Top GPS Units
Top GPS Units
PortableGPSRatings.com
Here are some of the top rated portable GPS units that we could find. Be sure to check them out.
Garmin nüvi 760 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Automobile Navigator
Loaded and wide, nüvi 760 has it all ? advanced navigation features, a widescreen display, preloaded maps, an FM transmitter, hands-free calling, traffic alerts and more. Like the rest of the wide nüvi 700-series, its premium navigation capabilities, like route planning and a handy locator, give you peace of mind on the go. Save up to 10 routes, and specify via points and preview simulated turns on the 4.3 widescreen, or enter your via points and let the nuvi 750 automatically sort multiple destinations for an efficient route Hands free calling with Bluetooth phones A trip log of up to 10,000 points keeps a record of where you’ve been on the map for easy reference Speed limits for all major highways and interstates A high-sensitivity internal (non flip-up) antenna keeps the unit sleek and compact while the rechargeable lithium-ion battery allows you to use the unit in and out of the car for up to 5 hours MP3 playback with Audiobook player, picture viewer, and currency converters Built-in FM transmitter allows you to listen to your music, audio books, and gps voice prompts through your car’s stereo Route avoidance (avoid highways, tolls, etc.), Route setup (choice of faster time, shorter distance, off-road), Auto re-route (fast auto-recalculation when you take a wrong turn or want to avoid traffic), and Custom POIs (ability to add additional points of interest) FM traffic alerts (3 months of service included) Optional MSN Direct, and Garmin Lock (an anti-theft feature) Interfaces - USB, Audio line-out (headphone) Unit Dimensions - 4.8w x 3h x. 8d Weight - 6.2 ozGarmin’s nüvi 700 series brings two exciting new features — multi-destination routing and, “Where am I?/Where’s my car?” — to its popular pocket-sized GPS navigator lineup. As with all nüvis, you get Garmin reliability, the fast satellite lock of an integrated high-sensitivity receiver, a slim, pocket-sized design with a gorgeous display, an easy, intuitive interface, and detailed NAVTEQ maps for the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico with more than 6 million name-searchable points of interest. All of the 700-series navigators also feature a rich array of features including spoken directions in real street names, MP3 player and photo viewer, and an FM transmitter that will play voice prompts, MP3s, audio books, and more, directly through your vehicle’s stereo system.The nüvi 760 and 770 add integrated traffic receivers and Bluetooth capability for hands-free calling. The nüvi 770 adds maps for Europe. The nüvi 780 adds enhanced MSN direct content capability..
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Garmin Nuvi 760 Not bad
The Garmin Nuvi is a pretty good navigation device. It has a lot of options, but some issues. For one, it has a ridiculously low battery life which proved to be a problem on a recent 435 mile trip. The volume is poor. And the turn directions were sluggish at times. Overall, it is worth the price the device is currently offered at.
4 Stars good product
This is a great product for the price, but the bluetooth does not work with my cell phone, so i returned it. I would buy other Garmin without bleutooth.
4 Stars As good as it gets…for the money.
Purchased Nuvi 760 online from Amazon and was received in the specified time. Works great and found other user reviews helpful. Bluetooth sync with cellular phone is definitely a plus so is the SD expansion slot. Just great.
5 Stars My first Garmin
I had been researching the GPS unit for quite some time, and I have decided on this nuvi 760. I could not be happier about this unit. My friend brought a Sony nvu73t; I was able to compare them side by side. The Garmin out perform in almost every features. The Garmin took less time to acquire satellite information, and re-calculate route instantly. The Sony took average of 1/4 miles before re-calculate route. The traffic info on Sony only shows list of traffic delays, where Garmin give you both overall-maps with color coded for freeway speed and list of traffic delays. It is so much easier to see the traffic map rather a list of traffic delay list. Another good feather is the Bluetooth. I have made calls from both Garmin and Sony using Bluetooth feature. Again, the Garmin is much clearer on the sound. On the other hand, both parties can hear a lot of echo during conversation using Sony unit. I am not sure if the Sony unit has this feature. Garmin keeps the route you traveled and display it on the map. I love this feature. I can back track where I have been on a driving trip. There is only one thing that I like about Sony unit is the one bottom access back to map, where the Garmin unit must press back bottom multiple times to get back to map (depend on how deep you are into the menu). Overall, I am very happy with my Garmin. Hope my review will help!
