‘Best’ GPS systems named

Established GPS brands such as Garmin, TomTom and Magellan are still producing the best devices, tests conducted by Consumer Reports (CR)have found.

After several months of in-lab and on-the-road tests of 39 GPS systems, the review publication rated the Garmin Nuvi 760 as the best giving it an "Excellent" overall score.

According to CR experts, the Nuvi 760 is a good all-round package that is easy to use, with intuitive controls, food guidance and some advanced geatures.

The Garmin Nuvi 660, TomTom Go 920T, Garmin Nuvi 350 and Magellan Maesro 4250 were also commended.

"Best Buys" for budget drivers included the Garmin Nuvi 350, Garmin Nuvi 260 and TomTom One third edition.

"The are compact, easy to use, and have good-sized 3.5-inch screens, but they don’t offer all the extra features common on higher-end models," a CR statement said.

In related news, Location Based Technologies has developed new GPS devices, that can be attached to a key ring or belt or placed in a purse or pocket and can help locate children and pets.