Car navigators: rating of the best according to reviews 2021

Over the past decade, a car navigator has quietly and quietly occupied the niche of necessary electronics when buying a car. An automatic map that indicates the direction and builds a route itself has proven useful not only to truckers and taxi drivers, but also to ordinary drivers.

The number and range of models, from simple Chinese devices to a DVR with two cameras, can create problems when choosing the best device. In this rating, we will highlight 10 models that differ in their price-quality ratio or their unique features.

Table: top 10 car navigators

Model	Best Features	Permission	BY	Loading traffic jams	Price from (RUB):
LEXAND SA5 HD+	according to reviews	800×480	Navitel	Eat	4 000	Find out prices
Artway NV-800 GPS	inexpensive for Russia	472×272	Navitel	No	2 900	Find out prices
Prology iMap-5200	budget: price and quality	480×272	Navitel	No	3 200	Find out prices
Prestigio GeoVision Tour 3 7799 Progorod	showing traffic jams	720×1280	Progorod	Eat	5 000	Find out prices
AvtoVision 7GL	modern, popular	1024×600	Navitel	Eat	6 900	Find out prices
GlobusGPS GL-800Pro newStreet	reliable, powerful	1280×720	Navitel, Yandex maps	Eat	8 500	Find out prices
Navitel T700	according to the version of "Behind the Wheel"	1024×600	Navitel	Eat	5 800	Find out prices
Navitel T700 3G	on Android	1024×600	Navitel	Eat	5 800	Find out prices
Garmin Nuvi 465T	for trucks	480×272	Garmin	No	8 900	Find out prices
Junsun 7 “Android 4.4.2	Chinese from AliExpress	800×480	Navitel	Eat	5 200	Find out prices

Prestigio Geovision 7060 Progorod

Price : RUR 3,690

The 7-inch Prestigio Geovision 7060 Progorod operates without interruption, and the battery capacity (1500 mAh) can always be charged from the car battery thanks to a special cable. High-quality assembly, a bright picture and the absence of brakes are the main advantages of the device.

The navigator has a convenient mount, but you will have to get used to it. The device boots up quickly and finds satellites. All the diagrams are at your fingertips. Information about cameras and turns, according to users, has never failed. In order not to torment your smartphone with routes, take a closer look at this budget model.

LEXAND SA5 HD+ - the best GPS navigator according to reviews

The first navigator on the list is the people's choice from a Russian manufacturer of electronics and household appliances with almost thirty years of history. Lexand SA5 HD+ boasts the following characteristics:

SIRF Atlas V processor (500 MHz, video accelerator with maximum resolution up to 720p, support for 64-channel GI3+);
5-inch resistive touch screen with a resolution of 800x480 pixels;
RAM 128 MB, built-in 4 GB, there is a MicroSD expansion slot;
battery 1100 mAh;
dimensions 135*85*10 mm, weight 170 g;
connection via USB and Bluetooth, there is a 3G module;
licensed software from Navitel, Windows CE operating system.

In addition, the device is equipped with player functions, an FM receiver, Hands-Free mode and voice messages, as well as loading traffic jams in real time.

The navigator has 88% positive reviews out of 77 found on the Internet, half of the buyers recommend the product for purchase. The price of the device is in the range of 3500-4500 rubles, depending on the store.

Pros *

Simple and reliable to use.
It is possible to connect a 3G modem to show traffic jams.
High quality screen with good viewing angles.
Low price.

Minuses *

Low quality materials.
It takes a long time and does not always catch satellites well.
The screen is faded and hard to see in the sun.
Problem setting up communication via Bluetooth.

Google Maps for Android - standard Android navigator

The average user of a phone running the Android operating system does not need to download special programs to use the device as a navigator. Since Android belongs to Google, the American company pre-installs navigation software called Google Maps.

Perhaps this application offers access to the most accurate city maps around the world. That is, Google Maps can be used for navigation both in Russian cities and in European or American settlements.