Garmin nüvi 780 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with MSN Direct Service
The nuvi 780 4.3″ GPS Personal Travel Assistant has advanced navigation features, a widescreen display, preloaded maps, an FM transmitter and hands-free calling, plus real-time local weather, traffic, movie times, stock information, gas prices, news and local events. Its premium navigation capabilities, like route planning and a handy locator, give you peace of mind on the go. With next-generation dynamic content from MSN Direct, nuvi 780 is one resourceful personal travel assistant. You’ll always get the big picture with nuvi 780’s widescreen display. View map detail, driving directions, photos and more in bright, brilliant color. Its sunlight-readable, 4.3″ display is easy to read from any direction. In addition, nuvi 780 accepts custom points of interest, such as school zones and safety cameras, and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs. nuvi 780 includes advanced navigational features to take the worry out of traveling. It also comes with Garmin Lock, an anti-theft feature, and configurable vehicle icons that let you select car-shaped graphics to show your location on the map. High-sensitivity receiver Built-in memory - Internal solid state with optional SD Card Slot Voice prompts Speaks street names Auto sort multiple destinations (provides most direct route) Auto re-route (fast off-route and detour recalculation) Choice of route setup (faster time, shorter distance, off road) Custom POIs (ability to add additional points of interest) MSN Direct for U.S. compatible MP3 player Audio book player Configurable vehicle icons (select car-shaped icons for map navigation) World travel clock, currency & measurement converter, and calculator Headphone jack/audio lineout Unit Dimensions - Width 4.8 x Height 3.0 x Depth 0.8 (12.2×7.6×2.0cm) Weight - 6.2 ounces (176 grams)The nüvi 780 adds enhanced MSN direct content to themulti-destination routing and “Where Am I?” features and gorgeous widescreen display of other nüvi 700s to create a superior navigation device for business as well as casual drivers. As with all nüvis, you get Garmin reliability, the fast satellite lock of an integrated high-sensitivity receiver, a slim, pocket-sized design with a gorgeous display, an easy, intuitive interface, and detailed NAVTEQ maps for the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico with more than 6 million name-searchable points of interest. All of the 700-series navigators also feature a rich array of features including spoken directions in real street names, integrated traffic receivers, MP3 player and photo viewer, and an FM transmitter that will play voice prompts, MP3s, audio books, and more, directly through your vehicle’s stereo system.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Things you don’t know about 780…
Hands down this is the best GPS you can get with all the major important features.
Here are things you might not know about this GPS:
1. The mp3 player has an auto music cue feature. This means that if you powered off the gps, the music stops but will resume once the gps powered on again. This prevents from turning on the mp3 player every time you’re in and out of the car. No other GPSs has this feature.
2. Any voice with text-to-speech feature can be modify with a free thrid party software. This mean you can change what you want the gps to say.
3. The blue tooth feature doesn’t work well with any FM channel input but works well with any line in/aux input in the car.
This is the best gps you will get period for it’s price.
4 Stars Great deal
This is my first auto GPS, and I use it daily for work. What a lifesaver! I like the larger screen size. The main con is that you have to push abit hard onto the touchscreen before it recognizes it. Otherwise a very workable unit, at a great price.
4 Stars Great Gps for a cheapskate like me!!!!!!
First GPS and im hooked…Researched quite a bit
and found that for the money a discontinued garmin
is better than a up to date Tom-Tom..The only difference
between the nuvi 780 and the 760 is the Msn Direct so
if you aren’t in coverage zone save a few bucks and go
with the 760…but the price is about the same..Also
Amazon is way cheaper than ebay and other sites i checked.
The only negative is the super saver shipping takes about
a week or so to get but for free what can you expect…
But the 780 really nice for the upcoming travel season..
