largest gps display screens free sample

Google Maps takes the top spot for GPS apps. And with good reason. Google Maps covers more of the world than anyone else. Hundreds of millions of places are on the map in 220+ countries. So wherever you live in the world, Google is the most complete map you can find.

By using machine learning, it’s how Google keeps its base map fresh and relatively error-free. Not only this, but they use the power of AI to navigate you through heavy traffic with real-time data. So when you’re on the move, no better GPS navigation app delivers like Google Maps.

Google acquired Waze some time ago. But they still operate quite differently. Let me explain. You should think of Waze as entirely community-driven. It’s like the Wikipedia of GPS apps because it’s the Waze community that determines its success. If there’s a crash, Wazers have each other’s backs by pinpointing its location.

Finally, the last reason I like Apple Maps is that it’s boosted the number of features. For example, it displays speed limits, parking spot reminders, and advanced lane guidance for turning. All we’re missing is integration with Apple indoor maps for places like airports and large shopping malls.

I particularly enjoyed how HERE’s base map displays 3D buildings by default. But the only downside here is that some of the OpenStreetMap buildings can be unfortunately a bit out-of-date. Overall, it completely depends on where you are in the world.

The core idea of TomTom as a company is its handheld GPS receivers. But lately, more users are simply using their smartphones for navigation. So TomTom has adapted to this shifting segment of the market. The TomTom Go Navigation app is a carbon copy of what you can find on their stand-alone devices. For those existing users, it’s nice they already have some familiarity.

OSMAnd was built using two of the largest collaborative databases in the world. First, it leverages the massive volunteer effort of OpenStreetMap (OSM) for its underlying base map. After you download the app, the free version of OSMAnd gives you a limit of 7 location downloads.

OSMAnd puts a nice twist on GPS apps. Some of the best features of OSMAnd are its display for foot, hiking, skiing, and bicycle paths. It’s also a nice feature that you can download individual map tiles to avoid filling your phone’s memory card.

If you’re traveling off the beaten path, Maps.me is a great GPS navigation companion tool. In fact, some hikers use this app because they can take it offline and find trails that wouldn’t have been able to find without it. So, this app was perfectly designed for those who like to get lost.

It’s the curious case of MapFactor’s highest rating in free GPS apps. Don’t get me wrong. It does the job for offline maps. But the free version is absolutely littered with advertisements. There’s an advertisement on startup. Another one on shut down… Even if you look at it the wrong way, an advertisement will pop up.

ar stereos with screens the size of tablets have arrived at Crutchfield, and that’s good news for more car owners than ever. If you’ve been craving a big screen stereo for easy source selection while driving, car audio legends like Alpine, Pioneer, Sony, Kenwood, and more offer some seriously sleek solutions.

There’s a lot to be excited about when it comes to car stereos with oversized touchscreen displays. Striking resolution and responsive control make these stereos a joy to use. Plus, built-in essentials for smartphone integration and voice control like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ look great on a big screen. But the most satisfying development here is that most of these car stereos fit dash openings that previously couldn’t accommodate touchscreen receivers. Use our vehicle fit tool to explore your options.

Because the touchscreen display of these special stereos "floats" in front of your dash, it’s important to evaluate the layout of your air vents and any other controls around where your radio lives. No dash layout is the same. So, car stereos with oversized screens, like the Sony shown below, prioritize adjustability.

Jensen"s CAR110X digital media receiver offers nice compatibility with your smartphone for the most affordable price tag in this category. You"ll get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, USB inputs for phone charging, and 4-volt preamp outputs to incorporate an aftermarket amp and build a solid system — all with a 10.1" touchscreen display.

In the case of their DMH-WT8600NEX, the 10.1" capacitive HD touchscreen display looks gorgeous. And as you"d expect, Pioneer builds in excellent audio controls and loads of features, including Amazon Alexa compatibility and inputs for two cameras. I previewed Pioneer"s other stereos in this series and was impressed by the sturdiness and striking beauty of their displays as well.

If you"re not quite ready for the 10.1" display, Pioneer offers stereos car stereos with 8" and 9" floating displays as well as models that are ideal for custom installations.

Alpine has always taken great strides to bring awesome features to popular vehicles, and their Halo9 Series forged a path for all receivers to follow, offering the first oversized display of its kind and customizing it for vehicle-specific use.

And if that"s not big enough, Alpine equipped their newest Halo receiver — the stunning ILX-F411 — with an 11" screen! The ILX-F411 lets you customize your display, but you"ll lose HD Radio® compatibility, the ability to add Alpine"s Truck Accessory Controller, and certain interface controls only available on the ILX-F309.

Kenwood"s Excelon Reference MXD1057XR digital multimedia receiver is the real deal. Upgrade to a 10.1" floating display with built-in HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, support of high-res audio, and the confidence that comes with a 2-year warranty. Kenwood gives you the tools to customize your homescreen with essential sources and tools. Plus, you get a good ol" fashioned volume knob!

We already know there are lots of great navigation apps for when you have a data connection. But what if you need your GPS location when you"re offline?

Offline GPS is a vital feature for any maps app. You"ll use it if you"re exploring a foreign city and have data roaming turned off, or if you drive into a dead zone during a road trip. Here are the best free offline GPS apps for Android.

Sygic is the most-installed offline GPS app in the Google Play Store. The company has an agreement with TomTom, allowing it to provide offline maps for every country in the world.

Over the years, it has rolled out innovative new features including a live-view function that takes the camera input from your phone and overlays the navigation instructions directly on top of what you see. Other noteworthy features include free map updates, voice-guided GPS navigation, and pedestrian GPS navigation for when you"re on foot.

OsmAnd is another one of the popular maps and GPS apps for Android that works offline. There"s also an online mode for the times when you have a reliable data connection.

The GPS part of the app has a number of key features. They include voice guidance, lane guidance, live estimated times of arrival, a day/night screen mode, on-the-fly driving routes for when you take a wrong turn, and specialist cycling routes.

The maps are organized by country, but densely populated areas have sub-regions available. You can also find maps for speed cameras in certain areas. Each map pulls its data from OpenStreetMap and recent features include Android Auto compatibility, so you can use your maps with your built-in car display.

