While today’s smartphones come preloaded with Google Maps or Apple Maps, these applications are only useful for short-distance trips. There are many reasons to not rely on your phone for navigation, whether it’s because the screen is too small to safely glance at while driving, or you drive a vehicle that Google Maps doesn’t have a dedicated mode for (trucks, for example, will sometimes not fit in the backside country roads that the Maps app may recommend), or you drive a vehicle that Google Maps doesn’t have a dedicated mode for (trucks, for example, will sometimes not fit in the backside country roads). Hence, getting a specialized GPS device for your car or truck, believe it or not, is still the best method to travel to your destination securely and easily.

When shopping for a GPS, consider how you want to use it. Some units are mounted on the dashboard, while others are attached to the windshield. Also, the power supply is critical. So, it is important to ensure that the GPS device comes with one that can plug into your vehicle. Also consider additional features like touchscreen capabilities and voice control, when selecting your ideal GPS.

Garmin DriveSmart 51 NA LMT-S

With this reliable GPS gadget, you’ll be able to go from home to work in no time. The Garmin DriveSmart 51 NA LMT-S is a five-inch touchscreen GPS that links to your smartphone over Bluetooth to allow you to make phone calls, view text messages, and set calendar reminders without taking your eyes off the road for less than $200.

Garmin’s precise travel and traffic maps are part of the GPS, and they will show you when and where traffic congestion or road maintenance may occur in real time. It also comes with free lifetime upgrades, so you’ll always be confident that you’ll arrive safely at your destination. It’s a little older than Garmin’s most recent versions, but the pricing reflects that, and the dependability is impeccable.

Garmin Speak

If you’re searching for a truly hands-free option for receiving directions and driving at the same time, the Garmin Speak is a GPS gadget that combines the ease of Amazon Alexa with the reliability of Garmin. It’s also quite easy to use, as it connects through Bluetooth to your smartphone and the Garmin app. In reality, there is no touchscreen and simply a rudimentary display, so it’s all about leveraging the power of speech.

Simply say: “I need instructions to Starbucks.” “Hello, Alexa! Request directions to the nearest Starbucks via Garmin “and the assistant will provide you with step-by-step instructions. It’s essentially the same as having an Amazon Echo Dot on your dashboard. It also includes the same Alexa capability as any other Amazon device, so you can receive news and weather, shuffle play your playlists, and get information on just about anything on the Internet.

In addition, the GPS features a built-in dash cam that, with a simple voice command, will capture and preserve automobile footage. This might protect you from theft or accidents, or at the very least make the effects of each tragic event a bit easier to bear.

Garmin DriveSmart 76 with Camera

Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or picking up your child from school and want to avoid traffic or road closures, this Garmin device has something to offer. The DriveSmart 76 not only navigates for you, but also improves your overall driving experience, with features like driver alerts for potential hazards like school zones, sharp curves, and speed changes, as well as more specific ones like a database of the history behind points of interest and a directory of national parks.

This option also includes a camera that connects to your license plate and broadcasts the image to your screen, allowing you to reverse safely. You may also acquire a mount for easier installation if you choose. Unfortunately, the GPS device itself does not have a mount or camera option. 

To Sum Up

Garmin specializes in safe automobile driving and regularly updates its maps and traffic reports to reflect changes on the road. GPS systems also provide you the assurance that you’ll never be lost, even in unfamiliar territory. They can assist you in locating the nearest restaurant, retail center, rest area, and other off-the-beaten-path destinations.

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