Ohh almost forgot if you did get it remeber to get the last
map update from garmin a new north american map came out in
late april. If you register within 30 days of first Aquistion
of satellite it is free after that the charge you..All in all
Great product for the money…
Garmin nüvi 255W 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator
For peace of mind on the go, n?vi 255 leads the way with voice-prompted turn-by-turn and optional MSN Direct to get you there on time and keep you informed. It’s packed with millions of destinations and maps for North America or Europe. Like the rest of the compact n?vi 2×5-series, this portable navigator is priced right and ultra-easy to use.n?vi 255 comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator NT street maps, including a hefty points of interest (POIs) database with hotels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. It even announces the name of exits and streets so you never have to take your eyes off the road. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and n?vi takes you there with turn-by-turn voice directions, 2-D or 3-D maps and and smooth map updates as you navigate. Its digital elevation maps show you shaded contours at higher zoom levels, giving you a big picture of the surrounding terrain. In addition, n?vi 255 accepts custom points of interest (POIs), such as school zones and safety cameras and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs. With HotFix satellite prediction, n?vi calculates your position faster to get you there quicker.Like the rest of the n?vi 2×5-series, n?vi 255 sports a sleek, slim design and fits comfortably in your pocket or purse. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery makes it convenient for navigation by car or foot. With its “Where Am I? ” emergency locator, you always know your location. Simply tap the screen to get your exact latitude and longitude coordinates, the nearest address and intersection, and the closest hospitals, police stations and fuel stations.eft feature. Enhance your travel experience with optional plug-in microSD cards such as Garmin Travel Guides for detailed data on attractions.Garmin’s nüvi 255W improvesupon its 200-series predecessors by adding top-of-the-line features such as FM traffic updates or MSN Direct content to an entry-level line. But Garmin is also introducing some significant improvements with this new series, like a predictive technology that provides faster satellite lock, a redesigned screen with more information, terrain maps, and an exciting new photo navigation feature. The 255W adds complete maps for North America and Text-to-Speech, so you get turn by turn spoken directions with the real names of streets (e.g. “turn left in 50 feet at Nebraska Way”, rather than merely “turn left in 50 feet”). The 255W also offers a wide 4.3-inch (diagonal) screen that displays 70% more of the road around you.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars The best next thing to a road map!!!
I purchased this for my husband to make life a little bit easier for him. His job requires him to drive a lot everyday and we travel quite often also and this garmin nuvi 255 is an excellent companion. He don’t need to pull over on the side of the road to look at the map anymore. It cost a bit of money but it’s all worth it. My husband loooved it:0
5 Stars NUVI 255W
Bought this GPS for my Honda Goldwing. It works great and easy to use. Going to get another one for my vehicle. Highly recommend to buy. I did much research prior to buying. Good value.
5 Stars Best for the Money
This GPS is the best you can get for the money spent. Worked flawlessly right out of the box. I navigated to and around Washinton D.C. including travel on the beltway and it took me right to multiple destinations without a problem. It worked exactly as stated.
5 Stars Excellent GPS
I have just purchased the Nuvi 255W and it is all that it said it was and a little more. I have owned a C530 which I went to Canada and back with no problems at all. I now own a Magellan 4040 with live traffic, which I do not think is as good as XM traffic and weather. I also have a Nuvi 200W and a Navigon 2100. None of these units have all the things that I would like to have on the “ultimate” GPS. The closest one that gives the most accurate route that I usually take is the Navigon. They all give somewhat of a different route, some times, to various places. Use your common sence! I used to drive 85,000 miles per year.
I used to drive commercially from central California to San Francisco, Los Angeles and Las Vegas as the most frequent routes. I look at the GPS as a map, pure and simple. I want to know how to get from point A, and maybe some inbetween stops, to point B.People ask me, how long or how many more miles is it to the next stop? I use it that way a lot.
One thing that I have not read in any reviews is the ecoRoute. This is a feature that I was very pleased to find on the 255W. It gives distance and time to destination and once you input the price of fuel, it calculates the cost. Neat! It helps me now that I am in a car and have to pay for the fuel.
The “Where am I” feature is great. We have many occasions to find a hospital or CHP office. The Magelleon is much better in telling exactly where you are, by miles and tenths of a mile from the past exit and the next exit ahead. The 255W does ok but a service truck my have a little tougher time with the Garmins infomation.
It would be nice if the 255W had lane assist also, but I’ll use the one on the Navigon 2100. I have not needed it before since I read signs and pay attention to the arrows on the GPS units.
Now for those people who complain about the FM transimtter, Bluetooth, MP3 player and pictures and no ear phone plugs:
FM transmitter: unless you have an extra unit to help you stay on an unused FM channel, you are going to have to change channels several times on a long trip.
Bluetooth: Use the one that fits into your ear. Much better.
MP3 player: use your Ipod for that with a wireless transmitter.
Pictures: Your are driving, you are not at an art gallery.
Ear phones: I hope that you do not have both in your ears, it is illegal to do that.
Now for the normal stuff”
-acquire satalites–it does in seconds to a minute (as all the others that I have do also)
-display –nice and bright
-selecting a destination–very easy by typing in an address or using the POI selection. The choices and methods are much better than the previous nuvi’s, i.e. 200W that I own. (I just gave that one to my daughter and she is pleased as punch)
Garmin nuvi 265WT 4.3-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Integrated Traffic Receiver
Garmin nüvi 265WT 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator with Text-to-Speech, Bluetooth, and Free Traffic
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Great investment! GPS
I can now go places that I was afraid to go. This Nuvi won’t let me get lost. If I make a mistake, it knows it right away and gets me back on track. Maybe the best investment I’ve made ever!
