GPS Buying Guide

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Technology Buyers Guide

GPS devices are a modern travel essential, offering navigation with turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and points of interest. Whether you use a smartphone app, a built-in car system, or a portable navigation device (PND), this guide will help you choose the best option for your needs.

Types of GPS Systems

1. Smartphone GPS Apps

Advantages:
Often free and preloaded on your phone (e.g., Google Maps, Apple Maps).
Offers real-time updates, alternate routes, traffic views, and alerts.
Easy to update with the latest maps and features.
Integrates with calendar and personal habits (e.g., suggesting leave times for appointments).
Considerations:
Consumes mobile data and drains phone battery.
May lose signal or functionality in areas with poor cellular service.
Requires accessories like a car mount or charger.

2. Built-in Car Infotainment Systems

Advantages:
Integrated into your vehicle, no need for a smartphone.
Uses satellite GPS, so it works even without cell service.
Multi-functional (navigation, climate control, internet, music).
Adjusted via touchscreen, steering wheel controls, or voice commands.
Considerations:
Expensive to repair or replace.
Quality varies across car brands.
Updates can be costly or infrequent.

3. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Advantages:
Combines your smartphone’s features with your car’s infotainment system.
Offers familiar interfaces and voice commands (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant).
Automatically updates apps and maps.
Considerations:
Requires a compatible vehicle or aftermarket head unit (~$500 installed).
Limited app support (e.g., no Google Maps on Apple CarPlay).

4. Telematics Systems

How They Work:
Combines GPS and cellular technology for emergency assistance, roadside help, and navigation.
Examples: GM OnStar, Toyota Entune, BMW Assist.
Considerations:
Often requires subscription fees after trial periods.
Dependent on cellular service.

5. Portable GPS Devices (PNDs)

Advantages:
Works via satellite, ensuring reliability even without cell service.
Offers features like voice commands, real-time traffic, and lifetime map updates.
Compact and transferable between vehicles.
Includes specialized models for trucks and RVs, factoring in height and road restrictions.
Considerations:
Smaller screens than built-in systems.
Requires secure mounting.
Battery life varies (2-4 hours on average).
Prices range from $80 to $400.

Top Free Navigation Apps

Apple Maps
- Features: 3D views, Flyover, real-time traffic, public transit guidance.
- iOS-exclusive.

Google Maps
- Features: Offline maps, real-time navigation, Street View.
- Available on iOS and Android.

Here Maps
- Features: Offline navigation, public transit info, biking routes.
- Available on iOS and Android.

Waze
- Features: Community-sourced traffic updates, active rerouting, speed camera alerts.
- Available on iOS and Android.

Key Features to Consider

1. Traffic Monitoring

Opt for GPS systems or apps with real-time traffic data to avoid accidents and closures.

2. Battery Life

Look for a PND with at least 2 hours of battery life for use outside the car.

3. Screen Size

Larger screens (4.7 inches or more) are easier to read, especially for trucks and RVs.

4. Portability

PNDs are ideal for use across multiple vehicles or as a handheld device for walking.

Additional Tips for Choosing the Right GPS

Ease of Use: Look for intuitive interfaces and voice-command capabilities.
Real-Time Traffic: Choose options with reliable traffic updates or crowd-sourced data (e.g., Waze).
Staying Updated: Apps and portable GPS with lifetime map updates are cost-effective in the long run.

Choosing the right GPS depends on your travel habits and preferences. Whether you’re using a smartphone app, investing in a portable device, or relying on your car’s built-in system, there’s a solution for everyone.