Before you purchase a GPS navigator, think about your driving conditions, how often you're in areas that are unfamiliar, and what features are most important to you.
Second, check out how well the system works for navigation. The best models make it easy to enter destinations and give the most helpful directions. Look for a GPS device that scored high for entering a destination. Some GPS systems will perform better than others. The higher the score the better the choice.
If most of your driving is spent driving a familiar route or running errands, you do not need a GPS system.
If you often encounter traffic congestion, a GPS system can be a big help by showing a better, less congested, route. In addition, real-time traffic information is available for a monthly subscription fee. Sometimes the information can be inaccurate due to being outdated, but is helpful most of the time.
Voice command is a worthwhile feature that enables you to navigate hands free, allowing you to enter an address or ask for a gas station, restaurant, and hospital. It's available on a few expensive units. A navigation unit that offers this feature is the Garmin Nuvi 880, but be prepared to spend some bucks.
New portables now have a rechargeable battery. Look for one that will operate for at least three hours on a charge. In addition, a rechargeable battery gives you the option to use your car plug for a different device, such as a cell phone. Some models offer an AC adapter, so you can charge the system in your house. This gives you the ability to enter your directions before you get to your car.
If you pick a portable unit, the size is important. Some models are the same size as wallet, and have a weight less than 7 ounces. While others are as large as a small book and can weigh two pounds. A 3.5-inch diagonal screen is a good size, but 4.3-inch wide screens allow more data to be displayed. The bigger screen allows easier address entry and larger, on screen, buttons.
I own a tomtom. It has a 4.3-inch wide screen, which allows it to display a lot of information. The screen displays a 3D image of the road head with an arrow, which represents your car. A voice warns you of turns ahead. In addition, it displays the distance to the next turn, your speed, the speed limit, distance to your destination, time of arrival, time to get to desired location, and total distance traveled. If you go over the speed limit, it will warn you that you are speeding. You can turn off this feature if you wish. In short, I consider the tomtom very accurate with many useful features at a great price, and would highly recommend it to anyone.
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