Coupon & Deal Blog

I can remember so many times in my past when a GPS mapping device would have done me a world of good. Not only is it a total bummer to get lost in unfamiliar territory, but during those times where I was not alone…well that was a whole other can of worms: I’m speaking of tense moods, sharp words -arguments! Mobile GPS came into my life about 8 or 9 months ago. Let me tell you it has been an absolute dream.  I no longer fear striking out into the unknown with the wife in the car, worried that if we get turned around, that our whole evening will be ruined by stress induced bickering. You may think I’m joking, but I’m really not. So many times in the past several months I’ve mused with absolute sincerity: how did I ever get by without you GPS? Coupon Mountain has the inside track on the best GPS deals online. You really should consider getting one, you won’t be sorry.

GPS systems vary widely with respect to features and price. Some automobile models with small screens and basic mapping features cost around $100, while top-of-the-line models with big screens, multimedia capabilities, and even Internet connectivity can top $500. Simple handheld GPS models with 3.5-inch screens and basic features start at about $100; high-end models with more-sensitive receivers, bigger screens, integrated traffic service, Bluetooth connectivity, and the ability to connect to your car stereo can cost as much as $600. One needs to think about the features that one really needs to make the proper choice.

If you tend to take short trips, repeat the same commute, and need directions only occasionally, buy a GPS device in the $100-to-$250 price range. However if you are one that travels often, with complicated and time sensitive travel itineraries you will most like want to purchase the best one you can afford. You need to figure out whether you’ll use it enough to justify the cost.

The frequency of map updates is one of the biggest differences between premium models and less expensive ones.If you expect to use your GPS device primarily to find convenient java shops during occasional travels, working with less-than-up-to-the-minute mapping data is probably okay. On the other hand, if getting from one place to another on time is essential, you’ll want to update your mapping data as often as possible, even if you have to pay for it.

Pay attention to the number of channels available on the device you are considering. Channels determine the number of satellite signals the GPS can receive simultaneously. Low-cost models typically have 12 channels, while high-end models may accommodate up to 24. Roughly speaking, the greater the number of channels, the better the device’s accuracy.

An indispensable feature in my world (but one that you will most like have to a pay a little more for), living among the traffic snarl that is Los Angeles, is real time traffic updates. Some GPS devices have the ability to receive real-time traffic updates; they can come through a wireless data signal or over an FM transmission. Some GPS devices have a built-in receiver for these services, while others will need an add-on receiver. You may be required to pay a subscription fee for the traffic information, too. Traffic tie-ups and construction-delay details appear on your GPS map, enabling you to avoid jams by choosing an alternate route. Some GPS models will automatically reroute you based on the traffic reports.

As I noted previously, “the bells and whistles” available on any GPS device can be wide and varied. Certain models can play MPohh 3’s, provide bluetooth and/or internet connectivity. One just needs to consider whether these features will add enough to your life to justify the added expense.

Currently there are so many fantastic deals available on GPS units. Radio Shack is offering the Magellan Maestro 4350 pictured above for $70 off! Best Buy is offering discounts ranging from 8% to 33% off! Come check out all of our GPS discount codes, it will change your life.