When you go out to purchase a portable GPS system, it is wise to know the latest and the greatest. The technology is moving so fast you can easily buy a portable GPS without the features you had hoped for. Not everyone is created equal by any means. Another oddity in the GPS world is that you can’t simply go by price. While some things you can go with the expensive models and get all the latest and greatest, that is not the case with GPS. The only real way to get what you want is to know exactly what you are looking for. Here is a look at some of the more popular features to focus on when you buy your portable GPS.
Traffic updates – This is one feature of portable GPS models that is worth every penny. How cool is it to know exactly what the traffic patterns are like along your route? You can then plan alternate routes or decide it is time for a lunch break rather than sit in stifling traffic all day long.
Bluetooth features – This awesome feature allows you to use your cell phone directly through the model hands free if you have a phone that is also enabled (most are these days) This is an often overlooked feature of portable. GPS devices that is incredibly handy when you are riding on a long trip. You never have to pick up your phone to stay in touch and keep connected.
Connected GPS – Want to search for a particular location along your route but don’t want to search on your phone or laptop? With connected GPS you can simply speak it and find it with no problems. This is a feature that is extremely popular with the younger crowd but it would be a great feature for anyone.
Automatic updates – Another important feature of GPS is automatic map updates. The last thing you want to do is have to constantly be downloading updates. The latest and greatest will take care of the majority of things for you.
GPS 3d – If you want to see where you are going visually, the options are fairly limited. One improvement, however, is GPS 3d. This shows the architecture and the layout of the land much better than the old fashioned flat views of most GPS units. If you are a more visual person where directions are concerned you will find this feature to be a big improvement.
As you can see, finding the right GPS model for you and your family is not quite as cut and dried as it once was. You can find great bargains by shopping around and it pays to know what features you specifically want. This allows you to absolutely get what you are looking for in the portable GPS you are buying.
Do you have a GPS? What features are you looking in a new model?
sharon martin says
I’ve learnt something today lol, especially about the bluetooth and connected gps features, will look out for these for definite next time I purchase one.
Athena says
GPS’ have come a long way. You are never ever in fear of getting lost anymore – personally I use the GPS on my iPhone – just because I always have it with me. Since I spend so much time on the road – traffic updates are incredibly important to me.
Michele says
My Mom just recently lost the GPS I got her about 5 years ago–considering she just turned 92 and still drives I really want her to have one. Thank you for this advice -iy is very timely for me!
Rebecca Swenor says
This is great information for those looking for a gps indeed. I know nothing about them. Thanks for sharing.
Debi@ The Spring Mount 6 Pack says
We live by our gps. Hubby uses his at work and I use mine for how much I travel.