How to Compare GPS Devices
Choosing a Global Positioning System (GPS) device can be a tedious process. With such a variety of models, each with different functions, simply deciding what you need or want in a GPS device can be difficult. Before you make your decision, familiarize yourself with standard GPS types and functions, and decide which kind will best suit your needs. Then look for a range of devices that meet your criteria, and compare prices and ratings.
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Instructions
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Choosing a GPS
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Familiarize yourself with common GPS types. If you are not considering purchasing a new car that comes with a GPS, you will have to choose between portable devices and dashboard-installed systems. While portable devices might come in handy for camping or other outdoor adventures, its screens are smaller and less useful for navigating while driving. They are also more vulnerable to theft if left unattended in your car.
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Familiarize yourself with common GPS features. Consider whether you will need traffic reporting capabilities, for example. Also consider devices' speech capabilities. The more readily a device can present information to you out loud, the less you will have to look at the screen while you're driving.
For easier screen viewing, consider GPS devices with larger screens. The Consumer Reports website provides a GPS Buyer's Guide with a detailed list of important features. Also, the "What to Look For" guide on the Consumer Search website is another good resource.
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Consult a GPS buyer's guide to make detailed price and ratings comparisons. The Smart Ratings website allows you to sort GPS devices by "Best Rated," "Lowest Price" or "Most Recent." You can also search by manufacturer. This website also allows you to balance your price and quality needs. Select a maximum price and a desired rating to filter out all devices that don't meet your criteria. Remember to look for the features that are most important to you when comparing prices and ratings.
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Tips & Warnings
Portable GPS devices are particularly vulnerable to theft if left unattended.
