What's the cheapst GPS solution for my car?

Syringer

Lifer
Aug 2, 2001
19,333
3
71
Over winter break I'm going to go travel a little bit in Nor Cal to places I've never been to, and will undoubtedly get lost..so I'm looking for a cost efficient solution that will provide me with turn-by-turn directions, and a map to get me to my destinations. Any ideas?
 

Syringer

Lifer
Aug 2, 2001
19,333
3
71
Originally posted by: FoBoT
stand alone or do you have a laptop ?

Hmm, I might be able to borrow a laptop, so that might not be a bad solution..

But I think I'll go for a standalone because I want to be able to use it in the future too.
 

rudeguy

Lifer
Dec 27, 2001
47,351
14
61
Cobra has the GPS 500 unit that retails for something like $150. It has street level detail. It doesnt do voice commands though.


P.S.
SPIDER!!!!!!
 

ajayjuneja

Golden Member
Dec 31, 2001
1,260
0
76
I use a small Garmin Etrex Legend which is < $200 nowadays. It has an overview map, and if you get the map software, you can load in a couple city's detailed maps. Works well, though it's not good to look at it while driving.
 

toant103

Lifer
Jul 21, 2001
10,514
1
0
streets and trips 2005 with gps locator. sales for $110 at BB. But don't buy at BB, PM to Circuit City cause BB can kiss my A$$.
You need a labtop though
 

toekramp

Diamond Member
Jun 30, 2001
8,426
2
0
Originally posted by: toant103
streets and trips 2005 with gps locator. sales for $110 at BB. But don't buy at BB, PM to Circuit City cause BB can kiss my A$$.
You need a labtop though

will it work with laptops as well?
 
Oct 9, 1999
15,216
3
81
Originally posted by: toekramp
Originally posted by: toant103
streets and trips 2005 with gps locator. sales for $110 at BB. But don't buy at BB, PM to Circuit City cause BB can kiss my A$$.
You need a labtop though

will it work with laptops as well?

it is for laptops.

I use my etrex legend with my laptop connected over USB and i can use mappoint 2002 (that's what i have) and then when i get to my destination, put the laptop back in the school bag and walk around street level detail of the GPS on my etrex legend which i have downloaded on to the unit prior.
 

Bootprint

Diamond Member
Jan 11, 2002
9,847
0
0
With a laptop you could go for the Garmin GPS 18 Deluxe. It's a usb puck gps, no display but sends the signals to the laptop. The software has simple speaking directions, example "In 500 feet turn right."

In fact anyone with a Garmin gps, mapsource maps software and laptop might want to check out Garmin nRoute. Link to download nRoute.

I used the nRoute with mapsource map for Canada and a Geko 201 for my tripping from Toronto to Vancouver.
 

RichPLS

Senior member
Nov 21, 2004
477
0
0
I think the Magellan Platinum is the best
It also has built in electronic compass that works standing still.
find it online around $250

The Magellan Gold is same, but you have to move for compass to work.
Around $190

These are the best IMO, base map of US with main highways and roads, and you can upload maps street level maps.