I dont want to get the GPS from Mazda for my car because really I dont feel like paying $1800 for one. I'm looking to spend less than $500 but one good enoug where I can plot points and whatnot for road trips. Anyone have any suggestions?

 

Bestbuy usually has one from microsoft that cost like $80 for the software and gps locator together. Just plug into your laptop and you have gps. Its easy to use and even talks like most of them. No subscription fees.

 

like a TV screen inside the Mazda? Or something you can plop on the inside of your windshield (and take with you)?

whatever you choose, get one that advertises "WAAS"

quick and dirty on WAAS; ionispheric transmissions via Satellite Based Augmentation Systems (SBAS) such as WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) are transmitted on the GPS frequency using a special pseudo random number, so only one attenna a receiver are required.

Developed for the Federal Aviation Administration, it now enables horizontal and vertical naviagation for precision approaches in the entire WAAS coverage area.

This means, an extremely reliable GPS that you can always count on to locate your position within 7.6 meters (worst-case scenario).

 

Im looking for something that I can unplug and take with me, especially if I plan to go hiking.... Not really interested in something that I need a computer for because my laptop battery only lasts like 2.5 hours lol...

 

well, i have a gillson antenna with a garmin oem reciever that was ridiculously cheap, always has atleast 8 satellites, and seems like is accurate within 50-100 feet or so judging by exit ramp distances on overpass signs. i'm also using iGuidance v3 software.

i know that doesn't help much, but perhaps stick to those names. i know garmin makes some all in one gps deals that are more for what you need, and i have nothing but good things to say about them.

 

The Garmin 330 is a real good portable GPS that sells for $350 now (used to be $500 when I got mine)

 

Found this one, hope it helps

Summit GPS

GPS Navigation System, 3.5 in. Touch-Screen LCD Display, Vehicle Cradle, Antenna, Power Supply, Kit

* 3.5 in. TFT touch-screen interface LCD display
* 2D, 3D, and birds-eye-view screen options
* Speed zone alert monitoring system
* Multiple languages
* SiRF Star III GPS system
* Windows CE 4.2 operating system
* Freescale MX21 ARM926 microprocessor
* 266 MHz internal clock
* 64MB SDRAM internal memory
* 1W internal speaker
* 12 V vehicle and AC power adapters
* Rechargeable Li-polymer battery, 4 to 7-hour battery life, 3-hour charge time
* 10 function keys
* SD/MMC slot, boots from 1GB SD card
* Multi-function 18-pin connector
* Vehicle cradle with built-in 2W speaker for voice navigation, built-in high sensitivity active antenna, and built-in power supply for operation and charging
* Measures 5 in. x 3.75 in. x 1 in.

 

The Summit seems interesting... I agree Garmin makes good products.. I actually have a Forerunner 305 for when I go running outside to chart my path, mileage and it keeps my heart rate too.. its very nice. Keep the suggestions coming they are appreciated

 

Do a search for MIO my girl bought me 1 at $200 shipped from e-bay brand new.... no fee's and there are plenty of options with it. fing02.gif

here's a used 1 cheap!!...
Mio gps

 

All of the GPSs that have been shown are car nav gps. I don't know if they make car/land nav gps. I'm sure you could get one for like $2,000.