Street maps versus…

Pros: made of paper (foldable, not reliant on external power source)

Cons: made of paper! (does not update itself)

…GPS device or kit:

Pros: brings information wealth to your fingertips (the most updated can display where to find gas or an ATM).

Cons: well, probably the distraction brought about by such a nifty and useful device.

This report concerns GPS devices as help in automotive navigation. As explained, these differ are unique from handheld GPS receivers in the sense that the latter are meant for hiking and camping, while auto GPS systems have audio directions and highway-mapping features, and consequently larger screens. Auto GPS units are also much bulkier than handhelds.

For its Auto GPS devices category as of June 2007, Consumer Search cites the three best GPS devices out of 27 it evaluated: Garmin nuvi 660 ($675), Garmin nuvi 680 ($730), TomTom One ($270). It quoted sources like GPSMagazine.com, GPS Tracklog, PC Magazine.

Its best auto GPS overall: “We found more top ratings for the Garmin nuvi 660 than any other car GPS unit; extreme accuracy and high-value features brings it one cut above the rest. Features include a big (4.3 inches) bright backlit touchscreen, and an FM transmitter to play MP3s through your car stereo along with Bluetooth. A three-month trial subscription to FM TMC Traffic is included -- this service sends live traffic data to your auto GPS. The only drawback may be its expensive price tag.”

CNet, on the other hand, offers advice when buying GPS. Whether looking for something that’ll go in-dash or something removable, know what you want in each of the following categories: display, maps, form factor, navigation features, and accessories.

Bonnie Cha, Senior Associate Editor of CNet, has a detailed buyer’s guide to her top 5 wide-screen displays GPS.

1.TomTom One XL, which garnered the lowest CNet Editors’ and 8 users’ ratings at 6.7 and 6.4 respectively: “Offers ease of use, accurate directions, and a spacious touch screen, but you can get more for your money from other portable navigation systems.”

2.Garmin Nuvi 660, which was one of the two highest, as rated by CNet Editors’ and 87 users’ ratings at 8.3 and 7.6 respectively: “If you can afford the hefty price tag, this is a solid-performing and versatile GPS device that offers all the navigation basics, tools for the world traveler, Bluetooth, and more.”

3.Magellan Maestro 4040: “Sporting a sleeker design and interface, the Maestro series offers drivers an accurate in-car GPS device with useful trip information, thanks to its partnership with AAA.”

4.Harman Kardon Guide Play GPS-500, which was one of the two highest, as rated by CNet Editors’ and 2 users’ ratings at 7.0 and 8.5 respectively: “Style and ease of use mark this basic portable navigation and multimedia device, but it doesn't offer the same smooth performance and efficiency of competing products.”

5.Mio C520 Navigation Receiver: “This in-car is a good-value GPS device, packing in advanced navigation features, a large screen, and other extras for an affordable price. However, you can get a better user experience and smoother performance from competing systems.”

In need of outdoorsey, handheld GPS devices? Or how about PDA plus GPSs? Click to choose the latest.