GNSS vs. GPS: Which is More Useful?
In our modern world, where location-based services have quickly become integral to our daily lives, the terms GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) and GPS (Global Positioning System) are often interchangeable. However, there are distinctions between the two that can impact their utility in various applications. In this blog post, we’ll delve into GNSS and GPS, exploring their differences and discussing which is more useful in different contexts.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
GPS is perhaps the most familiar term among the two. Developed and operated by the United States Department of Defense, GPS is a constellation of satellites that orbit Earth and provide GPS receivers with precise positioning and timing information. These receivers calculate their location by triangulating signals from multiple GPS satellites. GPS has become synonymous with satellite-based navigation and location-based services.
GNSS, however, is a broader term encompassing GPS and other similar satellite systems from different countries and regions. Some prominent GNSS systems include:
- GPS (United States): As mentioned earlier, the original and most widely known system.
- GLONASS (Russia): The Russian counterpart to GPS, consisting of a network of satellites in orbit.
- Galileo (European Union): A European GNSS system that aims to provide global coverage.
- BeiDou (China): The Chinese GNSS system that offers global and regional services. GNSS receivers, like GPS receivers, utilize signals from these satellite constellations to determine their location. This multi-system approach enhances accuracy and reliability, especially in challenging environments with obstructions or limited satellite visibility.
GNSS vs. GPS: A Comparison
Now that we have a basic understanding of GNSS and GPS, let’s compare the two in terms of their utility.
Accuracy and Reliability
In terms of accuracy and reliability, GNSS has the upper hand. Combining signals from multiple satellite systems improves your receiver’s ability to calculate your precise position. GNSS receivers can provide centimeter-level accuracy, making them invaluable in applications such as surveying, precision agriculture, and autonomous vehicles.
Global Coverage
While GPS provides excellent global coverage, it may need more support in areas with poor satellite visibility, such as urban canyons or dense forests. With its multi-constellation approach, GNSS can mitigate these issues by leveraging the signals from multiple satellite systems. This makes GNSS a better choice for applications that require consistent global coverage, like maritime navigation or aviation.
Compatibility
GPS is widely adopted and integrated into various devices, including smartphones, car navigation systems, and GPS trackers for cars. This ubiquity makes GPS a popular choice for consumer applications. However, GNSS receivers are often backward compatible with GPS signals, allowing them to work seamlessly with existing GPS infrastructure.
Signal availability
GNSS has the advantage of more satellites in orbit, which translates to more signals available for receivers to use. This increased signal availability can improve the receiver’s ability to maintain a fix on your location, especially in challenging environments. For example, when using a GPS tracker for a car, GNSS may perform better in urban areas with tall buildings obstructing signals.
Cost
Regarding cost, GPS receivers are generally more affordable than multi-constellation GNSS receivers. A GPS receiver may be sufficient and cost-effective for everyday consumer applications like car navigation or smartphone GPS. However, the increased performance often justifies the added cost of a GNSS receiver for professional applications that demand high precision and reliability.
GPS Tracker for Cars: Which to Choose?
Now, let’s apply our understanding of GNSS and GPS to the choice of a GPS tracker for car use. If you’re looking for a GPS tracker for your car, GPS may suffice for most common tracking and navigation needs. GPS trackers are widely available, cost-effective, and compatible with many car tracking services. They can provide accurate location data for purposes like fleet management, theft recovery, or monitoring the whereabouts of family members.
However, investing in a multi-constellation GNSS tracker might be a better choice if you require more advanced features, such as precise geofencing, real-time tracking with high accuracy, or operation in challenging environments. GNSS trackers can enhance accuracy and reliability, making them suitable for professional use cases like logistics, surveying, or high-value asset tracking.