You can compare Garmin nuvi models using the chart below, which is designed to help make sense of their myriad models. For a quick overview of the different series, you can also check out my dissecting the Garmin nuvi series post.
The links in the far left column below go to each Garmin nuvi review on our site. All listed models speak street names and include speed limit and trip log display. Discontinued nuvis are now listed in their own chart. You can also click here for descriptions and more information about various features. NEW: Click on column headers to sort chart.
Compare Garmin nuvi models
| Garmin nuvi review | Maps | Screen size | Traffic | Blue- tooth | Powered mount | Multi- point routing | Lifetime maps | Lane assist | Voice command | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| nuvi 30 | 48 states & US + Canada versions | 3.5″ | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 40 | 48 states & US + Canada versions | 4.3″ | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 40LM | 48 states & US + Canada versions | 4.3″ | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 42 | 49 states | 4.3″ | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 42LM | 49 states | 4.3″ | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 44LM | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 50 | 48 states & US + Canada versions | 5.0″ | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 50LM | 48 states & US + Canada versions | 5.0″ | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 52 | 49 states | 5.0″ | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 52LM | 49 states | 5.0″ | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 54LM | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 465LMT | U.S. Canada | 4.3″ | Lifetime | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 1450T | U.S. Canada | 5.0″ | Lifetime | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2350 | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Option | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2360LT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 2455LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2455LT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2460LT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 2475LT | U.S. Canada Mexico Europe | 4.3″ | Lifetime | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2495LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 2497LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Active | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 2555LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2555LT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 2557LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime | No | No | Yes | Yes | Active | No | More info |
| nuvi 2595LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 2597LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Active | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 2757LM | U.S. Canada Mexico | 7.0″ | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Active | No | More info |
| nuvi 2797LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 7.0″ | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Active | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 3450 | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Option | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 3450LM | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Option | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 3490LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime HD | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 3550LM | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 3590LMT | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime HD | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 3597LMTHD | U.S. Canada Mexico | 5.0″ | Lifetime HD | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Active | Yes | More info |
| nuvi 3750 | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Option | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | More info |
| nuvi 3790T | U.S. Canada Mexico | 4.3″ | Lifetime | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | More info |
Garmin nuvi feature descriptions
- Live traffic – It may not be quite ready for prime time, but it is improving, especially for models with HD traffic. Even so, you can expect lots of inaccurate reports as well as incidents that aren’t reported. Most pre-2013 Garmin nuvis with a T following the model number have ad-supported traffic (see reviews for screenshots). HD models and 2013 T models are ad-free.
- Bluetooth for hands-free cell phone use – Generally speaking, the sound quality has gotten much better on recent models, but check the reviews (the first column links to these) as it does vary.
- Powered mount – The power cord plugs into the mount, rather than the GPS. That’s one less connection to fuss with when you want to use your navigator. I’m a big fan of these, especially when combined with a friction mount.
- Multi-point (multi-destination) routing – A very nice feature, but not a critical one. If the chart says “no,” you can only enter one destination and one or two via points. This isn’t a big problem since you can easily find locations under Favorites or Recently Found.
- Lifetime map updates – Garmin has started selling units bundled with lifetime map updates, which you can typically download quarterly. Newer models with these have an LM or LMT (the latter includes lifetime traffic) tacked onto the end of the model number.
- Lane assist – Shows which lane you need to be in for Interstate exits and some surface streets in larger metros. An improved version, active lane guidance, was introduced on the 2013 Advanced and Prestige series.
- Voice commands – A killer feature and it actually works pretty well on most models.
Return to Garmin nuvi comparison chart
On the nuvi 780, change the arrival time in the bottom left corner to perminate speed indicator.
Is there any model where I can have voice command and blue tooth plus European
maps?
Judy, I answered your other question at http://gpstracklog.com/2008/12/garmin-nuvi-775t-review.html#comment-46268
None of the Garmin units includes an “FM transmitter.” It is an FM receiver.
P said
None of the Garmin units includes an “FM transmitter.” It is an FM receiver.
Not true. My 850 does, and works quite well. Just find a quiet spot on the radio, adjust the Garmin frequency to match. That IS what FM transmitter means. Receiver is for free traffic reports (with ads). MSN is fee (not free) reports without ads.
Mmm, some actually have both. The FM transmitter sends audio to your stereo, letting you hear directions and MP3’s through your car’s speakers.
Do any of the garmins include maps of Mexico. I’m looking for one that has mapz for the U.S., Canada and Mexico
Yes, there are versions of the nuvi 200 and 260W (old models) that come with pre-loaded maps of Mexico. Or you can add City Navigator Mexico maps to any nuvi. Map coverage may not be that great though. Click the map on this page to be able to zoom in and check coverage of areas you are interested in: https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=253&pID=11427#coverageTab
Thank you for taking the time to make this information available–it’s been extremely useful for helping me to decide on preferring the Nuvi 855 model over the others–making it possible to go ahead and commit to making the purchase.
However, something said in one of your bullet points gives the impression Lane Assist is available only in the 7×5 series while the chart indicates it’s also available in the 8×5 series; was this a small oversight that failed to include the 8×5’s?
