GPS Devices

With so many different GPS devices on the market today how do you choose which one to buy? In this guide we look at the basics and provide some tips and pointers for selecting the right GPS navigation system to suits your needs.

In Car (fixed)
Perhaps the first experience many have of GPS is renting a car that has inbuilt Satellite Navigation. These systems are often integrated with the cars entertainment systems and have large colour screens, manufacturers are able to keep prices rediculously high with the list price of these options often being in excess of €1500. Unless the dealer throws it in Free of Charge then avoid these like the plague. They are often difficult to use with poor data entry and the maps go out of date very quickly and are rarely updated.

In Car (portable)
Probably the most popular system type in Ireland, these units are dedicated in car GPS systems that are easily transferred between vehicles and are normally held in place with a windscreen sucker mount. Makers such as Garmin, TomTom, Magellan and Mio have become familiar names and record numbers of units were sold in the Republic of Ireland last year.

PDA Based GPS
The main alternative to In Car systems is the PDA based GPS. PDA's have always been a curious gadget with many owners not really knowing why they carry them.

Recently the PDA based system has been somewhat overshadowed by the portable units, however there are still excellent systems available and they often have cutting edge features ahead of the all in one units.

Buying Tips
When you look at the different types of GPS devices out there, you may wonder which one is right for you. Prices can range from €100 - 5000, so it is important to do your homework. Find out what features each device has, and determine whether you need them or not. The following is a list of tips to get you started when you are shopping.

Research the brand name. Though GPS technology is fairly new, the manufacturer should have a long track record of creating quality electronics.
Don’t buy the cheapest or the most expensive GPS device out there. The cheapest may not meet your expectations and the most expensive one probably has too much extra stuff you will never use.
Look for a large display, lighted if you are going to be using it at night.
If you will be using your GPS while travelling by foot look for a model that is lightweight, and water resistant.

Once you decide on a unit, shop around for the best price. Some of the newest top brand names are available from our GPS Shop.