How we test personal navigation devices
Each personal navigation device (PND) evaluation begins with the test team performing a detailed inventory of features and
functionality from their hands-on analysis.
The PND specifications, such as dimensions and weights, are based on our own laboratory measurements—not the manufacturer-supplied data. During this phase, an operational baseline is established for all controls. Judgments are recorded for ease of programming, and these are compared as necessary against benchmark units from previous tests. Once this foundation is created, the test engineers evaluate the units one at a time in real-world testing using a Consumer Reports' car. The staff technicians rate numerous factors as they go through a routine test protocol. With audio instructions, for example, they consider the voice quality and clarity; if text instructions are also displayed; if the promptings are appropriately timed; and if there is a warning tone.
Each unit is evaluated in rural, suburban, and urban scenarios, including the ever-challenging New York City. Along with finding addresses, the testers also evaluate the point of interest (POI) functions, including the time needed to find a location and plot its route.
The field-testing process includes completing a detailed ratings checklist, which is later compiled for assembling the aggregate ratings and informs the bottom-line judgment. In addition to the formal evaluations, other Consumer Reports staff members use these devices during business and personal travel that includes navigating cities and rural areas around the country. Their feedback is captured in worksheet form and used to further refine our test methods.
In total, there are dozens of elements methodically reviewed to determine how well a device aids car navigation. While we do note extra infotainment-type features, the overall scores are based on the navigation abilities of the devices. The latest results can be found in the full GPS Ratings chart. By using our interactive GPS Ratings chart, shoppers can filter the full list to focus on the models with the features, performance, and price that best matches the consumers' needs.
The PND specifications, such as dimensions and weights, are based on our own laboratory measurements—not the manufacturer-supplied data. During this phase, an operational baseline is established for all controls. Judgments are recorded for ease of programming, and these are compared as necessary against benchmark units from previous tests. Once this foundation is created, the test engineers evaluate the units one at a time in real-world testing using a Consumer Reports' car. The staff technicians rate numerous factors as they go through a routine test protocol. With audio instructions, for example, they consider the voice quality and clarity; if text instructions are also displayed; if the promptings are appropriately timed; and if there is a warning tone.
Each unit is evaluated in rural, suburban, and urban scenarios, including the ever-challenging New York City. Along with finding addresses, the testers also evaluate the point of interest (POI) functions, including the time needed to find a location and plot its route.
The field-testing process includes completing a detailed ratings checklist, which is later compiled for assembling the aggregate ratings and informs the bottom-line judgment. In addition to the formal evaluations, other Consumer Reports staff members use these devices during business and personal travel that includes navigating cities and rural areas around the country. Their feedback is captured in worksheet form and used to further refine our test methods.
In total, there are dozens of elements methodically reviewed to determine how well a device aids car navigation. While we do note extra infotainment-type features, the overall scores are based on the navigation abilities of the devices. The latest results can be found in the full GPS Ratings chart. By using our interactive GPS Ratings chart, shoppers can filter the full list to focus on the models with the features, performance, and price that best matches the consumers' needs.
