Speech-capable automotive GPS systems allow drivers to navigate while keeping their hands and eyes on the road. Drivers can speak commands to the unit to get directions, and enter addresses. The speech capable GPS receivers speak directions aloud. Portable GPS units--GPS receivers that can be removed and used outside of the car--provide added convenience and value to purchasers. As these receivers typically cost more, it is important to know which ones are the top portable, speech capable, automotive GPS receivers.
Garmin Nuvi 880
Bonnie Cha, the senior associate editor with CNet Reviews, picked the Garmin Nuvi 880 as her favorite portable automotive GPS device. According to Cha, the unit is "one of the best portable navigation systems I have tested to date" This receiver understands up to 30 voice commands with a high degree of accuracy in speech recognition. It comes with a free 3-month subscription to MSN Direct Services so users can search for gas stations, movie theaters and other useful things. The unit also stores and plays audio books. The integrated Bluetooth allows you to connect your Bluetooth enabled cell phone for hands free calls.
Magellan CrossoverGPS, RoadMate AAA Edition RS2.0
Popular Mechanics writer Jerry Beilinson reports that the Magellan CrossoverGPS, RoadMate AAA Edition RS2.0 is the first GPS receiver that works as both a car navigation system and a back-country handheld GPS. All the AAA Tourbooks are preloaded into the units. This includes hotel and restaurant listings as well as where to find AAA discounts. For back country use topographic maps are included, as are waypoints, and marine functions.
Garmin nuvi 3790T
Garmin nuvi 3790T is a PC Magzaine editor's choice award winner. The magazine's Jamie Lendino notes the CPS receiver earned this award because "the 3790T looks and feels like a proper high-end gadget that's worth the premium price tag... It's also the slimmest and most capable GPS we've tested to date." Lendino claims that it works just as well as a pedestrian navigator as an automotive navigation system. The voice-recognition system can be activated with a simple command, and works relatively well. The glass touch screen was found by Lendino to be accurate and fast. The Garmin nuvi 3790T has a Bluetooth receiver, 3D views, and preloaded maps. You can make hands free phone calls by using the Bluetooth capability. However, it is not waterproof and does not have a hard disk drive.
TomTom GO 930 GPS
Features new in 2009 for the TomTom GO 930 GPS included a soft touch finish and a 4.3" touch screen. The unit allows you to add street addresses by voice.
However, CNet senior editor Bonnie Cha found street-address-by-voice a bit unreliable. "Tom Tom IQ" software plots driving routes based on your route history. 3D Advanced Lane Guidance helps drivers on major highways choose the best lane to be in for their trip and highway exits.
Tags: Garmin nuvi, Garmin nuvi 3790T, nuvi 3790T, CrossoverGPS RoadMate, CrossoverGPS RoadMate Edition, Garmin Nuvi, hands free