Garmin Nuvi 1490T

Pros: Crisp, clear display makes maps easy to read. Voice announcements are clear and easy to hear, and adjust. Unit fires up and shuts down quickly . Garmin website tools now make units easy to update.

Cons: Unit required extensive software and firmware updates out of the box, requiring a 2GB download.

Summary: I read the 2 previous reviews and I have to say had I read them first I would not have purchased this unit. However, with that said Garmin must have issued several fixes as I've not come across any of the issues experienced by the other reviewers.

Be sure to load your firmware and software updates before putting the unit in use. The Garmin website now makes this much easier to do as the downloads are basically automated and just require time.

The unit comes on quickly, the touch screen isn't overly sensitive and is a QWERTY keyboard, making typing more intuitive. There's also the option for a straight a-b-c layout if typing isn't your thing.

Once on, the screen is bright and easy to read, but also adjustable brightness so the screen doesnt dominate the car. The suction holder is firm on the winshield. No fear of dropping off while driving (had a unit a while back that did that). When the power cord is removed the unit gives you the option to keep the unit on, or shut down. Later on, shutting the unit down is a quick button push for immediate shut off.

I have not used the bluetooth connection yet. The unit also has a screen shot function that I'm a little confused about right now, since it's not a camera unit. Perhaps to save a map copy for some reason.

When the map is up you can manuever around using a finger swipe. Zoom in and out shows quite a bit of detail. Unit will do a quick recalculation when you turn the 'wrong way.'

Good GPS unit once the updates are installed. Shop around on this one though. I bought at Costco for $340, and then 10 minutes later at Best Buy saw the exact same unit for $500.