Car GPS navigation devices are useful and versatile consumer technology systems. They let you travel and navigate even in remote areas you’re not familiar with. That’s the main reason why car owners prefer to install them in their vehicles. To cater to the needs of users, numerous brands offer different types of systems. If you’re on the market for a car navigation system, you could get overwhelmed with the available options. So how do you choose the right device? Here are handy tips that should help you arrive at a well-education decision.
Enlist popular vendors
The choice of the right GPS system for your vehicle begins with thorough research. Without investing time, you won’t be able to find the right unit. So be wary of this important point and take time while shopping. Firstly, seek information about GPS navigator vendors from your friends and associates. Those who’ve bought a GPS tracking device might help out.
You may also want to check online sources to complete your checklist. Browse the net using relevant search terms such as the best car GPS navigation system. Within moments, you could find numerous brands matching your search query.
After completing your checklist, scan reviews and ratings about these vendors. Folks who’ve bought GPS tracking systems often post their feedback on review sites. That lets you read views and opinions of people who’ve actually bought GPS trackers. In accordance with ratings and endorsements, trim down your list to a few brands that are highly-rated for quality and usability.
Important features to choose the right GPS navigation system
Any GPS tracker comes with certain common features useful for any vehicle owner. However, some models are better than others, and include the latest features to ease your navigation chores. It’s best to explore such features in view of your requirements to pick the best system.
Screen size
Most navigators have a touch-screen display that varies in size from 3.5 inches to 7 inches. Smaller systems with smaller screens are easier to mount and tend to be less intrusive on your road view. Large displays, on the flip side, provide more control functions on the display screen compared to a smaller device. For example, you could see the map and six other options on a larger screen.
A small screen, however, will allow you to view the route map and one to two menu options. Figure out what works well for you. In case you travel within the easy vicinity of your city, a small screen could be an ideal choice. Having a bigger screen (with more control functions) is a better bet for exploring remote areas.
Portability
While any car GPS navigation device is portable, the portability of each unit varies from others. Most of the navigators are slim measuring about less than an inch to one and a half inch in thickness. However, this isn’t the case always. You can find bigger models too.
Think how often you may want to take the GPS tracker out of your car to use it for walking directions, use in a rental vehicle after a flight, or keep it safe when not in use. A larger unit might make a great choice for in-case use. On the other hand, a smaller compact unit should be a better choice for carrying in your purse or pocket.
Mounting options
Most navigation units embody a windshield mounting bracket. It’s the easiest and most easily viewable way to mount the system. Such an option works well with smaller devices. However, certain areas don’t allow mounting any device on a windshield.
So check your local regulations before considering this mounting option. Another handy option would be a disc which mounts to your dash. You could also go for a portable friction mount, perfect for uneven surfaces. It’s a nonslip beanbag encompassing a mount attached to it.
Map updates
The geography of any region changes every year due to the construction of new buildings and roads. In case your navigator’s maps are out-of-date, you could get lost in the region. Carrying outdated navigating maps is as good as traveling without a navigation system. So make sure that the device you’re considering has up-to-date maps. Also, ensure that the maps could be updated with a download from the maker’s website.
Traffic updates
While most navigators let you track the maps and routes thereon, they won’t update you on traffic. In case you’re pressed to reach a particular place within a given time frame, such navigators won’t help out. It’s likely that you may get stuck in a traffic jam. You need a device that will keep you from traffic and let you travel seamlessly all through your route.
Some navigators could indicate on your screen where there are congested roads along the route. These systems use auxiliary receivers to obtain traffic data from various sources. With the help of a traffic updater, you can route around the traffic and get to your desired destination faster.
Warranty
Car GPS navigation systems could be a costly proposition. As such, you may want to ensure that your investment yields better results. So, how do you ascertain that? Your best bet will be product warranties.
A warranted product ensures that simple issues and repairs will be taken care of without seeking anything from your end. However, make sure that the product is backed by a long and comprehensive warranty. That should help you make the most out of the device.
Pricing
Of course, you don’t wish to dent your budget completely on buying a good-quality navigation system. While you can find GPS trackers in all pricing points, never go for cheaper models. Such units will wear out or won’t function properly.
Rather, focus on brands that offer top-class navigators at reasonable rates. Assess the functions, features, warranty, and pricing of various models minutely. Finally, settle with the model that matches your preferences without hurting your finances.
Bottom line
Choosing the right car GPS navigation system could be a big challenge due to the availability of so many models out there. However, you may get rid of this herculean task by shopping around with updated information. Just stick to the above tips when checking GPS navigators and you could choose an ideal model on a budget.