Sunday, December 1, 2013
The Gadgeteer: GPS ~ APP'S vs Stand-alones
The Gadgeteer: GPS ~ APP'S vs Stand-alones: GPS ~ Smartphone APP’s vs Stand-alones © 2013 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BOB SKIDMORE CORRESPONDENT ...
GPS ~ APP'S vs Stand-alones
Smartphone APP’s vs Stand-alones
© 2013 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
GPS technology, although not always totally accurate,
has become part of our everyday life. Since the advent of Smartphones, several apps
have appeared affecting GPS sales. Sales of stand-alone models have plummeted
some 15-20% and all indications are this decline will continue. So, what’s best
for your needs? Here’s what my research reveals…
Smartphone apps are available by several suppliers.
Cost ranges from totally FREE with payable options such as voice commands and
downloadable maps to some pricy versions available from the large GPS
stand-alone manufacturers who are looking to stay in the race and increase
market share. In either case upgrades are generally free and immediate.
One of the most popular apps is SCOUT GPS, Maps,
Voice, Navigation & Traffic. It’s very accurate and is totally
FREE, so you can’t beat the price. Another app that ranks high on my list is GPS
Navigation 2 – Skobbler. It comes in at 99¢ for the basic app and then offers
voice commands at $3.99 and expanded worldwide navigation with single country
to worldwide maps ranging from $2.99 each to all maps at $7.99. The
downloadable map feature is nice in that it allows you to view specific
addresses when not navigating and send a link to your computer via email thus
allowing you to print a hard copy.
So what’s the downside to Smartphone apps even when
you have one of the top ones? All apps operate by using the data side of your
mobile provider’s service. Since many plans offer you unlimited data, this is
not generally a problem when driving in the U. S. Where it does become an
expensive issue is when your travels take you to Canada, Mexico, Europe or
other continents. As discussed in a previous article, http://bit.ly/1faJ0gY, data service in other countries should be avoided
unless you are prepared to pay hundreds and perhaps thousands of dollars.
Stand-alone GPS models rely on direct satellite
linkups that cost you nothing to access worldwide. Several manufacturers offer
worldwide capable mapping devices. Some have the software built-in, while
others provide slots for memory cards. I recently conducted an overseas test of
the GARMIN NUVI 2577LT featuring built-in North American and European maps
with additional maps available.
(TIP: The
Apple App store features an app, COORD’ CONVERTER, that’s useful when the
address is not found on the GPS. Simply take the coordinates shown and manually
insert them into your device. If you’re using a computer go to itouchmap.com)
The GARMIN NUVI 2577LT features a 5” display,
which is typically larger than most Smartphones and is only surpassed in size by
an iPad. Suction mounts along with a car cord, which also serves as a built-in
antenna, are included.
(TIP: Suction
windshield mounts are quite often unreliable as they detach while driving. An
optional folding dashboard friction mount is a handy option. http://bit.ly/1g5lSnb
)
The display shows the road ahead, but split screens to
hazard info and screen shots of exits, except for round-a-bouts, which really would
be very handy, a nice feature when traveling overseas. In addition, voice
prompts alert you to upcoming congestion. Perhaps most interesting is a red bar
that pops up on the screen indicating that you are entering an area of caution.
This is a way of indicating a radar trap is ahead without violating any law
that prohibits radar detectors. An ingenious feature!
(TIP: Sunshields
for the 2577LT are available from third party vendors. Check on line for
suppliers.)
In conclusion, Smartphone apps are great for
occasional domestic use. If you travel outside the U. S. you may want to
consider a stand-alone model. Yes, rental car companies do offer optional GPS
units, but cost, learning its operation quickly and availability are facts to
be considered. The GARMIN 2577LT is one of the best I’ve seen. It’s
compact, as is the collapsible friction mount, making it easy to transport in
carry-on luggage. Map updates are not included in the purchase price, but are
available as a lifetime option (part # 010-D0131-00) for $114.00.
GADGETEER’s RATING:
SCOUT GPS *****
GPS Navigation 2 – Skobbler *****
GARMIN 2577LT: *****
MSRP: $229.99 • Portable friction mount 010-11280-02
$24.99
Bob Skidmore is a freelance
writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not
represent, or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are
solely his points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer
generally supplies products at no cost for the articles and no other
compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he feels
worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason for many
superior ratings.
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