Smart Shopping: GPS Navigation Systems

Getting Started l Types l Features l Brands

GETTING STARTED

If you often travel to new places for work or pleasure, have trouble reading maps, or simply hate to ask for directions, you might consider a global positioning system (GPS) based navigator for your car. Once you put in a destination, the system will plot a route, give spoken turn-by-turn directions, and display the route as you go. Most let you choose your routing preferences, including the shortest distance, the fastest time, or even routes with no toll roads. Some portable units even offer special routing options for walkers or bicyclists to avoid highways and not limit pedestrians due to one-way traffic.

You can also quickly find a variety of points of interest, including gas stations, ATMs, hotels, tourist attractions, and more. Typically, you can search for a specific point of interest, search for ones that are near your current location, or look up ones in a different area. You can even choose a nearby restaurant by the type of food you wish to eat. Once you've located what you want, the system can calculate a route to get you there.

In today's competitive market, GPS prices are coming down and budget-priced units include features previously available only on more expensive models, such as the ability to speak street names, speed warnings, a music player, or a photo viewer. Higher-priced models can include such features as a wireless FM transmitter and Bluetooth-phone compatibility, which allows you to access phone numbers from your cell phone or call a number displayed on your GPS unit. Bluetooth connectivity can be handy for hands-free phone operation, or even making a reservation at a restaurant while en route based on the GPS points of interest information. Premium services, such as traffic and weather reports, are becoming widely available, although they can require a subscription. An alternative that is becoming more common is free traffic information supported by small, onscreen advertising.

Extra features aside, our testing has shown that all GPS guide devices will typically get you to your destination, but not always by the most efficient route. While there is no substitute for local knowledge of roads and traffic situations, some of the latest devices have features such as historical traffic data and the ability for users to modify maps to add some local intelligence.

How to choose
Before you buy a GPS navigator, think about your typical driving conditions, how often you're in unfamiliar areas, and the features that are most important to you.

Next, focus on how well the system works for navigation. The highest-rated models we've tested make it especially easy to enter destinations and give the most helpful directions. Look for a GPS guide device that scored well for entering a destination. Some interfaces are more intuitive than others, and low scoring units can be awkward, slow, or both. Then consider what, if any, extra features you want. We'll take you through these steps and introduce functions to consider in this GPS guide.

What type of driving do you do?
If most of your driving is spent commuting along the same route or running local errands on familiar roads, you might not get much use from a GPS guide device.

On the other hand, if you often encounter traffic congestion, a nav system can help you get around it by showing surrounding roads and plotting an alternative route. It also may be worth paying extra for real-time traffic information, which can warn you of traffic congestion, accidents, or road construction, and plot a route around it before you even get to the trouble area. But traffic reporting on GPS units is not perfect; like other sources of traffic information, it can be inaccurate or outdated.

Where and how often will you use it?
If you're buying a new car, check to see if a built-in system is available and how much it costs. These are nicely integrated into the car. But they can be more complicated to use and are typically more expensive than portable systems, initially and for subsequent map updates. Still, if most of your driving is done in one car, or if you'd prefer not to have a unit mounted on the dash or windshield, and you're not on a tight budget, you might be happier with a built-in system.

If you often fly to new places and rent vehicles, or if you own more than one car, a portable system might be the way to go -- especially with prices for entry-level systems now starting at around $100. And portables are now available with high-end features once found only on built-in models.

If you only need directions occasionally, a cell phone, smart phone, or PDA with navigation capability might meet your needs. With these, you don't have to pay for an expensive in-dash system or worry about carrying around a portable GPS guide unit. Typically the cost for cell phone navigation is $3 dollars a day or $10 dollars a month. But you'll also need to purchase a mount, car charger, and possibly a data plan for your phone.

What about extra features?
A full-featured aftermarket model can effectively upgrade an older car with features like a trip computer, Bluetooth hands-free telephone capability, an MP3 player, an iPod connection, and an FM transmitter.