HERE WeGo is another app that specializes in offline GPS navigation. It offers offline maps for more than 100 countries and they include directions, public transportation ticket prices, car-sharing prices, and train and bus timetables.

Keep in mind that using GPS in the background will quickly drain your phone battery, so make sure to learn the essential ways you can save your battery life on Android to keep it going longer. Like MAPS.ME, the HERE WeGo app is ad-supported.

These are some of the best offline maps for Android that will help you get where you"re going, even without data. But we"ll leave you with a quick word of warning: continuously running GPS apps in the background will quickly drain your battery.

If you"re walking, try to leave your GPS turned off as much as possible. If you"re driving, you should consider investing in a car charger, which is an essential smartphone accessory to keep in your car. That aside, these free GPS apps are essential for navigating on your travels.

Best-in-class directions, driver alerts, points of interest, and free map updates—combined with the best screen we’ve seen on any GPS unit—set the DriveSmart 55 apart from the pack.

The DriveSmart 55’s super-crisp 1200×720-pixel capacitive display is much sharper and easier to read than the 480×272 screen common on most similarly sized models. And its multi-touch control is much easier for zooming in or out on a map than the typical GPS screen’s controls. While the 5.5-inch screen is larger than on typical models—which have 5-inch screens—the overall unit is slightly smaller thanks to the 55’s sleek bezel-less design. Like the best GPS models, the 55 can also connect to a smartphone via Bluetooth, which lets you send destinations to the device, get incoming messages on-screen, and receive extra trip and traffic info. The DriveSmart’s extensive points-of-interest database helps guide you to an area’s best sites and businesses, with integrated TripAdvisor ratings, Foursquare listings, History Network sites, and US National Park directories, which other brands’ models don’t offer. The 55 also provides helpful traffic info in many metro areas, responds to voice commands as well as the best GPS units, and like other top models includes free lifetime map updates—a contrast to the pricey updates you buy for many cars’ built-in nav systems.

You get more free maps for more countries than with Garmin models, but the TomTom Go 520’s display isn’t as sharp and the device isn’t as easy to use as the DriveSmart 55.

While the Go 520 provides many of the same features as the Garmin DriveSmart 55, we prefer the 55 for US use because it gives more specific directions and clearer lane guidance, it has a sharper display, its menu system is easier to use, its voice controls are more extensive, and it offers more driver alerts.

Like the DriveSmart 55, this budget model gives you a best-in-class user interface and points-of-interest database, and top-notch directions, but it lacks its high-resolution display, Bluetooth connectivity, voice commands, and Wi-Fi updating.

If you want a less expensive GPS navigator, without some of the handy features of the DriveSmart 55, we recommend the Garmin Drive 52. Although it’s the least expensive model in Garmin’s current line, it gives you the same great directions, user interface, points-of-interest database, and driver alerts as the DriveSmart 55, and includes free lifetime map updates. The Drive 52 is missing the 55’s handy Bluetooth connectivity, voice command system, and Wi-Fi updating. In addition, its 480×272 resistive touchscreen isn’t as sharp and doesn’t allow multi-touch input.

- It shows the current speed, average speed, moving speed, maximum speed, distance, odometer, stopwatch, clock, movement time, idle time, pause time, latitude, longitude, altitude, GPS connectivity and direction of movement.

- You can set both the minimum and maximum speed limits to make sure you do not get too fast. Else the app starts vibrating, sounding, and changes the display color to red.

What’s the best GPS For Your Car? It’s the unit that gets you from point A to B in the quickest possible time, driving the easiest routes, with the least amount of traffic and in all honesty it’s a very easy decision to make. Just head over to Garmin or TomTom and pick up one of their latest GPS units and you will have a cracking unit that will give you all the directions and extra features to help you drive that you need.

The problem in choosing comes into account when you start to factor in price. If you just choose a Garmin DriveLuxe you’ll have the best GPS navigation unit on the market in 2022. It will have a 5-inch screen and HD digital traffic. It will also cost you over $500 which is a lot of money to pay for a GPS unit that just gives you directions.

If you don’t want to read the whole review and simply want to know what we thought was the best GPS Navigation unit for your car, then head directly over to Garmin and buy yourself a Garmin DriveSmart 55 with traffic and free life time map updates.

The Garmin DriveSmart 55 is part of Garmin’s all new 2022 range of GPS unit and has been designed to fill the gap between the large DriveSmart 65 and the Drive 52.

We also really like the all new TripAdvisor concept allowing you to view ratings for travel points of interest along your route from the world largest travel site directly to your car.

We would highly recommend that you buy either a TomTom or a Garmin GPS unit. Yes they are more expensive, but they actually work well and will carry on working for the foreseeable future. If you head over to your local supermarket, I am sure they will have their latest deal which will be some GPS that has been imported from China and will cost you less than $30.

This might seem like a great deal to you, however I really would not do it. Garmin and TomTom have spent millions of dollars and years of preparation to make you a device that actually works well and whilst these imports might seem like a great deal, often they don’t work well, have no facility to be updated meaning that as soon as the roads are changed your GPS becomes useless.

Buying brand names do cost more, however you’re getting a GPS that will last into the future and will comes with updates, voice directions that actually work and extra features such as massive points of interest databases or websites that allow you to access other users travel data to find the best driving roads in your location.

Over the last 12 months the car gps device industry has tried to simplify itself. It the past, both TomTom and Garmin had a range of units each with different features and sizes. If you wanted to compare models, you could line up a Garmin 2797 with a 5575 and 6257 and then add TomTom and you’d be able to compare these with the 620, 1525 and even a rider.

Garmin and TomTom are our two favourite brands for car gps units, however there are other brands that we have tested over the last 18 months some of which have actually been okay, however there is nothing that I could recommend on my site.

I firmly believe that if you’re going to buy a GPS unit in the USA today, you should either be buying a Garmin Drive, a Garmin DriveSmart, a TomTom Go Basic or a TomTom Go Essential.

We’ve tried a Aonerex 7” Touchscreen GPS Navigator which to be fair was a brilliant model. I really liked it and while it worked, it worked well. The 7-Inch screen was clear the directions great, and then I tried to update it and it never worked again. I’ve also tried the JRCX 8GB Lifetime Map GPS Navigator which in principle is another, cheaper gps unit that should be good, but in reality it’s too complicated to use. I must have spent 30 minutes trying to learn how it worked and even then I really only got the basic directions to work.

