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Featuring CNET Editor Bonnie Cha

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Portable GPS devices Session has ended.

Missed this live event? No worries! Each Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon PT, we'll give you the chance to chat live with a CNET editor. We'll cover a new topic each week, from cell phones to TVs. Get those burning tech questions ready! Click here for the Ask the Editor Live event calendar.

Previous topics: iPhone MP3 players Cameras HDTVs All topics

Latest questions and answers

Q: Quality of Bluetooth revisited

by tj_mcgraw - 9/4/08 11:50 AM

Bonnie,

In terms of quality, I understand I may be able to hear a bluetooth call ok but what about the person on the other end - what will I sould like to them? I'm worried about the "being in a tunnel" sound that is so annoying to people on the other end. If that's the case I'll go without the bluetooth and remain with a headset and save a few bucks.

A: Understandable

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:58 AM

Hi again,

I definitely understand your concern about call quality. As with any Bluetooth headset though, call quality on Bluetooth-enabled GPS differs from model to model. That said, I really haven't had any major problems or complaints with the GPS I've tested.

Q: Navigons

by sl1509 - 9/4/08 11:48 AM

Can you find a POI close to you destination on a NUVI before you leave home?

You can on a navigon.

Navigons were slow before the last rev ( that was FREE and came with a map update)

I am a field engineer, traveling 80% of the time all over the US. We are all degreed engineers. 12 total and most of us have converted to Navigons. Reality View is worth the price, 2100 for $150.

Revisit a 2100 and you will see the best

I gave my Nuvi 750 away in favor of a 2100.

Fresh maps are not offered by anyone else.

A: Thanks

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:51 AM

I will definitely keep this in mind when reviewing the next set of Navigon devices. They've just announced two new models and I know they've worked on the software, so I'm looking forward to checking them out!

Q: GPS Price and updates

by goteken - 9/4/08 11:15 AM

hi Bonnie,
I was wonder which GPS in the $200-300 price range would you consider to be the best.

A: Several options

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:49 AM

Hi goteken,

There are handful of solid GPS in the $200 to $300 range. You can check out some of my favorites here in this roundup: http://reviews.cnet.com/4321-3490_7-6559415.html

Q: Worthy Features?

by Zito17 - 9/4/08 11:33 AM

I noticed bluetooth and live traffic updates seem to add significantly to the price of GPS units. I understand the benefit of bluetooth, but since I already have an earpiece, not sure how much I would use this. Also, I'm skeptical about the accuracy and use of live traffic updating. Is it worth paying extra for these features?

A: Some benefits

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:48 AM

Hi Zito17,

I'll admit that the traffic capabilities on GPS are a bit limited, but there are definitely some benefits. Usually, you'll get some color coding on the map screen to see which areas have congestion or heavy traffic. It's a good overview of what you might expect along the route, but what's more useful is the detailed list of the type of traffic is at a particular point, whether it be construction or an accident. You can check this before heading out (or even en route) on the road and find an alternate way to your destination.

Q: why bluetooth?

by adam0023 - 9/4/08 11:31 AM

Why would you want bluetooth in a gps? Isn't that just like using speaker phone which most cellphones have?

Also, what's the best, affordable gps with text-to-speech and a 4.3" screen?

A: Personal preference

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:43 AM

You're right. You could use the speakerphone on your cell phone. The volume on the GPS hands-free speaker system might be louder, but it's a personal preference. If you've got a Bluetooth headset or are happy with your speakerphone, I wouldn't say you need a GPS with BLuetooth.

As for the second part of your question, I would say the Mio C520, TomTom GO 720, or the Garmin Nuvi 660.

Q: Map updates

by da_alman - 9/4/08 11:23 AM

I have the Garmin nuvi300 and I'm already 2 map updates behind.
Do the other competitors charge for map updates and is it worth updating my unit?