Voice command is a feature that enables you to navigate on the run, allowing you to enter an address or ask for a gas station, restaurant, hospital, or location from the POI menu simply by asking for it. It's available on a few high-end units now, with more on the way. Performance varies, but we've found that this feature works very well on the Garmin Nuvi 885T.

If available, live traffic information, weather, and local gas prices can offer an increased measure of safety and convenience. But you may have to take on a subscription fee.

Check the local laws
Minnesota prohibits drivers from installing any device on a windshield, the most common location to mount portable GPS guide units. Check the laws in your area and the mount types available before you buy. Most manufacturers include a plastic disk that sticks to the dashboard to provide an alternative mounting location. Another option is a "bean bag" mount, which simply sits on the dashboard and has a rubberized surface to hold it in place.

If you travel outside the United States, look for a portable system that offers maps for navigating in other countries. Most will function in the U.S. and Canada, but some upper-level models from Garmin, TomTom, and others come preloaded with or can be retrofitted with maps of Europe and other regions.

Built-in battery convenience
Almost all new portables now come with a rechargeable battery. If you want to use it for walking or use the multimedia features outside of a car, look for one that will operate for at least three hours on a charge.

While all systems include a plug for your car's 12-volt outlet, a built-in battery also gives you the option of using the power port for another device, such as a cell phone, and it eliminates cord clutter.

A battery also enables you to enter a destination and plot a route before you enter the vehicle. Some models are also packaged with a traditional AC plug for in-home use and recharging. Most also charge through a computer's USB port.

Size matters
If you choose a portable unit, size is important -- especially if you frequently pack it in a suitcase. Some models are no bigger than a wallet and weigh less than 7 ounces, while others are as large as a paperback book and can weigh two pounds or more. Also, look for a screen that's large enough to read easily without blocking your view. We've found a 3.5-inch diagonal screen is a good compromise, but 4.3-inch wide screens allow more information to be displayed and make it easier to enter addresses, due to larger touch-screen buttons.

TYPES

Shoppers looking for navigational aid can choose from many types of GPS devices, including aftermarket portable or in-dash units, cell phones, PDAs, factory-installed in-dash units, telematics systems, and even laptop computers. All have advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for you depends on your needs and budget.

Aftermarket portable systems
Today's portable units offer most of the features of carmaker built-in systems, and some have features that you can't get in a built-in system. Plus, they're compact enough to carry with you. They can easily be moved from car to car, and their light weight and small size make them easy to pack in luggage. With prices from about $100 to $700, portable units are much less expensive than built-ins, at $1,500 to $2,000. And features available in portables have been advancing in recent years. Real-time traffic reporting is available even on more-affordable units, and some now offer voice-command capability.

But portables have smaller screens than built-in automaker systems, which can make them harder to read at a quick glance. You also have to securely mount the device to prevent possible injury in an accident, make sure it's out of the way of possible air-bag deployment, and remember to hide or take it with you when you leave the car. (Theft of GPS units is a growing problem.)

If the unit's battery loses its charge, you will also have to deal with a cord running to a power outlet.

To make shopping easier, we've broken down portable navigators into three types of GPS devices: basic, traffic optional, and traffic ready. Determining the features you want and the amount you want to spend will help you to select the category that is best for you.

Price: $100 to $300.

Price: $150 to $400.

Price: $200 to $700.

Aftermarket in-dash systems
If you like the idea of an in-dash unit but aren't in the market for a new car or don't want a factory version, you might consider an aftermarket navigation system. These types of GPS systems are typically packaged as part of a premium stereo. Like automaker systems, they usually have a large, easy-to-read screen, and some can show real-time traffic conditions along your route, and even play DVDs. In some systems, a motorized screen retracts into the dash and remains out of sight until you want to use it. This stealth design keeps the dash uncluttered during normal driving and conceals the unit from would-be thieves. Aftermarket systems can cost as much as factory systems and are best installed by a pro. And also keep in mind that some factory audio systems are so integrated into the dash that it's difficult to replace them with an aftermarket unit.

