It is difficult to imagine how things were before we had GPS. Many do not realize it but a GPS is almost essential even when trying to find a certain place in your own city. Traveling proves even better how essential GPS units are for both driving and visiting a city on foot. We have smartphones and Google maps that can be true life savers but they are not that accurate or convenient when driving. For drivers, getting a stand alone GPS unit is a much better option.
One of the main advantages of an individual GPS is the battery life and larger screen size. Also they tend to connect faster to the GPS satellite and they do not lose the connection all that easy. Most individual GPS units come with lifetime updates for maps which is a welcomed bonus. Their pricing is quite reasonable and the reliability is superior when compared with smartphone GPS applications.
Best GPS Units Comparison 2023
For our list we selected 10 different GPS units. The market is dominated by several major brands which make it seem like there is not much of a choice in terms of diversity. However we were able to find some decent models that are worth looking at. With no further ado here are the top 10 best GPS units in 2023 reviews.
- 【Applicable Models】LINKSWELL Gen IV 12.1 inch Radio Replacement fits for F150 2015 to 2020 and F250/F350/F450 2017-2020 . Please note: This Radio will NOT work in 2021 F150 trucks. If your truck is equipped with a Bang & Olufsen (B&O) sound system, you will need to purchase an adapter from B&O separately (please contact us if you need to purchase an adapter for the B&O sound system).
- 【On screen Climate Control】The 12.1” T-Style radio for 2015 to 2020 F150 and 2017-2020 F250/F350/F450 replaces the factory display screen and climate control center in select vehicles, enhancing the dash with a 12.1″, multi-touch panel encased in a factory-match bezel. The climate controls are recreated on-screen, allowing the driver to access all related features.
- 【Support CarPlay & Android Auto】With PhoneLink, this GEN 4 radio allows iPhone and Android users to activate and use Car Play (Apple) or Android Auto (Android) to enjoy a seamless experience on the T-style Screen by plugging your factory charging cable into the specific USB input.
- 【Stable Wi-Fi Connect & Bluetooth 5.0】 Built-in Wi-Fi module, online map such as Google Map and Waze can be supported with hotspot shared from your phone. The 12.1-inch Radio with Bluetooth 5.0, a stable connection between the car and the phone, supports hands-free calls, phone book download, and music play.
- 【Built-in GPS Navigation】Built-in GPS Receiver module with external GPS antenna, and Google Maps app is installed as the default gps map, you may need to download offline map data for certain area for offline navigation if preferred. Other map/navigation apps such as waze,IGO,etc.from Google Play Store can also be installed.
- Easy-to-use GPS navigator with 5.0” dual-orientation display
- Unaffected by cellular dead zones
- Preloaded with detailed maps of the lower 49 states
- Navigate complex interchanges with ease
- Easily search addresses and millions of points of interest
- ✦ 【2 Din Rotatable Radio】Rotatable screen freely to adjust the viewing angle, suit different sunlight condition. It fits the vehicle with a 2 din slot. The car stereo comes with ISO harness. Notice: its screen button only has blue color.
- ✦【Carplay & Android Auto】 Carplay radio double din has Built-in Carplay/Android Auto on motherboard chip. Work with wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android auto. Enjoy instant access to Google maps, music or your Phonebook.
- ✦【Built-in DSP, 15-band EQ】 The car aftermarket radio has built-in DSP 15-band EQ and TDA7850 4*50W Amplifier output. Multiple customization options: Pop, Rock, Jazz, Classical, Flat, User, Voice etc.
- ✦【Multi-touch Display】Bluetooth car stereos has 10.2 inch 1024*600 High pixel Touch Screen. 178 degree IPS screen provides far greater clarity from any angle. The car radio touch screen supports 4K/1080P HD video. The multimedia car stereo can support split-screen function.
- ✦【Powerful Motherboard】Build In DSP/15-Band EQ/ DS Radio/bluetooth 5.0 / WIFI/Navigation / 4*50 W amplifier / 6 Audio Output / HD Video Output. The car gps navigation has 3*USB, 2* SUB out, 1*Camera out, 1*GPS antenna, FM radio antenna and extra MIC.
- Applicable models: This Gen 4 radio fits for 2013 to 2018 RAM 1500 2500 3500.
- GPS Navigation & WiFi Connect: Built-in WiFi module, online map such as Google Map and Waze can be supported with hotspot shared from your phone. You can also download the offline map on the Google Map.
