Searching for the best portable GPS system is just like scouting for the perfect car. For some, the perfect car would be some model that can survive three rowdy kids, two cats, a dog and of course, the wife who seems to bring her entire closet with every weekend getaway. The car must be roomy, accommodating and does not need a tightly close interval of maintenance schedules. On the other hand, for somebody else, the perfect car would mean a rag top, two seats and runs 120 mph. Therefore, the best portable GPS system largely varies on the user\'s needs and lifestyle. What may be perfect for you may not be the perfect find for some, and vice versa.

Basically, the portable GPS receivers function the same thing. It provides you relevant and very useful information that will serve as your guide such as directions and exact locations of your desired destination, either across the country or just down the highway. GPS systems work in the same satellites\' networks that circle the earth. Mostly, the portable ones are making use of similar types of receivers. Thus, the differences among various models and makes are not on their works and functions, rather in the whistles and bells that come along with each model. So, to find the best portable GPS, one must be well equipped with the necessary idea and background on what GPS really is.

GPS systems virtually come with these features: touch screen, automated route calculation, voice prompts that dictates where to run, large database that contains points of interests such as ATM\'s, hospitals, and more, a choice between 3S views or 2D map views, another choice between the fastest and shortest routes, and usually preloaded with maps of all 48 states. However, in order to get the best buy, before buying a portable GPS system, you must first consider the main optional qualities and features. Check if an aspired model can actually point out the street name that you are supposed to turn into. Also, ask yourself what you need, whether you prefer a wide screen version like 4.3 inches in diagonal opposing to the 3.5 inches? Will you need something with maps of Mexico, Europe or Canada? Does the unit support Bluetooth technology? Or can it calculate the s

hortest distance given several routes to a particular destination? Does it provide updated weather reports and real-time traffic updates? Does it have an mp3 wherein you can listen to music in it or look at digital photos? And lastly, determine how big it is that you want for the Points of Interest database.

In addition, major GPS manufacturers have put in their additional special features to their products. Like for instance, Magellan had hooked up with AAA for their Tourguide information. Tom Tom also has its own neat features wherein users can verily modify maps and may upload the changes to the unit\'s computer database. And for 2008, Garmin will be introducing their voice-activated GPS products that recognize voices to do the commands instead of using the touch screen panel.

All in all, for you to determine what is the best portable GPS device for you, you must first distinguish and differentiate the optional features that you deem necessary, considering you can afford it. The basic GPS system can be availed below $200. An example will be the Garmin nuvi 200 which comes with the basic features mentioned previously. It has preloaded regional maps, not all of United States though. But if you can afford a bit more costly, you may get the Tom Tom One, third edition and expect to spend slightly lesser than $200, although some sold it for more than $200.

For more expensive buys that go over $200, you can have the Magellan Maestro which costs between $200 and $400. You can also purchase the basic 3210 for about $250, with thousands of points of interests, or you may prefer the AAA Tourbook. Among the most after sought GPS units these days is the Garmin nuvi 350. It does what all nuvi 200 products do with an added bonus of mp3 capability, travel kit, calendar, world travel clock, and picture viewer among others.

To come up with a decision on what portable GPS to get can be really difficult. To better assist you, feel free to browse online and research more about GPS products. You may get insights and features that will finally convince you on what to purchase. With the help of the Internet, you can compare more models and prices, as well as features. After which, you will eventually figure out what will be the best portable GPS for you.