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"Sharp looking, feature rich, basic GPS for the masses"
on by kevinpmilPros Pleasing menus, easy to use, good support from manufacturer, well made windshield mount, standard usb cable is all you need to connect to a computer
Cons Small inaccuracies noticed with maps, sometimes odd route selections, not as many advanced functions as tom tom.
Summary I don't understand why everyone is so worried about "text to speech" on the devices. It always sounds odd. If you can't under stand "Turn Left" with the street clearly displayed at the top of the GPS, then you probably shouldn't be the one driving.
This device is very slick and feels like a much more expensive GPS. I've done side by side comparisons with a slightly more expensive Tom Tom, and this does all the same functions just as good, but looks better doing it. The tom tom's display seems more clunky and utilitarian, whereas this seems much more refined and clean.
As a basic GPS and travel partner, this works great. I love being able to find a Thai restaurant close to my location and it gives the phone # so I can call in my order before I arrive.
Garmin supports their product very good with firmware and software updates on a regular basis to improve features and functions.
They also have 60 days of free map updates after purchase in the event they release any new updates.
I received my GPS on Christmas and just got my MAP update in February. They also off some fun extras for customizing you GPS. (Free voices and free vehicle avatars)
If you are looking for a great inexpensive basic GPS, buy this one. -
"205w great entry level but we're going to upgrade"
on by joltedcalifPros easy to operate
Cons wish it would SPEAK STREET NAME
Summary We are going to upgrade to probably a 265W because it sometimes announces the turn too soon and there is another street before the correct one and we turn on the wrong street. Of course, we could look at the screen and see the street name, but that isn't the best thing to do in heavy traffic! We also want to have the feature of REAL TIME TRAFFIC which the 265W has free for lifetime. We're not sure if the bluetooth feature is worth it or not. There are so many models of Garmins to chose from it is really confusing---and so many features. The PROS of this 205w is the larger screen is easy to see and its nice to see the little car moving along. The voice is clear. It is easy to program and seems to sense what street name we are typing in quickly. The CONS we already listed. We are going to keep the 205W for at home use and the 265W will be used to travelling/business. Garmin has good tech support via email but their phone support is poor since always a long wait time.
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"This is most likely the best gps system on the market."
on by winetourPros This gps (mine) does everything. It is not a mp3. I do not need that It does not cost $300.00 or more and you don"t need that. Mine has voice directions , long story short it works like a charm at the best price. The screen is bright and cleer
Cons The screen could be a bit bigger, but no big deal; that being said; it fits the case I have for it just fine.
Summary This gps system price for price and turn for turn is the best.
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"Good basic GPS system"
on by ncbruinPros Easy to use interface, ready to use out of the box. Good display and graphics.
Cons Unable to customize screen (icons, fonts, etc). Unable to change voice. Only comes with a car charger.
Summary If you can buy this under 150, its a steal! Very good basic functions. It is a no frill GPS system that has gotten me from PT A to B easily.
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"Poor Battery Life and Overall Performance"
on by markh5150Pros Easily understandable voice directions; will identify the street, not just when to turn.
Cons Very poor battery life; will not charge adequately in vehicle. Directions not always up to date.
Summary FYI, I bought a Garmin Nuvi 250W about 6 mos. ago; this is my second Garmin. I have been quite disappointed with it - for one, the car charger will not charge this unit sufficiently to keep it going while it's turned on, while traveling. Remarkable, I know, for a car GPS, but, according to the Garmin rep. that I complained to over the phone, that's how the unit works (or doesn't work). Why would you buy a GPS that will only get you half way to your destination on an 8 hour trip? I wouldn't buy it again. As if that weren't enough, the maps also weren't as accurate, for some reason, as the older model that I had, which I never updated, and it will occasionally not be able to find a location that the older unit would, or, as it happens, will tell me I have reached my destination, when I'm a .5 mile or more away from it. My next GPS will not be a Garmin.
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