Show Me the Way
Picking a GPS device shouldn't be as complicated as, say, navigating the years from preschool to the PSATs. We've tested the latest to bring you our three favorites, all of which work right out of the box.
By Mireille Hyde
- The Basic
- Garmin Nüvi 350
ease of use
accuracy
PROS:
This light, affordable model boasts an intuitive, easy-to-read interface and a long battery life (five hours).CONS:
Map updates cost $60 a year; if bells and whistles are your thing, this stripped-down device is not for you.TESTERS SAID:
"I like that it remembers your last few destinations ... and that you can make the announcer British if you choose. It's like with men: one is more forgiving of faults when they are presented with a cute accent."$200, Amazon
- THE TRAFFIC MAVEN
- Navigon 5100
ease of use
accuracy
- PROS:
Assisting in a fast, safe trip, it tells you the exact lane to be in so you can avoid last-minute exit swerves. It also offers a lifetime of free traffic updates.
CONS:The speed warnings are more irritating than helpful.
TESTERS SAID:"The routes were good—accurate and quick—but the device didn't seem as intuitive as [a Garmin model I've used]. I also found it somewhat difficult to program with my fingers; I almost wished it came with a stylus pen."
$199, Amazon
- THE ALPHA PLANNER
- Dash Express
ease of use
accuracy
- PROS:
It's maps update automatically (no dragging it into the house for downloads). And a Yahoo!-powered search engine will help you locate anything you need (diapers? double espresso?) on the road.
CONS:There's a $10 to $13 monthly fee for the search function and traffic updates; the frame is rather bulky.
TESTERS SAID:"The keyword search is great if you're looking for 'ice cream' or 'batteries' while on the road with the kids. But it's worth mentioning that searches netted many results at once, which could be daunting if you're someone who is unnerved by lots of options."
$300, Amazon
Photography by Ethan Palmer
