subject: 5 Things To Consider When Buying A New Sat Nav [print this page] Sat navs, also known as GPS systems, have become increasingly popular in recent years. As prices go down more and more people decide to ditch the atlas and rely on satellite navigation instead.
They help to rid you of the daunting prospect of finding your way around a new city as a GPS gives you precise directions so that you never get lost again. This means that sat navs can help to make car journeys quicker (depending upon the traffic), cut your fuel bills and reduce the amount of stress behind the wheel.
So what should you be looking out for when you buy a sat nav?
1. Type
The first thing to consider is which type of GPS suits your lifestyle best. Most in car entertainment shops will stock three types of GPS systems: portable, in dash and smartphones.
Portable sat navs can be fitted on the windscreen or dashboards using a mounting bracket, so you can even use them in other cars besides your own. They are the most popular type of GPS available on the market and can be used straight out of the box.
In dash sat navs are wired into the car and are likely to require professional fitting. You should look out for stores that offer fitting services as well as sell the units; you will save yourself a lot of money, time and hassle.
Finally, there's specific software you can buy which will transform your GPS-enabled smartphone handset into a portable sat nav.
2. Screen size
GPS screens come in different sizes, starting at 3.5 inches. Which size you choose will depend on how often you're going to use the GPS system. If you think you'll use it all the time you might want to consider buying a sat nav with a large screen, or a widescreen model. It will allow you to see a greater area of the map and will make using the touch screen easier.
3. Mapping Levels
When you buy a sat nav you will get mapping software preloaded. However, will you only need to see UK maps or are you planning on taking the car abroad? If you think you're only going to use your sat nav domestically, opt for the UK Street Level Mapping which will give you access to all roads in the UK. However, if you think you will be using the system in Europe, it might be worth investing in a GPS that supports European Mapping.
Don't forget that around 15% of the road network changes every year and that you should update the mapping information periodically.
4. Extra features
There are a number of additional features you might want to consider when buying a new sat nav. The most popular extras include live traffic information and bluetooth. You can even by Satnavs that double up as an FM transmitter or an MP3 player. You should look into all the different options before committing to buy.
5. Accessories
Sat nav accessories enable you to keep your GPS system in good working order. You should seriously consider purchasing a good quality carry case to protect the sat nav screen. You can even pick up a spare charger or mount without spending a fortune. Alternatively you might also want to take a look at sat nav packages or bundles that include the GPS system and the accessories you want. You will save yourself loads of money in the process.
