TOP 15 best navigators for a car: rating 2024-2025 and which model to choose with GPS
Plotting a route or navigating the terrain on an ordinary paper map has long been considered a relic of the past.
Now at the disposal of tourists and motorists there are convenient devices - navigators.
This small gadget will help you navigate in unfamiliar areas, lay out difficult routes and monitor the current situation on the roads.
In order for the navigator to work without failures, you should be very careful about its choice. Consideration should be given to display size, software, receiver type, and memory capacity.
Additional features like a barometer or compass can also come in handy.
To facilitate the choice of a navigator, we have compiled a short list of basic criteria and a rating of the best navigators according to the 2024-2025 version in terms of price / quality ratio.
Rating of the TOP-15 best navigators in 2024-2025
| Place | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
| TOP 3 best navigators by price/quality for 2024-2025 | ||
| 1 | Garmin Oregon 750 | Ask for a price |
| 2 | NAVITEL G550 Moto | Ask for a price |
| 3 | Garmin DriveSmart 51 RUS LMT | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 best navigators with GLONASS | ||
| 1 | Garmin Montana 700 | Ask for a price |
| 2 | NAVITEL G500 | Ask for a price |
| 3 | Garmin eTrex 20x | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 best navigators with hands-free | ||
| 1 | Prology iMap-MOTO | Ask for a price |
| 2 | Garmin Drive 52 RUS MT | Ask for a price |
| 3 | Mio C520 | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 navigators with traffic loading | ||
| 1 | Garmin DriveSmart 55 RUS MT | Ask for a price |
| 2 | DIGMA AllDrive 401 | Ask for a price |
| 3 | Garmin Drive 51 LMT-S Europe | Ask for a price |
| TOP 3 best navigators with file browsing | ||
| 1 | Prology iMAP-A520 | Ask for a price |
| 2 | NAVITEL N500 Magnetic | Ask for a price |
| 3 | Garmin GPSMAP 64 | Ask for a price |
Content
- Rating of the TOP-15 best navigators in 2024-2025
- How to choose a navigator and what to look for?
- TOP 3 best navigators by price/quality for 2024-2025
- TOP 3 best navigators with GLONASS
- TOP 3 best navigators with hands-free
- TOP 3 navigators with traffic loading
- TOP 3 best navigators with file browsing
- Which firm to choose?
- Customer Reviews
- Useful video
How to choose a navigator and what to look for?
Before buying a navigator, you should decide how long and under what conditions the device will be used.
The following parameters play an important role in the selection:
- Receiver type. Most modern devices are equipped with a GPS receiver that can determine the coordinates even if the view of the sky is obstructed by trees and other obstacles.
- Screen. The diagonal of the display in most modern navigators is the same, and it additionally has an anti-reflective coating that makes it easier to read information in the dark or in bright sunlight.
- Built-in maps. According to this criterion, all navigators are divided into topographic, automobile and marine. Maps of the first type allow you to view the nearest objects relative to the user's current location. They are ideal for tourists, as they allow you to view the nearest roads and create routes.
- Availability of accessories. As a rule, a case is provided with the device, which protects the screen from scratches. It is also desirable that the device has a mount for wearing the gadget on the belt and a cable for connecting the device to a PC.
The interface of most navigators provides for the presence of sound signals that notify the user when approaching a desired location or arriving at a destination.
TOP 3 best navigators by price/quality for 2024-2025
Many tourists and car owners refuse to buy a navigator, considering the cost of this device to be too high. But in fact, in the lines of many trusted brands there are products in which an adequate cost with a very decent quality.
Garmin Oregon 750
The compact navigator has advanced features for orienting in 
unfamiliar terrain.
The device is equipped with an improved antenna design that picks up even weak satellite signals. In terms of functionality, the gadget is also universal, because it is suitable for hikers, climbers and motorists.
The device has modules for synchronizing the device with a smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
As a result, software updates can be carried out automatically.
In addition, the navigator has a small camera that will help save memorable photos from the trip or its coordinates in the device memory.
The manufacturer has also created a special application through which you can control the device, save photos or share your own routes with friends..
For convenient viewing of information, the navigator is equipped with a display with a special coating, which allows you to conveniently read information in any light.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal 3 inches;
- working time 16 hours;
- weight 210 g.
pros
- there is a camera with a flash and a flashlight;
- the case is protected from moisture;
- automatic software update is provided;
- there are additional instruments (compass, barometer and altimeter);
- picks up the signal well.
Minuses
- the charge is not enough for a long time;
- low quality photos.
NAVITEL G550 Moto
This model of the navigator can be safely called universal, because the device can not only 
install in the car, but also attach to the handlebars of the bicycle.
