How to Choose Car GPS System

Car GPS System Driving Choices

Car GPS systems were once a novelty gadget, but they are becoming increasingly more popular. With the market now flooded with them, deciding on the best GPS vehicle tracking system for your vehicle can be overwhelming. Narrowing down your choices may depend on your budget, but safety and ease of use should also be considered. Voice directions and a bright screen are a big plus, and a touch screen can be helpful.

There are three main types of GPS vehicle tracking systems, and the advantages and disadvantages of each will definitely factor into your decision. You may be considering purchasing a new vehicle with the navigation system already installed, or perhaps you are looking for an aftermarket in-dash unit. A separate portable unit is the third type of GPS vehicle tracking system that can be used in multiple cars. Your personal needs should determine which type of GPS system will work best for you.

Built-in Car GPS System

Ironically built-in GPS systems offered as a standard feature or as an option on new vehicles tend to be more expensive than an add-on car GPS system. In these types of GPS systems, the LCD display is typically shared with other devices such as the radio or climate control. What's nice about these car GPS systems is that the antenna and power attachment are already part of the vehicle, and the LCD screens are usually large, allowing for better visibility. However, these GPS vehicle tracking systems are usually a step behind in new features available on the market.

In-Dash Add-on Navigation System

In-dash add-on car GPS systems replace a vehicle's normal radio (and CD player), and therefore include a radio, CD player, and sometimes even a DVD player, and most likely will have a large LCD display. These devices should be installed professionally, but are not as expensive as Built-in GPS systems.

Portable Navigation System

If flexibility is what you are after, a portable GPS vehicle tracking system may the right choice for you. These devices provide the ability to swap the GPS system from one car to another, and often can provide more features for less cost than built-in devices. Portable GPS systems are typically easy to mount and be removed quickly. Not all of these devices work on batteries; some require the use of a power plug. So you may want to consider if you will be using this device somewhere other than a vehicle.

GPS System

Find Your Way to the Right GPS System

When it comes to buying a GPS system, you need to know what you are looking for; then you'll be much more likely to know when you've found it. The right GPS system for you depends on what you need the GPS system for and how you plan to use it.

How Do You Plan to Mark Your Spot?

Finding the right GPS system primarily depends on how you plan to use it. Do you plan on using the device on foot, on a bike, or are you looking for a GPS tracking system to use while driving or boating? If you are looking for a GPS system to use while hiking or hunting, for example, then you may need to consider the weight of the device and whether or not it is weather-proof. If you choose a device that is too heavy and bulky, you may have difficulty carrying it, leading to frustration. Also, if you should experience bad weather, a weather proof GPS system would be essential. Finally, if you are seeking a handheld GPS system, make sure it contains the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) feature, allowing you to pinpoint your location to within ten feet of where you are standing. This can often be "spot on" for adventure seekers.

If you are looking for a GPS tracking system to use in your car, then weight and weather proof criteria do not apply. In this case, a large, bright display would be useful, with a street mapping feature for easy navigation. An external antenna compatibility will also allow you to pick up satellite signals with ease.

A Marine GPS system can be used while boating or deep sea fishing and can help you determine your exact coordinates. These types of devices are typically weatherproof, and should feature marine mapping and back tracking capabilities. An active sonar capability is another feature to consider, allowing you can determine what lies beneath the water, and where.

Essential Features for all Types of GPS Systems

There are some features that are essential no matter how you plan to use your device. The more channels or satellites a receiver can monitor, for example, the greater the accuracy you will get from your GPS system. Therefore, a 12 channel receiver system will allow you to receive the required number of signals in all types of terrain and even under heavy tree coverage. Powerful batteries and a long battery life are also critical. Finally, trans-reflective color screens are now available on several models, and are both easy to read in glaring sunlight and easy on battery life. Keeping all of these features in mind will lead you in the right direction to find the GPS tracking system that is right for you.