A: Usually a fee

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:37 AM

Hi there,

There is typically a fee for map updates, usually in the $50 to $80 range. However, I would say they're worth it just so you have the freshest maps. Roads are always changing and developing, so in order for you to have the most accurate data, the updates are a good idea.

Q: Sony GPS Review

by ajaydhanuka - 9/4/08 11:28 AM

I came to know that Sony has 2 GPS models. Are they worth buyinng and is there performance on par with Garmin 200 series

A: Cool features but ...

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:34 AM

Of the Sony navigation devices I've tested, the performance just isn't as smooth or fast as competitors. Sony is a little like Navigon in my book. The company offers great features in its GPS devices but needs to work on the performance and interface issues.

Q: iphone as gps?

by russuyeno - 9/4/08 11:30 AM

Hi Bonnie,

I'm considering buying an iphone. I've read that it cannot be used as a true gps (yet). What's your take? Is that something that will probably be fixed in a future software update, or should I go ahead and buy a dedicated gps?

A: Test driving now

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:33 AM

Hello,

I JUST got my hands on our iPhone 3G, and I'm going to be taking its GPS capabilities out for a test drive over the next week or so. But you're right, the iPhone doesn't have true GPS capabilities yet but it definitely may come with a future software update. I'll be documenting my experiences in a Miss Direction post soon, so you can check back for that.

Q: under $100

by sadchild - 9/4/08 11:24 AM

are there any for under $150 worth considering (not remanufactured or other such thing)?

A: Check around online

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:30 AM

Hi there,

There aren't a lot of GPS priced to sell at $150 or less out of the gate. However, if you look around online, you can definitely find some entry-level models in that price range. I'd suggest looking at the Mio C230, TomTom One 3rd Edition, or the Garmin Nuvi 200.

Q: laptop GPS

by jonah jones - 9/4/08 11:25 AM

how do laptop units rate?

various globalsat units sell here for between $100 and $200 while the Mios' start at $300 and go up to $1000

A: To be honest ...

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:28 AM

... I'm not sure. I really haven't had the opportunity to check out any GPS solutions for laptops. I imagine they're fine and offer similar features as the standalone units but require a bit more setup in the car and such.

Anyone out there in the forum use this type of rig and want to share their experience?

Q: Navigon

by sl1509 - 9/4/08 11:21 AM

Why do you hate Navigon products?
I have owned 5 different types of Nav systems.
Navigon is without question the best bang for the buck. It will do things others don't
Your reviews seem shallow.

A: I don't hate Navigon

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:26 AM

Hi bigjack5577,

I don't hate Navigon at all. I absolutely agree with you that the company offers a great number of features in their models that some of the competitors do not. And I find they offer a great value. However, I just feel like the performance of their units is not up to par. The interface isn't as easy to use and the models have been slow. So while a Navigon GPS might offers tons of features, it's really important to me that it to work well too.

Q: Traffic Technology

by bychiu - 9/4/08 11:14 AM

Hi Bonnie,
What kind of innovations to traffic capabilities will we seen in the near term? For instance, any improvements to timeliness, accuracy, surface street data, etc.?

A: Good question

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:23 AM

You ask a very good question. I think there will definitely be improvements to the timeliness and perhaps the details that we see on the maps. A number of GPS manufacturers are incorporating historical traffic data into their devices to provide you with a more accurate idea of when you might arrive at your destination or provide more efficient routing.

I'll actually be interviewing Nick Kiernan, who is the VP of Business Development at TrafficCast on Monday, so I'll definitely ask about what we should expect in the future.

Q: updates

by bedhedoz - 9/4/08 11:13 AM

Hi, I was just wondering which makers are the most cost effective when it comes to updating new street information?

A: TomTom

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:20 AM

Hi ya,

I would say TomTom is pretty good in this area. The company offers a service called Map Share, which allows you to make adjustments to your maps (such as noting blocked roads, updating POI, adding new streets, and so on) and then share the information with other drivers. You can make the changes right on your system, save them, and then upload and share them with other users via the TomTom Home desktop companion. You can also download changes made by other TomTom users or you can opt to only download data verified by TomTom experts.

