Global positioning technology is currently appreciated by commuters who prefer to maneuver safely through the most confusing streets. Yet, if you explore the history of global positioning devices, you soon find out that GPS devices were heavily used by campers and other people enjoying the wild places who wish to avoid being off the trail and disoriented. Once companies started advancing the technology of the latest GPS devices for commuters, the same technologies were put to use in the handheld GPS models as well. These next generation handheld GPS devices look similar to mobile phones because of their shape and display screen. For your car, an excellent unit is the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Many of the GPS devices designed for autos could also be useful for hikers providing they are familliar with the interface. Many of the products manufactured by TomTom, Garmin, and Magellan are small enough to carry around with one hand or keep inside your pocket. However for the job of using the GPS unit while walking or using only one hand, a dedicated solution may be useful. Below you will find a few products to look for.

Magellan Triton Series

The Magellan Triton series is an instructive example to think about because every one of the models from the least to most expensive all appear identical. The least expensive models have a very suitable 2.2' QVGA color monitor while some of the higher end models provide a somewhat bigger screen of 2.7'. Every one of the Magellan units benefit from a resilient design which is waterproof, so you can safely carry them along as you are crossing rivers or during rainstorms.

A few of the Magellan models have the AdventurePack label affixed to them which indicates that they include some particular software called the TOPO! Explorer. Serious explorers ought to absolutely consider buying these packages. The nice thing about the Triton line is that there will be a Triton device that won't blow your budget with such a range of devices to pick from. For your auto, a great option is the Tom Tom GO 740 GPS.

Garmin Series

Garmin sells quite a few handheld products and each different series is made for specific types of navigation. As an example, the GPSMAP 7X series units are all marine-friendly and ideal for crossing the open water, but the GPSMAP 6X series units have a more resilient construction for heavy duty treatment, but are still relatively inexpensive and contain a good set of functions such as microSD support and competent navigation.

The eTrex series are handheld GPS devices consumers should look for when the price is a primary factor. They are easy to carry with quite a few of them having a monitor wide enough to see with ease.

If you are an accomplished traveler in need of a device made to be really tough and stuffed with specialized functions, the Colorado or Oregon series may meet your needs. Both series provide a comprehensive touch-screen display, a function not included in other Garmin series, and they also come with different maps particular for the precise model you get. For a great gps unit in your car, consider the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Remember that these handheld GPS devices should never be used as you are driving unless someone not driving the vehicle is using it. If you won't require all of the advanced functions and would prefer a more versatile device that is able to function on the city street as well as the trail, it might be better to use a less specialized product that you can tote in your vehicle or by hand.

Joseph Aaron is involved with an online project that helps his readers make educated purchase decisions on GPS Navigation Systems. Amongst the highest rated GPS units recommended on his website is the Tom Tom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.