Best Car Global Positioning System

The best car GPS systems use start of the art tech to direct you to where you need to go. These are our favorites. Best Car Global Positioning System

You could just use your phone for driving directions, but a dedicated GPS device makes navigating easier. This works where you don’t have coverage. And frees up the phone for other uses. The GPS can make travelling on the roads a far easier experience regardless of where you’re headed.

It could be that cross-country long-haul adventure or simply the daily traffic trip to the office. Either way the ideal car GPS navigation device will help you find your way. Avoid traffic and always be in the right lane for where you’re headed.

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Many of the best car GPS systems come loaded up with points of interest. From restaurants and gas stations to malls and markets. So even when in a new area you can get what you need, directly.

Many GPS systems connect to a smartphone to add features like voice activated calling. Hands-free texting, advanced traffic detection and more.

At its most basic, the ideal car navigation system will get your from start to finish. As quickly as possible and with as little traffic. Giving turn-by-turn navigation visually and audibly as you drive.

We’ve tested enough car GPS devices to allow you to skip right to the best ones. Importantly, to narrow down the perfect choice for your needs.

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These are listed with their special skill. You can quickly and easily pick out the best car navigation system for you.

Then you might want to look at the best backup camera. So you can make even the parking up part of the journey easier too. And if you need new treads, we have a guide to the best tire brands too.

The Garmin DriveSmart 55 stands out because it combines best-in-class directions. Points-of-interest data, driver alerts, and free map updates with the best multi-touch display we’ve seen on any GPS unit.

The Best Car GPS: Best Car Global Positioning System

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1. Garmin DriveSmart 55 – Best Car Global Positioning System

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Better GPS For World Travelers

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2. TomTom Go Supreme Best Car GPS

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.

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The TomTom GO Supreme is, as the name suggests, a premium car navigation device that packs in all the features you could need.

Above all else this is TomTom so you know you’re getting specialized maps. Traffic data and safety camera alerts – and these all come included.

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Aside from avoiding traffic and always being in the right lane this offers Last Mile Navigation. Meaning the app on your phone will show you where you car is based on where you parked.

You also have intelligent trip planning, with lots of preference options and the ability to share your ETA and location as you drive. This will even learn your driving style and better estimate arrival times based on that.

Voice controls with Siri and Google Assistant as well as IFTTT support mean you can integrate your smart life with your car.

From making calls and reading out your messages to syncing addresses from your calendar events and setting locations – it can all be done with hands-free voice controls.

The built-in WiFi also means you’re always up to date with the latest maps, safety cameras and app information.

Best Car Global Positioning System For Ease Of Use

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3. Garmin Drive 52 & Traffic Best Car GPS

The Garmin Drive 52 & Traffic is ideal if you want a straightforward car navigation system to simplify your journeys.

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Everything about the Garmin Drive 52 & Traffic screams simplicity, from installing and setting up the device to programming it with where you wish to go.

All the navigation essentials are right there. Such as speed and bend alerts, and traffic data to steer you clear of disruption up ahead.

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And so you absolutely know where to turn, the instructions refer to streets, shops and other landmarks that are nearby.

Then there’s that live traffic data, pulled in from a connected phone, so you always get the fastest possible route no matter what happens up ahead.

Other features include countless points of interest and TripAdvisor reviews. If you want the kind of add-ons that you get with the most tech-laden car navigation devices, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

There’s no voice activation, WiFi updates, or hands-free calling, but it’s the absence of such options that helps keep the Garmin Drive 52 & Traffic simple.

Budget Best Car Global Positioning System

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4. LTTRBX GPS Navigation  Best Car GPS

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The LTTRBX GPS Navigation is a super affordable option for anyone that still wants a large and clear resolution display but without the price tag you’d expect.

As such this gets you a 7-inch touchscreen with 800 x 480 resolution and 500cd brightness for day and night clarity.

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The nav comes with maps for the US, Mexico and Canada onboard but others can be loaded if you need. As can updates which help with the latest safety camera information as well as speed limit reminders.

The downside here is that you have to email the company to get the new maps or updates sent over. An effort, but that explains the price saving here.

There are over 50 languages onboard so it can read turn-by-turn directions how you need.

It will also auto reroute if you go the wrong way or run into issues. Just be warned, at this price it’s not as smart as the higher end systems.

Best Car Global Positioning System: Best For Smartphone Basics

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5. TomTom Go Comfort Best Car GPS

The TomTom Go Comfort offers lots of the smart navigation features you’d expect from the company, including 10 million points of interest, but also smartphone connectivity.

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As such you can get live traffic and map updates over WiFi and via your smartphone, so you’re always on the most up to date route which reacts to changes as they happen.

Not so great is that the safety camera alerts are limited to three months as a trial only. But it is nice to pick your price based on the size screen you need with 5-inch and 6-inch models available.

Either way this will learn your driving style and make predictions to more quickly and easily navigate you from the get go.

Road Trips by TomTom is another nice addition that lets you plan a route, or pick one already laid out, and have that on your sat nav so you can take a scenic road trip, for example, without having to plan.

