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GPS Devices
Fold up the old maps. Toss out the piles of MapQuest directions you’ve printed out. Start traveling the roads in a whole new way with the help of a GPS navigation device!
To the first-time buyer, all GPS receivers may look alluring with their bright lights and fancy buttons, but there are real differences you need to know about before making a purchase. Screen size is important (the bigger, the better!) but even more important is the screen resolution (240x320 pixels is good…272x480 pixels is even sharper). Some models are ready to go right out of the box – others may require you to first register software or copy data from a DVD to a media card.
There’s a lot to consider before buying, but perhaps the biggest difference in today’s vast array of available GPS devices are their prices – models range anywhere from about $150 to more than $1,000. If you’re only using your GPS for short trips around town, you’re probably OK with a less expensive model with fewer bells and whistles. If, on the other hand, you’re constantly driving to new (and unfamiliar) places, you might want to consider a higher priced model with enhanced features and capabilities.
Since prices vary to such a large extent, here are 3 of the GPS models on Quill.com to fit budgets both small and large:
Less than $200 – Tomtom ONE 130 GPS
Slim and lightweight, this GPS features a full-size touchscreen, crystal clear 3D graphics and turn-by-turn spoken instructions. This model also features a foldable, EasyPort mount that lets you take it with you from car to car, and includes Tomtom’s Map Share technology so you can instantly modify street names, street direction, and Points of Interest on your own device. Switch on and go right out of the box – no activation, no monthly fees!
Less than $300 – Garmin nuvi 255W
A widescreen 4.3” display lets you easily view map details and driving directions in bright, brilliant 3D clarity. Text-to-speech feature speaks street names and “Where Am I?” feature lets you quickly and easily locate the nearest hospitals, police stations and gas stations. Pre-loaded with City Navigator NT – includes detailed maps of the lower 48 states plus Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
Less than $500 – Magellan Maestro 4350 GPS
One-touch interface lets you access your favorite routes, searches and applications with just a single tap of the screen. Features a widescreen 4.3” anti-glare display, built-in AAA travel information, text-to-speech, and built-in FM transmitter. Also includes the Magellan TrafficKit (subscription required) for real-time traffic updates and suggested alternative routes.