GPS: What Features Do I Need?
Today there are so many GPS systems available that new users don't know where to start, thanks to the competitive pricing you can find a quality entry-level GPS for under $200... that is if you know what to look for.
If you need a GPS system mainly for driving you can narrow down your choices to GPS systems made exclusively for the road or on foot. These entry-level options are very affordable and most basic features are similar. Driving directions usually include turn-by-turn instructions and the best units offer audio directions to prevent distracted driving.
If you are considering a GPS unit that requires you to look at the screen, only opt for this GPS type when walking or jogging. Drivers should always have the option to listen rather then read. This rule also applies to GPS systems for motorcycles. You may pay a bit more for a unit intended for motorcycle use, but the ability to hear turn-by-turn directions while wearing your helmet should be the deciding factor in your purchase.
Truck and RV owners face quite a task in finding GPS units with restricted routes for oversized vehicles. What a boon to truckers to have commericial routes, low overpasses and bridges incapable of holding a truck's weight - all on your GPS unit. RV-friendly GPS units are those which enables RV owners to follow "truck routes" to avoid sharp turns, U-turns, narrow roads, and dense urban streets...among other things.
GPS units for outdoor use may cost a bit more than entry-level driving units but the extra features are worth the price. Most outdoor systems are designed to help you track where you have been on a hike, plus the locations of lakes, parks and major hgihways near your location. When things go well on an outdoor expedition, these features are worth it. If you start feeling lost, unsure of your exact location, or need to avoid bad weather, these features can become lifesaving tools.
GPS models for outdoor use are built to do everything - on the trail or water, then get you back on the highway when the trip is over. An all-purpose GPS model won't be as affordable as an entry-level unit, but the convenience and flexibility makes up for the price difference
If you frequently travel to unfamiliare places, chances are you will need a GPS system with more features than an entry-level unit. Business travelers should consider units with traffice updates options to help avoid time wasting delays. GPS systems with Bluetooth-enabled features can turn your car into a conference room, there are plenty of GPS units that can act as a speakerphone for your cell phone, letting you do business while driving to your next destination.
If you take long road trips, consider investing in a GPS system with entertainment options such as a built-in MP3 player, news updates, and an FM transmitter that sends the audio output of the unit to your car stereo. These entertainment options are especially handy if you are using a rental vehicle and don't have access to your own car's music library or CD changer. Some entertainment features for these GPS systems are by subscription only, so check the fine print before you purchase to learn what comes as a standard option, and which feature require you to pay as you go.
Buying a GPS system is much less intimidating once you narrow down where and how you will use it. Garmin, Magellan, Lowrance, Cobra and Pharos all have entry-level prices are very affordable, if you need extras you will pay accordingly but the expense is usually worth it. GPS systems are made to be compact and easy to use and nearly every features included in a given model is tailored to a specific need. Chances are you will outgrow an entry-level unit over time, but even the most basic model is quite useful if you are new to the GPS technology.
To learn more, your next step is to browse Bestaro GPS Market where you can actually look at pictures with descriptions, then compare the models and find that perfect GPS that will fit into your budget.