Best Car GPS Overall: Best Car Global Positioning System

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6. Garmin DriveSmart 61 LMT-S  – Best Car Global Positioning System

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The Garmin DriveSmart 61 LMT-S has everything you could ever want in the best car gps system, and more.

This GPS system is feature rich, up-to-date and responsive, and is perfectly complemented by its simple and easy to use interface.

At the same time, the device itself has a sleek and modern design that will enhance any dashboard. But it’s the abundance of essential and premium features that will make your driving more enjoyable.

The maps of the United States, Canada and Mexico that come preloaded in the Garmin DriveSmart 61 LMT-S can be updated for free. There’s space for a microSD card onto which maps other countries can be loaded should you need navigation assistance elsewhere.

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Wherever you’re heading, the giant 6.95-inch capacitive touchscreen, which has a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels and an edge-to-edge display, will relay all the directions you need with the minimum of fuss and eye strain.

Built-in WiFi paves the way for live traffic alerts, and map and software updates to be delivered straight to the device, while you’ll also be made aware of upcoming turns, toll roads and changes in speed limits.

The Garmin DriveSmart 61 LMT-S will even tell you when it’s time to take a rest if you’ve been going for a while. And with millions of points of interest marked on the map, you’ll always be able to find a gas station, hotel or perhaps something more inspiring to break up your trip.

Best For Integrated Voice Controls

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7. Garmin DriveSmart 65 with Amazon Alexa – Best Car Global Positioning System

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The Garmin DriveSmart 65 with Amazon Alexa is crammed full of features in an otherwise minimal looking tiny bezeled and high resolution display.

Multitouch controls are responsive while navigation is genuinely smart with live traffic updates. And even TripAdvisor ratings for hotels and restaurants along the way.

The National Parks directory search is another nice addition here. As is the “real” directions that say things like “turn left after the next McDonalds”.

Alexa built-in means you can control your music onboard. Read messages, check your calendar, even control smart devices like pre-heating your home  – all using your voice alone.

You also have the option to add Garmin devices like smart backup cameras and more.

How We Found The Best Car Global Positioning System

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The two most important things we evaluated throughout our testing were accuracy and ease of use. For the applied portion of our testing, we drove around on a variety of roads.

From small rural roads to busy city streets to the highway during rush hour, some of which had heavy delays and big detours due to construction work.

We drove in familiar locales as well as areas we were unfamiliar with, noting whether the routes provided by the devices were accurate and efficient.

Also verified if 2D and 3D landmarks – for the applicable devices – were accurately represented on the screen. Looked for car navigation devices that gave clear directions with plenty of notice before a turn.

We also looked for clear on-screen visuals, updated traffic alerts and a variety of points of interest such as gas stations, hotels, restaurants and stores.

We also noted how easy it was to navigate the device interface, along with how easy it was to input an address and start navigating.

The best car navigation systems were easy to set up and use, provided helpful instructions, and allowed for extensive smartphone compatibility for enhanced one-touch navigation and entertainment.

Essential Features Of A Best Car Global Positioning System

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#1. Navigation

The best GPS devices deliver detailed step by step directions, and will alert you as to which lane you need to be in at any given time. Instructions will be delivered audibly, and on the screen.

#2. Screen Size

The average screen size for car navigation systems is between 3 and 7 inches, measured diagonally across the screen just like a TV.

While smaller devices can be easily stored in your glovebox or a bag, devices with larger screens make it easier to see instructions and other on-screen options.

A larger screen is also better if your device allows for split screen when approaching a junction or for other alerts.

#3. Screen Resolution

The best car GPS screens have a resolution of at least 480 x 272 pixels, although GPS devices with higher resolutions – such as those above 800 x 480 pixels – give you a crisper picture that is easier to view at a glance.

#4. Touchscreen Sensitivity

Top-end GPS devices tend to have capacitive screens. These are highly accurate and sensitive, and allow for pinch-to-zoom gestures, similar to a smartphone.

Such gestures are not possible on a resistive touchscreen, which are usually found on lower priced or budget devices.

These screens also typically have slower reaction times, along with lower resolutions and a smaller capacity for brightness.

However, resistive screens do allow you to use any object to touch the screen, such as a stylus or a gloved finger.

#5. Preloaded Maps

Every GPS navigation system in our comparison is preloaded with maps of the United States, ready for use when you power on the device. Most also have built-in microSD card slots to allow you to download and store maps of other countries. Having preloaded maps ready to go means you have reliable navigation even when you’re in an area with little or no signal.

#6. Map Updates

Look for a car navigation system with free lifetime map updates to make sure the latest road layouts, buildings and landmarks will show on your device. Updates may happen automatically in the background or require a manual download.

#7. Speed limit alert system

Most GPS navigation systems will display the speed you’re travelling in relation to the road’s actual speed limit. And let you know if you’re going too fast.

#8. Battery Life

If you need to use your car’s DC outlet to charge your phone, you’ll want to know how long your navigation system can run unplugged. Most will last for at least an hour without charge, but some will stay powered for up to six hours.

