This product is becoming increasingly popular among consumers in many countries. The new models are cheaper and easier to use compared to 1-2 years ago. Here are 3 devices that are rated to have the best mapping and voice guidance systems.
Palm GPS Navigator
This product transforms Bluetooth-enabled smartphones such as the Treo and Tungsten into navigation tools by adding a compact Bluetooth GPS receiver and TomTom software, along with maps stored on an SD Card. The Bluetooth connection between the GPS and PDA may cause some lag, but at a price of $250, this setup is still considered one of the best ways to leverage computing power for navigation. Additionally, its smart automatic charging system includes connectors for both the GPS receiver and the PDA, ensuring easy power supplementation.
MapQuest PND
The world’s leading online mapping service provider, MapQuest, has branded its name on TomTom’s mini GPS device, the GO 300, designed for automobiles. Similar to the Palm and Garmin products, the MapQuest Personal Navigation Device (abbreviated as MapQuest PND), priced at $699, stores maps and data on an SD Card. TomTom’s voice-guided navigation system (available in 30 languages and 50 different accents) is clear and audible through the radio, even in noisy road conditions. The bright touchscreen display measures a generous 11.4 x 39.1 cm. This device is nearly twice the size of the Garmin StreetPilot i3 mentioned below but is easier to use and weighs only 0.3 kg, making it portable without a 12-volt power cord.
Garmin StreetPilot i3
The advantage of this $400 device is its color maps and voice navigation system. However, the StreetPilot i3 uses a wheel-like button and two other buttons to handle all operations, making data entry less convenient compared to touch-screen devices. Additionally, the software has limited options, such as fewer voice variations. The GPS functionality itself is somewhat less accurate compared to other similar products. With dimensions of 7.6 x 6.8 x 5.5 cm and weighing 0.1 kg, this TV-shaped device still performs well and is one of the most affordable colored screen navigation products available.
