How did we ever find our way around without a GPS device? Americans bought nearly five-million of them around the holidays, according to the Telematics Research Group.

If you're shopping for one, Consumer Reports says look for the kind that doesn't just say turn right, but tells you the name of the street.

Also easier to use are those with a smart keyboard. They highlight letters as you start to enter an address, narrowing your choices. And get a GPS with a rigid mount. It offers more stability.

As for the screen, widescreens are easier to program and view. Some provide real-time traffic reports. Others let you talk on the phone hands-free.

Those features cost more, but Consumer Reports' tests find you don't have to buy an expensive GPS to get you where you're going.

Best Buys that are good and cost far less include the Garmin Nuvi 260 for $300 and the TomTom ONE 3rd Edition for $200.

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