- PhoneLink & Steering Wheel Control: You can connect your phone to the dedicated USB port marked PhoneLink and click the APP of PhoneLink on the radio to activate the Carplay or Android Auto first time.PhoneLink functionality is not guaranteed using aftermarket phone charging cables. In order to insure the best operation, ONLY use the charging cable that came with your phone. Support Steering Wheel Control.
- Bluetooth & AM/FM Radio: BT 5.0 w/APTX Loss Less Music Streaming, support hands free call, phone book download and music play. AM/FM Radio w/RDS (12 FM presets, 6 AM presets, plus My Favorite Stations).
- Admire the sumptuous interior of Tesla-style radio? Get this remarkable Tesla-style radio for your truck and enjoy the luxury every day. Every product include 30 Days Money Back Guarantee & 1-Year Product Warranty.
- Applicable models: Replacement for F-150 2015-2020All Trims. F250/350/450 2017-2020 All Trims. PLEASE NOTE : You need to buy an adapter of B&O separately if your truck equip with Bang & Olufsen (B&O) Audio System. If there are any questions about the product, please feel free to contact us and we will help you soon.
- GPS Navigation & WiFi Connect: Built-in WiFi module, online map such as Google Map and Waze can be supported with hotspot shared from your phone. You can also download the offline map on the Google Map.
- PhoneLink & Steering Wheel Control: You can connect your phone to the dedicated USB port marked PhoneLink and click the APP of PhoneLink on the radio to activate the Carplay or Android Auto first time.PhoneLink functionality is not guaranteed using aftermarket phone charging cables. In order to insure the best operation, ONLY use the charging cable that came with your phone. Support Steering Wheel Control.
- Bluetooth & AM/FM Radio: BT 5.0 w/APTX Loss Less Music Streaming, support hands free call, phone book download and music play. AM/FM Radio w/RDS (12 FM presets, 6 AM presets, plus My Favorite Stations).
- Admire the sumptuous interior of Tesla-style radio? Get this remarkable Tesla-style radio for your truck and enjoy the luxury every day. Every product include 30 Days Money Back Guarantee & 1-Year Product Warranty.
- 【Vehicle Compatibility】 GEN IV 10.4 Inch car stereo fits for Dodge RAM 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 and 2019 2020 RAM Classic Old Body style. For more questions, feel free to contact us via Amazon chat.
- 【On Screen Climate Control】The 10.4” RAM truck T-Style radio replacement replaces the factory display stereo screen and climate control center, enhancing the dash with a 10.4″, multi-touch panel encased in a factory-match bezel. The climate controls are recreated on-screen, allowing to access all related features. It will not affect the Air Conditioner's function.
- 【CarPlay/Android Auto】iPhone and Android users can use CarPlay (Apple) or Android Auto (Android) to enjoy a seamless experience using the power of your smartphone for additional features of each system. Connect your phone to the dedicated USB port marked PhoneLink and click the APP of PhoneLink on the radio to activate the CarPlay or Android Auto the first time.
- 【Stable Wi-Fi Connect & Bluetooth】 Built-in Wi-Fi module, online maps such as Google Map and Waze can be supported with hotspot shared from your phone. The 10.4-inch Radio with Bluetooth 5.0, a stable connection between the car and the phone, supports hands-free calls, phone book download, and music play.
- 【Radio Features】①Android 8.1 operating system ②10.4 Inch HD touch screen Android Tablet ③2 USB Inputs (1 Factory Input, 1 Auxiliary), 64GB Memory 4GB Ram ④ Stable Bluetooth 5.0 connection ⑤USB Music and Video player w/HD Video and Video in motion options ⑦Retain vehicle’s factory reverse camera. Add aftermarket front, rear, or right cameras ⑧ Plug and Play Installation system. The radio includes 1-Year Product Warranty. Any questions, feel free to contact us.
- 👉Applicable Model: For Ford Mustang 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020, using the “PhoneLink” app, you can use any compatible Car Play or Android Auto app on your phone for navigation. Note: using any android navigation APP on the radio or your Phone will require internet connectivity and will consume data.
- 👉12.1″ Touch Screen:The T-Style mustang radio multimedia with a 12.1 Inch, multi-touch panel encased in a factory-style bezel to enhance the dash. The climate controls are recreated on-screen, allowing the driver to access all related features.