In addition to city maps, Google provides access to information about the terrain and even satellite images of settlements. The app also has a built-in street view feature, allowing travelers to get a preview of their destination in advance.

Of course, Google Maps includes a directory of organizations. True, not all companies are included in the diagram for Russian cities. But this will not prevent you from finding the nearest gas station, hospital or police station.

Advantages and disadvantages of Google Maps

For obvious reasons, Google Maps is the most popular navigation application. But this does not mean at all that Google Maps is the best program of its kind. It has an impressive number of shortcomings, which are especially felt by users from Russia.

Advantages and disadvantages

Public availability

Maps of almost all cities in the world

The ability to change layers from a terrain survey to a satellite image

Voice assistant integrated

Accurate geolocation determination even offline

Russian cities are not implemented in the best way (some houses are missing on the map, and not all organizations are included in the directory)

No data on accidents

The diagrams show a meager number of attractions, which is why travelers should recommend another navigator

Artway NV-800 GPS - inexpensive navigator for Russia

At the lowest price limit separating cheap navigators from electronic waste is the Artway NV-800. The device does not fall below the average quality level, providing the basic capabilities in full.

The characteristics of the Artway NV-800 GPS look like this:

ARM Cortex A-7 processor (600 MHz, F3i antenna);
color touch screen, 5 inches, resolution 472x272 pixels;
battery 950 mAh;
there is a MicroSD expansion slot;
USB connection;
licensed software from Navitel, Windows CE operating system.

The device can view photos and videos from a flash drive, and also perform the functions of a car MP3 player. The device has 98% positive reviews, although many buyers turn a blind eye to its shortcomings due to its cost.

Pros *

Price. Everything that is nearby and below does not work or works very poorly.
Simplicity. There is nothing superfluous, a minimum of settings and difficulties in use.
Performance. Due to the lack of additional options, the navigator is fully equipped with a 2011 processor.

Minuses *

Few additional features.
Maps are not updated.
Weak battery, short battery life.
Afraid of overheating.

Garmin DriveSmart 55 RUS MT

Price : RUR 19,228
the Garmin DriveSmart 55 RUS MT navigator are different - especially enterprising ones find shortcomings in the model, for example, they don't like that the screen is not anti-glare, and the voice acting and translation into Russian are far from ideal.

However, the navigator also has a number of advantages: (perhaps they will cover all the shortcomings) stylish design, flexible settings (in any modes), display of 3D buildings (but only in large cities), a very convenient menu. The navigator has a stylish frameless display. In addition to integration with a smartphone, expanding car capabilities is possible.

Prology iMap-5200 - budget car navigator: price and quality

The next device in the rating has an optimal balance between cost and quality. Prology iMap-5200 shows the best characteristics for the range of 3500-4000 rubles:

Mstar processor with a clock frequency of 800 MHz;
color touch screen with a diameter of 5”, resolution 480x272 pixels;
RAM 128 MB, built-in - 4 GB, MicroSD slot;
600 mAh battery;
dimensions 135x85x12 mm, device weight 180 g;
licensed software from Navitel, Windows CE operating system.

There are simply no bad reviews for the device: users note the reliable operation of the main functions and the quality of the navigator.

Pros *

Reliable operation without any complaints.
Large, high-quality screen with no glare.
The fast processor prevents the device from freezing and plays videos well.

Minuses *

Weak battery.

4. Prestigio GeoVision Tour 3 7799 Progorod - car navigator with traffic jam display

The model from Prestigio was included in our rating thanks to its function of showing traffic jams. Such navigators are often found in the middle price segment, but it is the Prestigio GeoVision Tour 3 7799 Progorod that combines quality with a competitive price.