Cell-phone based navigation
Some cell-phone service carriers, including ATT, Sprint, and Verizon, are now providing GPS navigation that can be accessed through compatible cell phones. Unlike GPS-capable smart phones and PDAs, these types of GPS phones don't have internal mapping software or a POI database; they access the information wirelessly over the cellular network. Menus and features are similar to other portable systems, including spoken and onscreen turn-by-turn directions, traffic info, and a point-of-interest menu. Advantages include eliminating the need to carry an additional device for navigation, always-current databases for map info, as well as POIs, and the ability to call ahead to a destination with the push of a button.

Cost for the service is typically about $10 per month, or it can be purchased for about $3 per day -- handy if you only need directions occasionally. But the small size of some cell-phone screens can make the map and directions hard to see. Smaller speakers compromise the audio quality of spoken directions, and small buttons are harder to manipulate than those on larger devices. Not all phones are available with mounting systems. And the navigation function may require a data plan.

GPS-capable smart phones and PDAs
In recent years, a number of smart phones and PDA models have been introduced with integrated GPS receivers and mapping software. That allows them to function as a portable navigation device, with all of the functions and features of a dedicated GPS unit. While this eliminates the need to have two separate devices, smart phone and PDA screens tend to be smaller than those on dedicated GPS units, and they can be more difficult to use. With prices ranging from $100 to $300 plus monthly charges, these types of GPS solutions can be more expensive in the long run than dedicated portable GPS units.

The iPhone 3GS was the first iPhone capable of supplying turn-by-turn navigation. Within days of its introduction, TomTom and Navigon announced downloads of their software for the iPhone to make it mimic the functionality of their standalone portable GPS units. Other providers are also offering downloadable navigation software for the iPhone

Built-in factory systems
These types of GPS systems are available as optional features when you buy a new car. They typically retail for about $2,000 when offered alone but are often bundled with other features, such as a backup camera or a high-end audio system that can add another $1,000 or more. Built-in systems have large, clear screens that are mounted in the dashboard and have generally intuitive controls. They are integrated nicely into the car, and some use touch-screen displays that make it easy to input destinations and navigate through menus. Some can also respond to voice commands, giving you the added safety of keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. For a subscription fee, many systems can provide real-time traffic and weather reports.

Automaker systems are also the most expensive type of navigation system. Because they're built-in, you can't take them with you if you have more than one car or rent a car. Map updates must be purchased from the car company or dealer, and they can cost hundreds of dollars. Some systems prevent you from entering destinations while the car is moving. While this is intended to limit driver distraction, it also means a passenger can't program it either unless the car is stopped. Finally, you won't be able to upgrade to new technology or features until you buy a new car. Similarly, if you're shopping for a used car, be aware that an earlier navigation system might have old technology and limited or outdated mapping.

Telematics systems
Combining GPS and cellular technology, telematics systems enable drivers to access emergency help or a variety of convenience services from their vehicle. Only available on certain brands of cars, example systems include Ford Sync, OnStar from General Motors, Lexus Link, and TeleAid from Mercedes-Benz. Specific services vary somewhat, and include paid and free offerings.

The Lexus-branded version of OnStar called Lexus Link is being phased out in favor of Toyota and Lexus' own system called Safety Connect beginning with 2010 Toyota and Lexus models. The system includes a menu of services similar to OnStar's, including emergency crash notification and assistance, a stolen vehicle locator, and roadside assistance. Lexus owners can upgrade to Lexus Enform, which allows users to speak to a live operator for turn-by-turn directions and a variety of concierge services.

Users of OnStar, and TeleAid can opt for a navigation package that enables them to simply tell the service operator what address or point of interest they're looking for. Turn-by-turn verbal directions are then downloaded to the car to guide the driver to the destination, similar to a conventional GPS device.

Ford's Sync works a little differently, in that the telephone is not built into the vehicle. Instead, a user pairs his Bluetooth-enabled phone with Sync, which then gives access to automated services including directions. There is no fee for the Ford system for its "Traffic, Directions, and Information" package, which owners can download from www.syncmyride.com.

