Global positioning technology is wildly used and loved by motorists who prefer to navigate safely through unfamiliar or busy streets. Although, if you explore the history of global positioning devices, you will realize that GPS devices were primarily used by campers and other people wandering the open countryside who want to lower their chances of being off the trail and disoriented. Once companies went about improving the technology for the most recent GPS devices for road warriors, the same applications were applied to the handheld GPS models also. These state of the art handheld GPS devices have been styled similar to mobile phones as a result of their profile and colored screen. Another great model to consider is TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Most of the GPS devices used in vehicles could also be useful for people on foot if they are at ease with the interface. Most of the models marketed by TomTom, Garmin, and Magellan are diminutive enough to cradle in an adult’s hand or keep inside your pocket. Although when it comes to operating the GPS unit while climbing or using only one hand, helper or two might be needed. Here are a few products to think about.

Magellan Triton Series

The Magellan Triton series is a useful series to look at seeing as all of the models from the starter model to the top of the line all are outwardly identical. The most affordable models use a very suitable 2.2” QVGA color screen while several of the more expensive models offer a somewhat bigger screen of 2.7”. All of the devices have a hardy casing and to be waterproof, consequently you can responsibly carry them around when crossing rivers or during downpours.

Some of the Magellan models have the AdventurePack label affixed to them which basically says that they contain some special software called the TOPO! Explorer. Serious explorers ought to definitely think about purchasing these packages. The advantage with Magellan’s array of products is that there will be a Triton device that won’t blow your budget with over 5 products to pick from. Another nice option to consider is the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Garmin Series

Garmin has a large collection of handheld products and each particular series accommodates certain kinds of navigation. As an example, the GPSMAP 7X series devices are all marine-friendly and ideal for navigating the open water, and the GPSMAP 6X series devices are made with a more rugged casing for heavy duty usage, but are still relatively inexpensive and contain a good set of functions such as microSD support and competent navigation.

The eTrex series are handheld GPS devices you want to check out when the price is a serious issue. They are also lightweight with many of them offering a display large enough to refer to with ease.

In case you consider yourself an accomplished traveler in need of something really durable and prepped with advanced functions, the Colorado or Oregon series might meet your needs. Both series offer a comprehensive touch-screen display, a feature not included in other Garmin series, and they even have different maps depending on the individual model you get.

Remember that the aforementioned handheld GPS devices aren’t meant to be used while driving unless someone not driving the vehicle is using it. If you aren’t looking for any of the specialized functions and would prefer one device that can function on either the highway or the trail, it may be more sensible to use a less specialized product that you can carry in an automobile or by hand. Another good item to consider is the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.