Mid-Range GPS Systems

The mid-range devices are priced from $250 to $500 and are great for business travelers as well as regular navigation users. In addition to maps and voice-guided turn-by-turn navigation, these units often include MP3 players, Bluetooth connectivity and real-time traffic

Mid-Range Car GPS Listing

MSRP: $350 #1 TomTom GO 920T, Score: 8.8

According to reviewers, the TomTom GO 920T is not the very best of its class, but it's certainly in the top tier. It sports a stunning design and excellent performance, but its voice command feature could use a little work.

MSRP: $299 #2 Mio DigiWalker C520, Score: 8.5

A great device for going against the grain, the Mio DigiWalker C520 offers abundant features for its price class, and an easy-to-use 4.3-inch touchscreen. However, some say its navigation capabilities are not superior to other mid-range GPS devices.

MSRP: $500 #3 TomTom GO 930, Score: 8.5

Reviewers praise the TomTom GO 930 for its novel features and accessibility. Its performance is considered good, if not quite class-leading. However, some feel that the GO 930's voice command feature could be improved.

MSRP: $300 #4 Garmin nuvi 500, Score: 8

The Garmin nuvi 500 Series gets favorable reviews because it can handle any navigation situation you throw its way -- in the car, on a bike, on a trail, even on a boat.

MSRP: $400 #5 Magellan Maestro 4250, Score: 8

The Magellan Maestro 4250's sharp design, easy operation and nifty features are a nice blend. Some reviews point out occasional touch screen lag and even some cases of the unit freezing up. But despite this, the Maestro 4250 receives favorable reviews for its overall value.

MSRP: $269 #6 Mio Knight Rider GPS, Score: 7.5

The Knight Rider GPS by Mio is the perfect "Where do you want to go today" device for any 80s TV buff, but practical minded navigators can find more efficient devices to get them from A to B.

MSRP: $299 #7 TeleNav Shotgun, Score: 7.1

The TeleNav Shotgun is only the second GPS-dedicated device to offer Internet connectivity. But its appeal lies more in its innovation than in its functionality.

MSRP: $499 #8 HP iPaq rx5900 Travel Companion, Score: 6.8

Reviewers praise the HP iPaq rx5900 Travel Companion as a successful hybrid of GPS technology and personal digital assistant convenience.

 

MSRP: $300 #9 Magellan Maestro 5310, Score: 6.5

The Magellan Maestro 5310's large and easy-to-read screen is one of its key highlights for the class, but GPS writers contend a similar or better device can be had for a fraction of the 5310's price.

Unranked GPS Systems

MSRP: $300 Dash Express

The Dash Express is one of the most unique GPS devices on the market, thanks to its Wi-Fi Internet connectivity. But it trades flashy features for navigation basics -- those drivers who are frequently lost should look elsewhere.