USB vs Bluetooth GPS unit

**Tical84** · 12-29-2009, 02:52 PM

I was origionally looking for USB GPS receivers like the BU-353 but then I found out Bluetooth GPS receivers exist. I already have a Bluetooth receiver for my phone so should I get a Bluetooth GPS receiver or stick with the USB? The USB will be mounted on the roof which should provide better access to the sats, but does it matter? Which would be the better option based on connectivity, price, etc.

**mshowman** · 12-29-2009, 03:24 PM

Overall for price and performance the BU-353 is your best bet. The only real benefit to a bluetooth GPS receiver is that you can disconnect it and use it with a mobile phone/pda. You will still need to power it so most bluetooth receivers still need a USB port.

I have a Delorme Earthmate BT-20 which sends it's data via bluetooth, but still needs to be connected to a USB port for power (has a battery but not useful for a permanent car mounted solution). It's also not terribly accurate and has a fairly ugly-looking blue/yellow case. I'll probably be buying a BU-353 in the next few weeks.

**Tical84** · 12-29-2009, 04:08 PM

Sounds good to me. Thanks.
Do you know where you're getting it from? Including shipping to Canada I can't find it for less than $60USD so I'm always looking for new sources.

**mshowman** · 12-29-2009, 04:40 PM

The mp3car store has it for $35.99 US.

Click the "Store" --> "Shop" link above and look about half-way down under the "Peripheral Devices" section.

**Tical84** · 12-29-2009, 04:44 PM

Unfortunately they want to charge almost as much to ship it to me. Ends up being just over or just under $60USD, I forget. That's ok, I guess that's the going rate for Canadians.

**Marvin Hlavac** · 12-29-2009, 08:10 PM

I just did a quick google search for "bu-353 canada". One store's price was $49 + shipping, and another store sells it for $59 + shipping. If you can get it from mp3car store for $60 including shipping, that may be the way to go. I'll feel better for supporting the company that makes this online community possible.

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GlobalSat BU-353 USB GPS receiver

**Tical84** · 12-29-2009, 09:37 PM

I've done that exact search already and I agree that if the prices are the same that I should support MP3car.com. That's why I said "I guess that's the going rate." Just sucks that even when the dollar is on par we still can't get it for much less than 2x what the Americans pay.