GPS Device

GPS devices are handy navigation tools for handheld or vehicle use. While high-end luxury cars come with navigation systems standard, for most of us, these are aftermarket add-ons. While the technology is constantly developing, prices are declining. This means that when you're looking for a GPS device, you're bound to get more for your money as the products get more advanced and the competition more fierce.

Garmin is a leading manufacturer in the GPS system market. The company manufactures the Garmin Streetpilot series, a line of mid-priced vehicle navigation systems. Their iSeries includes the i2, i3, and i5--these are priced between $300 and $550 retail.

The 2600 series is their most expensive line, featuring touch-screen, voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions. These models will also plot locations based on where you are, with suggestions of nearby gas stations, restaurants, hotels and sightseeing opportunities. Garmin also makes the Garmin eTrex, a handheld GPS device for outdoor use such as hunting, fishing or hiking. One useful feature is that this device includes integrated maps of both North and South America.

The Magellan RoadMate is another popular option in vehicle navigation systems. It comes in a variety of models: the Magellan RoadMate 300, 360, 500, 700, and 760 models. Most are offered for North America and Europe and feature nearly seven million points of interest (POIs). Voice guided, the RoadMate from Magellan is a solid entry into the field of lightweight, portable GPS navigators.