Detailed Specifications:

processor with a frequency of 1300 MHz and a 66-channel antenna;
7-inch HD touch screen with a resolution of 1280x720 pixels;
RAM 1 GB, built-in 8 GB, slot for MicroSD card;
2800 mAh battery, with car charger;
cameras 2 and 0.3 megapixels;
connection via USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
dimensions 190x110x10, weight 280 g;
OS Android 7.0, Progorod software from the manufacturer.

Prestigio software provides a number of additional features: a built-in map with the ability to load for the area, work with GSM and GPRS communication modules, sound alarm and voice notification, route calculation. Video and audio player functions are available, as well as an FM receiver.

In terms of hardware, the device is not much inferior to the 2013-2014 generation of phones, and the Android operating system allows for deep customization.

Pros *

Large and high quality screen.
Does not slow down, quickly finds satellites.
Takes traffic jams into account when constructing a route.
Huge battery life
Quickly picks up satellites.
Good combination of price and quality.

Minuses *

For those accustomed to Navitel, it may be difficult to navigate the new software.
Poor quality of images from cameras.

Independent rating of the best car GPS navigators

The best budget car GPS navigators

DIGMA ALLDRIVE 505

A convenient, inexpensive device for traveling on Russian roads. It works through the CityGuide application, which contains data on cities, roads, gas stations, service stations and cafes. The database can be updated by connecting the device to a PC. Priced at less than 3,000 rubles, it has a 5-inch display. The resolution of 480 by 272 is not the highest, but for a budget model it is quite decent.

With an SD card slot and 4 GB of internal memory, you can also watch a movie on the navigator. The 3.5 headphone jack is also useful for such purposes. In offline mode, the battery only lasts for 30-40 minutes: you won’t be able to watch a full-length movie in a roadside cafe. But in the car, connect it via mini-USB and use it without time restrictions.

Price: ₽ 2,970

LEXAND SA5+

Need advanced maps for unfamiliar regions? This budget device runs on the Navitel program with additional maps. To better hear voice prompts and avoid getting lost on the road, connect the navigator to your car's audio system via an FM transmitter. On LEXAND SA5+ you can scroll through photos, watch movies or listen to music. It’s convenient to do this even in standalone mode – the battery will last up to 2 hours without recharging. With such options, the price of 4,000 rubles is quite justified. You won't be bored on a business trip!

It is convenient to download files up to 4 GB to the built-in memory. If you want more - there is a slot for microSD. There are 2.5 headphone jacks and mini USB jacks.

Price: ₽ 2,970

The best navigators with traffic loading

Prestigio GeoVision Tour 4 Progorod

The Prestigio navigator can be considered a full-fledged multifunctional gadget. The Progorod program contains maps with detailed interchanges that can be clearly seen on a 7-inch diagonal screen. There is a large list of 3D maps of the near and far abroad, which are updated free of charge.

The 3G module and Wi-Fi support allow you to use online services. Connects to a phone via Bluetooth so the driver can communicate with both hands on the wheel. If you need additional cards, upload them to the built-in 8 GB memory.

The tablet-sized navigator has a screen resolution of 1024 by 600 and has a battery life of 5 hours. Compatible with Micro SD/SDHC cards up to 64 GB - not bad for a car navigator. For all the amenities you will have to pay more than 4.5 thousand rubles, but you don’t have to take a tablet or laptop on the road.

Price: ₽ 4,628

Navitel T700

Do you want your navigator to build a route accurately and quickly? The creators of Navitel T700 claim that their gadget is just like that. Speed and accuracy are ensured by proprietary software from Navitel and a powerful processor. The T700 will quickly find the desired address and build 3 alternative routes at once, if you are willing to pay about 6.5 thousand rubles for this.

Works with Wi-fi, Bluetooth and 3G, has two slots for SIM cards. There are even 2 cameras, but their characteristics are rather weak - the main one is 2MP and the front one is 0.2MP.

A seven-inch screen with a resolution of 1024x600, 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal memory turn the navigator into a full-fledged tablet. Not enough memory - you can install microSD up to 128 GB.