5 Stars This is an easy to use and fun navigation system
The Nuvi 265WT is everything I wanted in a navigation system, at a price that does not break the bank. My wife and I have used the points of interest, and other internal databases a number of times to find place we needed/wanted to go, even when not in the car. I was not sure I would use the integrated traffic receiver, but paid a little extra to get it just in case. So far, I have only used that feature once, but I ignored the warning, my mistake. The only complaint is that I cannot find a way to change the voice from the friendly lady to another voice type. It is probably there somewhere, but darned if I know where.
It can take awhile to lock on the GPS satellites, but I don’t have a good basis for comparison. I took it on a trip to Ottawa and it did have some trouble around tall buildings, but nothing I would really complain about. All in all, a good unit with a lot of features - all at a fair price.
5 Stars Great item
Because of other reviews, and an article in the AARP magazine, we purchased this GPS (after waiting AND waiting to buy one). Prices have been steadily dropping. Bought this one because of the integrated traffic receiver.
Garmin nüvi 360 3.5-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator with Text-To-Speech
The Garmin nüvi 360 GPS Navigator and Personal Travel Assistant is a GPS navigator, personal translator, multi-media entertainer and tour guide all wrapped into one. In addition to all the advanced features of the Garmin nüvi 350 — including automatic routing, turn-by-turn voice directions, an MP3 player and audio book player, JPEG picture viewer, and much more — this pocket-sized personal travel assistant comes with hands-free Bluetooth wireless technology, making it the hands-down go-anywhere travel companion.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Value for money
Good, reliable at most times, poor in cities (tried it in downtown chicago and it just couldn’t find its way!) The bluetooth is useless but I never bought it for that anyway. Comes witha case and an a/c charger which are unusual these days. Overall a good unit, though you can get newer unit with more up to date technology for the same price these days.
5 Stars LS - Road trip
Great product. Easy to use. Used it on a recent trip from Ohio to Rhode Island. The “recalculating” feature is extremely helpful. The trip was worry free knowing I had it with me.
4 Stars Good Product for the money
Very satisfying experience. Bluetooth function is one of my navigator purchase criteria so I am very happy for the money I paid. Except for the small screen, everything works out nicely.
4 Stars Quality Product - Great Price
I’ve used this product quite extensively in the first month of ownership. I registered the product and downloaded the new firmware and 2010 map software within the first couple days after it arrived. The process was straight forward and easy. It did take about four total hours (two for download and two to install). Although it has a smaller screen than the newest models, I actually like the overall size of the Nuvi 360. My friend has the Nuvi 66o which has a larger screen, but its larger size makes it a little bulkier.
The Nuvi 360 is very easy and intuitive to use. I played with it around the house before my first car trip. I programmed a variety of familiar destinations and checked the routes. They weren’t always the routes I would take, but they often saved time over my typical route. It is so easy to use that I plan on getting another one for my daughter.
I tried using the blue tooth feature, and it worked just fine, although it’s not as convenient as a wireless earpiece.
My favorite features are “Go Home” and “Recent Selections”. On one of our first trips, we attended a wedding in an unfamiliar, out-of-the-way town. We left the event in the evening so it is dark. I tapped the “Go Home” tab, and the Nuvi lead us safely home through a series of complicated turns that would have been difficult to navigate, if not dangerous, using a map or written directions.
The reason I’ve given the Nuvi 360 4 and not 5 stars is because it sometimes takes several minutes (and I mean up to seven minutes one time) to acquire satellites. Fortunately it wasn’t during a critical time of need. For the most part, this little GPS does exactly what it should - it safely guides you to your destination.
5 Stars Couldn’t be easier
Exceptional electronic — works right out of the box! Very easy to use and follow. I recommend without any negatives.
Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor
Just when you thought Garmin had cornered the market on powerful, affordable, and effective wrist-mounted GPS devices, here comes the Forerunner 305. The release of this device is a major achievement from a design and technology perspective. This isn’t just marketing-speak; the Forerunner 305 is the most accurate, most reliable wrist-mounted performance and GPS tracking tool we’ve ever tested. Yes, it’s that good. While no device this compact can do everything (yet), the 305 pushes the boundaries of what is possible from something strapped around your wrist. The 305 model includes wireless heartrate monitoring and it can also be connected to Garmin’s wireless bicycle speed and cadence sensor. If you don’t need these features, consider the lower-priced Forerunner 205.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Very Nice!!
