GPS Buying Guide

If you are planning on purchasing a GPS device this year, you have quite a few options available – enough to merit some research but not enough to make the task as daunting as purchasing a TV or laptop. Our article this season sifts through those available on Black Friday, offering the cheapest models at certain prices as well as our personal picks. If you missed our basic introduction to a GPS article, check that out to get a basic understanding of what you may or may not want in your device.

Under $50
O U R P I C K		Magellan Roadmate 1440 4.3" touch screen display Turn by turn voice prompts One touch search icons and favorite places	$49.98

The least expensive GPS this year, the Magellan RoadMate 1440, is also our pick for best GPS under $50, as it offers a robust line of features for a very low price. A key feature is the one-touch favorites menu, which allows you to save places easily. The RoadMate also offers roadside assistance and a directory of AAA-approved places for AAA members. It is particularly handy for highway driving, offering highway sign assistance and prompts for upcoming exits..

Under $100
C H E A P E S T		TomTom 4.3" XL 335SE 4.3" Display MapShare allows you to easily modify and share maps IQ route technology	$79.00
O U R P I C K		Garmin nuvi 1300 3.5" Display Spoken Street Names	$99.00

Our pick, the Garmin Nuvi 1300, is available from several retailers for $99. Garmin, the leading maker of GPS devices, has improved their base models with improved graphics and updated features. Particularly useful is the Nuvi’s versatility: it offers directions for drivers and walkers as well as those using public transportation. The ecoRoute feature offers time and money saving routes, putting the Nuvi above others in the budget price range.

An honorable mention, available exclusively at Walmart, is the TomTom XL 335SE, which offers advance lane guidance for highway driving and calculates the shortest distance to your destination. TomTom allows users to share maps with other TomTom users, which can be particularly useful. With easy folding and mobility, the TomTom can be taken with you after your travel.