Price: ₽ 6,490

The best GPS navigators with GLONASS support

GlobusGPS GL-900 Armor_X

This device, priced at about 15,000 rubles, is no longer just a navigator, but a full-fledged shock-resistant smartphone. The device is protected from shock and water according to IP68 class, so you can drop it and drown it without fear. The device picks up GPS, A-GPS and GLONASS signals, is equipped with proximity and light sensors, an accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, barometer and fingerprint scanner. The only problem is that, as a smartphone, it is rather weak by modern standards: a display with a resolution of 1440x720 pixels, a 4-core processor at 1.5 GHz, 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of permanent memory have long ceased to be the ultimate dream. But the functionality of Android 8.1 is truly limitless. If you are not satisfied with the pre-installed maps and navigation programs, you can always install something else. A natural Swiss knife among navigators.

Price: RUB 14,136

The best multifunctional GPS navigators

Navitel G550 Moto

Navitel G550 with a diagonal of 4.5 inches is relatively small, but contains maps of 47 countries, including all of Europe, Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan. If there are not enough maps, you can download additional ones for free. A nice bonus is a POI database with 5 million useful coordinates for a traveler. You can use the navigator both in a comfortable car showroom and in extreme conditions. It withstands shock, rain and dust, and reacts to touch with gloves.

At a cost of about 8 thousand rubles, the gadget is able to warn the owner when approaching speed cameras.

Screen resolution 480x272, built-in flash memory 8 GB.

Price: ₽ 8,490

Garmin DriveAssist 51

Garmin is famous for the high quality of its products. DriveAssist 51 is a navigator and video recorder with proprietary Garmin software that really does a lot. It not only builds a route and accompanies the driver, but also warns about dangerous sections of the route, cameras recording violations, and important road signs. It tells you in advance which lane you should change into, searches online for parking lots closest to your destination with free spaces, and finds out prices.

The proximity signal helps to avoid accidents. If a collision does occur, the device creates a report with coordinates and video recording. It can even automatically notify your loved ones about an accident if this function is pre-configured.

DriveAssist 51 is loaded with maps of Russia, but you can add others. The DVR records the trip, from which you can edit a video on your smartphone. A navigator costing 24,000 justifies its price with high-quality, up-to-date maps and many related functions.

Price: RUB 23,990

AvtoVision 7GL - the best modern navigator

Let's go further up the price ladder: the popular AvtoVision 7GL is in the middle price segment. For modern hardware and a set of capabilities you need to pay 7000-7500 rubles. There are about 50 reviews on the device on the Internet, 90% of which are positive.

The navigator from Avtovision is ready to provide:

Intel processor with a frequency of 1 GHz, working with a 64-channel receiver;
LCD screen with a diagonal of 7 inches and a resolution of 1024x600;
1 GB of RAM, 8 GB of internal memory, MicroSD slot;
battery 2700 mAh;
cameras, 0.3 and 2 megapixels;
USB connector, connection to phone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi;
connectors for two SIM cards, 3G module;
OS Android 5.1, software from Navitel.

There is a gentleman's set of Hands-Free, route planning through traffic jams and a voice module. The AvtoVision 7GL differs favorably from the previous device by the presence of 3G and a standard license from Navitel.

Pros *

There are all the features of cheap navigators and a little more.
High build quality, rubberized body.
Contrast display with good viewing angles.
Works autonomously for a long time.
You can install applications from Google Play.

Minuses *

Low operating speed.
Looks for satellites for a long time.
There are problems with screen calibration.
Poor fastening.

GlobusGPS GL-800Pro newStreet - reliable and powerful navigator

We continue to consider powerful and expensive devices: the GlobusGPS GL-800Pro newStreet navigator for 8,000 rubles offers a whole range of functions along with high quality performance.

