GPS for cars . . . Is there one system that's a lot better than others? Do you have to pay a monthly fee?

They all use the same satellites - so it's just the software on the machine that counts. I recommend Garmin. There's no fee to use most GPS devices unless it's on a cell phone and it requires air time to download the GPS images. So for the most part, those devices you buy for your car have a one time fee (buying the thing). Then you just download maps to it, and off you go.

Why don't you just get a GPS system on your cell phone? I'll bet it's cheaper and it gets the job done. There is a small monthly fee but I have it on my cell and it's great. You can get directions with voice directions. I usually start the directions and say...if its 20 miles or so until the next direction I just shut my phone down and then pick up where I left off 20 miles down the road. This way, you don't waste air time/minutes.

I have a TomTom ONE (TT1). It's a great GPS, and there are no monthly fees. CNET is a great place for GPS review, but they're TT1 review is a bit out dated. The current models have the maps pre-loaded, so you do need to insert an SD card. TomTom support is not very strong in Canada and their web site is weak. I also tried an LG device, but I took it back and bought the TT1.

Check this out for all your GPS questions: http://reviews.cnet.com/4566-3430_7-0.html?tag=dir

I would say TomTom and Garmin are the 2 most recognized brands when it comes to car gps navigation.

I just recently did extensive research on this before buying my own..i went with the garmin c330. all the features you want and need, user freindly and it got great reviews all at a good price..and now that i have one i know why...its a peice of cake to use and spot on...and there are no fees of anykind to use it..