- 👉Features: ➊12.1Inch touch screen radio, A/C, Dual A/C, defroster; ➋AM/FM Radio (18 FM presets, 12 AM presets, plus My Favorite Station buttons); ➌HDMI Out; ➍3 USB Inputs (1 Factory Input, 2 Auxiliary); ➎3 Camera inputs- Front, Rear, and Right; ➏ 64+4GB memory; ➐4X45 Watt built-in amplifier w/DSP & EQ;➑Android 8.1 operating system
- 👉Bluetooth: Using the T-Style’s built-in AM/FM tuner, drivers can utilize the factory USB port to connect smartphones and an additional USB connector for flash media. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free phone calls and wireless music streaming. Settings tab to personalize your radio to the features of your vehicle.
- 👉Customer Service & Warranty:LinksWell delivers in-vehicle safety, our Mustang radio provides1-Year a product warranty. lifetime tech support, please feel free to contact us, we strive to provide the best products along with superb customer service.
- ★【Installation specifications】The head unit of the original car is 7 inches, the length is ≥ 178mm, and the width is ≥ 100mm, which can install a 13.3-inch car stereo
- ★【Installtation notes】Before installation, you need to open the car hood to disconnect the car battery power，be sure ACC power is off before removing the head unit.After the GPS antenna is connected to the head unit, please do not put it in the center console, which will affect the GPS signal. You can put the GPS receiver at the location of the car's A-Pillar, or other locations.
- ★【Passcode for settings】The passcode for getting to custom settings is 3368.
- ★【Rotatable screen】Motorized rotation of the screen, one click to change to your preferred display mode, vertical or horizontal screen mode
- ★【Android 10.0 System】A55 Octa-Core Processor，1.8GHz Octa-core CPU@4GB RAM +64GB ROM（2*ARM Cortex A75+6*ARM Cortex A55）,Google Play Store for App Download,1080P HD IPS Touch Screen
- 🚓【Vehicle Compatibility】this Stereo can fit Honda Accord 2013-2017 (for OEM Radio None Screen Version); Complete Plug-and-Play Kit Includes Everything You Need To Install that Retains Factory Steering Wheel Controls, Factory Antenna Adapter.(if your OEM radio with Original Screen ,Please feel free to contact us via the "Get Product Support" )
- 🔎【High Performance CPU with Storage Capacity】This Head Unit Featuring with Powerful CPU Hexa-core PX6, 64Bit, 4GB RAM, 64G ROM and Newest Android 10 Operating System. Ensure Faster and more Responsive Using Experience
- 💕【Your Favorite Apps, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto】CarPlay and Android auto is a safer way to use your Phone in the car. Simply talk to Siri/hey Google or touch the receiver’s display to get directions from Phone Maps, make phone calls, listen to voicemail, send and receive texts, and listen to music from Phone Music or your favorite 3rd party streaming services like Pandora and Spotify, all in a way that allows you to stay focused on the road
- 🎁【Built-in Features to Enjoy 】QLED display with a capacitive touchscreen; Built-in hands-free calling and music streaming,Compatible with Hi-Res Audio Video files; 18FM&12AM station, listen to real-time radio, weather forecast; Enjoy millions of the latest Android apps from google play store , games, music, movies, & more.
- 🥇【100% Customer Service】We provide a new replacement or full refund within 30-days, 365-days and professional 24/7 customer service. If you have any questions about the product, please feel free to contact us via the "Get Product Support" on the Amazon Station Email or After-sales Email, we will reply as soon as possible. (PS: If you have missed any parts or received the broken item in the package, we will send a new free one)
- 🚗【Application Models】LINKSWELL GEN IV 12.1 inch Radio Replacement fits for 2019 to 2021 Dodge RAM Truck 1500/2500/3500/4500 New Body Style. If your Ram is a 2022 model-year truck, that will require a 2022 power harness, please contact us before purchasing. If your truck is a 2019-2021 classic old body style, this 12.1-inch radio will not work in your RAM. *This radio is INCOMPATIBLE on RAM trucks equipped with the factory 12" screen option.
- 🚗【Features】①Android 8.1 operating system ②12.1″ HD touch screen Android Tablet ③64GB Memory 4GB Ram, 3 USB Inputs (1 Factory Input, 2 Auxiliary) ④ Stable Bluetooth 5.0 connection ⑤USB Music and Video player with HD Video and Video in motion options ⑦Retain vehicle’s factory reverse camera. Add aftermarket front, rear or right cameras ⑧Plug and Play Installation system.