Navigator characteristics:

quad-core Cortex 1300 MHz processor, 64-channel receiver;
five-inch touch screen with High Definition resolution (1280x720);
2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal memory, MicroSD slot;
battery 3500 mAh;
cameras, 5 and 8 megapixels;
USB connector, 4G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi modules;
dimensions 150x70x10 mm, weight 170 grams;
OS Android 6.0, software from Navitel, Ya.Karty.

This navigator does not waste time on trifles, bringing each of its options to its logical conclusion. 24-hour battery life, excellent cameras, a modern smartphone-level screen and fully customizable Android OS make this navigator a kind of on-board computer with a lot of possibilities. There is a G-sensor, proximity and gravity sensors, a built-in search tracker, and support for two SIM cards.

Pros *

Reliability and speed.
Excellent screen.
High build quality.
Multifunctionality.

Minuses *

Difficult to find on sale.
There are almost no reviews about the product.

Navitel T700 is the best navigator according to Za Rulem magazine

In seventh position is a recommendation from the oldest automotive publication in Russia, “Behind the Wheel”: Navitel T700.

1000 MHz processor, 64-channel receiver;
7-inch screen with touch surface, 1024x600 pixels;
1 GB of RAM, 8 GB of internal memory, MicroSD slot;
battery 2500 mAh;
cameras, 0.3 and 2 megapixels;
USB connector, Bluetooth modules, Wi-Fi;
Windows CE, software from Navitel.

This device practically disappeared from stores after the release of the 3G version. Nevertheless, OS Windows and peripherals from Navitel still maintain a high price-quality ratio. Don't confuse it with the cheaper model of the E700 line - everything possible has been cut down on it, except the price.

Pros *

Good screen and viewing angles.
High positioning accuracy.
Relatively low cost.
Easy to set up and operate.

Minuses *

Discontinued, very difficult to find.
Very weak cameras.

Navitel T700 3G - 7-inch navigator on Android

NAVITEL T700 3G is an updated version of the previous device, the choice of buyers according to Yandex.Market. The latest generation navigator is ready to offer:

1300 MHz processor, 64-channel receiver;
7-inch screen with touch surface, 1024x600 pixels;
1 GB of RAM, 16 GB of internal memory, MicroSD slot;
battery 2800 mAh;
cameras, 0.3 and 2 megapixels;
USB connector, 3G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi modules;
dimensions 190x110x12 mm;
OS Android 6.0, software from Navitel.

The T700 3G stands out for its positioning accuracy and large screen. Unlike competitors from GlobusGPS, Navitel concentrated on the main functionality: screen operation and interaction with software. The navigator can be safely recommended for those who require a large screen, maps and do not need additional options.

Pros *

Large screen with high picture quality.
The best GPS module.
Smooth operation thanks to integration of software from the manufacturer.
Wide range of cards.

Minuses *

Cameras are just for show.
No 4G module.
There are errors in European maps.

The best GPS navigators for Android

Android navigators are more familiar to owners of similar smartphones and tablets. They are also fast and receive software updates more often.

Lesko Pioneer DVR700PI Max – always in touch

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

89%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

This tablet has a good 7-inch IPS display, and the performance is driven by a quad-core MTK8321 processor and 1 gigabyte of RAM.

For permanent data storage, the device has 16 GB of internal memory. The most important advantage is the Internet capabilities of the navigator: in addition to a slot for two SIM cards, there is also a Wi-Fi module.

A good addition to the basic functionality would be the presence of a rear camera, which, when installed on a standard stand, can act as a car recorder. Pioneer Max runs on Android 6.0 and has software from Navitel and IGO.

The tablet also has two cameras: 2 and 5 MP. Alas, at night the quality of their shooting is poor, but this is just an additional function.

Advantages:

Powerful hardware;
Capacious 3000 mAh battery, which lasts for 6 hours;
Wide range of Internet access options;
Making calls in car navigator mode;
There is a DVR function (although you need to launch it manually);
Suitable for freight transport.

Flaws:

The company is little known and is not available for sale everywhere.

