
Originally Posted by
greatauror28
Based on my experience, here's how i rate them:
Dedicated GPS (garmin, tomtom, magellan) - Better
This depends if you have the latest maps in them, or if they are the highest-end model.
Sure they do have dedicated antenna for gps but that doesn't mean they are the end all be all of all direction-seeking mortals. One cool feature may not be found in another. Examples are spoken street names, cue/sound to turn left/right on the next corner, speed-sensing camera sensors, ability to relay sound to car speaker,etc. I've tried at least three GPS here in CA. All of them has the latest maps. One is OK, but consumes lots of battery. The other one forces me to turn left into a flyover. The last one doesn't even mention the street name, which could be confusing.
Nav system built-in cars - Good
I only rated this as good because i've yet to see a built-in gps in cars that has a nice interface, lots of options (waypoints, route selection, etc.) and even though has updated maps - chooses by defualt the best route. I've learned this the hard way when we went home from the nearest city to my place and it led me into an unknown route i've never drove. It still pointed us home but we're not so happy travelling into unknown locations with no gas pumps and restrooms to rest. And it's farther by 50kms total distance by the way. And I don't think its only me, coz my friend has a new CRV but has a dedicated handheld GPS too. We just couldn't trust this even if our lives depends on it.
GPS in smartphone - Best
For me this is the best solution (i've found). You don't need to shell out $150-$200 just to purchase a dedicated one that, sooner or later, you'll regret buying because of the shortcoming its giving you, or you may just can't simply justify the cost of the thing.
Specifically, i use google maps in iP5. Not does it only updates itself, but features (i need) are there when you need it. Just sync your gmail account and it can save you the addresses you chose. It has home and work address which makes it sweeter. Street names are spoken and i have yet became lost following its directions. It's not so hard on the battery, and doesn't eat alot of data either. And it connects via Bluetooth to have the sound output on your car speakers.
Caveats are it doesn't have night mode, nor it does dictate your speed like a true gps device. However, it functions like what you need - to give you directions from point A to point B - and being the best at that.
P.S. Don't use Apple's own map - it sucks!