Best Portable Car GPS Navigation Systems Of 2024 (2024)

Updated: Jan 5, 2024, 6:56pm

Most new cars come equipped with a navigation system, and nearly all new cars have touchscreen infotainment systems that connect smartphones with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With those connected smartphone systems, you can use apps like Google Maps or Waze.

But for many motorists, there’s a sense of security that comes from using a portable GPS system for navigation on long road trips. Perhaps your vehicle is older and it does not have the in-dash connectivity for navigation or a smartphone app. In that case, you definitely want a dedicated GPS unit, rather than mounting your phone to the dash. But one of the best reasons for a portable GPS unit is so that you are not relying on your phone’s reception­ as you head out on those long road trips into areas with potentially low reception.

Whatever your reason, we found portable GPS units that provide reliable and consistent directions and various helpful features for your next trip—whether it’s a cross-town commute or a cross-country road trip. There are various features available depending on the model selected, including Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, wireless connectivity and even a backup camera connection.

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Why Buy a Portable GPS Instead of Using a Smartphone?

Many drivers have dash or window mounts for a smartphone, and why not? There are plenty of great smartphone navigation apps that are available today. But your smartphone requires a cellular signal to operate. A mobile GPS unit has built-in maps and is connected via a satellite connection. It is much more reliable for when you are in remote areas and lack cell service. The portable GPS device also frees up your smartphone for calls and music. You can also pair your smartphone to a GPS device for hands-free calling and playing music as well.

What Makes One GPS Unit Cost More Than Another?

There are a number of factors, including feature availability and screen size. The latter is definitely a major factor, as the larger and more high-resolution screens will cost more. But there are all sorts of features that will impact the price, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth connectivity, as well as integrated Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. Some devices offer real-time traffic information, device updates and additional maps. There are also some devices with a built-in dash camera and/or the ability to connect to a backup camera.

Can I Use My GPS Device Outside the U.S.?

Most GPS devices cover the U.S. and many include Canada and possibly Mexico. Some GPS brands include international maps for free, and some require you to spend money to access those world maps.

How Accurate is a Portable GPS Unit?

According to the U.S. government, which created GPS (Global Position System) for the U.S. Department of Defense and launched the first satellite in 1978, the accuracy is roughly within 16 feet or one car length. It’s not accurate enough to know if the car is in the left or right lane of a divided interstate highway, but it does have the accuracy to tell you which street to turn onto at the right time. A GPS can also use clearly defined turns to confirm the car’s position. It may be momentarily confused coming out of a parking garage.

Is a GPS Unit Better Than Google Maps?

A dedicated GPS unit is not compromised by other functions. That means it’s only drawing power and signal for one purpose and is less likely to slow down, quit or drain the battery as fast as a smartphone running Google Maps or a similar app. However, some GPS units have data services onboard that can show live traffic but require an active smartphone connection. All in all, your smartphone’s free GPS apps will be updated more frequently, have better suggestions and will not require a second device to function.