If you are shopping for a car GPS unit, it is important that you know what to look for. There are many different brands and models to choose from, so you need to be able to compare the devices in order to get the best one for your needs. Read on to learn what comparisons to make when browsing for GPS systems.
Look into how easy a GPS system is to use before deciding on whether or not to purchase it. You do not want an item that is difficult to configure. As you are going down the road, you need something simple that you can refer to in order to stay on the right path to your destination. Verbal commands are very helpful, as they eliminate the need to take your eyes and concentration off the road. A screen size that is easily readable from your position in your seat is also ideal.
The accuracy of the maps and routes is vital to make your car GPS unit worth the price you paid for it. If the device leads you in the wrong direction and causes you to become lost, it was basically a worthless investment. Make sure that the system you purchase is up to date as possible. Many devices become outdated after one to two years. You can always check for an update at a later date when needing to travel to an unfamiliar area.
Make sure the GPS systems you are considering have the maps for the areas you will travel to most. Most systems sold in the USA will have, at minimum, map coverage for the primary 48 states. Others will include Alaska and Hawaii, as well as other territories including the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. You may have to get a system specific to the country you will be using it in if it is other than the United States.
You will want to compare the calculation speeds of the systems, and choose the car GPS unit that offers the fastest times. If you miss a turn on your route, you want a device that can quickly recalculate so that you can get back to traveling in the right direction. Systems that are slow can take up to 20 seconds to give you a new route. During that time, you could possibly miss other turns or routes that the system was going to provide you as you keep driving.
As you can see, there is a great deal of features to look for when comparing GPS systems. You want to be sure you choose one that will be worth the money and will fit your needs well. Top of the line models aren't necessarily needed, but you do want to make sure you get a solid car gps unit that can get you from point A to point B easily.