Appropriate accessories are included. The device runs on Windows or Linux, and an extended package of pre-installed maps allows you to start using the device immediately after purchase, without updating the software yourself.
Another feature of the model is the presence of a screen with a special coating that even responds to pressing with a finger in a glove..
The body of the gadget is resistant to impacts, and its functionality does not change in a humid or dusty environment, so you can use the device in any weather conditions.
The navigator's memory has a rich selection of offline maps that can be used for orientation even without an Internet connection..
The built-in program not only builds a route quickly, but also notifies the user about speed limits along the way.
Specifications:
- screen with a diagonal of 4.3 inches;
- working time 2 hours;
- weight 215 g.
pros
- inexpensive but reliable navigator;
- detailed preset maps;
- the case is protected from dust, moisture and shocks;
- the screen responds even when pressed with a finger in a glove;
- There are fasteners included.
Minuses
- for some users, the screen seems too faded;
- short battery life.
Garmin DriveSmart 51 RUS LMT
Inexpensive, but advanced in functionality, the navigator is equipped with intelligent 
functions for easy orientation in unfamiliar terrain.
One of the advantages of the device is a bright touch display, which is equipped with a special coating for easy reading of information in any light. The instrument already has detailed pre-installed maps, so the user does not have to install software or download maps on their own.
Updates are also automatic.
Like many other brand navigators, this model can be synchronized with a smartphone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Also, the manufacturer has provided a wide range of services in real time.
In particular, the user will be able to check traffic jams and the status of nearby parking lots..
In addition, the owner will be able to view weather information, and for more convenient use, the model provides voice navigation prompts.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- working time 1 hour;
- weight 174 g.
pros
- low cost with additional functions;
- there are voice prompts;
- accurate and detailed preset maps;
- automatic software update;
- large and bright screen.
Minuses
- some users find the navigator too large;
- not a very pleasant voice in the sound prompts.
TOP 3 best navigators with GLONASS
GLONASS navigators are considered one of the most convenient and functional, because they allow you to view detailed maps and make accurate routes. In 2024-2025, users rated 3 devices in this category especially highly.
Garmin Montana 700
The cost of this navigator is higher than the average on the market, but it is completely 
offset by enhanced features and functionality.
First of all, the device is universal, as it can be installed in a car, taken with you on hiking or hunting.
A set of fasteners is supplied with the device, and the body of the device is reliably protected from dust, dirt, moisture and low temperatures..
Thanks to a powerful built-in antenna, the gadget consistently picks up satellite signals, even if there are obstacles around (for example, trees or buildings).
Additional features include a compass and a barometer, and the touch screen even responds to tapping with a gloved finger..
The device also has a connector for connecting to a PC via a USB port, and the navigator itself can be synchronized with a smartphone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- working time 18 hours;
- weight 397 g.
pros
- large and bright display;
- works without glitches and freezes;
- the sensor works even when pressed with a glove;
- fasteners are provided in the kit;
- rich selection of pre-installed maps.
Minuses
- very high price;
- The body is not impact resistant.
NAVITEL G500
Inexpensive, but sufficiently high-quality and functional car navigator 
equipped with GLONASS support.
But, if the user wants to install additional cards, he can easily do this, because the device has 4 GB of internal memory. Also in the case there is a slot for installing a memory card and expanding the capabilities of the device.
The navigator interface is carefully thought out so that the user can lay routes of any complexity, and the number of points is not limited.
The device is equipped with a powerful modern antenna, so it perfectly picks up satellite signals even in the presence of obstacles.
Another feature of the model is that it provides a 3D map view mode for assessing the relief, the number of storeys of buildings and other parameters..
Also, the navigator is equipped with an on-board computer that will notify the user about cameras and radars installed along the route.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- 4 GB memory;
- 950 mAh battery.
pros
- reasonable price with extended functionality;
- stably catches the signal of satellites;
- clear control menu;
- pleasant to the touch coating of the case;
- nice voice acting.
Minuses
- incomprehensible instruction;
- hangs up often.
Garmin eTrex 20x
Compact, inexpensive and functional navigator can safely be called universal, 
because it can not only be installed in the car, but also taken with you on hiking trips.
The model is equipped with a small but very bright display, from which it is very convenient to read information, regardless of the lighting.
The case of the device is very durable, it is not afraid of accidental shocks and moisture, so the device can be taken with you on hikes, hunting or fishing, and also used in any weather.
The device is able to track GLONASS and GPS satellites simultaneously and calculate the user's location almost instantly.
In addition, the navigator is equipped with a modern antenna, so the signal will be picked up even in the presence of various obstacles. Despite the fact that the device already has pre-installed maps, the user will be able to add them himself by downloading them via PC.
