Test-driven: Readers' favorite in-car GPS devices

Bonnie Cha Bonnie Cha, Senior Associate Editor July 17, 2008

Though in-car GPS devices are picking up speed, the gadgets and the technology behind them are still new to many people, making it a bit intimidating when you're shopping for one. Plus, so many models are available today, and it's not like buying a car, where you can go down to the dealership, kick the tires, and take it out for a test drive. To help you out, we've rounded up some models that have been road-tested and given passing grades by CNET readers. Read our reviews to see if one is right for you.

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Product name
Price $159.00

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As shown: $149.95
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CNET editors' rating
Average user rating
Review date May 23, 2007 March 27, 2008 May 08, 2008 June 10, 2007 June 19, 2007
The Bottom Line The Garmin Nuvi 200 series offers drivers and travelers a more budget-friendly version of the popular portable navigation devices, but we think the price is still slightly high for what you get. The two-way connectivity of the Dash Express portable navigation system offers powerful search and traffic capabilities to drivers and increases the value of GPS to the next level, but the system needs some refinements before we're willing to invest in it. The TomTom One 130S is a reasonably priced entry-level GPS with a solid set of features and ease of use. Unfortunately, the system's barely audible voice directions ruin the experience. The Magellan Maestro 3100 is an affordable, simple, and basic portable navigation system for first-time buyers, but you can get better performance from other similar systems. The sleek Mio C520 is a good-value GPS device, packing in advanced navigation features, a large screen, and other extras for an affordable price. However, you can get a better user experience and smoother performance from competing systems.
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Features
DestinationAutomotive
Automotive
Automotive
Automotive
Automotive
Included GPS accessoriesCar power adapter
Automotive windshield mount
Dash express
Mounting arm and cradle
Mounting arm extension and wrench
Dashboard mounting disk
Car power adapter
Wall charger
USB cable
Alcohol wipe
Car power adapter
Windshield holder
USB cable
Info unavailableCar power adapter
Charging cradle
AC power adapter
Windshield holder
USB cable
Carrying case
Included GPS softwareMapSource City Navigator NT
SiRF Star III
TomTom HOME
Info unavailableMioMap v3.3
AntennaBuilt-in
Built-in
Built-in
Built-in
Built-in
Audible assistanceNavigation instructions
Audible signal(s)
Navigation instructions
Navigation instructions
Warnings
Navigation instructions
Weight5.2 oz
13.3 oz
6.1 oz
6.3 oz
6.7 oz
GPS PC connectionUSB
Wi-Fi
USB
Info unavailableUSB
System featuresCalculator
2D / 3D map perspective
Preinstalled POIs
Custom POIs
Garmin Lock
Keyboard
Built-in speaker
Speed limit warning
TomTom PLUS ready (via Bluetooth)
TMC (Traffic Message Channel) ready
2D / 3D map perspective
TomTom PLUS ready
Downloadable POIs
Optional external GPS antenna connection
2D / 3D map perspective
Preinstalled POIs
Calculator
Speed limit warning
Built-in microphone
Hands-free calling via Bluetooth
Built-in speaker
Optional external GPS antenna connection
Full specifications Full specifications Full specifications Full specifications Full specifications Full specifications
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