GPS Comparisons - Your Essential Guide
With so many worthy GPS devices on the market, it’s hard to know the best way to compare them all. Fortunately, GPS comparisons can be done quickly and easily – if you know where to look and the questions to ask.
The following are our top five questions to ask yourself when undertaking GPS comparisons. Utilize this checklist to ensure you have the device that best suits your needs.
Will you be using your device outdoors? For example, if you need a GPS device for camping, hiking, orienteering and the like, you might want to consider a highly portable handheld device, such as a Garmin GPSMap 60CSX receiver, or a Magellan ExPlorist 210 GPS receiver. For a truly portable device that you can strap on while running, consider a Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS receiver.
Will the device be used exclusively in your car? If so, you may want to consider a slightly larger screen and more vibrant display that will be easier to read while driving. In addition, voice prompts are generally a “must” when taking directions while driving (and don’t worry, the person speaking through the device generally has a very calming voice!) Other features useful for car use include whether the device can minimize highway use, avoid toll roads, and receive real-time updates of traffic conditions. Some of the options to consider include the Magellan RoadMate 2000 GPS receiver and the Garmin Nuvi 360 GPS receiver.
Do you want simple GPS tracking or more bells and whistles? GPS comparisons would not be complete without a consideration of the various feature options. At the low-end of the cost and feature scale you can find a basic device such as the Garmin eTrex GPS receiver that will allow you to download maps of the region you’re in, pinpoint specific locations and provide directions (some by voice, some not) to anywhere you want to go.
At the upper end of the scale, you’ll find devices that incorporate MP3 players, bluetooth capability (so you can make hands-free calls through your compatible bluetooth phone) and vibrant color screens that can be utilized through touch or remote control. The Raymarine E80 GPS receiver, for example, provides extensive marine capabilities, including chart plotters and fish finders – it does not, however, catch the fish for you.
How important is ease of set-up for you? Many GPS systems come with mapping software pre-installed, making them the best “plug and play option” for many buyers. However, if you know that you may be accessing only a small portion of the mapping area (one state or region, for instance) it may make more sense to purchase a less expensive system and install the relevant features yourself. The Garmin Street Pilot C530, for example, comes with preloaded maps and is ready to go out of the box. It also includes “way point” icons that serve to ensure you’re still on the right track as you’re navigating your way around. The Brunton AtlasGPS receiver, on the other hand, has a few built in maps and comes with additional maps that the users load in depending on their needs.
What price frame are you considering? Price should never be your only consideration in making GPS comparisons, but it is an important factor – especially since devices can range from under $100 to well over $2,000 dollars. In the mid-range ($300 to $600 dollars), you will likely be able to find a device that serves all your needs. In fact, GPS comparisons are a bit like house comparisons – with so many options, you should be able to find one that meets all your needs, with a few bells and whistles as well.
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