What To Look For
All the bells and whistles are available through Garmin. Expect top-notch touch screens, easy-to-use interfaces, up-to-date maps, Bluetooth and USB connections, spoken directions with street names, traffic updates, re-routing and ecoRoute (which finds fuel-efficient routes). Many also come with fuel price info, NuLink (updates and alerts), cameras, currency converters, world clocks, 3D maps, radio and more.
Common Pitfalls
Garmin is constantly experimenting with new features and formats, and some that work great in the laboratory do not perform as well in your car. For example, the nuvi1690 received rave reviews from some professionals but horrible user reviews because the free update service was paid for by pop-up ads, which CNET's users roundly denounced as annoying after awhile. Likewise, users have reported software problems in some models (nuvi 765, 1490) as well. Read specific reviews as well as this guide before you buy a unit. On the flip side, constant experimentation means that you can find a unit that fits your specific needs.
Where To Buy
Garmin sells directly from its website, while Amazon and CompUSA usually offer the lowest online prices, especially for older models. Your local electronics store most likely carries a small selection of the popular Garmin models, and chains like Best Buy carry Garmin units as well.
Cost
New Garmin units cost between $400 and $600, and some include a subscription fee for update services or real-time traffic and fuel condition alerts. Older models decrease in price as new ones are released, and you can often find a solid model from a couple years ago for $100 to $200.
Comparison Shopping
Garmin's 3700 line received rave reviews from users and professionals alike. The units are ultra-slim and light, designed to aesthetically compete with Apple products. The touch screen, voice command, maps and other features all work as intended and traffic data is free, according to CNET. A number of previous models received mixed reviews, but the older, basic models that made Garmin a main player in the GPS industry continue to satisfy consumers. Check out the nuvi 250, 260, 295W and 760, as well as the StreetPilot c550 and i-series for older models that perform well.
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