Hi, I am looking for a GPS device right now. The only GPS that I have used before was Garmin XXX. But when I checked the forum, I found so many brands and models. I don't know much about GPS, I just want a "easy to use" device: 1. User friendly 2. Big enough screen 3. Maybe a 3D display 4. sound loud and clear 5. text to speech function 6. latest maps
1) Garmin's are the easiest to use IMHO 2) Get a Garmin with a widescreen, it will be very easy to see/read 3) Don't know never really used one with this, kind of overrated in my opinion 4) Garmin's have a decent built in speaker but if you have your sunroof open, windows open, and music on you won't hear it (or any other one). You can get one with a headphone jack and plug it into you stereo if you want 5) Most all of them have this now once you get out of the real low end 6) Most Garmin's come preloaded with the latest maps, but if not I've always been able to call Garmin and have them send me the map update.
You didn't mention your budget but the Nuvi 255W would probably be good.
I just got the 255WT (comes with traffic but otherwise the same) and one negative I have to point out is the speakers are definitely worse than my old Garmin c320.
Whereas with the c320, max volume is still crisp and clear, with the 255W it really starts to get distorted at 85-90%.
I have owned tomtom & Garmin Nuvis. I would vouch for the Nuvi (owned 350,360, 750, 760 & 765t) everytime I have upgraded I have passed them on to family members and I feel have the best maps. If you are looking for price shopping - check out Amazon as the recently reduced some of the GPS. Also look at ReStockIt.com as they sent me a msg re: 110% price guarantee (see below)
Thank you for contacting us. We do match Amazon.com; just make sure that the Pricematch total is in reference to the total of your ORDER after shipping. Many times, a price may appear cheaper, but is actually more expensive once all shipping charges are accounted for. You can submit your request pre-order or you have up to 3 days after you place your order with us to turn in your pricematch claim.
tomtom is the No.1 company in Europe. Garmin is No.2. In the US, Garmin is No1, tomtom No.2
Main issue is maps updates. tomtom recently changed their map updates by allowing you to purchase a yearly subscription to their maps. They publish maps every quarter. A year sub. is about $60. Otherwise a one time map update is $100.
Regarding maps, Garmin uses Navteq, while tomtom uses TeleAtlas. Want to test the maps? M$ Live/Bing/whatever uses Navteq. Google uses TeleAtlas. Their maps however are typically one revision ahead of what comes out with the latest units.
I've got a Garmin 750 and love it. I bought my parents a 255W not long ago, and even as technically challenged as they are, it gets them where they need to be. They're in Nashville right now, and it got them to some spots they needed to get to with no trouble, so I can highly recommend Garmins!
One of the main component of GPS is its mapdata. Navteq is generally considered to be #1 in US, while Teleatlas is #1 in Europe. Garmin uses Navteq while tomtom uses Teleatlas. I have a Garmin while my friend has tomtom and there are lots of address around my house that is not found by tomtom and none of those addresses are newly added places.
Google Maps uses Teleatlas and there are lots of times that it has put an address couple of miles west of its actual location. Yahoo Maps uses Navteq and they are right on target all the time.
Ourt family have all lost interest in a separate GPS device after using Sprint Navigation. While the display is limited by your phone, it is quick, has text to voice, and most importantly -traffic updates. The best part - no extra hardware or software to purchase - and it is free with Sprint's everything data plans. Other mobile carriers may have similar offerings, and Sprint offers a free 5 day trial for customers who do not have an includive data plan.
junnitpeet
New Member
posted: Nov. 24, 2009 @ 12:05a
3.5" Gps,i think this gps maybe fit for you. And now this gps is on sale for Thanksgiving holiday on Focalprice! $63.53 only! Product Details: weight:517 g size:16*15.7*9.3 cm
I have the 255W and love it. Whichever you buy, go for the 4.3 in screen. I like the ease of pointing to a spot in 2D view and tell the GPS to go there.
mikecism
Member
posted: Nov. 24, 2009 @ 9:28a
Another vote for Garmin. Easy to use and read.
I have been tempted to try others but always go back Garmin. Navteq is superior to TeleAtlas in terms of maps, though.
If you need in car GPS, a dedicated unit is the way to go. Phone ones are good, but are too small (and therefore dangerous) and only good in a pinch/walking.
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