For example, Garmin's DriveSmart 65 notifies you of sharp curves and speed changes and gives you the most accurate traffic conditions. There are nine more noteworthy navigation systems in the list plus a buying guide to help you choose the best one for your vehicle.
The following car navigation systems have all the essentials you need like touchscreen capabilities and traffic alerts, plus a few more extra perks to make your drive more enjoyable, such as multiplayer features or TripAdvisor recommendations.
$199.50
Screen size | 6.95 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 6.8 x 0.7 x 3.9 in. |
Installation | Stand-alone |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | - |
Storage capacity | 8GB (expandable to 32GB) |
$169.00
Screen size | 7 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 6.8 x 4.1 x 5.2 in. |
Installation | In-dash |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | 2 |
Storage capacity | 1GB (expandable to 16GB) |
$159.99
Screen size | 5 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 5.5 x 3.2 x 0.7 in. |
Installation | Stand-alone |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | - |
Storage capacity | 16GB (expandable up to 32GB) |
OTR700
$394.00
Screen size | 7 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 0.7 x 6.9 x 4.1 in. |
Installation | Stand-alone |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | - |
Storage capacity | 16GB (expandable up to 256GB) |
$135.99
Screen size | 10.1 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 7 x 4 x 1.9 in. |
Installation | In-dash |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | 2 |
Storage capacity | 16GB |
$87.00
Screen size | 5 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 0.8 x 5.5 x 3.3 in. |
Installation | Stand-alone |
Built-in Wi-Fi | No |
Bluetooth compatible | No |
DIN | - |
Storage capacity | 4GB (expandable to 32GB) |
$149.99
Screen size | 10.1 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 9.4 x 5.7 x 1.9 in. |
Installation | In-dash |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | 1 |
Storage capacity | 1GB (expandable to 32GB) |
$169.68
Screen size | 5 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 0.8 x 5.5 x 3.3 in. |
Installation | On dash |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | |
Storage capacity | Not provided (expandable to 32GB and 64GB for mapping and camera) |
CMN86
$195.17
Screen size | 6.8 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | Not provided |
Installation | In-dash |
Built-in Wi-Fi | No |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes |
DIN | Double |
Storage capacity | Not provided |
$59.99
Screen size | 7 in. |
---|---|
Dimensions | 8 x 5 in. |
Installation | Stand-alone |
Built-in Wi-Fi | No |
Bluetooth compatible | No |
DIN | - |
Storage capacity | 8GB (expandable to 32GB) |
Image | 1 ![]() Garmin | 2 ![]() Atoto | 3 ![]() TomTom | 4 ![]() Garmin | 5 ![]() Ankeway | 6 ![]() Garmin | 7 ![]() Binize | 8 ![]() Garmin | 9 ![]() Jensen | 10 ![]() CarGad |
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Name | DriveSmart 65 | A6 Double Din Android Car Navigation | Go 520 5-Inch GPS Navigation Device | 7-inch GPS Truck Navigator | 10.1 Inch Android 9.1 Car Stereo | Drive 51 USA LM GPS Navigator System | 10 Inch Touchscreen in-Dash Android Car Stereo | DriveAssist 51 | 6.8 inch LED Multimedia Touch Screen Double Din Car Stereo | GPS Navigation for Car |
Features | Get Real-Time Services With This GPS | A System That Works With Your Steering Wheel Key Control | A Device That Learns Your Driving Habits | Large, Easy-To-Read, and Made for Trucks | A Fully-Loaded Dashboard System | Lifetime Maps as You Navigate | Experience High-Res Directions With This In-Dash Navigator | Car System for Navigation and Security | Improved Bluetooth and All the Essentials in a GPS | Navigation That Fits Various Vehicle Types |
Price | $199.50 | $169.00 | $159.99 | $394.00 | $135.99 | $87.00 | $149.99 | $169.68 | $195.17 | $59.99 |
Screen size | 6.95 in. | 7 in. | 5 in. | 7 in. | 10.1 in. | 5 in. | 10.1 in. | 5 in. | 6.8 in. | 7 in. |
Dimensions | 6.8 x 0.7 x 3.9 in. | 6.8 x 4.1 x 5.2 in. | 5.5 x 3.2 x 0.7 in. | 0.7 x 6.9 x 4.1 in. | 7 x 4 x 1.9 in. | 0.8 x 5.5 x 3.3 in. | 9.4 x 5.7 x 1.9 in. | 0.8 x 5.5 x 3.3 in. | Not provided | 8 x 5 in. |
Installation | Stand-alone | In-dash | Stand-alone | Stand-alone | In-dash | Stand-alone | In-dash | On dash | In-dash | Stand-alone |
Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Bluetooth compatible | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
DIN | - | 2 | - | - | 2 | - | 1 | Double | - | |
Storage capacity | 8GB (expandable to 32GB) | 1GB (expandable to 16GB) | 16GB (expandable up to 32GB) | 16GB (expandable up to 256GB) | 16GB | 4GB (expandable to 32GB) | 1GB (expandable to 32GB) | Not provided (expandable to 32GB and 64GB for mapping and camera) | Not provided | 8GB (expandable to 32GB) |
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Sometimes, a smartphone just doesn’t cut it. Having to look down or hold your device for reference constantly heightens the risk while on the road. If your car doesn’t come with one, it’s probably a good idea to acquire a NAVI system.