Premium Car Navigation System Features

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Along with all the essential features, the very best car navigation GPS systems have a myriad of other options designed to make your time behind the wheel easier and more enjoyable.

#1. Voice-activated navigation

It’s faster to tell you car navigation system where you need to go than type it, and safer too, if you need to change destinations while driving.

#2. 3D map function

By recreating landmarks such as buildings, bridges and monuments in 3D. Navigation devices with this feature make it easier to recognize where you are when travelling in large cities or unfamiliar locations.

#3. Traffic alert systems

Roads are unpredictable, accidents happen, roadworks breakout randomly, and sheep gather. Having a traffic alert system is a good way of keeping up to date on the current road conditions, without having to find your smartphone.

Smartphones vs. Dedicated Car GPS devices

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Most smartphones now come with inbuilt GPS trackers and are capable of providing an accurate navigation system.

There are pros and cons to using either your smartphone or a dedicated car navigation device to get around. But which is better for you will depend on personal preference.

Advantages of a Dedicated Best Car Global Positioning System

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By far, the biggest perk to using a dedicated GPS device is just that – it is dedicated to the task of providing navigational assistance.

You won’t have to worry about a phone call cutting in and blocking your directions, or your cell battery dying.

Higher-end models offer additional functionality, including 3D map rendering, speed limit notifications, speed trap alerts and free regular map updates.

Budget GPS devices can represent a decent option, but be aware of smaller, non-responsive touchscreens, and muddy interfaces, which taken all together may diminish your experience.

The best car GPS devices allow for voice-activated navigation so you can keep your eyes on the road. And they give you the option to pair your smartphone with it so you can take a call without having to fumble for your phone in rush hour traffic.

Most dedicated car navigation systems also rely on multiple data sources. Including satellites, so you’ll most likely have navigation even when you’re in areas with sparse or no cell signal. You can also save offline versions of your map for these scenarios.

Advantages of using a Smartphone to Navigate

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If you already own a smartphone and don’t have the budget for a dedicated car GPS, you can still survive your next road trip with just your phone.

Smartphone GPS apps – like Google Maps and Apple Maps. Offer comparable functionality to dedicated navigation units, and can show on-screen maps. Tell you what lane to be in and provide step-by-step navigation.

Smartphone navigation apps also allow you to download maps for offline use. However, there are downsides to using your phone as your GPS. Map apps burn through battery power, and they won’t work when there isn’t any cell signal. Best Car Global Positioning System

Benefits of GPS Navigation for Cars

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• Navigate traffic jams. This is particularly important if you’re on a schedule. The best GPS with live traffic will include alerts about roads and highways you may want to avoid, making your trip more pleasant.
• Locate nearby amenities. The best GPS units for cars will include not only the route, but also other stops you may like to make during your trip, including restaurants, gas stations, rest areas, and shopping malls.
• Conserve your cell phone battery. While it’s common to use a smartphone’s map for navigation, the action can quickly drain the power from your phone’s battery.
• Wi-Fi and data signals are not required. The best car GPS system works independently and doesn’t require a Wi-Fi signal or data signal to work. If you lose your cell phone signal or don’t have a robust data plan, a GPS unit is a good alternative.
• Have peace of mind. If you’re on a trip and have no idea where you’re going, particularly if it’s off the beaten path, the best navigation system will seamlessly get you there. You don’t need to use a map or ask for directions.
• Avoid driver distraction. Distracted driving kills thousands of people a year in the United States. Stay safe by using the best voice-activated GPS so you can keep your eyes on the road.

Types of GPS Navigation for Cars

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1. Portable GPS System

The most common types of GPS tracking use cellular and satellite networks. Satellite-based GPS vehicle tracking is more useful in part because it works when cell towers are unavailable.

GPS units that are compact are also convenient because you can use them in more than one vehicle.

2. In-Dash GPS System

In-dash navigation systems are becoming increasingly common in new vehicles. They are no longer restricted to high-end, luxury cars, trucks, and SUVs.

They’re intended to give you a wide view without distraction. Your vehicle automatically adjusts the radio volume and incoming calls.

Even though they come preloaded with maps, they can become outdated over time. Also, you can’t take the GPS with you, and they’re more expensive than portable navigation units.

Top Brands Of Best Car Global Positioning System

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1. Garmin

Several engineers founded Garmin in 1989. The company, which is headquartered in Olathe, Kan., produces automotive, aviation, marine, fitness, outdoor recreation, and wireless products and is the global leader in GPS navigation technology. One top product is the Garmin Drive 60 USA LM GPS Navigator System.

2. Magellan

GPS navigation consumer electronics company Magellan was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in San Dimas, Calif. It’s a subsidiary of MiTAC International Corporation, based in Taiwan. One of its top products is the Magellan RoadMate 2240T-LM.

3. TomTom

Dutch company TomTom was founded in 1991 and is headquartered in Amsterdam, with offices in 30 countries. It concentrates on connected vehicles, smart mobility, and, in the near future, autonomous driving. One of TomTom’s popular products is the TomTom GO 520 5-Inch GPS Navigation Device.