Although early GPS units had 3.5-inch screens, many consumers are now using devices with wide, 4.3-inch displays. You might think you need to spend a ton of money to upgrade to a GPS device with a 5-inch screen, but some TomTom GPS navigators, including the TomTom VIA 1505, deliver the usual benefits of a typical 5-inch GPS unit for an affordable price.

The Benefits of 5-Inch Displays on GPS Units

Although overall screen resolution is not affected by increasing the display size from 4.3 to 5 inches, the pixels appear bigger. That can be a significant benefit in a car’s GPS unit. These units are intended to be mounted on the dashboard or windshield of your car, and depending on your car’s interior design, the display might not be easily readable. The zoom feature can help, but you need to tap the unit’s zoom controls to activate it. A 5-inch display will stay readable on more zoom levels and the unit’s menus will also be easier to read because the overall size of the text is larger. TomTom VIA 5-inch models have slim profiles, and they are lightweight despite the larger screen size.

5-inch GPS Buying Guide

The most affordable TomTom VIA device which is the TomTom VIA 1535TM costs around $150 which is good if you are looking for the basic functions. Although the 1505 is basic compared to something like a TomTom GO device, it still has plenty of nice features including maps with detailed roads and lots of points of interest along with useful technologies like Advanced Lane Guidance, Eco Routes, and IQ Routes.

However, if you have a 4.3-inch GPS and you’re upgrading, you might be better off spending a little more and getting something like the mid-range TomTom VIA 1535T. In addition to getting the bigger display you’ll be upgrading your GPS functionality with features like voice recognition and Bluetooth. At one time restricted to high-end models, these helpful features are now available to ordinary consumers who are looking for additional convenience.

A TomTom GPS model with the TM suffix is even better because it will come with lifetime traffic and map updates. It will give you the best value and you won’t have any subscription fees. It’s important to be able to update your maps periodically so you’re aware of new routes, and real-time updates are essential for knowing the best route to take at a particular time. With a price below $200, a GPS like the TomTom VIA 1535TM would be an excellent purchase.

Step 1 – Make Your Mind Up on Your Budget

The first measure you should take is always to make a decision on your budget. Everybody has to work with a different financial situation. Figure out what you are able to genuinely afford to shell out regarding this unit first. After you are aware of precisely what your budget is, it helps you to reduce the many alternatives in line with selling price, reducing those you’ll want to choose between. Make absolutely certain that you really go along with that budget and it’s going to help make your choice less difficult.

Step #2 – Consider Features that are Important

Most likely, you currently have a few functions in mind you want to make sure your car GPS system has. You may want a good touch screen, vocal guidance whilst driving, Bluetooth, color screen, or perhaps some other features. Being aware of the actual features you want is definitely going to help you additionally cut down your choices. When you are aware of precisely what you would like when it comes to functions, you can start to look only at choices, such as the TomTom XXL 540M that provide you precisely what you would like.

Step 3 – Check out Several Suppliers

Countless suppliers promote car GPS systems nowadays and if you want to make a smart decision, it’s advisable to check with a number of vendors before making up your mind. Take a look at the readily available units that happen to be within your budget and also those which contain the capabilities that you might want. Compose a list of the various alternatives that contain the things you want. Using this method you have an understanding of the number of choices that could suite your requirements. You will discover solutions including the TomTom XXL 540S Navigator on the market, along with good quality units from several other major manufacturers like Garmin and Magellan.

Step 4 – Look for the Perfect Price

Once you’ve refined the options, you should ensure that you get the perfect price. By way of example, in case you have decided on the TomTom XXL 540S as the unit of choice, take the time to find where you can find the ideal bargain. With the net at your fingertips, this becomes effortless. Just compare costs at a variety of internet retailers to ascertain who can give very best selling price. Furthermore, hunt for any sort of sales that could be taking place or maybe coupon codes, which often can save you even more dollars on your car GPS unit.

Common TomTom GPS GPS Navigators Device Features

The most important thing about introducing a GPS device to a new user is the interface and fortunately, all TomTom GPS navigators manage to all have that same friendly interface. The touchscreen interface makes it easy to do route planning or go through the menus to access other features.

Recent entry-level TomTom GPS Navigators units give you an appealing, colorful widescreen display with a compact, slim profile. The detailed maps and 3D views you’ll see on one of these displays will give you an improved perspective on your driving. A TomTom GPS device will let you get rid of all those atlases and maps you have in the back of the car.

