How to Compare GPS

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How to compare GPS devices

Compare GPS

Before you go shopping for your first or next GPS device, you should be a savvy consumer and do some comparisons in types of devices, capabilities of each device and price range.

First, think about the big question. How much money can you afford to spend? The answer to this question will help you to narrow down your choices in type of devices, capabilities and extras. You should also figure in whether you can afford any subscription services that may come with added software purchases.

Next think about whether you want a portable or a dash mountable unit. In thinking about this decision you should ask yourself questions like:

Do you plan on using the GPS device only in the automobile and only in one automobile? Do you plan on using the device while jogging, running, etc as well as mapping direction in your car? Do you want one that is more durable? (Usually dash mountable units are because they stay in one place). How much money do you have to spend? (Generally dash mountable units are more expensive, yet you can find deals for these if you shop around some) Do you like bigger touch screens versus smaller screens that uses buttons?

After you decide you want a portable device, you need to decide on what kind.

Do you want one that is just a GPS device and nothing more? Do you want a PDA device that allows you to organize your files, addresses and more as well as find directions? Do you want to add the GPS system to your cell phone? Do you want to add the GPS system to your lap top?

Each device has its own advantages and disadvantages. The main question is will you actually use the device for its other programmable services? If not, you may want to stick to a plain GPS device to save money.

Now think about the capabilities you must have:

If you have decided on a portable device do you need:

A touch screen for easy access Voice commands? what type of commands? Would you settle for turn right or would you prefer the commands to say turn right on State street? (this is called speech to text command) What types of maps needs to be included? Do you plan on driving only in the United Sates or also in Canada and possibly Puerto Rico? How many point of interests actually interest you? Do you want to be able to charge the unit by a cigarette lighter?

What about extra features?

Do you want blue tooth capabilities which will allow you the voice commands to be spoken through the speakers of your automobile, along with any mp3 tracks or audio tapes if you have a mp3 and audio player also installed in the GPS system?

If you plan on buying a portable device what capabilities do you need?

How many trips do you wish to be able to plan and course? How many way points do you wish to add? How do you want to be able to upload new maps through a USB port or a serial port? Do you want a color screen (some say they are easier to use). Do you want a display screen that will work in many forms of lighting? How long do you need normal run time battery life to last? What about the weight of the unit? Do you want an extra light weighing model for easier carrying? Size may also be an issue.

Do you want any extra features?

Would the unit be more useful to you if you could play mp3 tracks on it? Would you like a unit that has a world clock, compass, timing capabilities, or built in alarms?

What about the brand name of the units?

Most people will tell you that Garmin brands are the best. Others may prefer to buy GPS units made by Megellan and Navman.

Some of the main differences in the brand names and easy to recognized names are the cost factors. Do these names and the higher cost always mean they are the best? No, not always. But yet something has to be said about trusting those brands we know.

This comparison choice is the consumers to make and answer.

What about those extra software programs that can be bought? Do they make a model less attractive or more so?

This again, is the question for each consumer to answer. Yet, in answering you should actually consider if the extra software is necessary and something that you think you will use. They may also want to make sure that each software in question doesn't require a subscription service.

The last comparison a consumer may want to make when choosing a GPS device is the color and style that suits them best.

If you make these comparisons, think about what you need and do a little research, you are more apt to make a wise decision and you are more apt to choose a GPS device that you will not only use, but love.