How have we gone this long without GPS navigation devices? Once you try driving with one, you'll never want to be without. You know that sinking feeling, when you're not sure if you've missed an exit and you can't turn around for 20 more miles? That disappears when you have a GPS on your dash telling you where to go.
 
Prices continue to plummet, but the cheapest navigators aren't for everyone. You'll get turn-by-turn directions and all the maps and points of interest you need out of the box, but not much else. At the higher end are units that double as Bluetooth speakerphones and portable media players that let you enjoy music and photos (and in some cases videos) on the go. Real-time traffic is also being added to the mix, if you're willing to pay a monthly fee.
 
We test drove nine GPS devices-plus add-ons for your smart phone and notebook-and evaluated each product based on its accuracy, features, and ease of use. Pick up one of our favorites and we guarantee it will become a necessity for you, too.