Global positioning devices are particularly appreciated by motorists who prefer to travel safely through unfamiliar or busy areas. Yet, if you consider the original purpose of global positioning devices, you will realize that GPS devices were primarily used by campers and other people enjoying the open countryside who prefer to lower their chances of getting lost. As companies started improving the technology for the newest GPS devices for commuters, the same technologies were applied to the handheld GPS models too. These state of the art handheld GPS devices look very much like 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 that mount on autos may actually be used by hikers providing they are familliar with the interface. Many of the GPS devices manufactured by TomTom, Garmin, and Magellan are compact enough to carry around in your hand or keep inside your pocket. Yet for the job of employing the device while walking or using merely one hand, more appropriate interface might be needed. What follows is a list of a few products to consider.

Magellan Triton Series

The Magellan Triton series is a good set to think about seeing as every one of the models from the least to most expensive all are outwardly identical. The most affordable models start with a very suitable 2.2' QVGA color screen while a few of the higher end models come with a slightly bigger screen of 2.7'. All of the Triton models benefit from a rugged design which is waterproof, consequently you can confidently carry them along while crossing rivers or during rainy seasons.

Several of the Triton series devices have a special AdventurePack label affixed to them which basically says that those models are loaded with some particular software called the TOPO! Explorer. Determined explorers should sincerely consider buying these packages. The nice thing about this lineup is that you can find a Triton model that works with your budget with so many different models to choose from. For your auto, a great option is the Tom Tom GO 740 GPS.

Garmin Series

Garmin sells many more handheld products and each particular series accommodates specific kinds of navigation. As an example, the GPSMAP 7X series devices are all maritime-friendly and ideal for sailing on the open water, while the GPSMAP 6X series devices are made with a more rugged design for heavy duty treatment, even though they are still relatively inexpensive and have a useful set of functions including microSD support and competent navigation.

The eTrex series are handheld GPS devices consumers want to look for when budget is a serious issue. They are particularly portable with many of them being equipped with a display wide enough to see with ease.

If you happen to be a professional traveler in need of something especially resilient and equipped with powerful functions, the Colorado or Oregon series will probably meet your needs. Both series come with a multifunctional touch-screen display, a function not included in other Garmin series, and they also display different maps particular for the exact model you get. For a great gps unit in your car, consider the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Be aware that the aforementioned handheld GPS devices should never be used as you are driving unless a non-driving navigator is using it. If you don't need all of the advanced functions and would prefer a more versatile device that can help you on both the road and the trail, it could be better to get an all-in-one device that you can tote in an automobile or in a backpack.

Joseph Aaron writes for an online project helping consumers make educated purchase decisions on GPS Navigation Systems. Amongst the highest rated GPS units recommended on his website is the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.