This is a very good product no matter if you are walking, running, or biking.
5 Stars Great tool for runners
Bought this for my wife as she is an avid runner. She runs a variety of routes and this device tells her how far and the pace she ran. Then she sets the watch-type device into a port connected to a PC via USB. Instantly, a wealth of information is on the screen about her run…distance, time, mile splits, calories and much more. I use it also for biking and it adds a lot of fun to the workout.
5 Stars Awesome Product!!!
This thing is awesome! I was skeptical about buying it as I live in a heavily wooded area and connectivity with a satellite based GPS unit has been an issue in the past. Needless to say it’s no longer an issue. The unit is very user friendly and programming / controls are very intuitive. I could go on and on about this unit.
5 Stars Good running partner
Got my Garmin 305 GPS w Heart Rate monitor abt 3 weeks ago & ran a full marathon w it. Really good training partner - records the speed, pace, distance & heart rate. Great for review when downloaded to my PC - highly recommended to have one for long distance running (10Km to full marathon or even more).
5 Stars 3 Years and still Running
First of my Army Friends to have this toy and have been the cause of many to buy this product. Simply an awesome tool while running to give you exercise time, distance, pace, heart rate, and much more. Awesome tool after running as it automatically creates a log for every run while it is on your wrist calculating time, distance, and splits(I set mine at 1 mile pace splits). Every friend I have loaned it to has bought their own soon afterwards. Over the past 3 years it has been very durable with no issues. My only complaint is the software that it comes with has really baseline maps with no graphics(I know Gramin can do better in this area), the pace lags about 5 seconds behind but is still a good benchmark to see where you are at that point in time.
The TomTom ONE XL has everything you need to make your trip safer, more relaxed and more fun.TomTom’s award-winning plug-and-go navigation software, new 4.3″ touchscreen and access to real time traffic services make navigating even easier.With a large choice of route options and millions of useful and fun points of interest pre-loaded for your journey, you’re ready for worry-free navigation from A to B.TomTom ONE XL makes getting there better than ever.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Excellent product
I am happy with the product. I wish it had better documentation. This is my second one. I purchased it for my daughter because we were impressed with the first one I bought. A must have for getting around on east coast.
5 Stars Reasonable value for money
Purchased this item as a cheap Navi instead of renting one together with the car. With a pricetag of USD 99,- there is not mach, what can be wrong even if only basic features would work. Above that the One XL is a very fine device with brilliant display and the usual intuitive TomTom user interface. I liked it and would always take this offer again!
5 Stars Great GPS
The TomTom One XL is an excellent GPS! We have three of them in our family and we’ve never been disappointed with its performance.
Garmin GPS 60CSx Handheld GPS Navigator
Garmin’s MAP60 CSx is an all-purpose upgradeable handheld locator that lets you load up your own digital maps for better reference. The reflective 256-color display lets you find your way on the map in almost any lighting. It’s got a long-life battery for up to 20 hours of outdoors adventuring. The new MicroSD card slots make it simpler than ever to find those out-of-the-way places — just put them on a MicroSD card and load it up. Internal Memory - 64MB MicroSD Card slot Celestial tables Quad helix antenna Battery life - 20 hours (requires 2 AA batteries) Includes belt clip and USB cableThe venerable Garmin 60CS just got a whole lot better. The 7.5-ounce GPSMap 60CSx now features an insanely accurate, high-sensitivity GPS receiver by SiRF that tracks your position even in tree cover and canyons. Plus, you get a bright, sunlight-readable color TFT display and an included a 64 MB microSD card for storage of optional map detail. Add all that to the 60CSx’s integrated barometric altimeter and electronic compass, and you’ve got a unit that is ready to take you anywhere on land or sea.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars A little better than eTrex Vista HCx
I recently had my Vista HCx stolen and needed a replacement. The 60 CSx seems to be the same, although I did notice that the new unit roamed while standing still, while the Vista didn’t seem to do that. Maybe it’s because i can see the screen that I’m noticing it now. Anyway, the screen is much easier to see but it doesn’t get a bright as the Vista. It’s like it has the same amount of available light on both units only the light is spread over a larger distance therefore not as bright on the 60CSx. I’m happy with the unit just like i was with the Vista HCx.
