Buying a GPS shouldn’t be tricky; all you need is to get from point A to point B, right? Once you see everything else they can do, you’ll be switching from your smartphone app over to a real GPS. We’re here to help find the customization you want at the price you like, whether you’re a casual driving trying to find better routes for work or a trucker with a long path ahead. No matter how far you plan to go, we recommend the TomTom GO COMFORT as the overall best navigation system with features to help you avoid traffic, access your phone, and much more.
TomTom GO COMFORT
Another great feature: Once the TomTom is set up, it’s quick to get your trip going! The maps update seasonally, changing anything from new speed limits to planned out roadwork. It’s also easy to update; all you need is to connect it to Wi-Fi — no computer required! The GPS has a 6-inch screen that switches views when turns are coming up. You’ll find all the features any other GPS may have all compacted here in one. The only features your TomTom won’t have are the ones for those driving vehicles other than a car.
Rand McNally OverDryve 8 Pro
Truckers can set this GPS to warn of upcoming weigh stations and speed limit changes. It helps you find truck-only routes, avoid toll roads and routes with bridges of a certain height. It shows truck stops and rest areas with enough time to decide when and where to stop when daily hours of service limits have been hit. The OverDryve connects with electronic log systems to help keep accurate reports and has so many voice-activated prompts, including hands-free calls and texts, and news, weather, and sports updates.
TomTom Rider 550
By connecting to the MyDrive app, you can plan out your route so you can make stops along scenic paths, for instance. Connect your headset, and you’ll be able to change the music, make calls, and hear texts through your GPS. You’ll be able to make trips from one coast to another no problem with the road trip routes available.
Garmin Drive 50
This GPS will alert you of dangerous road conditions and keep you updated if there is traffic on your route. With its connection to Foursquare, you’ll get access to plenty of locations to stop at. If you’re looking for something to help out your daily commute and a few little trips on the side, look no further than the Garmin Drive 50.
Voice Only Garmin Speak
Other than it’s small size, the Garmin Speak uses Amazon Alexa. You will need to download the Garmin Speak app to connect with your Alexa, which will require your phone to connect with data. You can use your Alexa to change music, check weather and traffic updates, and other common Alexa functions. Ask Alexa questions to help along your trip, such as “Alexa, ask Garmin what lane I should be in?” All the navigation features of a regular GPS, but you can just ask rather than having to look at the map while driving.
Garmin dezl OTR700
View truck-friendly parking information along your route
Preloaded Truck & Trailer Services directory allows you to filter truck stops by brand or amenities
Industry-best load-to-dock guidance shows potential loading zones or storage lots when approaching your destination.
Bottom line
Sometimes you need a bit more than what your phone GPS gives you. Whether you want to save your phone’s battery while you’re on the road or stick with a dedicated system for extra features, there’s a navigation system out there for you. One of the greatest advantages that these devices have over your phone’s is specialization: you can get a GPS for your car, but also your motorcycle or your truck.
There’s a lot of different navigation systems to choose from out there, but if you’re looking for the best to one to take you around the country, the TomTom GO COMFORT is the best deal. It offers all the perks of any other GPS, such as Bluetooth control and traffic updates, all in one. This is the perfect GPS for someone that likes to drive — in a car. For other vehicles, there are systems out there for you.
For truckers, who depend heavily on navigation systems to help them stay on truck routes, avoid toll roads and find truck stops, we recommend Rand McNally OverDryve 8 Pro. This system connects to electronic log systems to help keep track of driving and downtime. You can see upcoming weigh stations, posted truck speed limits, and approaching road, weather, and traffic conditions.
