The Best Car Navigation Systems of 2021

Best Car Navigation Systems Buying Guide & Reviews of 2020

The car navigation system has made its way into the checklist of a majority of the buyers who are purchasing a car. You will understand the importance of the car navigation system when you are driving through an unfamiliar area. You are never lost when you have a car navigation system. However, you can be lost on your search to find the right car navigation system as there are numerous models available. This guide is a quick breakdown of the different car navigation systems and their features that will help you to choose the car navigation system that you need.

Types

Integrated Car Navigation System

They are also known as in-dash car navigation systems and are integrated into the dashboard of your car. The main advantage of built in-car navigation systems is that it does not stand as a separate object and goes well with the interior of your car. The user interface is simple, employing a touch screen display in most cases, and the complete setup looks classy. The integrated navigation system comes fitted in most cars and is equipped with the latest technology. If your car doesn't have one, you can install them separately with the help of a technician. They are expensive, and installing them or dismantling them is very tedious.

Portable Car Navigation System

The portable car navigation systems consist of a simple GPS unit that is not fitted to your car, rather, merely placed on the dashboard. The portable GPS car navigation systems are compact and provide you with a relatively less expensive option. However, some of the higher-end models come at a price of over $300 and carry all the latest features. If you are someone who uses more than one car, you can use the same GPS unit for all the cars. The usage of these devices is not limited to cars alone and you can use them independently without your car as well.

Smartphone Car Navigation System

All smartphones come with some form of preloaded GPS technology and you can simply mount your smartphone in the dashboard of your car and use it for navigation. Android phones are generally used for navigation and with the evolving technology, android car navigation systems are also in par with other navigation systems. However, one major downfall the smartphone navigation system has is that it might be difficult to view the small screen size of the phone displaying the GPS route.

Features

There are a number of features that you need to consider before opting for the car navigation system. Some of the features are absolutely essential, while some make you look cool in front of your peers.

Screen Size and Resolution

The large screen car navigation systems enable you to check the route at a glance, keeping your eyes focused on the road. Smaller screen sizes will prove difficult to view, which may deviate your attention from the road. The display should have a good quality resolution so that you can view the images with ease. The images displayed in low resolution can be difficult to read.

Receiver Sensitivity

The sensitivity of the receiver determines the accuracy of the navigation system. All GPS units come with a receiver that primarily receives signals and locates your car. If the sensitivity of the receiver is poor, the accurate position of your car won't be displayed on the screen, and you might lose your way. Always stick to a GPS unit that has a high receiver sensitivity as this serves the primary purpose of using the navigation system.

Audible Directions

It is difficult for you to look at the GPS screen every now and then, especially if you are driving fast. This is where audible direction comes into play and is tremendously important from a safety perspective. The audible direction should be clear so that you can understand it easily. Some GPS units are also employed with text-to-speech technology that allows them to read out street names.

Automatic Routing

This feature comes into play when you have missed or took a wrong turn, or you purposely want to take an alternate route. The navigation system assesses the position of your car and displays the best alternative route to your destination. This helps you to tackle unforeseeable scenarios such as road accidents. The unit should be quick to recalculate the shortest route and display it.

Updated Maps

The car navigation should have the latest map update. If you are eyeing on automobile GPS car navigation systems that have a huge discount, make sure to confirm whether the map has already been updated to the latest version or if you can update it from your end.

User Interface

The car navigation system should be simple and easy to use. Touch screen car navigation systems let you access the features of the unit with ease.

Real-time Updates

Certain GPS units and apps are capable of updating real-time traffic and weather conditions. The car navigation system suggests the fastest route to your destination, taking these real-time data into account.

Lane Assist

This feature displays some sort of visual image every time you approach an exit or have to change your lane. This avoids scenarios where you miss a heartbeat when you change your direction at the last minute.

Voice Input

This feature enables you to change your destination, route or make any stops with the help of voice commands. This comes in handy if you drive solo and you can make changes to your route while on the move.

Points of Interest

Have you ever stumbled upon a restaurant that served great food while driving through an unfamiliar region and forgotten its location? Then this feature will surely turn your head. You can save the location of your favorite spots and other places like motels, gas stations, and so on.

3D Map View

This feature displays a three-dimensional map of the area that helps you to have a better understanding of your surroundings.

Price

More the number of features the car navigation system has, higher will be the price you ought to pay. The starting price of the car navigation system is around $50 offering you the basic navigation.

Conclusion

Car Navigation systems are primarily designed to ensure that you have good and safe driving experience. They have become an automatic prerequisite and come fitted along with most cars. If your car doesn't have one, then it is high time that you get one installed in your car. Ease up your job by picking the best car navigation systems from the list mentioned above.