Remember back in the day when you printed out driving directions and pasted them to your dash?
Thankfully, those (slightly dangerous) days are over, thanks to the advent of GPS navigation systems. These systems can locate you and tell you exactly where to go so that you don’t have to drive around aimlessly if you’ve made a wrong turn.
And research shows that 26 million families used a GPS in their car in 2018. 26 million people can’t be wrong.
While may phone interfaces have GPS systems built into them, a high-level GPS is much better than a phone.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the top rated GPS systems that you can use in your car.
Read on for more.
Why Use GPS Navigation Systems Instead of Your Phone?
Your phone has a GPS, so why don’t you just use it instead of a GPS system? Well, there are a few reasons why this isn’t the best idea.
Firstly, you need your phone in order to contact people. Having your phone on the entire time while you’re driving can drain its batteries and overheat it. If you don’t have it plugged in the whole time you’re driving, you won’t be able to use your phone once you arrive.
Phones also have a smaller interface than a GPS system. Because of this, you may have to squint a little bit to see the GPS, which can be a road hazard and potentially cause an accident.
You don’t want to be in danger because you were struggling to see where you were on the map.
Also, some people complain that certain phone interfaces don’t give you enough warning to exit a freeway or when you have to turn. This can cause a panic, or even a road hazard, as you realize you have to merge or turn at the very last minute.
While some cars have built-in GPS systems, if you buy cars of any condition, you may need an external device.
Read on for a list of some of the best external GPS systems to get you to your destination.
1. TomTom VIA 1535 TM
The TomTom is iconic. So iconic, in fact, that some people refer to car GPS tracker as Tom Toms, like referring to a tissue as a Kleenex.
This particular model is relatively popular for most drivers who use an external GPS. It even comes with a window display and a mount to allow you to use it without having to fool with it while driving.
You can also use voice commands with it so that you can ask it to do something without resorting to having to use your hands.
One of the best features of this TomTom version is that it gives you real-time maps. That means it can detect if there’s a traffic jam up ahead, and it can steer you away from it, taking you on an alternate route.
It also offers a dual navigation feature, where you can see your route at bird’s eye view and the road ahead of you.
2. Garmin Drive 51 LMT-S
This GPS is a favorite for a few reasons. While it does what it’s supposed to, in that it gets you from Point A to Point B, it also has a number of extra features that your phone typically doesn’t have. These features put it a cut above the rest and give it that extra edge over your mobile.
Although it gives you directions, it also gives you restaurant recommendations for your destination and along the way. Say you’re on the road somewhere unfamiliar and have a craving for Mexican food. This GPS has you covered and can deliver you TripAdvisor approved Mexican fare in the area.
This GPS also lets you know when you’re approaching a railroad crossing, an animal crossing and best of all: when you’re approaching a speed camera. That means you’ll know when to slow down so that you won’t catch the police on your tail.
3. Magellan RoadMate 6630T-LM
This is the most expensive one of the lot, but it does provide several extra features for the extra dough you have to fork over for it.
Not only does it provide you with a GPS and help find you alternative routes if you need them, but it can also record the road for you. If you get in an accident, this is extremely useful, as it can corroborate your story in a way that no witness or another individual can. It’s a neutral third-party.
It is so smart that the recording starts when it detects an accident, to ensure that you get everything on tape.
It can also let you know if you’re driving above the speed limit, if you’re drifting or if you need to turn on your headlights. The GPS will also let you know if you’re approaching a speed camera to keep you on the straight and narrow.
Choosing the Best GPS for You
GPS navigation systems are fantastic because they can be used in several different cars. If you’ve got more than one vehicle, you can simply transfer it from one to the other without hassle.
When choosing the best GPS system for you and your family, remember to pick the features you need the most and that serve you the best. You can pick one out on a budget, or splash out on a more expensive one, that’s totally your call.
For more articles on education, technology and business, visit the rest of our site!
