Crossover GPS

Some GPS units try to cover auto and handheld uses

GPS devices that merge auto and handheld GPS functionality into one unit seem like a great and useful idea. The problem is that the crossover GPS receivers have yet to be fully successful. Instead, reviewers generally suggest that you should just buy two devices if you want both an auto and a handheld GPS receiver.

The best attempt at a truly crossover GPS device might have been the discontinued Magellan CrossoverGPS, but experts say that it was so expensive that you could buy both a handheld and an auto GPS separately and end up with both more features and some spare change.

While Magellan and most other GPS-receiver makers have backed away from crossover GPS models, Garmin presses on. It's Garmin nuvi 500 (*Est. $250) is more affordable than the CrossoverGPS, but Rich Owings of GPSTracklog.com argues that it is barely usable as a handheld GPS and still advocates purchasing two units. The nuvi 500 shares many features with the nuvi 205 (*Est. $135), a top choice among for auto GPS receivers, and reviewers like that it does not skimp on features on the auto GPS side. In fact, compared to the nuvi 205, the nuvi 500 even has some advantages as an auto GPS, adding a removable lithium-ion battery, multi-destination routing, and some handheld GPS functionality like a waterproof shell, extended (eight-hour) battery life, and topographic maps. For more information on the nuvi 205 GPS, see the ConsumerSearch report on auto GPS receivers.

However, experts say that those looking for a full-featured handheld GPS for outdoors use will be sorely disappointed with the Garmin nuvi 500. GPSTracklog.com points out that it is awkward to hold and does not have a lanyard attachment (so you don't have to actually hold it), making it difficult to take on the go. Reviewer Rich Owings feels that the nuvi 500 is fragile and will not hold up to rugged outdoor use. He also points out that you cannot adjust trackpoint intervals, load tracks, or use the GPS-enabled compass without a clear view of the sky, making the device nearly useless for most outdoor excursions.