Event Coverage

IT Show 2013 - Telco, Tablets, GPS & Mobile Accessories Buying Guide

By Team HardwareZone - 7 Mar 2013

GPS Devices

GPS Devices Buying Guide

You might think that with smartphones, the days of the standalone GPS device are over. While that might be true to a certain extent, standalone GPS devices still have their place especially for drivers. These devices typically have larger screens for easier navigation, and unlike your smartphone which can be interrupted by text messages and calls, the standalone GPS devices only needs do one thing: Show the quickest route to your destination, providing a distraction-free navigation experience. We give you some pointers on selecting the right GPS for you and also show you the hot buys from this show.

 

GPS DEVICES TODAY

There’s a myriad of standalone GPS devices out there today. The two biggest names in the business are Garmin and TomTom. Garmin is famed for its ease of use, while TomTom prides itself on its unique MapShare and IQ Routes map technology. There’s also a host of smaller players and some other popular brands are Holux and Papago.

 

 

GPS Devices today are more than just navigational tools. It is possible to find add-ons such as video cameras which let your GPS device double up as an in-car video recorder too.

 

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

Screen size: As a rule of thumb, the larger the screen the better, because it is easier to see. However, if you are driving a smaller car, you might want to get a smaller unit so that it would not block your view. In our experience, a 5-inch display seems to be the sweet spot for most drivers and cars.

Maps: Unlike smartphone apps like Google Maps, a standalone GPS device’s maps are stored onto the device itself. This means that they can be used overseas (as long as they have the map of the country preloaded) without occurring exorbitant roaming costs. Typically, GPS devices sold in Singapore are preloaded with maps of both Singapore and Peninsular Malaysia. Additional maps are usually available for purchase separately.

Special Features: Some high-end models are able to receive traffic updates via RDS satellite from LTA. Additionally, some models even come with an additional video camera so that the GPS can double up as an in-car video recorder too.

Check out the latest GPS devices at our HardwareZone GPS Devices Product Guide.

 

GPS Deals at the Show

Here are some highlighted GPS devices' deals at the IT Show this year.

Garmin 2565LM

The Garmin 2565LM features a bright 5-inch display and voice activation technology, which allows you to search for directions with just your voice and prevents you from taking your hands off the wheel.

IT Show 2013 Offer

  • IT Show Price: $259 (Usual Price: $279)
  • Brochure

Location

Level B2, Booth B241

Marbella Geomate 500

The Marbella Geomate 500 sports a 5-inch display and features useful functions such as junction view, lane assist and can even calculate ERP costs.

IT Show 2013 Offer

  • IT Show Price: $199 (Usual Price: $299)
  • IT Show Promotion: Free Marbella MR2 road recorder worth $189 (while stocks last)
  • Brochure

Location

Level 1, Booth 1229

TomTom Via 620

GPS devices don't come bigger than the TomTom Via 620. With its massive 6-inch display, it's one of the largest GPS devices you can get your hands on.

IT Show 2013 Offer

  • IT Show Price: $279 (Usual Price: $299)
  • IT Show Promotion: Free Lifetime Maps and carry case
  • Brochure

Location

Level B2, Booth 138

TomTom Go 2050 World

The TomTom Go 2050 World is ideal for frequent fliers because it comes with World Maps, which includes Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, U.S.A. and Canada.

IT Show 2013 Offer

Location

Level B2, Booth 138

 

IT Show 2013 GPS Devices Portal

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