Most GPS devices come with maps that cover the United States and may include Canada and Mexico maps too. These maps are highly interactive since you can zoom in and out and add points of interest in case you frequently visit a particular location. Even if you do not use that feature, you can still access lots of these points the moment you turn on the device and the roads are properly mapped as well.

These properly-mapped roads allow even entry-level TomTom GPS devices to use the IQ Routes technology effectively. IQ Routes is a navigation technology that shows you the fastest route to your destination by examining traffic conditions. If you don’t mind taking a slower route in order to save fuel, the ECO Routes function can help you out.

You’ll also find that car GPS devices such as the TomTom VIA, GO and One models come with a built-in text-to-speech feature because you need to look at the road instead of at the GPS unit. This feature calls out the turns you need to make, and even identifies them by street name in order to prevent confusion.

If you want to spend just a bit more on your GPS device, the TomTom VIA 1435T and certain other models will give you Bluetooth and voice recognition. The voice recognition feature can make you a safer driver because you’ll be able to tell your GPS what to do without touching the display. The Bluetooth feature, once it’s linked, will let you use your GPS unit to make and receive phone calls.

The TomTom VIA series devices provide plenty of features for less than $170.

Benefit #1 – Easily Get Directions and Avoid Getting Lost

One of the more obvious benefits of a system like the Magellan RoadMate 9055 7-Inch Portable GPS Navigator happens to be the ability to easily get directions. With these devices, you can get directions with just a few touches of a button. If you get lost on a regular basis, this can definitely be a huge help to you. It’s easy to pre-program this device before a trip to make it easier to get there without a problem. Many devices even offer voice directions so you don’t have to keep looking at the device as you drive.

Benefit #2 – Safer Driving

Knowing what’s ahead is a definite safety advantage. Having a GPS system of your own gives you that advantage. GPS devices like the Magellan RoadMate Portable GPS can give you information about traffic, construction, and road conditions. These are all things that can keep you safer when you drive.

Benefit #3 – Faster Traveling

GPS devices can let you know in advance if you need to divert from your original route, because they can detect things like traffic jams or construction zones that may slow you down. This will help you arrive at your destination in a timelier manner. One of the best features is that the device will help you to plan alternative directions to reach your destination. You are bound to get there quicker with GPS.

Benefit 4 – Identify Places of Interest

Some devices like the Magellan RoadMate Navigator will make travel easier by identifying places to buy gas, spend the night, or dine. If you are in a place that you are not familiar with, a lot of the devices have built in links for local hotels, restaurants, gas stations and other destinations. So, if you are hungry or need gas in an unfamiliar area then just use the device to find the nearest favorite restaurant or gas station.

These are just a few of the great benefits you can enjoy when you purchase a GPS device for your vehicle. If you don’t have a navigation system, it may be time to make this investment. Investing in a device like the Magellan RoadMate Portable GPS Navigator is sure to pay off in the long run.

Does it Make You Dumb?

Some people are under this misconception that using a GPS system like the Garmin Nuvi 1450 5-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator is making us less intelligent. These people argue that a GPS device doesn’t require us to use our mental direction sense. With the GPS device, we simply need to put our foot on the gas and keep the wheel straight and we can mindlessly go to any destination.

Although some think there is a basis for this argument there really is not. If anything the GPS system actually provides us with knowledge and information that we would not have had otherwise.

Extra Features

But besides the pleasant sounding voice that will provide you with turn-by-turn directions to lead you to your destination in the best possible way, it will also inform you of the speed that you are moving at and, provided your speed is not influenced in some way, how long it will take you to reach your destination. The Garmin nuvi 1490T and other systems like it will also advise you of different routes to take if the traffic becomes too congested on the route you are on.

Something to Think About

Besides providing you with a means to input your destination and then providing you with the pertinent information regarding the best route to take, your GPS device will also inform you of other points of interest along the way. In other words, if you are on a road trip and will need to make stops along the way for gas, simply program the unit and it will let you know the location of the gas stations along the way. Obviously this is a very useful tool as it will go a long way in helping you to reach your destination in time and will help you to prevent mishaps along the way.

Arrival Time

Your GPS device will inform you of how long it will take you to reach your destination provided you maintain the same driving speed. By having this information at your disposal you will be able to better manage your trip so that you use the time you are on the road wisely. You might find that with the time you are saving you choose to visit other stops along the way that you would have to have forgone had you not had the handy GPS device at your fingertips.

Anyone who spends time on the road, whether daily or for long stretches at a time, will appreciate the usefulness and practicality of owning a Garmin nuvi 1490T 5-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator or similar device. Thanks to the features built into the Unit you will be able to sit back, relax and even enjoy your road trip.

