How do I choose the right car GPS system?
Size
Car GPS systems come in many different sizes. You'll see more details on a larger device with a 6 or 7-inch screen, but a smaller device with a 4.3 or 5-inch screen doesn't block your visibility through your windshield as much. Do you have a small car? A 4.3 or 5-inch car GPS system will fit well. Do you drive a large car, camper, or truck? A camper GPS with a 6 or 7-inch screen is more common. Some car GPS systems have an anti-glare layer on the screen, a night mode, or a zoom function. This way, you can hit the road well-prepared day and night.
Type of vehicle
Car GPS systems are suitable for specific types of vehicles. For example, a GPS system for caravans, campers, or trucks has an extra function that indicates how big your vehicle is exactly. As a result, the navigation system won't lead you along small, winding roads, or tunnels that your vehicle doesn't fit through. These car GPS systems do often have an extra option that lets you use them in passenger cars.
Map coverage and map updates
Before you purchase anything, it's good to think about what you'll use the car GPS system for. There are different maps available for car GPS systems. Usually, these are maps of Western Europe or Europe in its entirety. Are you traveling outside of Europe? Make sure you choose a car GPS system with a worldwide map coverage, or a system with expandable maps. Sometimes, you need an extra SD card to expand maps. Also keep in mind the map updates, since the road network changes all the time. Sometimes these updates are free, sometimes you need a subscription to update your maps.
Connecting with smartphone and hands-free calls
There are navigation systems you can connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth. These display incoming calls, messages, and notifications from your smartphone on the car GPS screen. That means you can keep your hands on the wheel. Getting a call? You can answer via the screen of your car GPS system and call hands-free. That's useful if you want to make business calls on the go. Do you really want to go all-out? Choose a car GPS system with voice controls. This way, you can state your destination while driving and the GPS device will react.
Points of interest and uploading routes
Do you use the car, caravan, or camper GPS on your vacation? Or do you drive your truck all over Europe for work? Some GPS systems show points of interest, like gas stations, restaurants, or parking spots. Sometimes, you can even see the TripAdvisor reviews. There is also a function that lets you upload a route to your car GPS beforehand. You can set up waypoints on your PC and upload the route to your device. This way, you'll know in advance exactly what route you'll take.
Integrated dash cam
A built-in dash cam is a fairly unique feature. You'll only find this feature on the more luxurious car GPS systems. A dash cam records what happens during the car ride. Are you unexpectedly involved in a traffic accident? The dash cam records the event, so you can watch back what happened afterwards.
Receiving traffic information
Many car GPS systems provide traffic information, so you don't unexpectedly get caught in a traffic jam or get redirected. There are 4 different ways to receive traffic information. These are via digital radio (DAB+-TMC), via radio (RDS-TMC), via a built-in SIM card (GPRS), and via your smartphone (GPRS). You can learn all about the pros and cons of each receiver in the following article.