5 Stars One Amazing Specialized tool
OK, Lets see where do I start, as for the Garmin GPSMAP 60CSX, Its an amazing specialized tool that can surely not only save the day, but get you out of so many burdens, as well by having it all inside of it simply by having added a North America NT navigator not only will it additionally act as an amazing map and relocator in finding back your tracks, but additionally will navigate you through either highways, city streets and back roads for getting anywhere in any manner you may like.
It can additionally serve as a vacation saver for both domestic as well as also international whether it be Asia, or Europe it can obsolutely navigate you anywhere period, if you only simply add the additional maps and or navigational softwares for where ever you may ever need to go.
You can also optionally add a larger 2 Gig memory card so that you can even keep everything on it so no matter where you may ever need to end up you shall always be properly covered. Additionally its even water resist should you decide to use it via on foot, bicycle, or even motorbike.
This is a very well worth accessory for the international traveller.
5 Stars Excellent service
Great transaction and product delivered on time or beforehand and excellent condition, well wrapped.
5 Stars Great GPS at this price point
The GPS 60CSx is a great choice for a handheld unit. Pretty decent battery life, screen is bright even in sun, and has enough customizable features and settings to work for just about anyone. I will definitely tell my friends to get this one if they are looking for a GPS.
TomTom ONE 140-S 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
A GPS helps you find your way and, having a Tomtom One140S in your car, is an excellent way to help you find the right direction toward your destination, The TomTom One 140S GPS with North American maps puts smart navigation at your fingertips. The TomTom One 140S’s EasyPort mount fits neatly onto the back of the device, making the whole navigation packet fit into your pocket, bag or glove compartment. And the TomTom One 140S couldn’t be simpler to use, just plug it in and tap on the touch screen. You’ll be on your way very quickly with the 140S’s intuitive User interface as it guides you door-to-door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions including street and place names. Battery - Rechargeable internal 3 hour Li-Ion battery Unit Dimensions (H x W x D in inches) - 3.0 x 3.6 x 0.8 in Unit Weight - 6.8 oz. (including mount) In-the-Box - ONE 140S Device, Fold & Go EasyPort Mount, Adhesive Mounting Disk, USB Cable, Cigarette Lighter Adaptor, Documentation PackThe TomTom ONE 140-S is complete navigation. Switch on and go right out of the box. Spoken turn-by-turn instructions, including street names, will guide you to any address in the United States, Canada, and Mexico–including more than 7 million preloaded points of interest.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Oh TomTom, how did I live without thee?
This is the first GPS I’ve ever bought, so I cannot compare it to others. I am constantly, hopelessly lost and am the traffic hazard who’s consistently trying to read printed directions and drive at the same time, all the while panicking that I’m going to miss my exit. Then I nearly miss my exit and have to pull some ridiculous driving move that involves rapidly switching lanes. But I digress…
I first used the TomTom to navigate somewhere I already knew, as a test. It immediately helped me out by reminding me which lane to stay in so that I’d be in the right place to turn left. When I merged onto Route 41 it advised me several times that my exit would be on the left. I was in love. The voice was crisp and clear, and I could hear it easily over my music. I am SO much calmer and can pay so much more attention to the road when I have this thing set up.
The second and other times I used it, I noticed one thing that I wish I could change- whether it says which exit number to take. The TomTom gives you so much warning that you’re going to need to exit, that I need to be careful not to take the wrong exit and get off the highway too soon. (The exits are very close together on Chicago’s 90/93). If it said “Exit 27A” for example, I’d be happier. It avoids road names altogether. (Edit- I realized that you can change this just by using one of the computer voices! The human voices don’t name roads. My husband prefers the human, I prefer the computer version and exit names, so we have both.)
I DO like that when I miss a road it quickly readjusts without the annoying “recalculating” announcement that some GPS units use. I also found this screen size perfectly large. You can download celebrity voices to use on it- which includes Mr. T. Can you imagine Mr. T giving you driving directions? The site also has Dracula.
I would not trust the flimsy suction. I bought mine with a “Bracketron UFM-100BL Nav-Mat GPS Friction Dash Pad” and it never falls off the dash no matter what evil turns I make or potholes I hit.
Edit- I am actually returning this device. When I plugged it into my computer it prompted me to update the map on my device. The map it downloaded was, strangely, too big for the maximum capacity of my device. Somehow, trying to download it broke the map that had been on my device. Tom Tom’s solution? Mail it back to them and they’d fix it. Sadly, I need this device for a road trip in 2 weeks, so I’m not keeping it. And their customer service was so technically inept that I was put off. Beware the map updates!