Specifications:
- screen with a diagonal of 2.2 inches;
- working time 25 hours;
- weight 142 g.
pros
- low price with versatility of use;
- the case is protected from moisture and dust;
- color and detailed maps;
- small size allows you to take the navigator on hikes;
- long battery life.
Minuses
- small screen;
- some users find the navigator too slow.
TOP 3 best navigators with hands-free
Navigators equipped with hands-free are very convenient because they can not only be installed in a car, but also taken with you on cycling trips or hiking.
Prology iMap-MOTO
A portable navigation system is not expensive, but its functionality and 
the possibilities are definitely worth looking into.
This model is ideal for motorcyclists, as a special mount is provided with the device, and the touch screen responds even to pressing with a finger in a glove.
The case is reliably protected from dust and moisture, so you can safely take it with you even on long trips over rough terrain..
The device already has preset detailed maps. But, if the firmware is not enough, the user will be able to download the maps themselves.
The device has 4 GB of memory, and for additional expansion of opportunities there is an additional slot for a memory card.
Also, the device is equipped with a function of voice prompts and the ability to quickly build a route with an increased number of points on the map.
Specifications:
- screen with a diagonal of 4.3 inches;
- processor frequency 800 MHz;
- memory 4 GB.
pros
- low price;
- there are pre-installed maps;
- there is a slot for installing a memory card;
- the kit includes a bracket for mounting on the handlebars of a motorcycle;
- Fairly bright screen.
Minuses
- sometimes freezes;
- Not all maps are accurate.
Garmin Drive 52 RUS MT
In terms of cost, this navigator belongs to the middle price category, but its cost 
fully justified by thoughtful design and functionality.
The device menu is extremely simple and understandable, so viewing the map and building a route will not cause difficulties even for novice users.
To make viewing information more convenient, the manufacturer has equipped the navigator with a screen with an enlarged diagonal, and a special coating allows you to read information even in very bright sunlight or in the dark..
It also has several real-time functions.
In particular, the user will be able to view information about traffic jams, weather, free parking lots and other useful data that will help you navigate unfamiliar areas as quickly and comfortably as possible.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- working time 1 hour;
- weight 170.8 g.
pros
- simple and clear menu;
- bright large touch screen;
- the case is protected from moisture;
- detailed color maps;
- there are online services.
Minuses
- some users find the price too high;
- sometimes loading maps slowly.
Mio C520
Inexpensive, stylish and functional navigator that you can take with you on foot 
hiking, installed in a car or mounted on a motorcycle handlebar.
The bright color touchscreen display is large enough for the user to view all the details on the map.
The device is powered by a built-in battery that needs regular recharging, and the battery life is no more than 4 hours..
For more convenient operation, the device also has built-in headphones and a microphone.
The gadget's memory already has several pre-installed maps, but the user will be able to download them on their own from a computer. The instrument has sufficient memory for this.
A high-quality modern antenna quickly catches up with satellites and keeps the signal even in the presence of obstacles.
Also, the device has additional functions, such as video playback, listening to audio or viewing photos.
Specifications:
- screen with a diagonal of 4.3 inches;
- working time 4 hours;
- weight 190 g.
pros
- reasonable price with a simple interface;
- in the kit there is a regular cover;
- there is a built-in video player;
- sufficient screen size;
- there is a built-in hands-free.
Minuses
- maps take a long time to load;
- weak battery.
TOP 3 navigators with traffic loading
Many modern models of navigators are equipped with real-time services. One of the most popular features is the real-time traffic display.
Garmin DriveSmart 55 RUS MT
Average in cost, but advanced in capabilities, a navigator that is designed 
for installation in a car.
You won’t be able to take the device on hiking trips, since its battery life (without connecting to the car’s power supply) is only 1 hour. At the same time, every detail of the device is carefully thought out for maximum user convenience.
This applies not only to a well-thought-out control menu, but also to the presence of voice prompts..
The screen of the navigator is quite large and bright, and a special display coating allows you to read information even in bright sunlight or in the dark.
The device already has pre-installed maps, but the manufacturer additionally provided the gadget with 4 GB of internal memory so that the owner could download additional maps on his own.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- working time 1 hour;
- weight 150.5 g.
pros
- big screen;
- clear control menu;
- stably catches the signal and does not respond to interference;
- durable case;
- there is a voice assistant.
Minuses
- only suitable for installation in a car;
- Poor quality mount included.
DIGMA AllDrive 401
One of the most inexpensive navigators on the market today, which has everything 
necessary functions for instant route planning or orientation in unfamiliar terrain.
But the future owner should take into account that the gadget is intended only for installation in a car: this model is not suitable for cyclists and tourists. Despite the democratic cost, the functionality of the device is quite enough.
