In their infancy, navigation systems were an expensive option reserved for luxury cars. Nowadays, navigation systems are ubiquitous. Not only can you get one on an economy car, but also there are alternatives ranging from portable navigation systems to applications for your smartphone.Which one should you buy? What are the advantages of each setup? Which is less expensive? Here are a few things to consider so you can choose the system that's right for you.

Factory Navigation Systems
Pro: Integration — The factory-installed navigation system will appeal to car buyers who like a clean, high-tech, integrated look. These systems typically have larger screens and are designed to work specifically with the vehicle. This means that you can use such factory features as voice activation and steering wheel controls.

Pro: Warranty Coverage — Since the factory navigation system is part of the vehicle, it is covered by the bumper-to-bumper warranty. If anything goes wrong with the system, you can take it to any dealer for repair.

Pro: Theft-Resistant — Unlike a portable navigation system, which can draw the attention of thieves, you don't have to worry as much about someone walking away with a factory system. Thieves will have a much harder time stealing a factory navigation system than a portable unit that's stuck to the windshield with a suction cup.

Pro: Resale Value — Factory navigation systems also improve a car's resale value. Our used-car analysts say that visible options on used cars, like navigation systems, tend to hold their value in the used-car market and make a car more desirable to potential buyers.

Con: Price — The most obvious drawback for a factory navigation system is price. Factory systems can cost more than $1,000 — and much more than that when they are bundled with other accessories. In some cases, you cannot get a navigation system unless you buy the vehicle's highest trim level.

Con: Updates — Map updates can be pricey, too. If you want to update the maps on a factory system, you typically need to purchase a DVD, which can cost more than $200.

Con: Use Limitations — Some factory navigation systems do not let you input directions while the car is moving. This is meant to be a safety feature, but could be frustrating if you want your passenger to press the buttons. Most portable systems do not have these restrictions.