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Can your iPhone replace your standard GPS device?, Dec. 30 11 AM  

On our recent trip down to Southern California for the holidays, we had the opportunity to test the two leading GPS apps on our iPhone 3G / 3Gs – Tom Tom for iPhone and Navigon MobileNavigator North America. When these apps were first introduced at near the $100 mark, we had always wondered whether they would enable us to replace our GPS. However being the bargain hunters we are, we waited until they dropped in price to $50 and $60 respectively before we pulled the trigger.

To cut to the chase, we are happy to report that both apps perform well for their intended function. Here are the features they both share:

• Both get you where you need to go with the ease of text to speech functionality.
• On the 3G / 3Gs, both do not require a cellular signal or data plan to function (although having it can help speed and battery life).
• Both show estimated travel times and distance to your final destination.
• Both allow you to use your contacts to access addresses.

The difference really comes down to price and user interface. In our opinion, the Navigon has better looking 3D maps and more intuitive interface, but is currently priced $10 more. For the Tom Tom, one feature we liked was the ability to customize the voice for those times when you want to hear street names with an Australian accent (yes we were bored on our long drive)

A couple final points to mention before you go out and buy either app. Be aware that both apps occupy over 1 GB of drive space. Also, both apps are huge power hogs so definitely get a car charger so you don’t drain what is already a feeble iPhone battery. For current deals on iPhone car chargers, frequently check out our iPhone deals page.

Navigon MobileNavigator Screens

TomTom for iPhone Screenshots