- 🚗【On Screen Climate Control】The 12.1” RAM truck T-Style radio replacement multimedia center replaces the factory display screen and climate control center, enhancing the dash with a 12.1″, multi-touch panel encased in a factory-match bezel. The climate controls are recreated on-screen, allowing you to access all related features.
- 🚗【CarPlay/Android Auto】iPhone and Android phone users can use CarPlay (Apple) or Android Auto (Android) to enjoy a seamless experience using the power of your smartphone for additional features of each system. Connect your phone to the dedicated USB port marked PhoneLink and click the APP of PhoneLink on the radio to activate the CarPlay or Android Auto the first time.
- 🚗【Stable Wi-Fi Connect & Bluetooth】 Built-in Wi-Fi module, online map such as Google Map and Waze can be supported with hotspot shared from your phone. The 12.1-inch Radio with Bluetooth 5.0, a stable connection between the car and the phone, supports hands-free calls, phone book download, and music play.
Best GPS Units Reviews 2023
Magellan Roadmate 5520-LM GPS Unit with Free Lifetime Maps
- 5" Touchscreen Display With Day & Night Views & Auto Night View
- Free Lifetime Map Updates
- Junction View Provides Realistic Images Of Freeway Signs & Arrows To Make Driving Easier & Less Stressful
- Best Parking Provides Parking Garage Locations, Hours Of Operation & Directions To The Entrance
- Traffic Camera Alerts By Phantomalert Provide Audible & Visual Warnings Of Red Light & Speed Cameras At No Charge For 1 Year
Magellan 5520-LM Roadmate is a great companion for any kind of trip. It is a simple GPS unit with a lightweight construction and a large 5 inch touchscreen. This makes it very simple to use and surprisingly the unit is quite responsive.
The model comes with lifetime map updates. It is capable of finding parking spots and other locations of interest. It has visual warnings and audio alerts. The product comes with a decent battery size that makes it usable for several hours even when not plugged in.
ZXLine 7″ 4GB Car GPS Navigation
ZXLine is a rather unknown brand but it offers decent products. Their ZXLine GPS navigation unit is reasonably priced and comes with some useful features. It actually comes with a rear camera that can help when parking.
The model has a thin bezel and a lightweight construction. Its screen size measures about 7 inches and it comes preloaded with maps. Similar to other GPS units it comes with free updates and additional maps can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.
Magellan 9400-LM RoadMate GPS Navigator
- 7" Touchscreen Display - Extra-large, vibrant, display with day and night views for easy visibility. Perfect for all cars, RVs, SUVs and trucks.
- Free Lifetime Map Updates - Never worry about out-of-date maps again. Download the latest map information (up to 4 times a year) for the life of your Magellan Road Mate navigator.
- Traffic Camera Alerts by Phantom ALERT - Avoid costly traffic tickets. Receive audible and visual warnings of red light cameras and speed traps. Additional alerts are available including, school zones, railroad crossings, dangerous curves, and more.
- Landmark Guidance - Receive directions using landmarks (such as gas stations and grocery stores) as your guide versus street names for an easier and more intuitive way to navigate.
- Speed Limit Warnings - Manage your speed along your route with optional settings for visual and audible alerts.
Magellan RoadMate 9400-LM is a premium models amongst several others in our list that comes with a glossy bezel and a large 7 inch touchscreen. The GPS is extremely responsive making it very simple to use and due to the screen size it is a rather convenient replacement to a smartphone GPS.
Part of the retail package the manufacturers included free lifetime updates for their maps and additional maps can be found online. The device can help find locations of interest and even packing areas. Similar to most GPS units it has sound and visual alerts.
EASYOWN G7050 GPS Navigation System
- Bracket Cradle Replacement is compatible with EASYOWN GPS G7050/CS7001 (7 Inch)
- Function just like original Bracket (just snap it in)
- It is easily removable so you can take it from car to car. No Tools required easy install
EASYOWN G 7050 GPS unit is a great product for the ones that have a limited budget and want to get the best value for their money. It is a simple GPS device that runs on Windows CE 6.0. Its touchscreen is almost lag free and reasonably responsive.
Straight out of the box the GPS comes with multiple maps already installed. The announcer voice is available in multiple languages and more can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website. In terms of features the GPS can plan routes based on road type, conditions and other factors that can be set by the user.
Carelolve 7″ Silky Appearance Car GPS Navigation 8G 256M Touch Screen Multimedia Player Lifetime
Clearlolve offers a great GPS unit for the ones that have a really limited budget. It is a simple model with a large 7 inch HD screen. It is actually a touchscreen and the unit itself can also be used as a media player.
