Different car GPS systems come in a variety of sizes, depending on the device, the screen size, the mounting and the use. The screen size of most portable car GPS units is within the range of 4.3 to 7 inches in size, while small GPS trackers can be even smaller. The larger navigation screens are easier to read and use, but they may take up more space on the dashboard or windshield. Choosing the right gps size requires considering your vehicle, navigation range, dashboard design, and if you are looking for navigation or tracking or both. Selecting the right size can help give directions without obstructing your view. 

What Are The Common Sizes Of Car GPS Units?

There are a number of sizes for cars GPS. The two most prevalent variations are the screen size, particularly on portable navigation devices, and whether the device is intended for use in the field or for the powerboat. The screen’s diagonal is the typical method by which manufacturers measure it.

Generally, screen sizes on traditional portable GPS navigation systems are between 4.3 and 7 inches. In some special units, you might find that the size is smaller or bigger.

Simply put: 

• 4.3-inch GPS: Compact and perfect for smaller vehicles and those who want to preserve area on their dashboard.
• A 5” GPS is a popular compromise in terms of screen size and ease of carrying.
• 6-inch GPS: Larger view area, but fairly simple to mount.
• 7-inch GPS: Provides a larger screen for maps, road names and navigation directions to be more visible.
• Small gps trackers: These don’t typically require a large screen and can be very small.
• Built in navigation systems: These come in a wide range of sizes as they are constructed to fit a specific dashboard or vehicle.

Screen size is just a component of the dimensions. Due to features like a bezel, buttons, mounting system or other hardware a GPS with a 6” screen might be larger in size and have a larger outer frame.

When replacing an older navigation system, be sure to take space limitations into account, not just the advertised screen size. 

Understanding GPS Screen Size And Overall Dimensions

Users often refer to the size of car GPS screens when asking about size. But the size of the entire device is also important.

The diagonal measurement of a GPS screen is the standard measurement. A 5-inch screen doesn’t necessarily indicate the width of the device. The actual width and height will depend on the aspect ratio of the screen.

Size is also contributed by the outer housing. Older GPS units tend to have a larger frame around the screen. Today’s devices can feature less bezel and have a bigger screen that occupies the same space.

An even greater difference can be made by the mounting system.

A windshield mounted GPS will require space for the suction cup and arm to move. There is a need for a stable base to support the device mounted on the dashboard. Some units have magnetic mounts that can minimize the number of units mounted directly on the GPS.

These measurements should be checked prior to purchase: 

1. Screen size – Measured diagonally.
2. The overall width of the device – The entire width of the GPS.
3. Device height – The overall height of the device.
4. Device thickness – When space behind the device is limited.
5. Mounting size – Dimensions of the mounting piece.
6. Viewing angle – What is the angle at which the driver can read the screen. 

These details are particularly vital in compact cars in which there’s minimal space in the dashboard. 

4.3-Inch, 5-Inch, 6-Inch, Or 7-Inch GPS: Which Size Fits Your Needs?

It is not possible to size GPS for all drivers. The one that is most suitable is the one which is most fitting to your use of navigation and his or her interior space. 

4.3-Inch GPS Units

For a small size, a 4.3″ GPS is a great option. It can be effective when space is limited in the dashboard, or windshield.

Basic navigation information is still possible to display on the smaller screen, but there may be less prominence in the map and text information on the smaller screen. For those who are used to driving with small displays, this is an ideal size.

Can be beneficial for: 

• Small cars
• Occasional navigation
• Drivers who prefer a less noticeable device
• Limited dashboard space
• Easy storage when the GPS is not being used

5-Inch GPS Units

A GPS with 5-inch screen is a great size for readability and size. It has a sufficient size for most simple navigation tasks, but not too large as to consume a lot of space.

This is a size that is frequently appropriate if the driver desires a GPS that can be quickly and easily installed and taken off.

With just 5″ of space, road names, turn arrows, route information, and more navigation details can be provided without being too big. 

6-Inch GPS Units

A 6″ GPS will provide you with greater screen real estate. This can simplify the map reading, particularly if there are multiple roads and/or route information on the display.

This extra space could come in handy for those that spend long periods of time driving in new areas. The bigger device, however, requires more mounting space.

A 6″ unit might be appropriate for: 

• Frequent travelers
• Larger vehicles
• Drivers that like to see the text larger.
• Long-distance driving
• Individuals with lower vision

7-Inch GPS Units

A 7″ GPS has some of the bigger screens that are usually available in an on-the-go navigation device.

