Today’s GPS receivers are coming equipped with more and more features. The first portable GPS devices were very basic and didn’t come equipped with a lot of features. Nowadays, it can get a bit overwhelming when trying to shop for a GPS device because of the wide range of available features. This top 10 list will help you to focus on the important features to look for when purchasing a portable GPS device.
1. Text to Speech (TTS) The TTS feature is one of the most important features to look for in a GPS device. The reason for this is that it is really an essential safety feature for using a GPS device while driving. This feature works by not only telling you when to turn, but it also tells you actual street names to turn on. This allows you to keep your eyes on the road and not on the GPS device. This feature is starting to become an industry standard feature in automobile GPS devices, but there are still some devices that don’t offer this feature.
2. Built-in Maps The heart of the GPS unit is its maps. It’s a good idea to buy a GPS device that comes with preloaded maps. You must make sure, though, that the preloaded maps will be relevant for you, because manufacturers load maps based upon where the unit is to be sold (U.S., Europe, South America, etc.). You should look for the SiRFstarIII internal chip, with either TeleAtlas or Navteq maps. This will give you the best performance.
Also important is the ability to update the maps on your device. Most manufacturers will offer updates via computer, and some offer updates via CD-ROM. Make sure to find this information out, and be sure to check and see how much these map updates (or additional maps) cost. This information is available at the manufacturer’s website.
3. Large Point of Interest (POI) Database Most portable GPS devices today offer a POI database which offers information on restaurants, hotels, museums, golf courses, etc. It’s a good idea to choose a device that offers a large POI database of 3 million points or more. Some devices even offer short reviews and ratings of restaurants, hotels, and other POI’s right on the device. A good POI database can really come in handy when traveling to places that you’re unfamiliar with.
4. Design This is sort of a broad category that involves the overall size of the device, screen size, quality, and durability. It’s important to actually hold the device in your hand before you purchase it. This will help you to get a feel of the durability and quality of the device. You shouldn’t buy a device that feels “cheap” to you.
You also need to pick a device that fits your needs for size. Some devices are smaller than others, and screen sizes vary as well. Is a 3.5 inch display good, or do you want a 4.3 inch display? These are questions you need to ask yourself when shopping for a GPS device, because there is a big price difference between units with large screens and ones with smaller screens.
If you are looking to purchase a small handheld unit for camping, hunting, or other outdoor activities, check and see if the device is water-proof and has a durable rubber body.
5. Speedy Performance Record Not all portable GPS devices are created equal in terms of performance. Some units only take less than a minute to power up and get a satellite fix, while other models take 4-5 minutes to find a satellite signal. Also, some models hold a satellite signal better than others. There is no way of knowing this information without doing a little bit of research before you go shopping for your GPS device. Check the review section for performance information of various models. CNET Reviews is another good resource for performance numbers for particular GPS devices. Research the performance record of a particular device before you decide on it.
6. Easy to use Interface With so many features and functions in today’s GPS devices, it can sometimes get confusing to use, or even access, all of this information. This problem is easy to resolve if the GPS device uses a nice Graphical User Interface (GUI). This tends to make it easier to navigate through the extensive menu systems in the device.
In most cases, you can try out the device before you buy it in the store. The GPS units with a nice GUI are much easier to use, and they are even much more pleasant to look at. Look for a device that is easy to use right off the bat.
7. SD Card Expansion Slot A portable GPS device with a SD card expansion slot allows for more memory expansion in the device. The SD card slot makes it extremely easy to add more maps to the device, by simply placing a SD card with maps into the expansion slot. Also, if the device has any kind of multimedia features, the SD card slot gives you an easy way to put music, video, or photo files into the device.
8. Bluetooth This feature is relatively new in portable GPS devices, but it is fast becoming an industry standard. This feature allows the user to use a Bluetooth enabled cell phone for hands-free calling. Some GPS units allow you to dial out directly on the touch-screen display. Bluetooth is an important safety feature that helps keep your eyes on the road and not on the GPS device or your cell phone.
9. Extra “Goodies” There are lots of extra features to choose from when purchasing a navigational device. you can look for features such as:
-Traffic warnings-warns of traffic congestion/accidents so that you can find an alternative route.Speed limit warnings-warns you when you are speeding.
-Music and video player capabilities-allows you to play music and videos through the device.
-Built-in camera-some portable devices have a built-in digital camera.
-FM modulator-allows you to play sound through the car speakers wirelessly.
-Games-many portable GPS devices now offer built-in Flash games.
There are so many portable GPS devices to choose from out there, so you are sure to find one with all of the features you want. Keep in mind, though, that some features will cost extra. For example, many devices offer traffic warnings for a subscription fee. Only one manufacturer currently offers subscription-free traffic warnings, and that company is Navigon.
10. Reasonable Price This isn’t necessarily a feature, but it is definitely something to look for. Some GPS devices are overpriced compared with the competition. Shop around when searching for the right GPS unit, because you may find a better deal or a better device all together. Many times, you can get the same quality GPS device with the same features for less money if you pass on the “latest and greatest” model, and go with last year’s model instead.