Navigation systems come in all shapes and sizes. We can break them up into two categories, in-dash and stand-alone, or one that is positioned on the dashboard. Think about where you want the device in your car, how you’re going to use it, and let’s find a form that’s going to work for you.
A single-DIN refers to a two-by-eight-inch size opening for your car radio system. A double DIN, on the other hand, is the same eight-inch width but has a four-inch height. While in-dash GPS (Global Positioning Systems) sit neatly into your dashboard for a seamless look, we recommend double-checking for DIN size and the device's measurements to ensure it fits.
Depending on your vehicle's make and model, the screen could also protrude from the dashboard in an awkward manner, which may block your line of sight when driving. Some systems might not be compatible with your car’s dashboard, so make sure you check with the manufacturer of the in-dash system and your car’s manufacturer before purchase.
Another crucial consideration with in-dash GPS' is the installation. Unless you're a tech savant, you’re probably going to have to go to a mechanic to help get it installed.
The actual navigation module can usually be hidden away inside the dashboard, so you’re only stuck staring at the monitor. But the screen does jut out, so make sure it’s not going to get in the way of your air conditioning or emergency light buttons.
If you plan on installing the system by yourself, here's a quick guide to help you get started. The manual focuses on the extra step of setting up the navigation receiver or the GPS antenna, which are crucial in giving you accurate directions.
On a positive note, they're portable, meaning you can remove your device and place it in a rented car, perhaps, allowing you to have accurate navigation every time.
While this capacity is limited and can quickly get full, NAVI systems often have one or multiple SD slots where you can insert memory cards to expand the storage capacity. You can find some models that can accommodate Micro SD memory cards of up to 256GB, allowing you to download maps of multiple continents if needed.
Beyond storage capabilities, having enough space on your NAVI systems also allows it to perform better, meaning it starts up quickly and loads maps efficiently. You can check with the product description or look through reviews to confirm the SSD or expandable memory capacity of a particular GPS if it would fit your needs.
Most GPS companies offer lifetime free map updates with their device, meaning you get the most accurate traffic conditions and map layouts possible. Some NAVI systems require you to sync the device with your phone to get the updates, while others can download them on their own using their built-in Wi-Fi.
On top of map updates, traffic alerts should also be real-time to ensure a safe and convenient drive. The latest models would notify you of traffic buildup and give you alternative routes, while others inform you of sharp curves, school zones, or when you're overspeeding at a certain area.
The bigger the vehicle, the more space you have for a wider screen, such as those ranging from seven to eight inches. Because your GPS functions like a physical map, it should be as easy to read as possible. Big screens are also more convenient for those driving trucks or other large vehicles because they need high visibility of their surroundings while accessing a GPS.
Syncing your phone with your GPS allows you to take calls, read messages, or send texts without picking up your phone. It might take some setting up and recording to polish voice recognition, but this nifty feature boosts safety while on the road.
Some NAVI systems, both in-dash and stand-alone, offer front and rearview cameras if your car doesn’t have them. These function as your dashboard cameras and record live footage, giving you proof during an accident where evidence is required. You can even find GPS that can record audio and save it on its internal memory for you to access.
Cameras also help you see your surroundings better, something beneficial for backing up or parallel parking. You can maneuver your vehicle more conveniently if you have extra "eyes," giving you a glimpse of your car's front or rear while in tricky situations.
You can grab a NAVI system that doubles as a multimedia player for road trips or short trip entertainment. Access the built-in radio, load it up with songs, or stream movies for the passengers while receiving voice notifications of the directions.
Some models run on an Android operating system and allow you to download apps like Spotify or YouTube for a more customized playlist. You can even be directed to the highest-rated hotels, restaurants, or tourist attractions through the TripAdvisor and FourSquare recommendations that a NAVI system provides.
As an added feature, you can go for a system with built-in USB ports for increased storage capacity or an extra slot for charging electronic devices.
You might be interested in a few more car essentials like organizers to make your ride more comfortable and convenient. Here are some suggestions to get you started.
Household goods
Home electronics, PC, camera
Cosmetics and skincare
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Housing equipment and renovation
Smartphones and mobile phones
Mobile data
Investment and asset management
Credit cards and loans
Insurance
Music
Smartphone applications