According to users, the disadvantage of the Lesko model is the long time it takes to search for satellites when first turned on. But then the tablet works flawlessly.

Navitel T700 3G – for international travel

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The hybrid multifunctional navigator in the tablet form factor is equipped with a 7″ IPS matrix and runs on Android 6. On board is the same MTK8321 chipset, memory capacity is 1/16 GB with the ability to expand ROM up to 128 gigs.

The T700 model supports all major wireless technologies: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and third generation GSM (there are two SIM card slots inside).

The navigator comes with Navitel programs and a detailed map database for 47 countries. However, all third-party applications for car enthusiasts also work correctly here. And when connected to the network, the Navitel traffic jam application becomes available to the owner.

Advantages:

Stable operation when running several applications simultaneously;
Capacious 2800 mAh battery;
High navigation accuracy;
The Speedcam feature alerts you to stationary cameras on the road.

Flaws:

Low quality rear camera;
Lack of GLONASS.

Navitel T700 can do everything a regular tablet can: from making calls and chatting to surfing the Internet and watching movies. It’s just that this gadget has a navigation bias and performs well in this capacity both in the vast expanses of the former CIS and on European roads.

Garmin Nuvi 465 T - the best navigator for trucks

Working on trucks has its own specifics: truckers use a navigator more often, and the device is used in more difficult conditions than “passenger” models. Garmin Nuvi 465 T is distinguished by its durability, reliability and build quality, which will allow you to travel all over Russia without any complaints.

Device parameters:

4.3-inch TFT display, 480x272 pixels;
battery for 4 hours of battery life;
USB connector, Bluetooth module;
dimensions 120x75x20 mm, 170 grams;
Software from the manufacturer Garmin.

The navigator is specially designed for intercity transportation. The device is adjusted to the vehicle model and cargo volume, which will automatically determine possible routes and travel times. The Garmin Nuvi 465 T warns you when you're changing lanes, warns you about approaching hills and sharp turns, steers you past traffic jams, and lets you make hands-free calls.

Pros *

Durability and reliability.
Hints and alerts on difficult sections of the road.
Custom profiles for different loads and vehicles.

Minuses *

Weak iron.
Software from Garmin, may be difficult to get used to.
Out of production, difficult to find for sale.

Junsun 7 - the best Chinese navigator

The ranking is completed by a Chinese device from Junsun, one of the Asian giants in the field of electronics. The easiest way to purchase a navigator is through AliExpress; the purchase price will be about 4,500 rubles.

What the leader from China can boast of:

quad-core Cortex A7 with a frequency of 1350 MHz;
7-inch capacitive screen, 800x480 pixels;
512 MB of RAM, 8 GB of internal memory, MicroSD slot;
built-in camera with a resolution of 800×480;
USB connector, Bluetooth modules, Wi-Fi;
OS Android 4.4.2.

With almost 200 reviews, the model’s rating from customers is 4.8 out of 5. As usual, Chinese technology provides basic functionality along with powerful hardware at a low price.

Pros *

Speed of work.
Price-quality ratio.
Easy to set up and use.

Minuses *

Poor build quality.
Poor fastenings.
A cheap speaker often breaks down.
Not in Russian stores.

What is important to know when choosing a navigator

In 2021, navigators have practically ceased to be specialized devices designed to work with cars. The market won: it turned out to be more profitable for the manufacturer to slightly remake a standard tablet than to create a new unique model from scratch.

Today in the low-mid price segment you can see redesigned tablets with vibration resistance, additional sensors and pre-installed software. When assessing, you should pay attention to the following things.

Screen: display resolution

The screen is determined by three parameters: matrix type (TFT, LCD, OLED), diagonal (most often in inches, from 4 to 9) and the number of pixels (varies greatly depending on the model).

The matrix determines viewing angles, power consumption and color rendering quality. In the vast majority of cases, LCD screens are used due to their low cost.

