Auto GPS Options And How They Affect Drivers

Are you considering buying a GPS? If you are it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options and features. Choosing an auto GPS can be difficult if you don’t know what you’re looking for. If you do some research beforehand on the various features you will be more well equipped to make the right decision.

An important feature for many people is the size of the screen. Obviously, the larger the screen, the more information you will be able to see, and the easier you can see it. GPS units typically have touchscreens, so a larger screen reduces the chances for accidents when navigating menus and such. If your eyesight isn’t as good as it used to be you may also opt for a larger screen to make using your auto GPS easier.

Many drivers find that the spoken street names option is useful to them. Most basic GPS units give spoken directions for upcoming driving instructions, but some also include spoken street names. This allows drivers to more readily identify the streets they are seeking, ensuring that they are heading in the right direction.

All GPS units come preloaded with a set of maps, but are they up to date? New roads are being built every day. With the map update feature drivers can download updates to their maps to keep up with the world around them. Without this option, you may be missing the chance to make your trip quicker or more efficient.

Arguably the most popular feature, routing options are a hotly contested topic among certain circles. The two main choices are fastest route or shortest route, and there are merits to each. The fastest route is great for saving you time, but it may take you miles out of your way and cost you more in gas money. Meanwhile the shortest route is sure to save you mileage and gas, but it can also be a slow and tedious drive. Depending on the driver and their destination, both options have definite value.

A very useful feature for your daily commute is the live traffic update. This options typically requires a traffic receiver and subscription, but it may well be worth it for you. Your GPS can use the information from these traffic updates to dynamically reroute you around the problem areas. This could shave hours off your daily commute over the course of a year.

One of the most original uses for a GPS is the POI (points of interest) feature. There are databases loaded with all sorts of locations, such as hotels and restaurants. That’s not all, though. With the right POI data you can also see famous landmarks, school zones, speed traps and more. This option is great for the driver that wants to do some sightseeing during their travels.

Auto GPS features are great, if you know what you want. Depending on the driver some features are more valuable than others. It’s up to you to determine which options matter to you. Once you know the facts you can make your choice quickly and easily, and then it’s happy driving for you no matter where you go.

Kim Logan sells computer hardware. She often has to travel interstate so she uses the best auto GPS to find her way around other cities. She writes some of the best auto GPS reviews in her blog.