Q: Bluetooth and nav

by tj_mcgraw - 9/4/08 11:10 AM

Hi, I've read your review of the Garmin 880. It looks very nice but how is the bluetooth on this unit (or others). There's nothing worse than talking with someone that sound like they're in a tunnel!

A: Pretty good

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:15 AM

Hi tj_mcgraw,

I was pretty impressed with the Garmin Nuvi 880's Bluetooth capabilities. The setup is incredibly easy and I really like that your cell phone's contact list is automatically synchronized with the GPS. As for call quality, I was pretty satisfied with the performance. There was a bit of hollowness to the audio, but overall, loud and clear.

Q: Blue Tooth

by Randyabi - 9/4/08 11:07 AM

What are the advantages of a unit that has blue tooth over one that doesn't? And is there subscription fees associated with that option?

A: Hands-free calling

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:13 AM

Hi again,

The advantage of GPS with Bluetooth is that you can use it as a hands-free speaker system. You can wirelessly connect your Bluetooth-enabled cell phone or smartphone with the GPS and make and receive calls, all while keeping your hands on the wheel. It's definitely an option to consider as more states enforce hands-free driving laws.

There are no subscription fees associated with using Bluetooth, though the portable navigation devices themselves might cost more. And of course, you will be using your cell phone minutes.

Q: Best Entry Level GPS

by ajaydhanuka - 9/4/08 11:07 AM

I am looking for a GPS which has a very good POI database and also guides me if I need to go Multiple places in my trip.

I am not interested in any other functionality like MP3 Bluetooth etc.

Please suggest me a GPS which I should buy?

A: Go with a TomTom or Garmin

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:10 AM

Hello,

I'd suggest going with a TomTom or Garmin. Both companies offer models that are easy to use, come with a good feature set, and won't break the bank. Specifically, I'd maybe take a look at the Garmin Nuvi 200 series of the TomTom One 130S. To be honest, we had some problems with the volume on the One 130S, but TomTom has said it's because we reviewed a pre-production unit and other users haven't reported any problems. We're checking out another device just to be sure. That said, I feel the Garmin models are just slightly easier to use.

Q: Way Points

by Randyabi - 9/4/08 11:00 AM

Greetings, I was wondering if there was a moderatly priced unit that had way points. Such as if I start at home, head to destination, but want specific stop points in between.

A: Absolutely

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 11:04 AM

Hi there,

Definitely. I'm not sure what your price range is but most, if not all, of the major GPS manufacturers offer some mid-range model with waypoint support. I'd suggest taking a look at the Garmin Nuvi 200 series, TomTom GO One series, or the Magellan Maestro 3000 series.

A: Welcome everyone!

by bonnie.cha - 9/4/08 10:58 AM

Hi all. I'm here and ready to take your questions on GPS. Looking forward to a fun hour.

Cheers,
Bonnie

Incoming questions

Quality of Bluetooth revisited
Bonnie,

In terms of quality, I understand I may be able to hear a bluetooth call ok but what about the person on the other end - what will I sould like to them? I'm worried about the "being in a tunnel" sound that is so annoying to people on the other end. If that's the case I'll go without the bluetooth and remain with a headset and save a few bucks.
by tj_mcgraw - 9/4/08 11:50 AM
Navigons
Can you find a POI close to you destination on a NUVI before you leave home?

You can on a navigon.

Navigons were slow before the last rev ( that was FREE and came with a map update)

I am a field engineer, traveling 80% of the time all over the US. We are all degreed engineers. 12 total and most of us have converted to Navigons. Reality View is worth the price, 2100 for $150.

Revisit a 2100 and you will see the best

I gave my Nuvi 750 away in favor of a 2100.

