When you really want the best GPS

Now that we've covered budget and mid-range GPS, let's see what's available at the high end. Fortunately, prices have been dropping dramatically, bringing the nicest models within range of more folks.

The bad news is that the choices are not easy to make. Garmin, the market leader, currently has two high-end series, so you may need to decide which feature set you want. The two models below are from each of those lines:

• Garmin nuvi 765T – This unit offers lifetime traffic, the newer 2×5/7×5 interface, lane assist and 3-D buildings. Currently available for under $470.
• Garmin nuvi 880 – This unit lacks all of those things, but has the best voice recognition system of any GPS on the market. Currently available for about $560.

There are other models in the 7×5 and 800 series worth considering; the links above discuss the differences in the intro to each review. You can also check out my Garmin nuvi comparison chart.

Now for the good news. I expect a nuvi 8×5 series to be announced at CES in January, incorporating the feature set of both lines. Oops, more bad news. They may not be rolled out for months after the announcement, prices will be high at first, and there will be this little thing called the nuvifone to consider as well!