In addition to verbal directions, some cars may also provide a basic graphic display showing each coming turn. But these systems typically don't provide a full map display. Advantages include ease of use and being able to ask for directions even while driving. Another plus is that you don't have to pay for updated mapping information. On the downside, you have to be in an area with good cell phone coverage for the system to work. And the services can be expensive.

OnStar is available on most GM models, either standard or as an option. Some of those include a free one-year trial period. After that, basic service starts at $199 a year and includes emergency service, remote unlocking, and stolen vehicle location. Adding the navigation capability costs another $100 per year. Buyers of some premium models get upgraded with free navigation for the first year.

Lexus buyers must first pay $900 for the LexusLink option, which includes one year of emergency help but not navigation. Adding navigation, which includes point-of-interest locations and the ability to call a friend, relative, or taxi if you can't drive, costs another $200 for the first year. Subsequent years cost $199 annually for the basic service or $399 with the navigation package. At this writing, prices have not yet been set for Safety Connect or Lexus Enform.

Tele Aid is standard on most Mercedes-Benz models. Basic service includes roadside assistance and emergency help, free for the first year and $240 annually after that. Traffic information and turn-by-turn navigation are available for $450 annually.

Map software and GPS receivers for computers
You can turn your laptop into a navigation device with an add-on GPS receiver and map program. These are available from companies such as DeLorme, Garmin, and Microsoft, starting at less than $100. While they provide functions similar to a dedicated GPS device, a laptop can be impractical to use while driving. Also, laptop screens can be difficult to see inside a car due to glare.

Handheld GPS hiking devices
GPS navigation has many nonautomotive applications, including handheld units for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking GPS devices can include a map, compass, and sometimes altimeter, while adding the ability to program routes, plot a trail, and share information. Many hiking units include what is called a base map, enabling them to show your location on a basic roadway map. But these devices don't show the level of detail common on a dedicated portable car unit, and they typically don't offer turn-by-turn navigational aid. What they can do is inspire trail adventures, including geocaching -- GPS-based treasure hunting. And they can provide an extra safety margin when exploring off the beaten path, with the ability to follow your trail back to the car or share your specific coordinates in case of an emergency.

FEATURES

All GPS navigators on the market today include pre-loaded maps and provide spoken directions and automatic rerouting if you miss a turn. The following are additional features to look for when comparing models, depending on your needs. (These GPS features and other key elements are specified in our GPS model pages, available for each unit included in the Ratings charts.)

Screen size
We've tested portable systems with screens ranging from 2.5 to more than 5 inches. The smallest can be hard to see, and their small touch-screen buttons can make it tedious to enter an address. On the other hand, the largest units can be bulky to carry, and when mounted to the windshield tend to obstruct more of your view of the road. A 3.5-inch screen measured diagonally is a good compromise, but 4.3-inch wide screens are easier to read and use.

Spoken street names
Better systems tell you to turn onto a street, highway, or route number by its name rather than the more general "right turn ahead" or similar generic instruction. This GPS feature, often called text-to-speech, helps you to keep your eyes on the road and less on the GPS unit. It is especially useful in busy, unfamiliar areas where driving is challenging and roads may be close together.

Real-time traffic reports
Units with traffic information can alert you to a problem or slowdown ahead in time to avoid it. Some will even ask if you want to find another route and will detour you at the touch of a button. The real-time data is available to subscribers through a cell-phone network, FM signal, or satellite radio service. But the service is currently available only in some cities and the quality of information--like any traffic reporting--can vary or be less than current. Still, we have found that it can help. Expect to pay a subscription fee, and some devices require an additional receiver costing up to $200. Higher-end GPS models include a built-in receiver. The latest trend is free traffic information, supported by small banner ads that pop up occasionally. Garmin, Magellan, and Nextar all offer this feature on some models. Another emerging trend is that some new models factor in historical traffic data and can route around known congestion patterns such as rush-hour traffic.

