Can Your Smartphone Replace a GPS?

This article is a comparison between smartphones and GPS units. Our analyst determines whether smartphone applications and features can overcome solidary GPS models. Read the evidence and decide for yourself which product you will use when roaming the streets.

Big Screens Mean Less Distraction
GPS displays are easier to read, because they’re larger, around 4.3 inches, as compared to the 3.5 inch iPhone screen. When you’re taking turns and need to watch the road, this can make all the difference.

Accuracy
Personal Navigation Devices (PNDs) are dependable; they can pinpoint your position with an accuracy of about 15 feet. Conversely, smartphones are sometimes a few blocks off or lack cell tower reception to discover your location.
 
Single-Purposed
Smartphones often use weaker GPS receivers and CPUs that share battery power with other apps, slowing them down. PNDs like Magellans are designed with only GPS in mind, so speed and resources are not compromised.
 
Smartphones Win on Functionality
Smartphones constitute an all-in-one device with internet access, but voice navigation is interrupted as calls come in –yes, it is still a phone.

No Monthly Bills
When you buy a GPS, you only pay once –for the device, unlike the smartphone that takes money from your bank account every month.
 
PNDs Are Entering the Smartphone Market
PND manufacturers are showing up on the smartphone scene with devices like the Nuvifone by Garmin that combos GPS navigator with a 3G phone. To spice up the GPS market, TomTom has also added celebrity voices like Darth Vader to the mix.

The Verdict
It’s clear that, at least for now, smartphones can’t replace your truly dedicated PND. Stand alone GPS units simply outperform their smartphone competitors -plus they don’t send you a bill every month.


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