By Edsel Rollin

Several few years ago, satellite-based navigation systems were available only as expensive, built-in options on new vehicles. Nowadays, portable GPS devices that can be hooked up and fully operable in minutes have become accessible and affordable to every driver, not just those with cash to spare. I was amazed at how quickly the portable GPS technology has progressed.

I have a built-in GPS in my Infiniti that I rely on more than a day to tell me where to go. I used to have problems finding places. I would get lost all the time and it ended up being a real issue. Getting directions from people is time-consuming and MapQuest isn’t always 100% accurate, so having a reliable GPS has undoubtedly saved me tons of time and gas money.

There are a few things to seriously consider prior to purchasing a portable GPS. Hopefully we can assist you in locating the portable GPS that’s ideal for your particular needs and specifications. For most folks, price is the first thing to consider. Portable GPS navigation systems range from as little as $299 to more than $2,000. Fortunately, there are some good portables available for less than $500. The second question is what you want your GPS to do. If you want all the bells and whistles, you’re obviously going to pay more. The more pricey models feature things like satellite radio, MP3 players, and more. But, if all you want from your GPS is for it to get where you’re going, accuracy and ease-of-use are obviously the top priorities.

Most of the lower-priced models feature smaller screens, and require that users load their choice of maps onto a memory card that is then inserted into the unit. The higher-priced alternatives have bigger screens with better graphics and don’t require memory cards. In the $500-and-up category, most GPSs are pre-loaded with maps.

Screen sizes range from 2.1 inches to 7 inches. I found the 2.1-inch screen to be just too small. If you have to lean over and squint to read it, you’re risking getting into a wreck or getting lost because you can’t see the thing without binoculars. On the other hand, the 7-inch screen (featured on some of the Garmin models) is too large, in my opinion. Hey, I just want to reach my destination. I have a big screen in my living room, thanks very much.

A GPS with a high-quality user interface should have menu systems that are easy to understand. Those systems that require the skills and knowledge of a computer programmer didn’t make my list. I’m not a tech whiz, so if it’s hard to operate, I won’t use it. Which means I’m back to asking the locals for directions.

If you’re searching for hotels, gas stations, and restaurants, you shouldn’t have to jump through a bunch of hoops. A good system should make this information available with no more than two steps using the navigation screen. The fewer the screen taps the better. Several of the top-tier systems complement the touch-screen user interface with dedicated hardware buttons that let you jump to frequently used functions with ease.

Portability is another important issue to consider. Some units operate directly from a car’s battery, while a handful have built-in rechargeable batteries that will power the unit from 4 to 15 hours. Almost all portable GPS devices are accompanied by a suction-cup mounting bracket that will adhere conveniently to your windshield. With a high-quality bracket, taking the GPS in and out of its holder should be a snap.

Text-to-speech is a technology that enables a GPS to pronounce any street name. Most GPSs will announce an upcoming turn with a phrase like, “In .7 miles, turn left.” Those with text-to-speech capability can announce a turn like this: “In 300 feet turn right on Main Street.” Since the name of the street is announced, you don’t have to take your eyes off the road to glance at the screen.

If your GPS can’t recognize voice commands properly, it can be a real pain. The other day I was trying to get to Eddy Street in San Francisco. The built-in GPS in my car couldn’t understand the word “Eddy”. It gave me “Annie”, “Ernie” and “Army” and I finally had to pull the vehicle over and type the street name into the system manually, which was a real headache. So, test any portable GPS system before you buy it. Try a few less common street names and see how it responds.

Another factor to consider is how to obtain updates once you’ve purchased your unit. Street and highway names change; new ones crop up; and the database of destinations is shrinking and expanding all the time, as new businesses open and old ones close their doors. With some systems, the updates are free and can be loaded into your unit very easily online. Others, like some of the Magellan units, will require you to purchase software updates, which means you have to pay approximately $50-$70, and then ship them your unit so that they can install the software.

The portable GPS units of tomorrow will feature access to live traffic data that will be fed directly into your navigation system to tell you about things such as construction delays and accidents. But, for now, these are the best on the market.

When asked to review the best portable GPS systems on the market today, I decided to go to several retail stores and sift through the contenders and the pretenders. I also looked to see which ones were getting the most favorable reviews online.

Here are CarReview’s top 5 portable GPS systems:

1.) TomTom GO 930
The best unit for the price. TomTom has always focused on navigation first and foremost, so this GPS emphasizes things like advanced lane guidance and historical traffic data. The TomTom GO 930 gives accurate directions and is easy to operate, the two most important things when you’re looking for a GPS. (Cost: $377 to $500)

2.) Mio C520 GPS
A great solution for those on a budget. One of the cooler looking portable GPS units, the Mio C520 Navigation Receiver is a solid value with a big screen that can be used as a video player. It can be a little clunky at times, but not to the point where it isn’t effective. (Cost: $260 to $340)

3.) Garmin Nüvi 880
The best in its class. Features a lengthy list of impressive extras coupled with probably the most accurate speech recognition of any portable GPS. Garmin’s Nüvi line is well-known as a top-tier, highly reliable and quality product. (Cost: $580 to $990)

4.) Navigon 7200T
Looks good and the price is right. Features voice address entry, 3D landmark renderings, text-to-speech functionality, and integrated Bluetooth. The graphics aren’t top-of-the-line, and it’s not the easiest GPS to use, but it’s accurate and features a great design. (Cost: $269 to $349)

5.) Garmin Nüvi 765T
For the best of ALL worlds. Features new map enhancements; an FM transmitter; 3D lane assist; 3D building views; and faster screen re-draws. It’s Bluetooth compatible and extremely user-friendly. The graphics are superior to anything else I’ve seen. (Cost: $549 to $649)