Rand McNally and Magellan are two gps units that we’ve used in the past. Magellan are quite good at building off-road gps units and their units come pre-loaded with over 160,000 4WD, ATV, Motorcycle, and Snowmobile Trails in the USA. The problem is that they are not exactly cheap – The TR7 with a 7-Inch screen cost over $500. If I’m spending $500, I would want the best and Magellan TR7 is not the best gps for your car.

The Garmin range for 2022 starts with the Garmin Drive, which to be totally honest is a fantastic car gps navigator that does everything you need to help get your car from Point A to Point B with the least possible effort. It’s cheap and does exactly what it sets out to do, but its cheap for a reason, it comes with no features to help you with your driving other than providing directions.

The Drive comes as standard with a 5-Inch Duel-Orientation display screen, pre-loaded maps of USA or USA & Canada, life-time map updates, traffic updates on selected models and a best-in-class user interface and step-by-step directions – and literally that’s it.

What it does well, it does really well, but the key problems are the price which means some things are made cheaply. The screen is not a high-resolution display which means it’s not super clear like the DriveSmart below. Worse still, if you’re driving in direct sunlight, you might need to shade your navigator to see the directions. The unit also does not come with Bluetooth connectivity, voice commands, and Wi-Fi updating meaning that you will need to plug the Drive into a computer to perform updates.

The Garmin DriveSmart is our favourite GPS navigation device of 2022 and comes with a range of useful features that options that help you get from Point A to Point B without sitting in the traffic. The DriveSmart comes in two models, the DriveSmart 55 with an all-new 2022 5.5-Inch Edge-to-Edge Display and the DriveSmart 65 that comes with a 6.95-Inch Edge-to-Edge display. The choice is yours, however on a personal preference, I’ve always thought the larger is better. I just feel that you can see more information on your screen which in turn helps with directions. Just remember, the 7-inch unit is a big screen and big unit.

On a personal note, I have bought the DriveSmart 60 (2019 Model) and the DriveSmart 65 (2022 Model) and thus have tested it extensively over the last few months and as a result have been able to make a good decision on this gps unit. The 6.95-inch screen is simply fantastic especially given that it comes with a glass screen that means that the pinch and zoom combination works very nearly as well as the your smartphone. The screen has also been improved over previous models to the point where you can now look at your gps unit in both direct sunlight and in low light conditions where the old versions sometimes had problems.

Switching the unit on brings up Garmin simply to use interface and menu system meaning that after a few minutes of fiddling around you can easily find your way around your gps unit and understand where to go to make things work how you would expect. The DriveSmart comes with fully integrated pre-loaded maps of the USA that offer both fantastic detail and clarity meaning that if you need to find an address you can easily do so.

The maps come with free lifetime map updates meaning that you can be sure, as long as you update your maps, you will always find yourself driving on roads on your gps unit. The unit also comes with free traffic alerts and for the first time, speed camera alerts. Routing is simple and will take into account the traffic conditions along your route to ensure that you drive along without getting stuck in traffic. The traffic alerts work well and have been heavily worked on over the last few years and we have seen major improvements. Gone are the days when our gps unit said we have a clear road, but actually we were stuck in traffic.

Extra features that we have not seen before really central around ensuring that you can drive safely. These include alerts for street speed changes, up and coming sharp curves, school zones and even one way roads. We also like the all new Bluetooth connectivity which allows you to both connect your smartphone to the gps for hands free calling and for voice control meaning that you can control your gps without taking your hands off the wheel. In the past we have seen these features really not work well, however with this latest DriveSmart, these features now work as you would expect.

The TomTom Go Basic (VIA 1525M/1625M) is TomTom’s equivalent to the Garmin Drive above. It’s TomTom’s aim at a cheap, basic GPS navigation system that will get you from point A to point B.

The GO Basic is part of TomTom’s all new 2021 range and has been built from the ground up. It might look like models of old, but its comes with a new and improved 5-inch screen and the option of a 6-Inch screen for a few extra dollars. As standard, the unit comes with maps of the US, Canada, Mexico and as with all gps units these days, they include free lifetime map updates.

The TomTom GO Supreme is TomTom’s top of the range GPS unit that comes with a range of features to help you get to your destination without sitting in traffic. The GO supreme is part of TomTom’s all new 2020 GPS Navigation Units that aims to compete with Garmin above. In all honesty, it does a great job.

If it wasn’t a brand new model (release Jan 2020) and we had had more time to test it properly, I would go as far as saying it’s the best car gps on the market in 2020.

The GO Supreme comes as standard with a 5-inch and a 6-inch, crystal clear touch screen that works well in both low light, and direct sunlight conditions. The interface works well, it’s very similar to past editions, however I feel it’s been updated slightly to make it easier to use. The maps are fantastic, and it comes with both free life-time map updated via Wi-FI and most importantly, world-maps meaning that you can your GPS on holiday.

Whats new for 2020 is three fold, firstly Last Mile Navigation and Find My Car – This combines both your GPS unit and an App on your mobile to help you in situations where you’ve had to park away from your destination and have had to walk that final few hundred meters. No you have not only directions to your destination, but also an accurate record of where you’ve parked your car, and how to get back to it.

IFTTT Integration – helps all your maps, apps, smart home devices and virtual assistants work together in harmony. IFTTT stands for IF That, Then This and basically means, if I do one thing, do this. As an example, your could set your GPS to switch the heating on at home when your 10KM away from it, or send a notification when your 2KM away from your destination. In principle, it’s a great idea, in reality, will I ever use it, I’m not sure.

These are not deal breakers, but I hate the magnetic mount that might simplify the attaching of your GPS unit to the windshield mount, but it also just say there is a GPS unit in your car that could be stolen.

When deciding which is the best car GPS unit you need to take into account a number of factors that will often help you to decide which is the best navigation model for your personal situation. You also need to remember, what is right for me, might not be right for you.

