Tips on Finding the Best GPS Devices 2011

What is a good way to find the best GPS devices? Some people might think that it is closing your eyes and pointing to one on your computer screen. Others might think it is by having a store employee spin you around with a blindfold and letting you take your pick.

Why is it so difficult to find the best GPS device? Because of the multitude of brands with different features. This article is designed to help you look at the different GPS manufacturers and find the unit that meets your travel needs.

All GPS devices start with one main function - giving directions. The difficulty arises when you try to compare price versus features. But finding the best GPS device doesn't have to cause you heartache.

GPS units are all pre-programmed with popular destinations that are called Points of Interest (POIs). They also all offer screens that have easy-to-use icons and keys you use to enter information. GPS receivers are also easy to use, no matter which one you may choose.

The challenge with finding the best GPS device is in weighing cost versus options. Determining which options you need the most will help you determine how much you can expect to pay.

Although you can easily find a number of GPS manufacturers, the top three are Garmin, Tom Tom, and Magellan. Buying a GPS device made by one of these manufacturers will help guarantee that it will last for years to come.

The No. 1 GPS manufacturer is Garmin. The company has 50% of the total GPS market because it has a device for almost every budget. Garmin's most economical GPS unit is the Nuvi 200 that can be bought for less than $150. At the top of the line, Garmin also has a model that sells for close to $1,000.

Tom Tom is right in the rear-view mirror behind Garmin. This is because of the Tom Tom One, 3rd Edition that is priced similarly to Garmin's Nuvi 200. The difference is that the One, 3rd Edition offers more features than the Nuvi 200.

Magellan opened the doors of the GPS world. It was one of the first manufacturers with its Maestro line that offered units in the $150-$350 price range. Magellan's solid reputation is well-known in the GPS industry. Magellan has also gained popularity because of its partnership with auto club AAA. Magellan offers AAA's Tour Book in some of its GPS devices. This allows AAA members access to the Tour Book for many travel benefits.