GPS units: Ratings updated

[Update for golfers: Please see the comment below explaining why we do not currently test golf GPS models. For those looking for news on the latest GPS devices, visit our Cars blog.]

Our comprehensive Ratings of GPS devices (available to subscribers) have been updated in time for Black Friday, report our colleagues at the Consumer Reports' Cars Blog. The latest batch includes models from Alpine, Garmin, Navigon, Sony, and Mio, which offers the intriguing Knight Rider, featuring the original K.I.T.T voice from the TV series.

In a few days, ConsumerReports.org will also publish new Ratings of handheld hiking GPS units, along with buying advice to complement our GPS hiking video. (Click on the player at right to learn more about GPS units for hikers—and how these outdoor navigation units can be used for a game called "geocaching.")

For more on portable GPS navigators, with information on types, brands, and features, check out our GPS buying guide. Additionally, our Guide to Mobile Electronics offers advice and Ratings on a host of items including satellite radio, MP3 players, and in-car movie players.

Comments

[Nick Mandle]

To Mr. Reed, et al,

We've been monitoring the requests for golf-GPs tests with interest, though we don't currently have a plans to test them. Here's a response from Jeff Bartlett, Deputy Editor for Cars:

We've reviewed the market scale, through industry sales reports, manufacturer reps, commissioned survey, and search queries to determine if we should allocate GPS testing resources to golf.

While there are interested enthusiasts, for now, the numbers show we would serve more readers through testing automotive units. However, golf remains very much on our radar and we continue to discuss a means for providing test-based advice. —JB

For more on auto GPS units, be sure to visit the Cars Blog:
http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/gps_navigation/index.html

Thanks,
Nick Mandle
Asst. Editor, Electronics

[Mr. Reed]

CR should be the first to review GOLF GPS systems. They have been on the market long enough. Why haven't they been reviewed yet? Why no response from CR to all of the requests?

[Raj]

There is no good place to get honest reviews on golf GPS. Please test golf gps and advise. They cost a lot and carry fine print on annual fees. Thanks a ton.

[Larry]

Consumer Reports,
Please help us consumers and test the golf gps units. These units cost several hundred dollars and it would be awesome to get a full honest and true test on these units. Consumers look for a non biased opinion on products on the market today and we would benefit from a test. Please help us out! Thank you!

[Sandi Polanski]

PLEASE do a review of golf gps'! Cost is so high in this economic times that my people would like to know what the value is for their dollar. Thanks

[Judy Corcell]

It would be very helpfull to have review of Golf GPS. The information available on these devices do not tell all. Just how much extra costs are involved when one purchases one of these? How can I be sure they have the courses I play? Please help!

[ron]

I would like to see test on golf gps units

[Michael Martin]

I would like very much golf gps to be reveiwed by CR they have so many to choose from it would be nice for an ubiased report.

[Mitchell Kalaluhi]

I will second or third the above comments on seeing CR do testing on golf periperals - Shoes, GPS units, Tees, etc. I realize that the only true test is to go and buy equipment and find what works for you but Nike, TaylorMade, and other golf equipment manufacturers make some pretty bold claims and I am sure CR could discern "Truth" from "Fiction" on a lot of these? They could open a new wing of testing to see if balls truly fly straighter with the different dimple number and configuration as opposed to other balls on the shelf.

[John Endter]

I too would like to see a golf gps review. Need to see accuracy vs subscrisciptions vs features vs cost

[Ross Nicholson]

How does one get lost on a golf course?

[Scott]

Please provide a review of golf gps units. Thank you

[Ron Lechner]

Magellan was fine until 1 day before going to Hawaii. Wonderful to find that US maps mean mainland USA only. Bummer, got lost everyday there. Next time Garmin.

[Jeff Bartlett - Consumer Reports]

We have been monitoring the requests for Golf GPS reviews with great interest, though we do not currently have plans to test golf units.

Jeff Bartlett - Consumer Reports

[John]

I join the chorus requesting a review of golf gps devices. An objective review would be appreciated by golfers. It would be useful, for instance, to know how accurate these devices are.

Golf magazines simply recite the manufacturers' promotional material and little else in their "reviews."

[Mike]

Count me in as a subscriber interested in seeing CR advice on golf GPS and distance finders. Any plans to test them?

Thanks!

[John Hughes]

I am a Consumer reports magazine subscriber, How can I find info on Golf GPS Units, such as Golf Caddie 2.5 & 5.0

[Larry Smith]

Growth in golf GPS equipment makes choices complex. Will CR be providing advice on golf GPS and distance finders?

[Joe Wolf]

Please do a review on all golf gps. I feel alot of golfers are looking into gps to help their game along.

Thank you
Joe

[bruce blum]

when are you going to have something on golf gps?

[Jim Benson]

I was disappointed that the article on handheld GPS did not address the need (or not) to buy additional maps. The cost of more detailed topographic maps and citymap software is preventing me from making a GPS purchase. The article did not help me understand whether I would need additional maps or accessories (such as case or 12v adapter) or whether the "add-ons" are useful or recommended.

Maybe I missed it, but it would really be helpful.

Thanks

[Paul Eng]

To Joseph Phillips:

This is from Jeff Bartlett, Deputy Editor of the Cars section of Consumer Reports Online:

The ratings in the magazine were “select ratings,” meaning exemplary examples in the highlighted categories. Magellan products often rate average or above in our testing, but they do not top the classes.

Full ratings are available online, including Magellan and many other brands. -JB

I hope this helps.

--Paul Eng
Web Senior Editor, Electronics

[Joseph Phillips]

I subscribe to the Magazine and recently read the Dec 2008 GPS Navigator reviews..While what was presented I presume was accurate,I was surprised that
you never tested or even mentioned the Magellan brand..It is by no means an unpopular brand..This brings into my mind just how accurate or unbiased this review was conducted and or written..Can someone explain why the Magellan brand was not mentioned, or tested?
Thank You,
Joseph Phillips

[Shawn]

It would be helpful to me if you also rated data-loggers with your GPS ratings. Data loggers don't have a screen, they just log GPS points. Models I've found include:
Amod AGL3080
Royaltek RBT-2399
Columbus V-900