Selecting a handheld GPS for marine and auto use should be done in several steps. The first step is to identify what you need in a GPS unit.
There are numerous types of GPS units, ranging from full sized units like the Magellan Road Mate and the Garmin Street Pilot III.
While these units can be used as a handheld, they are bulkier and less convenient to carry. The Meridian color handheld is considered to be the top rated handheld GPS due to high ranks in performance as well as ease of use. On account of this, you will want to begin your search with this GPS system or something of similar value and build.
While you may not obtain the lowest prices for handheld GPS systems by going with the top rated, you will get higher quality and better performance.
When selecting a handheld GPS system, it is important that you balance quality with price. The Magellan Road Mate and the Garmin Street Pilot lines are both of high quality at a above-average price. There are lesser models available that do not meet the standards set by these two units, but cost a significant amount less.
When making the decision, you will want to read all of the reviews possible on all of the units you are considering, and weigh the differences in quality and price. In many cases, you will want to spend the extra money on the investment to ensure that you are getting the functionality you need when you need it most.