Handheld GPS Systems
A Buyer’s Guide for Handheld GPS Systems
Here’s a quick guide to the cheapest yet modern handheld GPS systems for the techie and the price-conscious buyer.
First, take into consideration several pointers when choosing.
- Make sure the system stores numerous routes.
- How many way points can the system store? Ideal is 100 or more.
- Choose a system that can determine the direction and distance of your position from a certain point.
- It must have multi-parallel channels and is capable of local and UTM grid maps.
- If you are more on night adventures, make sure the unit has a backlit display.
- Make sure it has long battery life and is waterproof and rugged.
- Never forget to test the unit and ask assistance from the salesperson. This would help you find the best portable GPS suitable for your needs.
Below $100 Handheld GPS
Garmin e-Trex offers more accurate satellite tracking and position acquisitions for a relatively cheaper price. This is best for the Geocache enthusiast, hiker or even the hunter. Find it at the GPSStore.com at $99. However, the SPOT Personal Tracker and Satellite Messenger is ideal for sharing location information with your loved ones; priced also at $99.
If you enjoy text-to-speech function, Mio DigiWalker C230 is a good choice, with solid and affordable system. Basic specifications include Voice command recognition, automotive, street name announcement and navigations instructions. Grab it Amazon’s for $86.
Nextar GPS system the Q4, basic with its 6 oz and automotive capability, is priced at $85 at Refurb Depot while in Tigerdirect, Amazon, Circuit City at $125.
For Magellan GPS navigation systems, the MapSend is available at $69, TrafficKit – NavTraffic receiver at $64 to $71, all equipped with GPS software and CD-ROM.
GPS units at $100 to $500
Garmin Etrex Handhelp GPS, the Vista H Mapping unit has high-sensitivity receiver ideal for any hiker; Handy and elegantly priced at $180.
For first-time buyers, TomTom ONE 125 is a recommended gadget for $163 to $179. Affordable and easy-to-use, this version is equipped with navigations instructions and designed also for automotive use.
For an in-car high-end GPS unit good pick is the TomTom GO 930 GPS equipped with modern features of voice entry and advanced lane guide. This is available at Amazon.com for $499.
Above $500 GPS units
If you are looking for impressive features and solid performance, Garmin Nuvi 880 is a top choice. It has an extensive speech recognition feature which makes it as one of the best GPS units there is. It is light weight at 6.2 oz, and priced at $899.
Also included as top of the line GPS are relatively high-priced units including Pioneer AVIC N3 for $2,800; Magellan MobileMapper CX for $4,800 and Humminbird 1100 Series 1197c for $2,500.
Buyers basically have an array of options in buying handheld GPS systems. It is indeed important to take several pointers first before purchasing to be able to find the most effective gadget for your adventure.