Which GPS Navigation Device For Your Car?

The Global Positioning System has made navigating the roads so easy that, for those who own a GPS Device, it's almost hard to imagine how we found our way around before. There are now so many devices that use the satellite navigation system to help you pick a route that it can be quite bewildering. So, we're going to do a quick roundup of some of the popular offerings, factoring in your budget.

We're focusing on GPS devices to suit cars, since that's where they're most handy. GPS is now as easy to fit into a car as an MP3 player and dock. There are loads of GPS accessories to help you attach your navigator to the windscreen or dashboard. If you have a GPS-ready mobile phone, especially an iPhone with its large touchscreen and docking ability, then the following suggestions are definitely still solid upgrades.

The Luxury Option

Luxury car marques like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volvo, Lexus and Jaguar tend to be fitted integrated satellite navigation systems that are quite adequate, but if you have an older model, it goes without saying that the technology has moved on rather far since, say, last week.

Garmin nüvi 1390T

The Garmin nüvi 1390T is one of Garmin's top-of-the-line GPS devices. It's thin enough to fit in your pocket without unsightly bulges, and its ability to recommend public transport and other pedestrian options is unparalleled. In the car it's even better, as it features hands-free Bluetooth operation and lane guidance to make sure you don't miss that exit on a multilane highway.

Traffic updates will help you avoid jams, and spoken turn-by-turn directions will get you to your destination with your eyes firmly on the road. The Garmin leaves nothing out, and is highly recommended.

Middle of the Range

Some slightly more affordable manufacturers like Volkswagen, Subaru, Toyota, Ford, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Honda, and Holden offer integrated GPS as an optional extra (or include it on their luxury models) but it's often quite a bit cheaper to buy a separate unit. And, to add insult to injury, you're also kind of stuck with an expensive throwback in your dash when the technology changes. And GPS technology changes all the time; new and useful features become available every month.

Navman MY50T

After the slick, minimal design, the first thing that grabs you about the Navman MY50T is the large 4.7 inch screen. A larger screen is a definite advantage in a car, as you spend far less time trying to make out exactly what you're looking at. The other immediate draw is that you can configure the GPS to give you spoken directions in an Australian accent. A swipe-sensitive touchscreen makes using the Navman a pleasure. Speed sign alerts will let you know when you're approaching the end of a speed limit zone, and help you avoid the attention of the blue meanies. Bluetooth is there for connectivity and docking in your car, but sadly not for hands-free operation.

Budget or Starter GPS

Lower-priced carmakers like Hyundai, KIA, Suzuki and FIAT do not often include integrated GPS, with some exceptions, but if you're aiming to save (and since you're driving an economy car, you probably are), the cheaper option by a country mile is to buy a budget standalone GPS device.

TomTom One

The TomTom One is a pretty stunning little device regardless of any budget considerations. The pleasingly compact TomTom is a bargain with loads of features found even on more expensive units, and TomTom's update service makes it a good long-term purchase. It even has a list that updates points of interest for you to visit on your travels. The One is definitely the smallest GPS in this list and is pocket-sized, which makes using it when on your feet very practical.

So, Which GPS?

While the Garmin and Navman are more advanced than the TomTom, and both have very compelling features the respective model below lacks, the low price and high quality of the TomTom One make it an ideal starter model. However, if you're new to a city and want some trouble-free exploring, the sheer depth of the Garmin's features is worth the extra cash. Each model is, in our opinion, a great deal, but don't hesitate to use Getprice to compare their features and prices, or those of other GPS brands like Mio and Uniden.