Best GPS Units
Best Vehicle GPS Unit
Best Big-Rig GPS Unit (Truckers/RVs)
Best Motorcycle GPS Unit
Best Cycling GPS Unit
Best GPS Pet Tracker
But first – what is a GPS tracker?
GPS units are also called satellite navigation devices. GPS units calculate geographical location. They can retrieve your location and the time from pretty much anywhere. Whether you’re walking, driving, or cycling, GPS units can help guide you through your adventures and make you feel safer. You may want them for navigation or for recording your activity.
You probably have a GPS system even if you don’t realize it. Most watches and smartphones have their own location satellites. There are many reasons why you might want to invest in a separate GPS unit.
Why do I need a GPS unit anyway these days?
You might be wondering why your smart phone doesn’t do the trick on its own. Most smartphones have one or more mapping apps. While these are generally reliable, they may require data or wifi to work completely accurately. There are a variety of benefits in using a GPS unit:
- Ultra-accurate GPS
- Longer battery life
- Great off-road use
- Additional features
- Durability (in extreme conditions like hot climates)
What makes a great GPS unit?
When we chose our list of the best GPS units, we looked for the following advantageous characteristics:
Accuracy
The first thing you want to consider when making your selection of the best GPS unit is accuracy. Some GPS units report accuracy only down to longitude and latitude. Other more specific units, report OS grid reference.
Ease of install/set up
You want a GPS unit that requires little to no installation effort. You want a device that only requires a quick charge before you’re ready to go.
Range
Some GPS units have confined ranges of distances up to 50 feet. Bluetooth powered devices can usually operate at ranges up to 150 feet. Other more desirable units have unlimited ranges. For even greater range you can boost your GPS unit with dual-frequency receivers.
Screen
Make sure the type of screen is suitable for your adventure. Transflective screens, for example, reflect natural light. Backlights make the screen readable in daylight. High resolutions make map displays more detailed and visible.
Features
You want to find a GPS unit that is durable and can withstand varying elements and conditions. Features conducive to the elements include IPX waterproofing. Buttons are another handy feature that make use easy if you’re taking your GPS out on trips where you’re wearing gear like thick gloves.
Other desirable features for a GPS unit include route recording so you can play your journey back later on.
Connectivity to Wifi and Bluetooth are other features to take into account. Often devices with these features can produce weather readings and other stats.
Battery
A long battery life is extremely important for those who will be using their GPS unit over extended periods of time. Most GPS units come with charges like USB cables that you should carry with you on the road.
Durability
Look for a GPS unit that can withstand heat and other extreme temperatures. The material should be sturdy and conducive to a bit of wear-and-tear.
Best Vehicle GPS Unit
This is the best GPS unit to bring in the car. The maps of North America are thorough and clear. The unit provides real-time updates such as live traffic and parking information. You will be stuck in traffic no longer as the app provides constant alternate routes. You can also download TripAdvisor straight to the device. This lets you browse and review ratings for nearby restaurants, hotels, and other destinations.
Bluetooth calling
This GPS unit doubles as a phone. There is Bluetooth calling, smart notifications, and voice activated navigation. The Wifi capabilities also allow for easy mapping and software updates.
Best Big-Rig GPS Unit (Truckers/RVs)
If you’re a trucker, this is the GPS unit for you. Customize your routes depending on the size of your vehicle and take the roads which are suitable for your truck. The GPS unit comes with maps of the Americas and other international destinations at your request. Voice navigation makes driving safer so you can focus on the road.
Top-notch visual experience
The 9-inch high-resolution screen is brighter with an impressive resolution of 800×480. The screen is noticeably bigger and clearer. It also comes with a pouch for portability.
Best Motorcycle GPS Unit
This is the optimal GPS unit for bikers. Even when you’re wearing gloves, it’s easy-to-use. The touchscreen is sunlight readable and it’s ipx7-certified waterproof design means you don’t have to worry about the weather.
Rides for the thrill seekers
This device allows you to select routes with hills and curves for the biking thrill seekers. The quad-core processor doubles your overall processing speed.
Best Cycling GPS Unit
This GPS unit is a no-brainer for cyclists due to its features and its size. Not only is the unit great for getting around, but it has dynamic performance monitoring. It reads your VO2 max, recovery, training balance, head and altitude acclimation, nutrition, and hydration. Measure the difficulty of your rides and track them back later. We love that it includes a routable Garmin Cycle Map so you can ride all the right routes like a local.
Safety on the road
Safety features on the device include a bike alarm, group messaging, tracking, and compatibility with your radar lights.
Best GPS Pet Tracker
When speaking of GPS units of any sort, it is impossible not to include a dog tracker on our list of favorites. Just attach this lightweight and waterproof device to your pet’s collar and you’re good to go. It’s perfectly comfortable for your pet to wear around their neck or on a harness.
Follow your furry friend
Does your dog or cat like to run off or roam from home? Fear not. With this device you can follow your dog or cat’s every move from your smartphone. You can mark a secure virtual fence so you know when your pet has gone beyond the safe parts of your garden. You can also share your pet’s location with a friend.
Reviewers say this device changed their lives with their pets. They can go on nature walks stress free while their pet roams nearby.
FAQs about GPS Units
Can I travel internationally with my GPS unit ?
Different countries have different signal systems. For example, in the US there is GPS while in the EU and Russia there are GLOSNASS and Galileo. The best GPS units have capabilities to connect to any signal, anywhere.
Will my GPS unit be safe in the rain?
All of our best GPS unit picks are waterproof, which means you don’t have to worry about riding or walking with them in rainy conditions. What is a magnetic compass?
If your GPS unit has a magnetic compass it means you can check which direction you’re facing in. This will constantly update as you move.