Predictive data entry and dynamic search
These GPS features make entering a city name or address faster. With predictive data entry, as you type, the screen's keyboard will highlight only letters that help complete a known name. If you type "Pitt", for example, the system will then highlight "S" as the next letter for Pittsburgh.

Almost all models have dynamic search. This common GPS device feature helps narrow things down as you tap in an address. With dynamic search, if you type "San", the unit might offer up a list of choices including San Diego, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, etc. You can then pick one from the list or just keep typing.

Detour feature
If you see traffic building up ahead, a manual "detour" button will find you an alternative route. Some models allow the user to select a specific distance to route around a problem. Traffic-capable devices integrate their traffic information with detouring functions, prompting a user to choose an alternative route when traffic conditions are unfavorable. That can be helpful in evaluating options before changing course.

Routing option
Some systems can alert you to toll roads on your chosen route and often allow you to select a route that avoids them. Other routing options you might want to look for include multiple trips, or routes for biking or walking that avoid highways and let walkers go against one-way traffic.

Mounts and mounting
Most portable systems mount to the windshield using a large suction cup. Manufacturers have typically used either an angled rigid arm or a flexible gooseneck to attach the unit to the suction cup. We recommend the rigid arm mount because the less-common goosenecks tend to vibrate when the car is in motion.

Something else to look for is a unit that is easy to install and remove from the mount. Typically, a unit slides onto a mount or snaps into it. The power cord either plugs into the mount or directly into the unit. We've found the most convenient to use are mounts that allow you to snap the unit in and release it with the push of a button. If the power cord plugs into the mount, that makes it easier to quickly remove and reinstall the unit.

Minnesota prohibits drivers from mounting any devices to the windshield; California once did but changed that law in January 2009. Check laws in your area before purchasing. An alternative is a "bean bag" mount, which simply sits on the dashboard. Those are a cinch to use, and they stay put pretty well. But beanbags can slide and even fall off the dashboard during abrupt movements. Another mounting method included with most portable GPS devices is a self-adhesive plastic disk that adheres to the dash, giving you a place to attach the suction cup. If you live in Minnesota, or just don't want to have anything hanging from the windshield, make sure you choose a device that includes a disk.

Power Supply
All portable systems can be powered through a car's 12-volt socket, and most have an internal rechargeable battery. An internal power supply helps to minimize a tangle of cords in the car. We found that those units typically operate for 2-4 hours on a charge, although testing revealed significant variance among models. Internal power also allows you to practice using the system and program driving destinations while you are away from the car, or to use the device as a hand-held tool when traveling, walking, or bicycling. An AC power adapter is sometimes included with the systems, allowing the device to be used and recharged indoors. Some can also be charged using a USB cord attached to a computer.

Bluetooth compatibility
This allows you to make and receive telephone calls using the unit's internal speaker, microphone, and screen. Automatically quiets directions while call is being made. Can display user's telephone book, and shows caller ID on-screen. A nice tie-in, this feature allows for dialing point-of-interest locations found in the GPS device. Requires a Bluetooth-compatible telephone.

MP3 player
With a music player, the device can store and play pre-loaded audio files, either through its speaker or through the car stereo using an FM transmitter or a cord from the GPS headphone jack to the car's auxiliary port. This GPS feature means the unit can also be used as a portable music device away from the car. File capacity varies by unit. Most navigation units have SD card expansion slots for file storage.

Video player
Shows videos previously downloaded to unit's hard drive or stored on an SD card. Using this GPS feature normally disables navigation while the video is being shown. This may be appreciated by families on road trips and frequent flyers.

Photo viewer
The viewer allows users to display previously loaded photos or photos stored on an SD card, as a single image or as slide shows.

Foreign languages
Many units offer spoken and displayed directions in Spanish and French in addition to English, and several have even more choices. Some TomTom models can provide spoken directions in more than 30 languages, but can't display them all on the screen. For specific language needs, it is recommended that you check with the device manufacturer for the latest out-of-the-box abilities, and additional language features that might be available by download.