Best GPS Navigation Systems
Aftermarket GPS Navigation Systems
Portable navigation systems represent a growing market. Reputable companies include Garmin, Magellan, Tom Tom, with companies like Hewlett Packard, Navman and Navignon quickly joining the ranks. You can find handheld devices used for hiking or geocaching to mountable auto units to GPS programs in cellphones. Evaluating which system is right for you depends in large on how - and how often - you’ll put it to use. Features determine prices, so the most expensive might not be the best choice for you or your car.
I started out knowing very little about GPS Navigation systems for autos, so I didn’t want to aim for a comprehensive list of the best and brightest new models. My goal is to cover the models that people are talking about in a positive way.
This little gem from AllHipHop.com was probably my favorite:
yamomslikeme said -
I have a Garmin Nuvi…Its small and wallet size, so i carry it with me in my pocket and use it on foot when im looking for a store or restaurants. Its a godsend when looking for something to do while on a date. Just make sure to delete any ‘previous locations’ if you have a girl. My chic looked through mine and saw my sidechic address in the Bronx…that shit will get you caught out there..lol
That’s real world usage you won’t read about in Popular Mechanics. :p I didn’t want to completely ignore noted sources, though. Especially now that the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show later this month is busy highlighting so many small gadgets — like GPS units!
In fact, the Navignon 7100 won a CES Innovation Award for it’s free traffic warning subscription, larger 43 inch touch screen, 3D mapping, and Zagat ratings (although, I have to say, the same features appear to be available with the Navman iCn750, but without the sleek design). The question is … do you need that many features, do you need bluetooth and voice command and real-to-life map marking?? If you do, those might be models to keep an eye one.
Colbert over at The Gadget Blog says Goodyear will be debuting a line of GPS units at CES this year, including models with new nav technology like remote control capabilities and an integrated hands-free phone system.
Overall though, it seems like people who are looking for a reliable, well-made GPS unit that won’t cost an arm and a leg might be in the market for a Garmin Nuvi 350, or a Tom Tom 700. Both models received good reviews from real world users, and both are available at (semi) affordable prices.