If you’re planning to drive a small sports car then you’re unlikely to want a massive 7-Inch TomTom given it’s probably not going to fit. On the same token if you’re driving a camper van, then most likely you will want a large screen as it will be based further away from you and therefore you will need a large screen to be able to see if.Screen Size – A small screen will limit both the features you can have displayed at anyone time and how easy the touchscreen is to use.

Real-Time Traffic – No one likes being stuck in traffic, but try to buy a GPS where this comes as standard and not as with some units where you have to pay a subscription each month to use the facility.

Up-To-Date Maps – Having a facility to update your maps is very important as road change the whole time and if a road has changed or even been closed and your GPS does not recognized this, then it can be a nightmare.

The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is at the top of its class in terms of accuracy and reliability, earning it our top honors. It boasts a powerful quad-helix antenna and reliably connects to more satellite networks with greater accuracy than most other models. Even in less-than-ideal locations, like under thick tree cover or in a tight slot canyon, the GPSMAP 66st can maintain a satellite connection. When in the range of cell service, this unit can pair with your smartphone to overlay real-time weather data on your maps. Its 16GB of internal memory is more than double most other units and comes preloaded with topo maps for the US and Canada and subscription-free access to Garmin"s Bird"s Eye Imagery.

As expected, all of these attributes come at a high price point. If you intend to go on expeditionary trips or need high accuracy for field research, the Garmin GPSMAP 66st is worth every penny. For casual recreation, this device may be overkill. Additional features, such as wirelessly linking to your phone, require a cumbersome setup process. While this unit doesn"t feature a built-in touchscreen, we appreciate the large buttons and intuitive layout. The Garmin GPSMAP 66st is undoubtedly a powerful device, but it"s also easy to use, even in the most extreme field conditions.

For those seeking a straightforward GPS that doesn"t sacrifice much in terms of pure navigation performance, the Garmin eTrex 32x performs well above its weight class when compared directly with more advanced units. An excellent value that does not skimp in reception and processing speed, this device comes preloaded with Garmin"s TopoActive basemap, which offers sufficient data for those who don"t want to mess with having to find and upload individual maps. The available accuracy linking GPS and GLONASS networks is improved by adding a barometric altimeter and a 3-axis digital compass — two sensors often only reserved for much more expensive GPS units. Yet, this enhanced capability somehow doesn"t affect its size and weight. Just as small and lightweight as other models in the eTrex line, this compact GPS can easily be stashed away in a pack or tossed into a pocket for a day hike.

There are still some limitations to this otherwise impressive handheld. Even though it has the ability for routable navigation, the relatively tiny screen is not reasonable for finding your way around a new city via car or even daily driving. It is also still very much a base-level GPS unit — although it supports Garmin"s BirdsEye Satellite Imagery, it doesn"t offer the same level of connectivity as more advanced units. Similarly, many used to modern user interfaces will find the joystick and T9-style keyboards clunky or tedious compared to the normalized convenience of a touchscreen. But as a plug-and-play option for simple navigation or a durable, compact, and capable GPS for expeditions, the eTrex 32x presents an affordable option with more advanced capabilities.

The Garmin inReach Explorer+ is a standout, multifunctional device that keeps you reliably connected, even deep into the backcountry. With GPS navigation, SOS features, and satellite text messaging, the inReach Explorer+ stands out as a highly capable device. We used it for many trips, from alpine climbing in Alaska to trekking in the Patagonian backcountry. Although it is primarily a messaging and SOS device, you can also use the inReach Explorer+ as a handheld GPS. It"s easy to share your tracks and location via text messaging and social media. In addition to downloadable maps, the ability to preload waypoints and routes helps plan long trips over complex terrain.

The Explorer+ has far fewer navigation features and a more limited interface than dedicated GPS models. Still, it works well for simple navigation and tracking. The Explorer+ is also an emergency personal locator beacon, and we caution against navigating with and draining the batteries of your lifeline. But, if you"re okay relying on a single device and willing to carry a backup power source, this is the way to go. For anyone wanting to travel deep in the backcountry with a device featuring both messaging and navigation capabilities, the inReach Explorer+ is unparalleled. (We recommend the more compact inReach Mini as a personal locator and messager if you also have another means of navigating.)

These lead testers — plus scores of friends and partners — took to testing these GPS units in real-world situations. From mountaineering in Alaska to ski touring in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado to winding through the canyon country of the Southwest, our testers used these GPS units in whiteouts, in slot canyons, and while temporarily stranded by flash floods to bring you insight into each device, pulled from real adventure epics. Our rigorous assessment combined time in the field with objective testing, where we evaluated everything from reception accuracy to memory capability to size and weight. We compiled research, closely examined features and ease of use, and noted when some devices shone and others failed. We utilized the expertise of our science-minded, adventure-obsessed testing crew to provide the most accurate, objective reviews available on the internet.

We tested these handheld GPS devices over the years — hiking, skiing, mountaineering, canyoneering, kayaking, mountain biking, mapping plant populations, and more. We have marked and navigated to waypoints, compared map drawing speed, and tested the compasses of each unit against a trusty old, magnetic standby. We logged hundreds of miles on foot in Colorado, Washington, Utah, New Mexico, and Alaska. More than a dozen people — who range from GPS experts to complete novices — used these units to provide diverse feedback and bring you a review of some of the best handheld GPS units on the market.

We rated our selection of handheld GPS units on six scoring metrics: reception, ease of use, display quality, speed, weight and size, and versatility. It is important to note that these are some of the best and most popular options available on the market; while scores may vary, the numbers are based on how well each device compared to the competition. Some of these qualities are undeniably more important than others, namely reception and ease of use. Without the accuracy of a satellite and the efficiency of a GPS, you might as well be using a map and compass.

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. Often it"s used to refer to devices — in this case, handheld — that can track and store timing and positional data. Though it may seem counterintuitive, they"re often intended to be used with a traditional map and compass. They are designed to resist water, shock, thermal stress, and any other harsh conditions you"d typically run into out in the wilderness. High-performing devices come with extras like cameras, topo maps, better antennas, more memory, altimeters, or internal electronic compasses. Baseline models are lighter and simpler and can often boast better battery life. Before buying your next GPS, consider if you need one, what you intend to use it for, and how much you"re willing to spend. It is important to consider your specific needs before purchasing, as these units often carry a hefty price tag.

