Features

• If you're looking for a GPS unit that does well handling traffic, the most important feature to look for is traffic-routing capability. Once confined to more expensive units, a good number of entry-level devices now come equipped with the ability to help you avoid traffic. How well this feature works varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and from area to area. Read some reviews from users in your area to find out which manufacturer best handles traffic routing in your city.
  
  

Benefits

• The benefits of your unit's traffic routing capabilities can sometimes be lessened as a result of a poor screen or bad audible navigation. Once you've found a manufacturer whose traffic-routing works well in your area, it is helpful to test the size and clarity of the screen. If possible, you should also listen to how well the unit gives its audible navigation instructions. Even good traffic-routing can be useless if you can't read the screen or if the system's computerized voice is difficult to understand.
  
  

Considerations

• Prices for GPS units with traffic-routing capabilities can be had for less than $100. Refurbished ones can be found for even less. Though these prices are appealing, be sure to check out the manufacturer's policy on map updates. Roads are always under construction somewhere and a GPS system with great traffic-routing capabilities is no good if its maps are out of date.