Navigation: car GPS system vs smartphone
Compare a car GPS to a smartphone
| Car GPS system | Smartphone | |
|---|---|---|
| Map coverage | Regular updates are necessary for up-to-date maps | Updates aren't necessary and apps like Google Maps are often already pre-installed |
| Route | Clear and large display of your route | Smaller and less extensive display of your route |
| Traffic updates | Very extensive and up-to-date | Detailed |
| Extras | Anti-reflecting screen and hands-free calls without interrupting navigation. | Voice control that may be set for bike or pedestrian routes. |
Traffic information
Traffic information on your car GPS system
One of the best and fastest options is via a car GPS with a built-in SIM card. Your device will then receive information via 3G or 4G. The coverage of this technology is wide and the information refreshes quickly. For example, you'll know right away when there's a traffic jam on the Coolsingel in Rotterdam. Receiving traffic information via SIM is free in most cases, even abroad.
Traffic information on your smartphone
Google Maps colors colors roads red or orange when it's busy, the app is becoming more and more detailed. Waze gives you a lot more information, but the traffic information on this app depends on users. The information is accurate, but information may be missing if no one has reported the situation yet. Waze does provide information about the maximum speed.
User-friendliness
User-friendliness of your car GPS system
You have to regularly update the maps on your car GPS for current information. With more luxurious devices, you can do this via WiFi more and more often. You no longer need a cable and computer that way, because you can update wirelessly. Depending on the maps on the device, a car GPS also navigates abroad without additional costs. With many navigation systems, you can easily expand the maps.
Your smartphone's user-friendliness
If you own a smartphone, Google Maps is often already installed and you can get started right away. The apps determine your location with the GPS of your phone and keep the maps up-to-date. You can use the smartphone apps in the car, on cycling routes, and on walking routes. The apps do use data. This means that it doesn't always work outside of Europe, and it could result in high costs. Without the internet, the device doesn't have traffic information.
Extra features
Features of your car GPS system
Features of your car GPS system The screen of the average car GPS system is the same size as that of an average smartphone (around 5 inches). Yet, the display of your route on a car GPS system is much clearer. For example, when you choose a 3D view, you orient yourself even more easily in large cities. Many car GPS systems allow you to make hands-free calls, operate the system with your voice, and connect your phone to receive notifications.
Features of your smartphone
With voice search via Google or Siri, it's possible to navigate. For example, you say "navigate to Stadhuisplein in Rotterdam" and your phone searches for the route. You won't find other useful features of car GPS systems on smartphones. Points of interest in your area are not indicated while driving, the sun reflects on the screen of your phone, and the layout of the screen is less clear.
Conclusion
Car GPS systems and smartphones both have their advantages and disadvantages. Your choice mainly depends on what you think is important and in which situation you want to navigate. GPS systems are our preference in the car, camper, or truck. These devices are made to make navigation as easy as possible for you. Smartphones excel in convenience. You already own the device, maps are automatically updated, and you also navigate with them on the bike or on foot.