The price of a handheld GPS tends to be tied directly to its performance, features, and amount of memory storage. The Garmin GPSMAP 66st has every feature you may ever need — with more memory than you possibly could ever need — but it"s near the top of the price spectrum. Alternatively, our most price-point model, the Garmin eTrex 10, carries only the bare essentials for tracking.

No GPS unit can substitute for basic orienteering skills, situational awareness, and common sense. They tell you where you are and where you"ve gone. In the unlikely event that you need to call for help, a Personal Locator Beacon is what you want. This review"s only unit that functions as a GPS and a PLB is the inReach Explorer+.

Alternatively, most people have smartphones with GPS capabilities and inexpensive apps that offer topo maps and tracking functions. Although this combination isn"t as accurate as a real GPS unit, they are good enough for many folks.

So, who needs a handheld GPS? Those who love to hike off the main trail, serial bushwhackers, backcountry skiers, and climbers who frequently descend on unfamiliar and poorly marked trails. Adventurers of this breed will benefit the most from a GPS, which can pinpoint their exact location and allow them to re-orient themselves on a map and find the way home. A GPS is also helpful in bad weather conditions (heavy rain, snow, or fog) or when hiking on a dark, cloudy, or moonless night. It"s also good when traveling over snow-covered terrain when the ordinary trail is buried, and the tracks of those who came before you may be unreliable (they might be just as lost as you — believe us, we"ve been there).

The reception of your smartphone may not prove reliable in the backcountry. Smartphones rely on the combination of a cheap GPS device and triangulation between cell towers (and even WiFi) to dial in your location. Yet, many of the best hikes are in the mountains, deserts, or pristine backcountry areas with no reliable cell support, so your smartphone"s GPS sensors might not cut the mustard.

Still, in situations where they do work, smartphone apps like Gaia, Avenza, or Topo Maps are great and can quickly identify your location on established trails before resuming map navigation. Smartphone GPS works best in a region where a cell signal is available, but it may become unreliable when you enter the backcountry. Don"t forget to download maps before leaving cell or WiFi signals behind. A touchscreen model with automatic routing — like the Garmin Montana 700 — is a great option that can double as a driving GPS and for off-road travel.

In contrast to smartphones, handheld GPS units are burlier, with much better GPS satellite reception, more powerful navigation features, and supply better battery life in cold climates. A few questions will help narrow your search for the perfect handheld. After you figure that out, you can start thinking about all the bells and whistles — i.e., features.

Most modern GPS units are incredibly accurate and can pinpoint the device"s location to a resolution of 10 meters. According to Garmin, units that use the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) can be accurate to 3 meters or less. All the devices we tested use WAAS. To get even more accuracy, you can buy a differential beacon receiver and antenna to utilize a distance correcting Differential GPS (DGPS). Modern smartphones, in contrast, offer GPS accuracy of around 4.9 meters, according to GPS.gov.

We found that the highest performing — but unfortunately, also often the most expensive — models tend to achieve the best satellite reception. Units like the GPSMAP 66st include quad-helix antennae, which are quite sensitive even in dense cover. Electronic compasses — as opposed to a mechanical, differential compass — also improve accuracy when on the move and are included in expensive units like the Montana 700, but surprisingly in more affordable units like the eTrex 32x. Even without these additions, however, all of the Garmin units we tested provided quality reception. All of the units we tested carry receivers that accept both GPS and GLONASS satellites, so even price-point models — like the eTrex 10 — offer nearly top-notch reception in almost every situation.

GPS units usually come with a rudimentary basic base map that distinguishes roads but not much else. As we mentioned above, you can buy a GPS unit preloaded with topo maps or buy them separately after the fact. You can also free download maps and satellite imagery and transfer them to your unit. The United States Geological Survey offers a wealth of free spatial data. Most states in the US also have a website that distributes spatial data. If you want the best maps, often for free, spend some time tinkering with this data. If you want more convenient, straightforward map access, you can get them for around a hundred bucks from your GPS manufacturer.

The US National Agricultural Imagery Program (NAIP) shoots high-quality, free satellite imagery (aerial photos stitched together) for the entire continental United States. You can also buy satellite imagery. Often this is unnecessary because you can plan your routes in Google Earth and then send files to your mapping software and device. Satellite imagery is hard to see on most GPS units and is rarely necessary for the backcountry. Like the GPSMAP 66st, some units come with a free subscription to Garmin"s database of Birdseye satellite imagery that can be downloaded on WiFi.

Each GPS manufacturer offers software designed to organize, analyze, and display the waypoints and tracks you collect with your GPS. Garmin"s Basecamp is our favorite. It"s simple, intuitive, cross-platform, and provides everything a basic GPS user needs. For example, you can easily see waypoints or tracks on Google Earth. It is also an essential feature on really basic models like the eTrex 10, which due to its lack of mapping capability, would otherwise be rendered useless.

Do you want a compact version like an eTrex 32x, or are you willing to haul extra weight — like the Montana 700 — for perks like a larger screen? Is a big GPS screen more important because you would like to quickly see information at a glance while driving? Or are you willing to squint for a more portable unit? Since all of the units in this review are handheld, none are huge — but there is a difference in screen size and display quality between them.

The Montana 700, with a 5-inch diagonal screen, offers the largest screen and the highest quality resolution. Its smartphone-like touchscreen makes navigation easy, particularly in a car. The Oregon 750t and GPSMAP 66st both have a 3.75 square-inch screen — nearly half the size — but more than adequate for a handheld unit. However, the major difference is that the Oregon 750t is a touchscreen, while the GPSMAP 66st is button-controlled.

So then, buttons or touchscreen? Touchscreens have a quicker response time than button units. However, they eat up battery life faster, can potentially freeze in cold climates, and aren"t the most compatible with thick gloves. We also found that most touchscreen GPS devices we tested weren"t as advanced as smartphones. Button devices work with thick gloves, have better battery life, and are more reliable in extreme temperatures. The downside is they operate slower, and typing waypoints is more time-consuming. What it comes down to is your personal preference. Do you prefer a more modern unit that operates quickly? Or do you value reliability above all else?