Additional screen space can simplify navigation information to be seen at a single glance. But size can be a drawback if it obscures a portion of the windshield or takes up valuable clear space on the dashboard.

If planning to mount on a 7-inch device, be sure to find out the size of the space it will occupy. The screen should not obstruct your view of the road but should be readily visible. 

How Vehicle Size Affects The Right GPS Size

Vehicle exterior size is not the only criterion for determining the best size of the GPS. The interior floor plan is more important.

There is a lot of room for the dashboard in a large SUV, but not much in a compact hatchback. Likewise, some vehicles have a high dashboard or curved surfaces or instrument panels that restrict the ways that it can be mounted.

Take into account the standard distance that a driver can see.

A larger screen may be more helpful if the GPS is out of reach, and details on the map and in the text are easier to see. If it’s relatively close to the driver, a smaller screen can still be an acceptable viewing distance.

Windshield placement should also be taken into account. The GPS can be a distraction if it is installed too high or too close for the driver’s line of sight.

The size of the screen is an important rule – the bigger the better, but don’t make it so large that you can’t see the screen or see the controls on the vehicle.

As much as screen size does, the mounting location is important. Possible locations include: 

• Windshield
• Dashboard
• Center console
• Factory dashboard opening
• Air-vent mount
• Magnetic mounting position

Always ensure that mounting location does not obstruct airbag, visibility, steering and other important vehicle controls. 

Portable GPS Units vs. Built-In Navigation Systems

The size of a GPS unit also will vary based on whether it is a portable or built-in type.

Portable GPS are GPS units that can be transported from one vehicle to another. The majority of their sizes are standardized and are around common screen sizes, including 5, 6 or 7 inches. Typically come with a mounting system and power cable.

They are most useful because of their flexibility. The device can be detached from the car/vehicle when exiting and can be used in another car/vehicle if necessary.

GPS systems, built-in, are different. The dimensions of their physical size are influenced heavily by the dashboard and car design.

Integrated displays with the vehicle’s infotainment system can be used for factory navigation systems. Aftermarket units tend to be at standard dashboard openings, but this may vary depending on the vehicle.

The measurements which are important may include the dashboard opening, mounting depth, display size with regard to the surrounding trim, etc.

Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. The right fit and an easy-to-view screen can be more functional than a bigger screen that causes installation or visibility issues. 

How To Choose The Right Size Car GPS Unit

Knowing where and how you intend to use the GPS in your car can ease the choice of the size of GPS unit to purchase.

Begin with the size of the space in which you can mount. A small screen is not necessarily a small screen size!

Then consider the readability of it. These features might be more desirable for drivers who frequently drive at night, for long journeys or on roads they don’t know well.

Also take into account how much information you desire to show on the screen. A larger display will be able to present more information on the map at a single time. This can help decrease the number of switching between views.

Here are some additional factors to take into account: 

• Size and layout of the vehicle: Ensure that the GPS fits with ease in the vehicle.
• The distance from which the screen will be viewed: If the screen is larger, it might be easier to read if it is viewed from a distance.
• Mounting position: Ensure that all critical areas of the windshield are not obstructed.
• Easy to use: Larger buttons and interface elements are helpful when parked and changing routes.
• Portability: A smaller unit would be easier to take out and put away.
• Map visibility: Roads, labels and navigation instructions can be displayed on larger screens.
• Installation: Built in systems are more critical when measuring than portable systems.
• Personal choice: Larger screens make it easier for some drivers. 

It is also recommended to view the device’s full specs. Check the screen size and the size of the total unit.

For instance, a set of GPS could be 6″ in screen size, but vary in size and shape due to different bezel and casing designs. 

Final Thoughts

Car GPS sizes can vary from smaller navigation units to larger 7-inch screens and systems that are integrated into the vehicle itself. For some portable GPS users a 5-inch and 6-inch display is a good size for both readability and size. If there is limited space, the 4.3-inch screen might be preferable, whereas the 7-inch screen may offer a larger and easier-to-read navigation display.

The most crucial element isn’t so much the size of the GPS. Rather, use a device that is compatible in your vehicle, has comfortable viewing and can be mounted without blocking your line of sight.

Purchase only after checking the size of the screen with the complete size of the GPS. Look at the placement, range of the rearview mirror and configuration of the dashboard as well. When you take all these factors into account, you can select the car GPS unit that will suit your car and your daily driving.