TomTom XL 340-S 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
A GPS helps you find your way and, having a Tomtom XL340S in your car, is an excellent way to help you find the right direction toward your destination, The TomTom XL340S GPS with North American maps puts smart navigation at your fingertips. The TomTom XL340S’s EasyPort mount fits neatly onto the back of the device, making the whole navigation packet fit into your pocket, bag or glove compartment. And the TomTom XL340S couldn’t be simpler to use, just plug it in and tap on the 4.3″ touch screen. You’ll be on your way very quickly with the 340S’s intuitive User interface as it guides you door-to-door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions including street and place names. Battery - Rechargeable internal 3 hour Li-Ion battery Unit Dimensions (H x W x D in inches) - 4.7 x 3.2 x 0.9 in. Unit Weight - 6.6 oz. (including mount) In-the-Box - XL340S Device, Fold & Go EasyPort Mount, Adhesive Mounting Disk, USB Cable, Cigarette Lighter Adaptor, Documentation PackThe TomTom XL 340-S is complete navigation in a widescreen device. Switch on and go right out of the box. Spoken turn-by-turn instructions, including street names, will guide you to any address in the United States, Canada, and Mexico–including more than 7 million preloaded points of interest.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars OK so far
The TomTom XL 340S has worked Ok so far. The screen could be better when the sun reflects off it and is bright outside. We had a Garmin before and the screen was easier to read in the bright light.
4 Stars Great routing, interface needs work
I’ve had a TomTom XL340s for a few weeks now. I think I’m going to keep it, but there are nagging problems.
The plusses:
The routing is great. At morning rush hour in LA it suggests off-freeway routes I use, and even some I haven’t tried before that make sense.
The integrated (but removeable) mount makes the unit exceptionally easy to stow and pack in the glove box or luggage — no bulky extra part to tote. The minus is that on a steeply sloped windshield, the short ‘elbow’ of the mount means the unit is far away.
Boot speed, accuracy, and the like are really good, especially compared with the three year old unit it’s replacing.
But … I just wish it had a better interface. Both Garmin and Magellan have been designed by people who’ve thought about how many clicks away information should be, and how attractively it is presented. Just as an example, right in the middle of the left side of the XL340s screen there is a 3/4 circle purple arrow. Normally on a gps, arrows mean something having to do with a turn, but in this case, the circular arrow is the button to get to the customizable quick menu. It’s more annoying than confusing, but it’s representative of the lack of thoughtfulness evidenced throughout the interface and menu system. Both Garmin and Magellan are miles better in this area.
My other problems are that the spoken street names are sometimes chopped off, and the screen washes out in bright sunlight.
I also looked — hard — at Garmin’s nuvi 255w & 265wt. The interface is a great improvement over the TomTom’s, but in the end the TomTom ‘easyport’ mount and aggregated real-world traffic data won me over.
I considered the Magellan maestro 4350. It has the best interface of the three, imo, including a really useful way to see what POIs are at upcoming freeway exits (if you need gas you can see all services on the upcoming exits, and if there is a gas icon at a particular one, touch it, and see a list of stations. Same for food.). Other interface elements were similarly well thought out. However, comments here and elsewhere sound like there is a persistent issue of routing problems and location inaccuracy (the unit thinks you’re exiting the freeway when you’re still on it, for instance). This reminds me too much of the problems I had with a Mio that drove me crazy for a year to scare me off. There’s also no Mac support, which is a problem but one I could work around.
In short, there’s no perfect gps yet. Decide what matters most to you and be prepared to deal with annoyances in other areas.
4 Stars TomTom XL 340*S Review (Map Update Worked for Me)
I’ve read that other users are having issues with the free map update. I wanted to add that I was able to update to the latest map (US Canada and Mexico Version: 830.2325, Size: 1669 MB) right out of the box on 05/22/09. I did however have an issue with “Map Share” not displaying my map and notified TomTom. They replied and said they were aware of this issue.
Good news! When I connected to “Home” on 05/29/09 there was an application update as well as “Map Share” updates (Map now displaying in the preferences window).
I’ve only had it for a week so haven’t played with it too much but is very similar to my previous devices. I’m only giving it 4 stars due to the lack of an SD slot (which I knew about) and an awkward USB port.