GPS units communicate with satellites orbiting the earth designed to read and triangulate signals sent from the unit. The Department of Defense manages the GPS network in the United States, a series of 33 satellites that transmit both positional and timing data. When a GPS unit contacts at least four satellites, it can pinpoint your position accurately, although terrain and conditions can affect this. Some of the units we tested can also interface with other countries" satellites, including the 26 satellites of the Russian GLONASS system or 26 more from the European Union"s Galileo network. The more satellites, the faster and more accurately you can identify your position.

All handhelds use the WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) to increase accuracy. Satellites send signals to WAAS master stations on the ground. This message is relayed to compatible receivers (like GPS units) to provide a much more accurate location estimate. GPS units that use GLONASS, GPS, Galileo, and WAAS will offer the best reception.

The fastest and most accurate unit we tested was the Garmin GPSMAP 66st, as that is the only unit that could access all three of those satellite networks and improve its signal with WAAS. However, many of the other units we tested achieved accuracy within 10 feet very quickly. Although the Montana 700 and inReach Explorer+ were nearly as speedy as the 66st, even basic units like the eTrex 32x impressed us with how quickly they could lock onto a signal after powering on.

We tested handheld GPS units. These units are capable of marking waypoints, tracking your route, making notes, geocaching, pulling altitude profiles, and much more. But they are also small enough to wear around your neck or stash in your backpack. Despite its two-way communication capability, the Garmin inReach Explorer+is also very portable. But the more features you add to a portable GPS unit, the larger and heavier they become. Handheld devices are popular for backcountry navigation, particularly because they are so portable.

However, not all units are created equally regarding portability, so it is important to consider whether you"ll carry your GPS in your pocket or plan to stash it in a backpack. The Montana 700 is by far the largest and heaviest unit in our review but still weighs just 14 ounces and is only slightly bulkier than a modern smartphone. The eTrex line falls at the other end of the spectrum — both the eTrex 10 and more capable eTrex 32x are small enough to fit into a pant"s pocket.

Just as a point of comparison, there are also a variety of GPS Watches that can log backcountry travel information. These are popular among trail runners, mountain guides, hikers, and backpackers. They are a great alternative to handheld units if you"re looking to go light but have a much shorter battery life and a significantly smaller display. They may not offer the same capabilities as the handheld units featured here.

Geocaching is a relatively new outdoor activity, essentially using a GPS unit or GPS software for a scavenger hunt, looking for hidden treasures all over the world. Most GPS units are set up for this somehow, and some of the ones we tested have preloaded geocaches so you can unpack and play. A huge draw for the geocaching crowd is that a modern GPS unit — with text display — allows them to go paperless. For easy entry to this worldwide phenomenon, the Garmin eTrex 10, thanks to its accuracy balanced with affordability.

The cut-off point between basic units and more sophisticated ones is usually an electronic compass. This allows a unit to display your heading while held in place. In contrast, you have to be moving for a differential compass to work properly. For some, this is a great advantage — say, during a whiteout next to a cliff edge. Many mountain guides prefer an electronic compass because it makes navigating faster and easier. Only the eTrex 10 doesn"t offer an electronic compass.

A camera, microphone, and voice recorder can be nice add-ons to document adventures or field data fully. You can use these media options to mark a waypoint instead of typing one. We loved this option when looking back at our past adventures. Photos also help keep you on the trail when following a track. This is especially helpful for outdoor guides or scientific surveys. While many options boast a photo viewer, the Oregon 750t is the only GPS in our review to include a camera. But extras like that also come at the price of the added size.

Credit: Garmin High-performing GPS devices are able to share wirelessly — these devices come equipped with Bluetooth technology. A compatible receiver can quickly send track and waypoint files to another device wire-free. One of our main testers mentioned that this is especially helpful if you have another group about to embark on the same route you just finished. You can sync up devices and share your route in a few minutes. We recommend this for users intending to share track information with others. Bluetooth communication has become commonplace, so only the two eTrex models do not have this capability.

Another great feature is smart notifications. You can sync your smartphone to your GPS and receive text messages or social media updates on the unit. High-end units like the GPSMAP 66st sport this high level of technicality, but it does take some time and know-how to set up. This may be an option if you don"t want to take your phone out of the backpack while staying connected.

GPS units are great when you need them, but they don"t come cheap. A smartphone can get you by until you"re heading out on a multi-day backcountry trip guided by a map and compass, scouting multiple complicated routes, or conducting long field surveys. If you get to that point, you might as well invest because there"s no substitute for a dedicated, accurate handheld GPS unit.

Everyone has a favorite GPS app. And convincing someone to use a different GPS is like telling a Coca-Cola drinker to switch to Pepsi. (It’s not going to happen.)

The thing is, no GPS can solve the problem you are searching to solve. GPS gets you from point A to point B efficiently based on current traffic, but that isn’t enough for delivery drivers. When you’re making 30+ stops in a day, it’s inefficient to repeatedly type in addresses or be rerouted a hundred times. So, whether or not you prefer Coke or Pepsi (or Google Maps or Waze) is beside the point.

What we’re saying is: you don’t have to break up with the GPS you already know and love. You just need to pair it with route optimization software, something that can seamlessly handle your entire shift from point A to point Z. Think of it like pairing your Coke (or Pepsi) with a hot slice of pizza. Now you’ve got a whole meal.

GPS navigation apps share one major navigational flaw: they can’t route or map multiple stops seamlessly. All GPS apps and systems use the same satellites; it’s how they relay the information to the end user that’s different. Different apps cater to different audiences, but mapping apps aren’t designed for delivery drivers. And this is why you also need route optimization.

If you think of executing a delivery route like a game of chess, GPS mapping apps would be a tool you could use to calculate your best next move based solely on the current board. Route optimization software would be a tool you could use to calculate every step you’d need to win the entire game based on your opponent’s most likely countermoves. One tool is good, but having both is way better.

When you use a GPS app for mapping, you have to enter in each destination one by one and decide what order to visit them on your own. This becomes very tedious if you’re making more than a couple of stops. When you use route optimization software, such as OptimoRoute, you can upload all of your stops or delivery locations at once. If you have constraints (such as specific delivery windows), you can input those, too. Based on this information, OptimoRoute will lay out the most efficient delivery routes for an entire delivery team up to five weeks at a time. OptimoRoute solves the routing and scheduling part of the equation for you, so drivers and fleet managers can spend time focusing on other things.

