GPS Systems and Reviews

On the Road with Portable Gps Systems

Are you ready to get out in the world – and let the wind blow in your hair while you’re at it? There’s nothing like being able to get out and take a good trip to several cities around the country, whether for business or pleasure. This country alone has so much to offer that you don’t want to miss any of it. But of course, if you’re staring down at a map, you just might miss all of it while trying to figure out where it is you’re going. Many people have discovered that there are a few great alternatives to using the paper map you buy in the gas station. One is the use of Internet mapping websites that allow you to download fairly accurate maps and specific directions to different locations with ease. However, if you’re not sure of the exact location you’re going, you need something even more up-to-date and convenient – for many, this comes in the form of portable GPS systems.  

What Are Portable GPS Systems?

Portable GPS systems are the mobile version of the standard built-in or add-on systems you can find in many automobiles. They are designed to provide drivers with a way to map directions to and from locations within their city and beyond – as they work by connecting to a satellite feed that can be regularly updated to reflect road conditions as accurately as possible. 

The portable GPS systems are often more popular than the built-in version, which comes as a standard or optional feature in a vehicle, or the add-on version, which can be purchased at a later date and professionally installed in a car, because they are more affordable and compact. However, the built-in and add-on versions tend to have larger screens that work better for those who have difficulty seeing – and they may have more features already available. The choice the customers make in purchasing either the built-in, add-on, or portable device is one made based on personal preferences. However, one of the major reasons one might choose the portable device as opposed to the other two is simply due to the many options available at a cheaper price.

Which Are the Most Popular Available?

There are several models of portable GPS systems available that continuously catch the attention of interested customers. This is because they each have a reputation for being reasonably priced, reliable, and extremely accurate. Below is a partial list of those devices that customers tend to purchase with the most consistency:

Magellan Crossover – This is a very handy portable device that allows you to navigate, plan trips, listen to MP3s, view pictures, and search for various points of interest with ease. It is very popular because it is pocket-sized meaning that you don’t have to leave it in the car to take advantage of its capabilities, and it has a long battery life (up to 8 hours) so if you go camping, you can get around without worry of losing your very advanced compass/music player. Many people use this brand and model to accomplish their hiking, boating and fishing adventures, so if you like to get outdoors but often fear getting lost, by taking one of these handy devices with you, you will get to leave your worries at home.

Garmin StreetPilot c340 – Garmin already has a great name its market as one of the best companies to offer any portable GPS systems, so it is no wonder that consumers flock to whatever they make available. In particular, the StreetPilot c340 is popular because, like the Magellan Crossover, it is handheld, yet offers full-sized features, including a 3-D view of the area you’re in, a simple touch screen to assist with the navigation features, and options to plan trips outside of your vehicle. It also has a battery life that stretches to about 8 hours and allows you to view your pictures, making it a fun and safe addition to your next in- or out-of-vehicle trip.

TomTom Rider Portable – This company also is synonymous with accuracy and reliability and offers a variety of models to satisfy varying customer needs. In particular, the Rider Portable was created for those who travel more so by motorcycle than any other mode of transportation. It is very durable, tough, and water proof to accommodate any outdoor conditions, while still maintaining a sleek and stylish look. This model offers a 3.5” color touch screen and has an anti-glare coating and sun visor for easier viewing; and it comes Bluetooth-ready, which allows customers to receive turn-by-turn voice navigation instruction wirelessly and clearly. But possibly its greatest feature is its “plug and play” feature that allows customers to simply begin using the device without the necessity of installation or activation. 

Cobra Handheld Navigator – Another handheld portable that can also be used in your vehicle, this device is to be used after loading its accompanying software onto your computer. Reminiscent of the online map websites you might be accustomed to using, this system allows you to punch in the location you want to reach after loading your origin location. Once this is done, the Navigator’s screen maps out the directions you will take turn by turn. The device includes all continental U.S. states and boundaries, and also includes Canadian and European cities and boundaries.

Garmin StreetPilot 7500 – I couldn’t resist throwing another one of the Garmin portable GPS systems onto the list. Why? They have such a great reputation that it is difficult to single them down to one. This particular system makes the list because, while it is similar to the handheld version, it was created for the larger vehicle and has a large 7” touchscreen for greater visibility. In addition, it has an MP3 player and great entertainment options ensuring your trip is informed and enjoyable.

With criminal activity at an all time high and the ability to trust strangers almost impossible, portable GPS systems are becoming a very handy way to let people avoid having to get out of their vehicles to ask for directions. So the next time you’re thinking of getting on the road to take a trip, consider getting one of this handy devices. Not only will one of these portable GPS systems keep you “in the know” and entertained, they may keep you and your family safe.

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