Compare Portable GPS Units

GPS (Global Positioning System) units have had a tremendous effect on the way people travel. Many cars come equipped with built-in GPS systems and there are portable devices available as well. With numerous models and increasingly diverse functions to choose from, there are some aspects to consider before you select a suitable GPS unit.

• 1

  Choose a portable size that suits your needs. Some hand-held units are smaller than their portable vehicle counterparts, so consider the device's purpose before you make a purchase. For example, if you want a unit that is solely used for walking, hiking and biking purposes, a smaller unit that you can hold in your hand or in your pocket is appropriate. However, if you want a unit that you can use in your car as well, you might want to go with a larger screen variety.

• 2

  Take a look at GPS units that come equipped with varying screen functions. For example, some units operate with changeable daytime and nighttime screens that make it easier to see maps and read navigational directions at differing light levels.

• 3

  Inquire about whether or not the unit says the streets names when navigating. Some GPS units only tell you to turn right or left at a given street. Others that are more navigational in nature say the name of a street before you approach it and knowing the street name beforehand is useful in various circumstances.

• 4

  Find out if you can download international maps as well as North American plans on your device. This will come in handy if you plan to travel abroad.

• 5

  Choose a portable model that not only includes driving navigation tools but foot and bicycle routing functions as well. This is useful for excursions that are not performed in a vehicle.