Consider How Often You’ll Use

The first thing you need to consider when trying to choose the best GPS system is how often you plan on using your device. If you only need to use them from time to time, a smaller and cheaper device may be perfect. However, if you are going to use it all the time, you want one that is user friendly, even if it costs a bit more money.

Tip 2 – Keep Car Style in Mind

A number of the models on the market, including the Garmin Nuvi 465, also present a map on the display screen for you. Typically these kinds of tools are attached to the dashboard of one’s car or truck or maybe they can be attached to a special stand which is connected to your dashboard. You’ll want to make certain that unit installation isn’t going to make it difficult for people to get in your car or truck and that the device hinders none of the air vents or other dashboard features.

Tip 3 – Think About a Choice Having Voice Directions

Even though it is good to use a system which shows the actual directions on the display, it’s not the safest choice to have to keep taking a look at the dashboard for your instructions that you might want. You should look at a system that will give you voice directions too. That way you are able to listen to the directions while you drive. It’ll advise you before you’ll need to turn too which means you do not have to concern yourself with missing your road once again.

Tip #4 – Look for Systems that Provide Other Data

A few devices, such as the Garmin Nuvi 465T, offer more than simply directions. It is great to use a system which will provide you with information for landmarks in the area. This may consist of accommodations, ATMs, international airports, dining places, and much more. Make sure that the information it offers is up to date too. When you’re traveling, this particular information can help on the way.

Tip #5 – Look at the Warranty

Prior to going with a GPS system, be it the Garmin Nuvi 465T or perhaps a different system, check out the guarantee. See how long of a guarantee is actually provided and just how it works. Oftentimes, a few producers will probably void the guarantee on the system in the event that you do not have it put in by a professional. Find this out before you decide to try to do the installation by yourself. Generally, these types of devices ought to be put in using a specialist to get the best results.

Right vs. Wrong Way to Program Your GPS

Did you know that there is a right way and a wrong way to program your Garmin Nuvi 295W Navigator, or whichever device you own? There is. You should always make sure that you program the device before you embark on your journey. Never key in your destination once you are already on the road. Accidents happen quickly and diverting your eyes from the road for a second could result in serious repercussions that could see you or someone else loosing their lives. Always program your destination before you start your trip. If that is not possible then do so when you are able to stop long enough.

Tolls and Alternate Routes

GPS devices like the Garmin Nuvi 1350 are equipped to inform you whenever you are approaching a toll road or congested traffic. When it does so you will asked to select whether you would prefer an alternate route to your destination. This requires you to tap the screen as you select either yes or no. Because of this you will have to look at the device which means you will take your eyes off the road. If it is at all possible you should pull over in order to input your preference. Sometimes that is not possible however and such instances you should be as careful as you can because accidents happen quickly.

Speed and Distance

The Garmin nuvi 295W will tell you what speed you are currently traveling at and based on that information along with the traffic conditions and the route taken, will give you an estimated time of arrival.

Because of this feature you will be able to determine if you are going to be late. This might tempt you to drive faster in order to reach your destination in time. Never do this as it can result in an accident which is the last thing you need.

It is important to remember that your GPS Unit is designed to be a tool that helps a motorist to reach a destination in the quickest and safest way possible. By keeping the above-mentioned, simple rules in mind you will be able to reach you destination safely. Owning a GPS Unit does not mean that you should ignore the rules of the road or drive dangerously.

Wide Screens

Current GPS systems have got quite wide screens. Consider the Garmin Zumo 220 as an example. This especially wide screen makes it easy to enter in your current information and you could possibly set the time, look through several travel alternatives and a lot more. Typically the display screen helps make things surprisingly easy to check out, but furthermore, it tends to make things incredibly convenient. It makes things so convenient for which you generally feel you are able to make use of it when you are driving. You feel that as the display screen is so large you are able to make your decisions no trouble and your eyes will likely be back on the road instantly.

Nevertheless, in the event that you take your eyes off the road for only a instant you can have a major accident. Think about the scenario where you’re traveling at the rear of a lorry whilst searching for the location of the customer appointment. You tap the Garmin dezl 560LT on the dashboard to take a look to determine if perhaps there’s an alternative route due to the fact traffic is actually getting lousy and Pow! You slap directly into the rear of the18 wheeler in the front of you which halted in order to make a left turn.

