When you start to look at GPS'es, you have lots of options. It was much easier back in the old days, when there only was two models to choose from - and you only could afford one :) This article is a buyers guide to GPS'es for new users. The goal of this article is to give you some thoughts on what to look for in a GPS before you buy one.
First issue when choosing a GPS is always to have an idea of what you want to use it for. Common uses are one (or a combination of more) of the ones listed below.
- Vehicle. These units can talk to you and some can make phone calls. Most of them are bumpy in figure and got touch screens.
- Hiking. Or other outdoor activity like Geocaching. These units are waterproof and small in sizes. They should have GPS receivers that are sensitive like SiRF III. You can buy with and without maps.
- Boat. There are lots of options if you got a boat. Usually they have big screens. And they should be waterproof.
- Fitness. Garmin have just announced a new series of units for cycling and running.
- Aviation. If you are a pilot...
The question is as always - what should I choose?
If you are a lazy bump who only drives a car then this is very simple - you go for a vehicle GPS. If you live for (and on) a boat, you will pick one that is suited for a boat.
For most of us we'll probably like a little bit of all - at least I want it. I use my GPS in my car, on the trail, when I hike, when I ski - basically when I got reception :)
Below are some thoughts that should give you some ideas for what you are looking for.
- Do you want maps? There are lots of maps, but not all will go on all units. There are maps for driving - these maps can tell you where to drive. You can get sea maps for use with a boat. You can get topo maps, which are maps for the woods.
- Can the unit talk - in your language? Most car unit can tell you where to drive (take roundabout to 2. exit). This feature is loved and hated by people. You have to decide for yourself if you want it, and how much. Car units talk, most other units do not.
- Color screen or black/white? Color screens are more expensive but are easier to read.
- Do you want routing capabilities? With routing the GPS can tell you where to turn to get to your destination. All car GPS'es got routing capabilities. A GPS without routing capabilities will only show you a straight line to the destination.
- Internal memory. If you want a GPS with map this is very important. You should go for a model with a memory card or lots of internal memory. 128MB minimum. I live in Oslo, Norway - and on my unit I need 40-50MB of memory to get the area around me. Road density is higher in Europe than the US, and my recommendation is for Europe.
- Water proof. This is something all devices should be. But not all are. Especially not car units and PDA's. Also ask if the unit floats in water. Not all do.
- Digital compass and altimeter. Most people won't need this. My unit got both, but I never use them. When hiking, the compass is great when you stand still and try to find out where you want to go. (The GPS calculates north based on movement. When you stand still it can't tell your heading. You'll notice this as you stand still and turn around.
- USB connector. You should be able to connect the unit to your PC when you want to upload new maps or want to transfer waypoints. Verify that all cables you need ships with the unit, especially if the unit got a serial interface. USB connectors are more standardized.
- Shape and figure. See that it got a shape that suits you. For a car unit shape does not matter much, but if you want to use it outdoor it should fit in your hand and have a weight that is ok to carry for a long walk. There must be a way to attach the unit to your neck or belt.
- Battery. All GPS'es need some kind of power. Is it a rechargeable internal battery or can you replace it yourself. I prefer a unit where I can replace the batteries myself when they dry out. Most car units got internal rechargeable batteries you can't replace. When you're hiking you won't carry chargers - and even if you do - is it power where you are going?
I hope this article will help you out when you start your search for the ultimate GPS. All I can promise you is lots of fun and a gadget you can have lots of fun with. If you have any questions or comments on this article don't hesitate to contact me.
About the author's GPS
The author chose a Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx. This unit is an all-purpose unit. I take it with me everywhere. Even on a plane. I've been sailing with it, I've been skiing with it, hiking with it and drove lots of small countryside roads with it. I just love this unit.
