Want to get a GPS for the Holidays? Mapicurious Recommends...

We are starting to answer some questions about what GPS to purchase this Holiday season. Our disclosure here is that we have received zero devices for free, zero money from any manufacturer, and we have personally used every device type listed.

1. Garmin - These are the best devices for US drivers all around. Easy to use, very intuitive, and a breeze for senior drivers. Updates are free. Traffic is available but will not be as good as Dash below.

2. Dash - Recently the Dash company announced that they no longer will produce the hardware, but license the software. Buy this for real time traffic flows and two way location based applications (Yes - some of these are Mapicurious produced!). You should be able to pick up the old hardware at Fry's and Amazon until sold out.

3. Magellan - Recently the quality of these have decreased, and customer service is impossible if you do run into problems. Some first time GPS users are satisfied with Magellans on US roads.

4. TomTom - If you are a US driver avoid these devices. Road announcements are poor, directions are poorly timed, and menus too confusing. We are willing to sell you a used top-end one if you must have one from this manufacturer.

How to use this list:

1. If it is not on this list, keep your money in your pocket.

2. If you are at a store (let's say Best Buy or RadioShack - sorry Circuit City - you closed all of your stores around us.) and looking at a $199 device from each of the above manufacturers, choose in the order of this list.

3. Please send us your feedback or issues with any of the manufacturers.

Thanks,

Maps

Mapicurious Car GPS Review

I've seen a few GPS's this year for use in automobiles. If you will be purchasing one, or planning to receive one - some quick reviews based on the usability:

My Manufacturer Ranking:
1. Garmin - Garmin devices have the least cluttered map area. These devices are great for older users.
2. TomTom - TomTom devices have a similar uncluttered map, but it does have more options on the map. Probably best for younger users.
3. Magellan - Very slow calculating routes, and somewhat cluttered map. Could create confusion while driving.
4. Mio - Not recommended. Map is too cluttered with information. Would be great for small fingered navigators - not the driver.

A little disclosure:
Mapicurious.com is not paid to endorse or review these devices. Each of these devices were purchased at retail locations, and used to route around various US cities.

Happy Holidays,

Maps