The Correct Position

If you are planning to utilize a GPS inside your vehicle, make certain it is in place and also at an angle which allows you to view it without the need of taking your eyes away from the road too long. Whilst taking your eyes away from what you are doing for only a single second can be deadly, in the event you position your GPS correctly beneath your rear view mirror, you will be in a position to make use of your peripherals more than enough whilst looking at the display to let you continue to drive properly.

If the Garmin nuvi 265WT Navigator is set in your lap or perhaps it is alongside the radio, you’ll be taking your eyes off the road for too much time whenever you view it as well as alter its configurations. Therefore make certain your Garmin nuvi 265WT GPS Navigator, or whichever product you have, is actually placed securely on the dashboard or even your windscreen and it is at as much to eye level that you can manage.

Driving with a car GPS makes road trips extremely easy as you don’t have to think about where you’re going as long as you listen to the voice from the device tell you where you should go. However, you should always use caution when using your device. It’s always better to show up late than to never show up at all. The bottom line is that you should use your GPS for convenience but you should never let it threaten your safety.

Programming

Whether you’re heading out to a new restaurant or need to find an office for your next business meeting, programming the address into your Garmin Nuvi 3790T is quite simple. You can either purchase a GPS device that uses a touch screen or one that offers speaking capabilities. The latter is a much better option, especially if you’re driving at the same time.

If your vehicle is moving, never use the touch screen of your device. Even if it asks you a simple yes or no question and all it wants is a simple tap, don’t do it while the car’s in motion. If you can find a GPS system that allows you to speak the addressed directly into the device, that would be the better situation since you wouldn’t need to take your eyes off the road to get to where you need to go.

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Make sure you set your GPS system’s clock when you first take it out of the packaging because the GPS system can calculate your speed to let you know what time you will arrive to your destination.

For example, let’s say your Garmin nuvi 3790T tells you that you’re going 45 mph and that you are going to arrive at your destination at 7:13 P.M. Now, if you don’t have to be at your destination until 8:00 P.M., you might decide to stop to get something to eat or drink, or maybe you want to take that time to stop for gas. The time and speed calculations are invaluable and the various features really come in handy, especially if you are someone who always likes to be on time.

Traffic and Construction

Modern GPS systems like the Garmin nuvi 3790T will provide updates that revolve around road hazards. Whether you’re going to be dealing with a lot of traffic up ahead or there was an accident, some GPS systems will provide alternate routes. This is extremely helpful when you’re driving home from work and that construction route is a menace. You end up getting home earlier, and alleviate the headaches that come with sitting in traffic with nowhere to go.

Whether you travel for business or pleasure, the Garmin nuvi 3790T can be very helpful. There are several options out there, so take the time to research each one. In the end, we know a GPS device will definitely make your travels much easier.

What follows are just some of the benefits of having a GPS device as your disposal that will certainly help you to enjoy your trip much more.

Fun Travel

When you travel with a GPS system, you don’t have to think about where you’re going or how to get to the destination you have in mind. You can let your mind drift. Of course you must still pay attention to the road but you can go into that meditative state that we always find ourselves in when we’re on autopilot. Listen to your favorite music or podcast, or maybe even listen to an audio book. Your GPS system will do all the work while you lay back and relax.

It Makes Traveling Safer

The Garmin Nuvi 1300 Widescreen Portable GPS and other GPS systems that are like it, make your traveling safer. Thanks to the device you will be able to avoid areas of congested traffic because it provides you with updates in real time. If there are construction sites or some other blockage to the road, you will know about it before you reach it, allowing you to make adjustments. GPS Units help to monitor your speed and notify you of gas stations in the vicinity, as well as other essentials like ATM machines. It is like driving around with your own guide no matter where you are driving.

It Makes Traveling Easier

Remember the days of trying to drive while also trying to find your place on a map that you are trying to follow? Well those days are gone. The Garmin nuvi Navigator and similar units tell you when you need to turn, which off-ramp to take, which exit to use, which lane you should be driving in and even the road signs you will encounter ahead. Bear in mind however that these are only some of the features that your GPS device has to make your road trip far easier than ever before.

It doesn’t matter if you like to take road trips cross country or you travel for work, or even if you are a pizza delivery person, you will want to get a GPS system for your car or truck. Travel has never been this fun, safe or easy. If you get the right GPS system, much like the Garmin nuvi 1300, you will be able to get anywhere you want in record time and you’ll have a blast doing it.

It doesn’t matter what brand or type of GPS you get, as long as it has the features you need to make travel fun again. You never know, even if you hated traveling before, you may begin to look forward to road trips just for an excuse to use your new GPS system.