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Full user review
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3 out of 4 people found this review helpful
2.5 stars
"Not quite up to speed"
Pros: cheap price, configurable screen data overlay info
Cons: takes too long to lock on satellites, no WAAS
Summary: At first I thought this was a great buy for $199, however from a cold start it was taking 5-15 minutes to lock onto satellites (it has no monitor screen to show you what satellites it is receiving). I emailed customer support 2 weeks ago and still have not got a reply. I also tried calling customer support 3 days in a row (while taking my 20 minute drive to work) but the automated system just put me on hold and no one ever answered! I ended up returning this unit and spent an extra $150 an ordered the Garmin nuvi 350 which in definately in a different class, map graphics are much more smooth that the iWAY and it has no reception problems.
I will give the iWAY credit for having a few nice features missing from the Garmin like the "I" or information button which allow you to get instant information on selected items in the map, on screen instant voice volume adjustment, adjustable/configurable items/information and location and transparency of the on screen data which lays on top of the map.
All in all, if the iWAY would have been quicker starting up cold and locking into satellites I would have kept it but I would hope I never had to contact customer support because they do not have any!
The Garmin Nuvi 350 is smaller, more accurate, quicker locking onto satellites and has better graphics, it comes with a home AC charger and leather sleeve to carry it in (iWAY does not have these) and I think Garmin is a better product but it was hard forking out the extra $$$$ for my casual use but I could not accept it taking so long to get initial bearings.