The GPS unit comes with preloaded maps and unlimited lifetime updates. Its media player feature supports many different file formats and it comes with a built-in 8 GB internal storage memory that cannot be expanded. As for the GPS the model is quite accurate with an average error that does not exceed 5 meters.
Cobra 5600PROLM 5″ Pro Driver Navigation GPS with Lifetime Maps
- Unused, unscratched
- Perfect Condition
Cobra 5600PROLM a smaller yet reliable GPS unit. It is still quite expensive for its size but its performance and accuracy makes it a great travel companion. The model has a small 5 inch touchscreen and a thin bezel.
In terms of performance the GPS is quite accurate with a rather low error margin. It includes preloaded maps and lifetime updates. An interesting fact about it is that the device allows multi-point routes and custom optimizations that can be defined by the user.
Magellan 5230T-LM RoadMate GPS Navigator
- Free Lifetime Traffic Alerts
- Receive directions using landmarks as your guide versus street names, making it a more intuitive way to navigate
- Provides parking garage locations, hours of operation and directions to the entrance
- Vibrant 5-Inch touch screen for easy viewing
Magellan RoadMate 5230T-LM is a simple GPS unit that will impress with its responsiveness and route customization options. The software was made to allow as much freedom as possible while still keeping track of road conditions, points of interest and many others.
The model has a 5 inch LCD touchscreen. Its maps are quite detailed and as with all their other products the GPS includes free lifetime updates. It includes garage locations and other points of interest.
Garmin 55LM GPS System
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
Garmin 55LM is a great little GPS unit that is mostly recommended to the ones that need something compact to replace their smartphone while driving. It has a small 5 inch LCD touchscreen and a thin bezel. The body of the GPS is quite thin making it one of the more compact models in our list.
The device comes with several complex route customization features but the default settings work just as good. It includes warning zones and multiple languages for the announcers. Map updates can be found online for free on the manufacturer website.
TomTom VIA 1505M World Traveler Edition GPS
- Lifetime Maps (US, Canada, Mexico, Europe)
- 5 inch touchscreen
- To access European maps, all you have to do is go to settings on your device and select the map needed! It also comes with Free Lifetime Map Updates, so your maps change when the roads do, for the life of your VIA
- Advanced Lane Guidance Highlights the correct lane
- IQ Routes: Guaranteeing the fastest routes and most accurate travel times
TomTom VIA 1505M Word Traveler Edition is a rather expensive model. It comes with some advanced features that many might not even use but the greatest thing about it is the responsiveness of the touchscreen and the accuracy of the device.
In terms of maps the TomTom GPS includes lifetime updates and it comes with some preloaded maps straight out of the box. The LCD screen measures just 5 inches but it is large enough to make it easy to see while driving.
Garmin nüvi 2597LMT 5-Inch Portable Bluetooth Vehicle GPS
- Easy-To-Use, Dual Orientation, Touchscreen Interface;The Traffic Feature Does Not Require A Subscription. There Are No Additional Fees For This
- Garmin Real Directions With Garmin Real Voice Guide Using Recognizable Buildings And Landmarks
- Photoreal And Bird'S Eye Junction Views Offer Detailed Images Of Junctions Along Your Route, To Ease The Stress Of Merging On Or Off A Roadway
- Up Ahead Displays Nearby Services Info Including Restaurants, Stores, Hospitals And Fuel Alongside Your Map And Updates As You Drive Your Route
- Smartphone Link Is A Free Mobile App That Connects Your Nüvi With Your Smartphone. When Paired, Your Nüvi Can Use Your Phone’S Existing Data Plan To Share Information - Such As Where You Parked, Pois And Your Destination
Garmin 2597LMT is by far the most popular model made by the manufacturer. Even if it looks quite similar to some of their other GPS units, the software it uses comes with some rather interesting features.
The model has a traffic features that requires a subscription but the additional maps and map updates are free. Its 5 inch touchscreen is extremely responsive and the GPS itself is one of the most accurate models available.
Conclusion
There are plenty of GPS units to choose from. For most part they tend to have the same maps but the features are quite different. Some models are a bit more responsive than others when it comes to their LCD screen and everyone knows how annoying it is to struggle to find a location or set a route. Responsiveness has been an important factor when choosing the models for our picklist. All the models come with free maps and lifetime updates.