Magellan Maestro 3225 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator (Factory Refurbished)
Ultra-thin and stylish, Magellan Maestro 3225 offers amazingly easy-to-use GPS auto navigation at an affordable price. Travel throughout all 50 of the United States, plus Puerto Rico, and Canada. 1.3 million pre-programmed Points of Interest (POI) make it easy to find restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, the nearest coffee and more. Touch the simple menu on the large 3.5″ color display to get an instant route to virtually anywhere in seconds. The intuitive interactive screen shows your route and position on the map, plus distance to destination, arrival time, street names and more. Turn-by-turn voice guidance offers worry-free directions without even looking at the screen. SayWhere text-to-speech technology enables you to hear street names with each turn. Magellan’s QuickSpell feature intelligently searches and checks spelling while entering addresses and POIs, making it easy to find what you’re looking for with just few touches of the screen. Search POIs by name or category, near your position or near any city. Interactive onscreen icons show nearby services. Touch an icon to see the address and phone number (when available) and get an instant route. Store locations in the Address Book for easy navigation on recurring trips. Set the Home button to your house or any location to find your way back from virtually anywhere. And backup your personal data using your own SD cards. The SiRFstarIII GPS receiver and built-in high-sensitivity antenna pro
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars great for the price
For 1/2 the price of other GPS units (including refurbs), this unit does what it is supposed to do. It won’t give you the quickest route if you already know where you are traveling (like to your home as one reviewer mentioned), but that’s not the purpose of a GPS as I see it.
If you are traveling in an area you do not know or trying to find an address, then this does what it is supposed to do.
The fact that it speaks the street names and exits is an extra plus that was not on some of the other comparable units.
The maps may be two years old, but so are most of the roads, so not a big deal.
4 Stars MAGELLAN GPS
I like my GPS. You can’t beat it for the price I paid. It hasn’t done me wrong so far. Very easy to use.
5 Stars GPS
This item was exactly as what was described. I got my old GPS stolen, and this one was great. And in great condition.
4 Stars Very satisfied!
I upgraded from the Magellan Maestro 3100. This model is the same system, but includes text-to-speech. I like the fact that you have the optin of inputing the zip code. Compared to other brands I have used, magellan is what I choose to buy for budget friendly gps. The casing is also attractive. I would recommend this to anyone who is in the market for an entry level gps.
Magellan RoadMate 1412 4.3-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator
The Magellan RoadMate 1412 is pocket-sized, ultra-thin and stylish, and features an extra large 4.3″ wide-format, full color interactive touch screen. The expanded Points of Interest database offers 6 million built-in destinations for an incredible value. Find fuel, food, lodging, ATMs and hundreds of other businesses and services with a few touches of the screen. Plus, it includes built-in maps of the entire U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada. Use the intuitive menu options to pick your destination and choose how you navigate to virtually anywhere. If you want to stay on the freeway, avoid freeways, travel the shortest distance or arrive in the quickest time, your Magellan RoadMate enables you to navigate the way you want. You can even exclude specific roads or freeways from your route and also avoid toll roads. SayWhere text-to-speech tells you street names with every turn-by-turn direction. The advanced QuickSpell feature intelligently searches addresses and Points of Interest, offering you a simple list of available locations. It even checks spelling so you can enter a destination with just a few touches of the screen. SmartDetour prompts you to route around suddenly slow or stopped freeway traffic and automatically re-calculates the fastest detour. The integrated rechargeable battery offers navigation for up to three hours. Search destinations, plan trips and enter addresses and personal Points of Interest from a meeting place, restaurant or anywhere power is unavailable. SmartDetour prompt you to route around suddenly slow or stopped freeway traffic and automatically calculates the quickest detour. The Centrality Atlas III processor with integrated GPS receiver provides superior GPS performance for accurate and reliable positioning within three meters. Base Map Entire U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada on pre-loaded SD memory card Dimensions - Width 4.57 x Height 3.27 x Depth 0.73 (11.6×8.45×1.85cm) Weight - 7.1 ou
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Great Value for the dollar
Great product for Realtors especially with “Trip Planner”. Can program a tour for your buyers of numerous properties then hit “Optimize” and the GPS will create a logical tour with the shortest route or fastest time. What a time saver!
5 Stars GPS more then satisfied
I was amazed at the ease of use and the accuracy of this Magellan 1412. It is right on the money and simple to use and enough warning that I don’t over shoot my turn. When I go to my destination it stated ” you have arrived” and I was right there in front of the house! I would endorse anyone looking for a GPS to get this one. I did not need all the bells and whistles , like Bluetooth and other stuff.
5 Stars great product for the money
This GPS device is well worth the money. the thing i like best is that it finds me right away. my other device sometimes took me a mile on the road befor it found me.
PortableGPSRatings.com
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