Fresh maps are not offered by anyone else.
by sl1509 - 9/4/08 11:48 AM
Worthy Features?
I noticed bluetooth and live traffic updates seem to add significantly to the price of GPS units. I understand the benefit of bluetooth, but since I already have an earpiece, not sure how much I would use this. Also, I'm skeptical about the accuracy and use of live traffic updating. Is it worth paying extra for these features?
by Zito17 - 9/4/08 11:33 AM
why bluetooth?
Why would you want bluetooth in a gps? Isn't that just like using speaker phone which most cellphones have?

Also, what's the best, affordable gps with text-to-speech and a 4.3" screen?
by adam0023 - 9/4/08 11:31 AM
iphone as gps?
Hi Bonnie,

I'm considering buying an iphone. I've read that it cannot be used as a true gps (yet). What's your take? Is that something that will probably be fixed in a future software update, or should I go ahead and buy a dedicated gps?
by russuyeno - 9/4/08 11:30 AM
Sony GPS Review
I came to know that Sony has 2 GPS models. Are they worth buyinng and is there performance on par with Garmin 200 series
by ajaydhanuka - 9/4/08 11:28 AM
laptop GPS
how do laptop units rate?

various globalsat units sell here for between $100 and $200 while the Mios' start at $300 and go up to $1000
by jonah jones - 9/4/08 11:25 AM
under $100
are there any for under $150 worth considering (not remanufactured or other such thing)?
by sadchild - 9/4/08 11:24 AM
Map updates
I have the Garmin nuvi300 and I'm already 2 map updates behind.
Do the other competitors charge for map updates and is it worth updating my unit?
by da_alman - 9/4/08 11:23 AM
Navigon
Why do you hate Navigon products?
I have owned 5 different types of Nav systems.
Navigon is without question the best bang for the buck. It will do things others don't
Your reviews seem shallow.
by sl1509 - 9/4/08 11:21 AM
GPS Price and updates
hi Bonnie,
I was wonder which GPS in the $200-300 price range would you consider to be the best.
by goteken - 9/4/08 11:15 AM
Traffic Technology
Hi Bonnie,
What kind of innovations to traffic capabilities will we seen in the near term? For instance, any improvements to timeliness, accuracy, surface street data, etc.?
by bychiu - 9/4/08 11:14 AM
updates
Hi, I was just wondering which makers are the most cost effective when it comes to updating new street information?
by bedhedoz - 9/4/08 11:13 AM
Bluetooth and nav
Hi, I've read your review of the Garmin 880. It looks very nice but how is the bluetooth on this unit (or others). There's nothing worse than talking with someone that sound like they're in a tunnel!
by tj_mcgraw - 9/4/08 11:10 AM
Blue Tooth
What are the advantages of a unit that has blue tooth over one that doesn't? And is there subscription fees associated with that option?
by Randyabi - 9/4/08 11:07 AM
Best Entry Level GPS
I am looking for a GPS which has a very good POI database and also guides me if I need to go Multiple places in my trip.

I am not interested in any other functionality like MP3 Bluetooth etc.

Please suggest me a GPS which I should buy?
by ajaydhanuka - 9/4/08 11:07 AM
Way Points
Greetings, I was wondering if there was a moderatly priced unit that had way points. Such as if I start at home, head to destination, but want specific stop points in between.
by Randyabi - 9/4/08 11:00 AM
Bonnie Cha, CNET mobile tech editor Live!
Ask the Editors Live! topic: Portable GPS devices

Are you feeling lost when it comes to picking out a GPS device? Well, never fear, Bonnie is here! Our host for this upcoming Ask the Editors Live chat event will be with CNET mobile tech editor Bonnie Cha, who will be here to answer all your questions about those super popular portable navigation devices--ranging from buying advice to post-purchase issues! So join us on Thursday, September 4, at 11 a.m. Pacific Time (2 p.m. Eastern) and hit up Bonnie with your GPS questions. I'm sure she'll get you going in the right direction. Don't miss out!

Click here for upcoming Ask the Editors Live events and past transcripts of events.
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