GPS navigation

GPS navigation in our range covers car sat navs, handheld and outdoor GPS devices, USB GPS receivers and vehicle trackers. It suits drivers, hikers, boaters, fleet managers and anyone who needs positioning that does not depend on a phone. Leading brands include Garmin, Navilock, Teltonika and TomTom.

How to choose a GPS navigation device

Device type. A sat nav gives turn-by-turn directions, a handheld or wearable GPS is built for trails and water, a tracker reports a vehicle's position to a remote platform, and a receiver feeds location data to a laptop or other equipment. Decide which job you need done before comparing anything else.

Maps and updates. Check that the preloaded maps cover the countries you will drive in, and whether map updates and live traffic information are included. Most car sat navs get updates through Wi-Fi or a computer, and an outdated map is the most common reason a unit gives poor directions.

Screen and mounting. For driving, a larger screen makes junctions and lane guidance easier to read, while smaller units are easier to move between cars. Look for a windscreen or dashboard mount in the box. For hiking, prioritise a screen that is readable in sunlight over a large one.

Power and connection. Trackers usually need a hardwired supply and often a SIM card to send data. USB receivers draw power from the computer they are plugged into. Handheld units run on rechargeable or replaceable batteries, so check how long they last between charges.

Vehicle and route needs. If you drive a lorry, caravan or motorhome, look for a model with routing profiles that take vehicle size into account. A standard car unit may send you down roads you cannot use.

GPS navigation brands we carry

• Garmin: known for combining car navigation, outdoor handhelds, sports watches and marine devices under one brand, and the largest group in our range.
• Navilock: makes GPS receivers and antennas that connect to computers and industrial equipment, typically over USB or serial interfaces.
• Teltonika: specialises in vehicle trackers and telematics hardware used for fleet monitoring and asset tracking.
• TomTom: well known for car sat navs and for its traffic information services.

Also in our range: XD Design, Navitel, YukaTrack, HT Instruments, RealWear, Mobilis Case, Delock and Renkforce.

GPS navigation FAQ

Do I still need a sat nav if I have a smartphone?

A dedicated sat nav is still worth considering if you drive often in areas with weak mobile signal. Most units store their maps on the device, so directions do not depend on mobile data. They also keep your phone's battery free for calls and leave you with a screen that is built for driving.

Does a GPS device work without an internet connection?

Yes, positioning itself works without internet because the device receives signals directly from satellites. A sat nav with stored maps can give directions offline. Live traffic, map updates and remote tracking features do need a connection of some kind.

What is the difference between a GPS tracker and a sat nav?

A sat nav helps you find your way and shows directions on its own screen. A GPS tracker has no navigation role: it records where a vehicle or object is and sends that position to an app or web platform. Trackers are used for fleet management, theft recovery and monitoring equipment.

How often should I update the maps on my sat nav?

Updating at least once or twice a year is a sensible habit, and before any long trip into unfamiliar areas. Roads, speed limits and points of interest change regularly. Many current models let you download updates over Wi-Fi without a computer.