The diagonal standard is 7 inches. On the screen it is less difficult to distinguish the picture, more - too bulky. The size matters only to the user, choose for yourself.

The number of pixels tells how many colored dots form an image on the screen. The more there are, the better the picture quality. Important for those who use the navigator as a video player or for viewing photos. You can focus on HD screens; 1280x720 pixels provide an excellent picture.

Processor and memory

Again, the question is what your navigator will be used for. Any 2012 processor is sufficient for route planning and voice notifications. If you want more, you'll have to pay more.

Main characteristics of the processor: number of cores and clock speed. Multitasking depends on the first, while the second increases the peak power of the device. Quad-core processors with frequencies greater than 1 GHz have become the norm for 2021.

Memory, in turn, is divided into operational and built-in. The operational one is used to process current processes (for example, when working with a card), the built-in one stores all other information. For normal execution of several programs at the same time, 1 GB of RAM is required. The volume of the built-in card is almost irrelevant when choosing; anyway, for any non-standard tasks you will have to buy an additional SD card.

Mount and battery

Fastenings. It is on them that manufacturers of budget devices most often save. When purchasing a device below 3-4 thousand rubles, be mentally prepared for the fact that the mounts will have to be changed. It’s rare to evaluate fasteners before purchasing, so be sure to study reviews on the Internet and ask the seller about the topic.

The built-in battery allows the navigator to continue working autonomously even if the car battery is discharged. Cheap models are equipped with batteries with a capacity of a couple of hundred mAh and with half an hour of battery life. For expensive ones, the capacity can reach 4000 mAh, which in most cases is only needed to increase the price. The norm will be 1000-2000 mAh, which will allow you to calmly sit for several hours in a car with a dead battery without turning off the device.

Operating and navigation system of the device

The most popular manufacturers of software for navigators are four companies: Microsoft, Google, Garmin and Navitel.

Microsoft's Windows CE operating system offers deep desktop integration. Such devices are easy to connect to your home computer, they are convenient to set up and easy to operate. The downside is that beautiful windows eat up a lot of resources, and there are few good programs for mobile Windows.

Google and its Android offer a modular system with easy connection of applications through Google Play. Such a navigator is not much different from a telephone, and you can work with it in exactly the same way.

Navitel is the largest map manufacturer and at the same time a navigator manufacturing company. Maps from Navitel have become almost a standard in the CIS countries; they are distinguished by their accuracy and convenience. Pros - devices with OS from Navitel will be specially optimized for working with maps. Cons - it will be difficult to install anything else on such a navigator.

Garmin, one of the largest electronics manufacturers, did not want to pay royalties or follow the conditions of other companies and writes software for itself. Advantages and disadvantages - similar to Navitel. An additional disadvantage is that maps from Navitel are much more widespread, and those accustomed to Garmin will find it difficult to switch to another navigator.

In general, the differences between operating systems are minimal, and this is more a matter of taste/habitus than a real advantage.

Car GPS Navigators: Buyer's Guide

How to choose the right navigator

Devices from different manufacturers can vary greatly. Before purchasing, consider what features you need. Do you need the best assistant for long journeys or is a budget model enough?

I usually pay attention to the following characteristics:

Software. The navigation process itself depends on it: the quality and relevance of maps, the ability to update them, options for voice prompts and much more. Most devices work with proprietary software from their manufacturers. Today the most popular are Garmin, Navitel, iGO and Avtosputnik.
Display. It should be easy to view the route, but a screen that is too large may limit the driver's visibility. In my home city I use a 5-inch one, and for long trips I take a 7-inch one, which largely replaces a tablet.
Wireless communication frees your hands, which is very useful in big cities or in unfamiliar areas.
GSM/GPRS module - notification of traffic jams. An indispensable thing for megacities.
The FM transmitter allows you to output the navigator's voice to the car's audio system. This makes it easier to communicate with the gadget - you definitely won’t “hear” the turn.