Now that we’ve shown you how to make your GPS work for multi-stop deliveries, let’s take a look at what the top GPS apps and systems offer. Below you’ll find a breakdown of what makes each of these company’s user interfaces unique.

Waze is a shining example of the power of user-generated content when it comes to building a brand. Waze relies on a combination of GPS system information, user-submitted traffic updates, and real-time user tracking to provide the best route. Their interactive user experience has helped them remain a go-to app for many consumers, even with Google Maps adopting a significant portion of their features after acquiring Waze in 2013.

Apple Maps, as the name suggests, caters specifically to Apple users and offers voice command navigation, so you can ask Siri for directions hands-free while driving. Apple Maps can be pulled up easily on the vehicle navigation display in cars or trucks with Apple CarPlay. Driving safely is made easier with a clearly visible speed limit indicator and voice-guided turn-by-turn directions. 3D maps and flyover tours provide a clear preview of your destination if you want to clearly see where you’re going and get a handle on the parking situation.

Garmin not only offers mapping software but a range of handheld GPS units that can be mounted on a dashboard, as well as dash cams and watches. Larger screens and durability make Garmin GPS devices a great choice for drivers who want to preserve their cellphone battery life. However, Garmin does offer a range of iOS and Android appsthat help with everything from finding a parking spot to tracking steps.

The right tech makes your job and your life easier. Whether you prefer a dashboard-mounted GPS with a large screen or a cellphone app with voice guidance, the key is to make sure that the apps, systems, and software you use save you time and help you accomplish your goals.

OptimoRoute has a responsive design that adapts to drivers’ smartphones, tablets, or desktops computers. Our route optimization software seamlessly integrates with all of the GPS apps and systems listed in this article, so each driver in a fleet can follow their preferred style of route guidance. See how easy it is to use OptimoRoute with your GPS by starting a 30-day free trial today.

There’s almost no excuse for getting lost anymore. Using GPS (global positioning system) is a fact of modern life—whether it’s on your smartphone, built into your car, or as a stand-alone portable navigation device that can be moved from car to car.

Most of us are familiar with how GPS makes travel easier. You can choose routing preferences (fastest, no tolls, or most fuel-efficient) and sometimes get real-time traffic info. The system works via satellite and can be set to show icons for gas stations or hospitals, or direct you to points of interest like national parks or tourist attractions.

Many factors will determine which GPS system is best for you, including price, features, screen size, and portability—but most important: Are you glued to your smartphone? If so, you’ll be drawn to phone apps or in-car infotainment systems. We give the pros and cons of portable units, as well as built-ins and apps.

You can choose from many GPS systems—those that harness the power of your smartphone, versions that are built-in to the car, and portable units, the last of which we have actually tested. Check our full GPS Ratings for more (available to subscribers).

How they work: Hop in the car with your smartphone and choose a pre-loaded app such as Google Maps or Apple Maps (or download the likes of Here, Waze, or Mapquest) and your phone service gives you multiple options for a smoother trip, complete with traffic views, alternate-route suggestions, and warnings if you’re going too fast. The often-bright displays of these apps can make them easy to read on a sun-drenched dashboard. Plus, you don’t have to buy any other GPS device—because you already have the smartphone—nor do you have to worry about carrying around a portable navigation device (PND).

Consider this: Using phone-based phone GPS apps eats up precious data from your monthly plan, and some conk out during phone calls or when your cellular signal drops. (Some apps work around this by saving maps to your phone, so you won’t lose your way—even if you lose phone service.) Whichever option you choose, you’ll likely need to purchase a mount, car charger (since navigation can quickly deplete a battery), and possibly a data plan for your phone (if you don’t already have one).

Newer cars have the infotainment system screen built into the dashboard, and you adjust it using the touchscreen, steering wheel controls, or voice commands. With older cars that aren’t infotainment system-capable, you could install a GPS unit but would still need a professionally installed aftermarket head unit to run a full infotainment system. Like PNDs, built-in GPS systems work via satellite, so you won’t end up lost if you lose cell phone service.

How they work:Carmakers combine GPS and cellular technology to access emergency help or a variety of convenience services from the vehicle. Systems include BMW Assist, GM OnStar, Toyota Entune, Hyundai Blue Link, Lexus Safety Connect, and Mercedes-Benz mbrace. Specific services—both paid and free—vary. The systems typically offer a menu of services, including emergency crash notification and assistance, a stolen-vehicle locater, and roadside assistance. Some telematics systems will unlock your car door remotely.

Navigation is typically one of the services provided, via a basic graphic display showing each coming turn along with voice direction. Advantages include ease of use and being able to ask for directions by talking to a human at the other end of the line, even while driving. Another plus is that you don’t have to pay for updated mapping information. Older cars with telematics but lacking dash screens will have you interact with a computerized voice when getting directions.

Consider this:Screens are usually smaller than in-dash models, and potentially hard to read. Voice command programming capability is so-so, compared to the best car systems. These should be securely mounted and placed where they won’t interfere with airbag deployment or block visibility. Other disadvantage: Your phone already has built-in GPS with a free app. Buying a portable device is an additional purchase—and something to carry around.

Most GPS navigators will home in on a destination, but not always via the most efficient route. A few tips tailored to your typical travel conditions tell you what you can’t live (or drive) without.

If you tend to stick to a routine on your commute or errands, you might get the most use out of a navigation system or app that offers real-time traffic info. You’ll know about—and avoid—accidents, road closures, and speed traps. Bear in mind that traffic reporting on portable GPS units or pre-infotainment-system built-ins is not perfect; it can be inaccurate or outdated. Phone apps that offer real-time traffic allow you to peek in on traffic cameras and allow for crowd sourced tips on tie-ups and detours.

If you have a hard time deciphering tiny maps, consider a built-in or infotainment system, which generally have larger screens. You can even go really big with special PNDs for commercial trucks, vans, and RVs (since dashboards are farther away from the driver’s seat). These models will also take into account low-bridge clearance and parkway restrictions. However, if you often pack a GPS unit in your suitcase, you may want to go smaller: For a PND screen large enough to read easily without blocking your view, we’ve found a 4-inch diagonal screen a good compromise for travelers, but for regular use, a 4.7-inch size is easier to work with.

