How to choose the best handheld GPS tracker
The use of GPS technology is not new, it has been around for centuries. Today, this technology is available to anyone – not just the government and the military as it was initially. GPS trackers can now be found in cars, airplanes, ships, smartphones, you name it.
What is more, there are now handheld GPS trackers. These nifty handheld devices come fully packed with features to help you navigate and find your way easily. They are compact and lightweight for easy portability, and a particularly nice feature – they are waterproof.
Needless to say, they have become extremely popular with people who love engaging in outdoor activities like camping, paragliding, fishing, and hiking. They are relatively affordable, and extremely handy when venturing into unknown places. They are also easy to use – you do not need to be an IT expert to know how to operate them.
When it comes to choosing a handheld GPS tracker, be ready to do some serious research as it is not a walk in the park. With so many GPS receivers to choose from, it can be quite overwhelming to find one that suits your needs.
But you can cut the research work in half if you know what you are looking for. Therefore, here are some factors to consider when selecting the best handheld GPS tracker.
What are you going to use it for?
GPS trackers come in different shapes and sizes, and they have a variety of features. Before you purchase one, you have to do some research. You cannot just walk into an electronics shop or sporting goods store and buy any kind of GPS tracker – make sure you know what you will be using it for (mostly) before buying something which isn’t suitable.
You also cannot buy one based on one or two positive reviews. Compare different brands and models to determine which one meets your needs. There is nothing wrong with reading user reviews to see what they are saying about a model but kick the tires, nonetheless, before you buy one.
The best handheld GPS is one of the most important tools for you when you want to go camping, hiking, or fishing. Most GPS trackers are quite versatile and can be used for a range of activities. But, some trackers have features that are suitable for certain activities.
A bare-bones GPS tracker can serve you well, but not in all cases. For some activities, certain features are essential to help you navigate. Talk to other people who use a GPS tracker as you would and see which features they find most helpful – sports clubs are always happy to help.
If you are not sure where to start when it comes to choosing a GPS tracker, take the traditional route of going with well-known brands. You cannot go wrong buying a GPS tracker from a highly reputable brand that has a great track record. It might have a higher price tag than other brands, but rest assured, you will get value for your money.
Your budget will determine which GPS tracker you can afford. The more features a GPS tracker has, the most it is going to cost. If you figure out what you want to use the tracker for and what features you need, this should be able to help you narrow down your options. From there, it is just a matter of what you can afford.
