Vehicle GPS navigation units might seem like technology of the past, but they’re still very relevant today. In general, the boom of technology has forced GPS units to improve the quality and features that they previously didn’t include. Over long drives, using your smartphone’s navigation features can drain the battery and use important data. Owning a GPS navigation unit completely eliminates all of these problems and gives you better accuracy. Below are five factors to consider when it comes time to picking out a vehicle GPS navigation unit.
Durability
One of the most important things to look at when it comes to buying a vehicle GPS navigation unit is to look at the durability. If you’re frequently moving the unit from one vehicle to another, there’s always a chance that you might drop it, potentially causing irreparable damage. However, less durability might mean a lower price, which could be a valuable trade-off if you won’t be moving from your car’s dashboard.
Accuracy
Another factor to consider when comparing top-rated vehicle GPS navigation units are the accuracy of their maps. Frequent updates are a good way to tell whether the GPS unit has high accuracy. Changes in roads or locations can happen very quickly, there’s no need to waste time or gas getting lost due to an out-of-date map. A GPS that has high accuracy is essential for anyone that travels. Along with accuracy, the GPS unit should come with lifetime map updates. Not every GPS comes with a lifetime service, leading to charges for additional years you use it.
Size
The size of the vehicle GPS navigation unit should also be something you look into. While many units come in standard sizes, there are some that are exceptionally large like the Garmin Nuvi 68LMT. It comes with a 6.6-inch screen that is perfect for longer driving trips because you don’t want to strain your eyes to read your maps.
Battery Life
The battery life is another huge factor that could make or break a vehicle GPS unit. You’ll want the longest life available if you’re going to be driving long distances for extended amounts of time. More features usually mean less battery life for the unit, so be sure to check out which units best fit your needs.
Warranties
Lastly, you’ll want to make sure there’s a warranty and research how long the warranty lasts. You’ll also want to see what the warranty itself covers. Does it cover water damage? Does it cover dropping the unit? Many manufacturers offer warranties that last up to a year, but there are often options to extend. You can always call the company that made your GPS to figure out if they offer an extended warranty and what the pricing looks like.