In particular, the device already has detailed pre-installed maps of the area.. But, if they are not enough, the user will be able to download additional maps via PC.
So that the owner does not have to constantly control the map, but only follow the road, the device has a voice assistant.
He will tell you when and in what direction you need to turn, warn you about signs and approaching your destination.
Specifications:
- screen with a diagonal of 4.3 inches;
- memory 4 GB;
- 850 mAh battery.
pros
- one of the lowest prices on the market;
- there is a voice assistant;
- a sufficient selection of pre-installed maps;
- high-quality software included;
- rugged, shock-resistant body.
Minuses
- loading traffic jams does not always work correctly;
- the power button is pressed with great force.
Garmin Drive 51 LMT-S Europe
The cost of this navigator is above average, but the manufacturer of the gadget is well known 
domestic consumers.
At the same time, the device is extremely easy to use, and even novice users will have no difficulty setting up the device, viewing maps or creating a route.
The device is equipped with a high-quality antenna that quickly picks up the signal and maintains it at a stable level.. Due to this, maps are loaded almost instantly.
In addition, the manufacturer has taken care of some additional services that are provided online.
In particular, the user will be able to view information about the weather and traffic jams in order to build the shortest and most convenient route, even in unfamiliar areas.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- working time 1 hour;
- weight 171 g.
pros
- there is a voice assistant;
- stably holds the signal of satellites;
- loads maps quickly;
- convenient route planning;
- traffic jams are displayed online.
Minuses
- the price is above average;
- short battery life.
TOP 3 best navigators with file browsing
Some modern navigators are equipped with the function of viewing files, such as photos or videos taken during a trip. Three models were recognized as the best in this category.
Prology iMAP-A520
This portable navigation system has all the features you need 
for full use.
The screen of the device is large enough and has a special anti-reflective coating that allows you to view information even in poor lighting conditions. The device is equipped with modern software, which is updated automatically.
The manufacturer also made sure that the owner could start using the device immediately after purchase..
To do this, detailed color maps were built into the gadget's interface, but if they are not enough, the owner will be able to download additional data via a PC.
You can also store other data in the navigator, as it has enough memory, and the interface allows you to view notes or photos taken on a trip on the screen.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- memory 4 GB;
- 950 mAh battery
pros
- low price with thoughtful functionality;
- rugged, shock-resistant housing;
- keeps the signal stable;
- modern embedded software;
- convenient route planning.
Minuses
- some users find the software too confusing;
- only suitable for car installation.
NAVITEL N500 Magnetic
Despite the democratic cost, this navigator is considered one of the most 
functional and reliable on the market.
It is designed for installation in a car and is not designed for long battery life, so it will not work on hiking or cycling trips.
In addition to pre-installed maps from the manufacturer, the device has the ability to download additional maps via a PC.
To make it convenient to use the device on the go, without being distracted by viewing the map, the manufacturer has equipped the gadget with a convenient voice assistant.
It will notify the user about road signs and works, turns along the way and distance to the destination.
Another advantage of the device is the increased diagonal of the screen, and for maximum comfort of viewing information on the display there is a special anti-reflective coating.
Specifications:
- screen diagonal of 5 inches;
- memory 8 GB;
- 950 mAh battery.
pros
- the price is justified, given the thoughtful functionality;
- nice voice prompts;
- a rich selection of pre-installed maps;
- Comes with a handy magnetic holder.
- maps are automatically updated.
Minuses
- not very high screen resolution;
- often loses food.
Garmin GPSMAP 64
Another successful navigator model from a trusted manufacturer will become indispensable 
assistant during a road trip through unfamiliar terrain.
Since the device has a fairly long battery life, you can safely take it with you on hikes or car rides. The functionality of the gadget is also on top.
The manufacturer has supplied it with a sufficient number of pre-installed color maps, and a simple and intuitive user interface allows you to quickly get directions..
The device has a lot of additional features for lovers of outdoor recreation.
In particular, the device provides a calendar of hunting and fishing, there is a function for viewing various files and photos, area calculation, compass, altimeter and barometer.
Specifications:
- screen with a diagonal of 2.6 inches;
- working time 16 hours;
- weight 230 g.
pros
- advanced functionality at an adequate cost;
- there is a wide range of additional features;
- quickly picks up the signal from the satellite;
- instant map building;
- bright visible body, resistant to shock.
Minuses
- there are no additional batteries included;
- small screen.
Which firm to choose?
Garmin is considered the world's leading manufacturer of navigators. The line of this brand has a huge selection of travel and car navigators.
We also included devices from NAVITEL, Prology, Mio and DIGMA in the rating of the best navigators of 2024-2025, because the devices of these brands also collected a large number of positive user reviews.
Customer Reviews
Useful video
From the video you will get an overview of the best navigators:
