How to Choose a GPS Unit
You're all-too-tired of getting lost and have decided to purchase a GPS (Global Positioning System) to keep you pointed in the right direction. But you're not sure what to shop for or where to start. Here's a guide to some considerations to make before dropping down money on a GPS unit.
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Instructions
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Decide exactly what you want to use GPS for. Some of the primary uses for GPS include vehicular directions, wilderness navigation and simple personal route designation/tracking. There are specific models designed for different applications, so deciding what you want your GPS to do is an important first step. While some GPS receivers attempt to split the difference and work for multiple applications, it's best to get a dedicated GPS designed specifically for your intended use to ensure the highest level of performance and usability.
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Determine the type of GPS that you want. In addition to general categories discussed above, different types of GPS units within these categories offer different functions and advantages. For instance, GPS for your vehicle can be built into your dashboard for a cleaner, more integrated look or purchased as a basic add-on for less expensive, easier to install use. For personal and outdoor GPS, you could purchase an inexpensive, basic unit that merely allows you to get your position, design a route, track your journey and trace your steps back, or a more advanced unit that can display detailed maps allowing for more serious navigation.
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Determine your budget. Price ranges vary widely according to category, type and features included. Add-on vehicle units and basic personal GPS units can be found as low as $100, while more advanced mapping GPS and built-in vehicle models will be much more expensive.
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Consider design and features while determining a budget. Some things to consider in a vehicle navigation device: voice-prompt directions, automatic rerouting (in case you miss a turn), points of interest (nearest gas stations and restaurants), weather and traffic information, clarity and size of the screen, mounting options, and the specificity of directions (street names vs. generic directions such as "Make next left"). For outdoors GPS units consider the quality and clarity of the display (black and white vs. color), the quality of maps, battery life and the sensitivity of the GPS chip. Find the right balance between the features that you want and the overall cost. Also consider any non-GPS related features like Bluetooth, touch screen, music player, etc.
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Consider the cost of maps, if you're looking for a GPS unit with mapping. GPS units may come with only a very basic street-level maps and you may need to buy more specific road or topographical maps. This can add significant cost to your purchase. You'll also need enough memory or a memory card slot to add more mapping software. Be sure to factor this in when shopping for units and crafting a projected budget.
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Read the reviews. Follow the links in Resources to find a couple of GPS review sites and see what others have to say about the products you're considering. When reading reviews, consider not just the unit itself but also the maps that are compatible with it---an accurate map is just as important as a quality unit.
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Get hands on. Go to a local auto, electronics or sporting goods shop and try out some different units. Pay attention to how quickly the unit is able to triangulate (display your position), how easy the menus are to navigate through and read and other features that you may like or dislike. Compare several different units.
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Purchase your GPS. Once you've considered all factors, read some reviews and found a GPS unit that operates well, make your purchase and begin enjoying the advantages of GPS navigation.
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Tips & Warnings
Another option to consider is GPS on smart phones and PDAs that have it available. However, while the equipment will be cheaper, monthly fees could render this more expensive in the long run.
