Advances in electronics have enabled very inexpensive autopilots to have similar sensors, and logic, as the most expensive autopilots we sell. It is really when it comes to the drive mechanism that autopilots vary.
Operation is simple.
With most autopilots, you simply put the vessel on the desired heading, hold the course for a few seconds, press AUTO, and release the wheel or tiller. The autopilot will lock the course in memory, and will respond with helm corrections to keep your boat on this course. See Glossary for details on these functions. They do not get tired like their human counterparts, and have an infinite attention span. They will open up opportunities to use your boat that would otherwise be missed due to lack of crew, lack of interest, or lack of time.