My GPS broke a few days ago, and I'm looking for a new one. I used to have a Garmin Nuvi 350, which I was rather fond of (although I have unfortunately now learned that sitting on them accidentally is not such a great idea), and now I'm looking at the Garmin nuvi 360 on Amazon, on sale right now for $314. That seems like a pretty good deal, but I'm wondering if one of Garmin's competitors has a better GPS? I've heard good things about TomTom.
Anyone have some opinions?
I like to give a selection of items in answer to questions about the "best" of something. Hopefully you'll be able to find the one that best suits YOU, instead of just one that I feel fits my own needs. Good luck!
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Garmin nuvi 660 (*est. $675)
Best auto GPS overall.
We found more top ratings for the Garmin nuvi 660 than any other car GPS unit. Experts say it's extremely accurate and loaded with elegantly implemented features. For example, if you're using it to play MP3s, it will pause the music to announce travel directions. Features include a big (4.3 inches) bright backlit touchscreen, and an FM transmitter to play MP3s through your car stereo along with Bluetooth. A three-month trial subscription to FM TMC Traffic is included -- this service sends live traffic data to your auto GPS. Although the Garmin nuvi 660 is expensive, reviews say that's about the only drawback. (compare prices)
Garmin nuvi 680 (*est. $730)
Auto GPS with live traffic updates.
Reviewers love the Garmin nuvi 680 as much as the 660; that's because it's the exact same device, with one extra capability. The nuvi 680 is bundled with a one-year subscription to MSN Direct service (the nüvi 660 only comes with a three-month trial of a less extensive service, FM TMC). MSN Direct currently serves 120 metropolitan areas. In addition to traffic alerts and rerouting, MSN Direct transmits current local gas prices, weather and local movie showtimes. If you don't think you'll use the traffic features, get the less expensive Garmin nüvi 660 instead. (compare prices)
TomTom One (*est. $270)
Best no-frills car GPS.
If you just want solid navigation and don't care about traffic updates or playing MP3s, reviews say the TomTom One is excellent, with great features for its intended purpose. Quality and performance are unparalleled in its price range. The Garmin nuvi 350 may be easier to use, but the TomTom One has more sophisticated routing capability. Reviewers praise the TomTom's easy portability and the points-of-interest database. It has a 3.5-inch antiglare touchscreen, Bluetooth wireless capabilities, and the ability to store destinations for future use. Voice instructions are clear and accurate. (compare prices)
Garmin Nuvi 350 (*est. $390)
Car GPS/MP3 player.
The Garmin nuvi 350 was the top-rated GPS unit in its youth. Now it's been surpassed by the nuvi 660 and others, but the price has dropped by half. The 2GB flash memory leaves space for photos, MP3s or audiobooks. The nuvi 350 includes text-to-speech capability, so audio directions include actual street names instead of merely "turn left." The multimedia features distinguish the nuvi 350 from the TomTom One, which critics say is the better value. (compare prices)
Magellan RoadMate 2000 (*est. $200)
Least expensive auto GPS.
While reviews are not uniformly glowing, reviews say the Magellan RoadMate 2000 is the best $200 auto GPS. Critics say the interface is simple and well designed and the screen is easy to read. Performance receives mixed notices, but reviewers agree that it's good in urban areas. The RoadMate 2000 has no MP3, Bluetooth or traffic capabilities, and an abridged points-of-interest database is another tradeoff for the low price. That's a blessing if you don't want to pay for features you don't want or need. Maps for 48 states are integrated. The display automatically adjusts for night viewing. (compare prices)
HP iPAQ rx5900/rx5915 Travel Companion with GPS (*est. $500)
PDA plus GPS receiver.
Reviewers describe the HP iPAQ rx5900 (also known as the rx5915 when sold by retail stores and websites) as equal parts PDA and GPS receiver. The iPAQ rx5900 plays MP3s and videos, too. The target market is people who want one portable device instead of three or more. The unit runs Windows Mobile 5.0. The iPAQ rx5900 comes with a car dock and car charger, and has integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It uses TomTom GPS navigation software, and also runs mobile versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Internet Explorer. All reviews criticize poor battery life.