This worldwide app offers constant updating of maps and features, which can be downloaded for a limited time for offline use. You can get real-time GPS navigation, traffic, and transit help. Find and make pit stops along the way for a fill-up (at a gas station or a café). Street View and indoor imagery help keep you on track whether you’re outside or in (helpful for large places such as malls, museums, or stadiums). Available on iOS and Android.

We’ve tested portable systems with screens ranging from 3.5 to 7 inches. The smallest can be hard to see, and their small touch-screen buttons can make it tedious to enter an address. On the other hand, the largest units can be bulky to carry, and tend to obstruct more of your view when mounted to the windshield. A 4-inch screen (measured diagonally) is acceptable, but 4.7-inch screens are easier to read and use, while still being easily portable. Larger screens are increasingly available, and these big units can be especially useful for trucks or RVs where the windshield is far from the driver.

Many units offer spoken and displayed directions in Spanish and French, in addition to English, and several have even more choices. Some TomTom models can provide spoken directions in more than 30 languages, but can’t display them all on the screen. For specific language needs, check with the device manufacturer’s website for the latest out-of-the-box abilities and additional language features that might be available by download.

If this comes with your GPS, it typically means that you can download multiple maps annually for the life of the unit (or as long as it’s supported) for no additional charge. (Note that this may require your PND to be hooked up to a computer for around an hour).

We’ve tested portable systems with screens ranging from 3.5 to 7 inches. The smallest can be hard to see, and their small touch-screen buttons can make it tedious to enter an address. On the other hand, the largest units can be bulky to carry, and tend to obstruct more of your view when mounted to the windshield. A 4-inch screen (measured diagonally) is acceptable, but 4.7-inch screens are easier to read and use, while still being easily portable. Larger screens are increasingly available, and these big units can be especially useful for trucks or RVs where the windshield is far from the driver.

Many units offer spoken and displayed directions in Spanish and French, in addition to English, and several have even more choices. Some TomTom models can provide spoken directions in more than 30 languages, but can’t display them all on the screen. For specific language needs, check with the device manufacturer’s website for the latest out-of-the-box abilities and additional language features that might be available by download.

If this comes with your GPS, it typically means that you can download multiple maps annually for the life of the unit (or as long as it’s supported) for no additional charge. (Note that this may require your PND to be hooked up to a computer for around an hour).

Garmin, which also develops aviation and marine technologies, is mainly recognized for developing portable GPS devices. Its current lineup consists of the Nuvi and Drive brands.

Magellan develops and distributes vehicle navigation, crossover GPS, and outdoor handheld navigation products. It currently sells RoadMate and SmartGPS brand lines for automobiles.

Waze, purchased by Google in 2013, is the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app available. Its local driving community advises of traffic tie-ups, police traps, and low gas prices, among its many other features.

GPS Accuracy depends on a number of variables, most notably signal to noise ratio (noisy reception), satellite position, weather and obstructions such as buildings and mountains. These factors can create errors in your perceived location. Signal noise usually creates an error from around one to ten meters. Mountains, buildings and other things that might obstruct the path between the receiver and the satellite can cause three times as much error as signal noise. A GPS receiver must be able to get a lock on 4 satellites to be able to solve for a position. The first lock it gets allows the receiver to obtain the almanac information and thus what other satellites it should listen for. Although it is possible to get a position from less than 4 satellites, the margin of error of this position can be rather large. Your most accurate read of your location comes when you have a clear view of a clear sky away from any obstructions and under more than four satellites. To combat these errors, a couple of different assistants have been created.

One of these ancillaries is Assisted GPS or AGPS. This method uses wireless (ground-based) networks to help relay between the satellite and the receiver when the GPS signal is weak or not able to be picked up. There are two ways AGPS can help out. The first is to provide the receiver with the proper almanac data and the precise time. The second utilizes the higher computing power and good satellite signal of the ground base to interpret the broken or fragmented information the receiver is receiving to provide a more accurate position reading to the receiver. AGPS is mostly accomplished by GPS receivers mounted on cellular towers. When communicating with these receivers, the GPS can acquire a lock on the satellite more quickly as well as receive more accurate information. This method is what is used for GPS in mobile phones and why they’re sometimes more accurate than the GPS receivers on their own. But AGPS is present in more devices than just cellphones; it"s even available in cameras and some vehicles. It’s most beneficial in cities where the GPS signal may have a difficult time making it through the dense maze of the buildings.

Another method is Differential GPS or DGPS. DGPS also uses ground or fixed GPS stations to determine the location, but differs in that it finds the difference between both the satellite and the ground location reading. These ground stations may be up to 200 nautical miles from the receiver, and it is important to note that accuracy deteriorates the further you are from the ground station. DGPS is accomplished by a ground station broadcasting a signal which dictates the error between the actual pseudorange and the measured pseudorange. This value is calculated by multiplying the speed of light by the time it takes the signal to travel from the satellite to the receiver. As an example, one form of DGPS is Wide Area Augmentation System or WAAS.

Originally developed by the FAA to assist aircraft GPS, WAAS uses a system of specifically built ground stations. WAAS holds a specific set of accuracy standards that ground station measurements must meet. Laterally and vertically, WAAS must be accurate to within 7.6 meters 95% of the time. These ground stations send their measurements to master stations which send the corrections to WAAS satellites every 5 seconds or quicker. From the Satellite, a signal is broadcast back to the receivers on earth where the corrections are used to improve the GPS accuracy. In some locations, WAAS is able to provide an accuracy of 1 meter lateral and 1.5 meters vertically. While WAAS is only present in North America, similar systems are in place in many other parts of the world.

Whether deep in the backcountry or on open water, proper navigation is a must. And for route finding, recording tracks, or finding a geocache, there’s no more durable and long-lasting navigator than a handheld GPS. While it will never fully replace a map and compass, outdoor GPS devices allow you to plan, follow, and share recent adventures. As you’ll see from our top picks, the market is dominated by one