Global positioning technology is now appreciated by car owners who would like to navigate safely through unfamiliar or busy cities. Although, if you explore the earliest applications of global positioning devices, you will realize that GPS devices were heavily used by hunters and other people enjoying the great outdoors who wish to avoid losing their way. When manufacturers started developing the technology in the most recent GPS devices for drivers, the new applications were applied to the handheld GPS models too. These updated handheld GPS devices look very much like mobile phones thanks to their profile and LCD screen. Another great model to consider is TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Quite a few of the GPS devices designed for autos can actually be useful for pedestrians providing they are familliar with the interface. Quite a few of the models manufactured by TomTom, Garmin, and Magellan are small enough to hold in an adult’s hand or keep inside your pocket. Yet when it comes to using the GPS unit while hiking or using merely one hand, more appropriate interface could be useful. What follows is a list of a few products to consider.

Magellan Triton Series

The Magellan Triton series is an interesting collection to explore because all of the models from the starter model to the top of the line all look identical. The most affordable models start with an acceptable 2.2” QVGA color screen while several of the more expensive models have a slightly wider screen of 2.7”. Every one of the Magellan units sport a rugged casing and are waterproof, consequently you can responsibly carry them with you while crossing rivers or during downpours.

A few of the products have an AdventurePack label affixed to them which means that the devices contain some particular software called the TOPO! Explorer. Extreme explorers should absolutely take a closer look at these packages. The advantage with Magellan’s array of products is that there will be a Triton device that works with your budget with so many different models to choose from. Another nice option to consider is the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.

Garmin Series

Garmin offers a wide range of handheld products and each particular series accommodates certain kinds of navigation. For instance, the GPSMAP 7X series models are all maritime-friendly and designed for sailing on the open ocean, and the GPSMAP 6X series models benefit from a more durable construction for heavy duty navigation, yet are still reasonably priced and have a comprehensive set of functions such as microSD support and efficient navigation.

The eTrex series are handheld GPS devices consumers should look for when budget is a primary issue. They are easy to carry with many of them being equipped with a display big enough to refer to with ease.

If you are a serious traveler who would like something particularly durable and stuffed with advanced functions, the Colorado or Oregon series might meet your needs. Both series have a multifunctional touch-screen display, a feature not provided in other Garmin series, and they additionally come with different maps depending on the exact model you get.

Keep in mind that these handheld GPS devices ought not to be used while driving unless your passenger is using it. If you aren’t looking for all of the more powerful functions and could use a more versatile device that is able to work on both the road and the trail, it may be very practical to purchase a less specialized product that you can transport in a car or in a backpack. Another good item to consider is the TomTom GO 740 Live GPS Navigator.