What’s New in Truck GPS for 2025?
If you’re still relying on an outdated GPS, or worse, your phone, you might be missing out on serious upgrades. In 2025, truck GPS technology has taken a big step forward. We’re not just talking about fancier screens. We’re talking about real-time road intel, AI-assisted routing, and tools that actually reduce your day-to-day stress.
This review builds on our full GPS comparison series (check those out here) and gives you the latest take on which systems are living up to the hype, and which ones aren’t.
Quick Recap: What Makes a Good Truck GPS?
Before we jump into reviews, here’s a reminder of what separates a truck GPS from a regular navigation app:
- Truck-safe routing: Avoids low bridges, weight-restricted roads, and tight turns
- Real-time traffic and weather alerts
- Fuel stops, weigh stations, and POIs for trucks
- Large, easy-to-read displays
- Hands-free features for safety and efficiency
Need a refresher on commercial routing rules? The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) explains why standard GPS can get truckers in trouble and what to look for instead: FMCSA GPS Guide (PDF)
Looking for buyer-tested GPS picks? Brilliant Maps breaks down the top-rated truck navigation devices from real drivers and mechanics: Best GPS for Truckers 2025
2025 GPS Review Highlights: What Drivers Are Saying
We dug into the feedback from working drivers, not just tech reviewers. Here’s how the top systems are holding up in real-world use.
Garmin dēzl OTR800: Still the King of the Road
Drivers consistently rank the OTR800 at the top. Why?
- Highly accurate truck routing
- Live traffic overlays
- Customizable profiles by vehicle type
- Large 8″ screen that’s readable in any light
Downside: Pricey. But most agree it’s worth every dollar for the peace of mind and route reliability.
Rand McNally TND 750: A Favorite for Features
This one wins points for its clean interface and visibility.
- Strong lane guidance
- Great trip planning tools
- Built-in mileage tracking
What to watch for: Some drivers report occasional lag or missed updates. Keep the software current.
TomTom Trucker 620: Solid for Simpler Needs
TomTom may not have all the bells and whistles, but it nails the basics.
- Lifetime truck maps
- Easy smartphone syncing
- Strong voice navigation
Best for: Drivers who want dependable routing and clean UI without the bulk or price tag.
OHREX N700: Budget Pick That Gets It Done
For the money, it’s hard to beat OHREX if you just need reliable directions.
- Custom routing by truck specs
- Decent screen quality (7” or 9”)
- Offline maps are a big plus for rural driving
Limitations: Slower response and fewer advanced tools, but the essentials work well.
Real Driver Reviews: What They Love and Hate
We scanned dozens of driver forums and review sites to pull real opinions. Here’s what stood out:
Liked:
- “Garmin doesn’t miss a turn, it’s always spot on.”
- “I like that Rand lets me plan multi-stop trips without a headache.”
- “OHREX actually surprised me. It’s not fancy, but it works.”
Not Liked:
- “TomTom was slow to reroute in traffic.”
- “Some GPS devices take forever to start up.”
- “If the maps aren’t updated, even the best GPS is useless.”
Soft-Sell Block
Sorting through GPS options is just one part of the job hunt. If you’re tired of job boards and calls that go nowhere, Drivers 1st helps drivers cut through the noise, so you spend less time searching and more time making money.
Expert Tip: Match GPS to Your Job Type
Not every GPS is right for every driver. Here’s a quick guide:
- Long-haul OTR? Go Garmin OTR800 or OTR1000
- Local/regional? Rand McNally TND 750 works well
- New driver or limited budget? Try OHREX N700 or QEDASS 9”
- Tech-savvy? TomTom 620 or Samsara (for fleets)
And don’t forget: Fleet integration tools can make a big difference if you’re running multiple trucks or managing drivers.
How to Choose (and Not Overpay)
Before you buy, ask:
- Does it support my truck’s height, weight, and cargo type?
- Can it run offline if I’m in dead zones?
- Is it easy to update and manage while on the road?
→ See the Latest Job Openings That Fit Your Routes
→ Talk to a Driver Advocate
Final Take: Which Truck GPS Is Worth It in 2025?
In our 2025 review, Garmin still holds the crown for top-tier performance. But that doesn’t mean it’s the only good option.
- Want premium navigation? Choose Garmin dēzl OTR800
- Want clean trip planning tools? Go Rand McNally TND 750
- Want affordable, no-frills routing? OHREX N700 delivers
- Need smartphone syncing? TomTom 620 does the trick
