficulty seeing, you may want to opt for the bigger sibling.

TomTom GO 720 – When you compare GPS systems, you should always keep this company’s models in mind. Like Garmin, it has a great reputation for putting out high quality products at decent prices. In particular, the GO 720 falls into the $450 price range, and offers interactive map updates, a USB docking cradle, and a great safety option to seek help without a cell phone – all good for the price.

Lower-Priced Devices (under $300)

If while trying to compare GPS systems you run into some that appear to be too cheap, don’t run away too quickly. It is true that cheaper often does represent a lesser quality; however we have to remember that competition often drives prices down, which means that many quality systems will take a nose dive in price just to stay in the game. So before avoiding the less expensive devices, first check out some reviews and do some research on what they offer in comparison to what you’re looking for. You never know, you might just uncover that diamond in the rough that you’ve been looking for.

To help you compare GPS systems that don’t have a bad reputation in this price range, I’ve listed a couple:

TomTom One – This system lists at around $210 and is considered by many to be the best budget device on the market. The reason is because it DOESN’T have tons of extra features like its competition – it just does its job, which is to guide you through unfamiliar streets. It is noted for being extremely accurate, which is always a plus. And it has a user-friendly touchscreen that let’s just about anybody operate it with ease. Magellan RoadMate 2000 – As you compare GPS systems, consider this device that falls in the range of $200 - $250. Similar to the TomTom One, it makes a statement by simply being understated. It has an easy to read mapping screen, accurate instructions, and great reroutes, making it simple, yet reliable – perfect for the price.

The best way to compare GPS systems is to do your research from the Internet, as well as visiting electronic stores in person. With a representative, you can actually discuss the features you want, and make more informed decisions. That way, you can compare GPS systems with guidance then find the right price to make your consumer experience a great one.