Glad you’re finding it helpful! Thanks for the note on Lane Assist. I’ve rewritten that bullet point (which I need to do with all the text on this page!). You are right, it is available on the 8×5 series as well. It’s also found on some higher end 1xxx models (1350+).
Thanks for the feedback and the clarification on Lane Assist (and the heads up on Gravatar–much easier than expected). In another comment, you referred to the FM transmitter sending audio to the stereo, letting one hear through the car’s speakers–something I know from experience is great–having done this with my satellite radio.
Since this feature is optional on my Garmin 855, how does one activate this “option”? Is it automatic or is it already available (in use and starts working) when the Antenna (bought separately) is plugged into the available socket? If not, would a download or reprogram–probably requiring an additional payment–be needed first? Or does this get involved with the subscription required for receiving broadcasts from outside sources?
Nice Gravatar!
The FM transmitter is included and requires no additional equipment. Live traffic, which typically comes over FM airwaves, is an optional add on. To activate the FM transmitter, from the main menu, tap Volume, then Audio Output. Note that the nuvi’s FM transmitter has a reputation for being weaker than off the shelf alternatives.
Wow–no kidding–it was there all the time; the follow through on your explanation was flawless. It’s amazing what can be accomplished when having access to other resources besides the quick-start guide supplied or little time (at present) to explore everything by trial & error. 🙂
Thanks for the quick and useful follow-up; similar inquiries made locally here in the real world–with people in sales and distribution appearing totally clueless–always resulted in someone (more interested) in resolving the problem by selling antenna/subscription accessories.
Actually, if you get an 855, it is suppose to have an earphone output. I would expect that means if your car radio has MP3 input (sometimes called media) connection, you could hook the 855 directly to the car radio and not use the FM transmitter. That way you don’t have to find a clear channel or change as you travel out of town.
Glad to help!
MY 660 NUVI DOESNT HAVE THE LATEST MAPS IN IT. CAN I STILL GET IT UPDATED ?
Yes, you can get them thru Garmin (https://my.garmin.com/maps/nuMaps.htm) or via third-party sites such as Amazon
When driving on city streets are the streets displayed? I was updating the software on my nuvi 650 yesterday and I received a message that I needed to free up space to continue the down load. How do I free up space? Thanks for providing a greaqt service.
The streets are displayed, but not all names are.
From the Garmin.com support pages:
If you…need to free up some memory space you can delete unused voice, vehicle and help files.
To delete unused files:
For Windows 2000 and XP
1. Connect your device to your computer
2. Click Start
3. Double-click on My Computer
4. Double-click on the nuvi icon
5. Double-click on the Garmin folder
6. Double-click on the Voice folder
7. Right-click on any voices you do not need*
8. Click Delete
9. Click Back
10. Double-click on the Vehicle folder
11. Right-click on any vehicle icons you do not need*
12. Click Delete
13. Click Back
14. Double-click on the Help folder*
15. Right-click any Help folders you do not need
16. Click Delete
*Note: Please remember to keep the voices and help folders that you need and please keep at least one vehicle icon.
Hello again Rich,
Your directions on how to delete languages, car colors etc worked perfect on my nuvi650.
I bought my wife a nuvi 1450 from Costco on the internet for $199.99 including shipping + tax. I want to delete languages, car colors etc. on it also but am having a problem. I do the start, double click on my computer, before I do the second click on nuvi icon it comes up with “My Garmin Agent Plugin”. I have tried various things but cannot figure out how to find the Garmin folder and voice folder etc.
I sure need your advice again.
Regards,
Charlie
Are you using the same computer? Does the nuvi successfully enter mass storage mode? Can you ignore the alert and still view the nuvi directory? Here’s their page on the plugin, FWIW…
http://www8.garmin.com/products/agent/
Yes I am using the same computer, yes I can enter mass storage mode. I am not sure if I know what you mean by “Can you ignore the alert and still view the nuvi directory”? For instance if I go to my computer where my hard and floppy drives are shown I see the icon for Garmin. When I click on it, it come up with Garmin communicator plugin and my dashboard preferences. It does not work the same as when you had me do this on my nuvi 650 when I wanted to delete cars et. in memory.
Charlie
why is garmin phasing out the voice controlled models? were there problems?
AFAIK, they aren’t. The nuvi 885T was discontinued because MSN Direct is shutting down. The nuvi 855 continues to be very popular.
Rich: BTW on your chart for the 850: the traffic receiver is an option. At least the way is is sold now, it is. I got the 850 for Christmas ’09 and paid around $220, and the receiver was not included. The purchasing description said it was extra, so I didn’t get shorted or anything. In fact, looking at on-line ads, I can’t find the difference between the 850 and the 855.?
Thanks for catching that! The 850 has been officially discontinued, but will continue to be supported by Garmin for years. The 855 adds junction view, lane assist and a speed limit indicator.
Hi Rich – Thanks for this awesome information! I’m ready to buy. I live in Denver (although travel to other cities for work) and I’ll use the traffic feature. I also want to be able to find places (like the nearest Starbucks) wherever I am. I’m between the 785T ($189) or the 765T ($226). What do you think?
You’re welcome! I’d go with the 765T since MSN Direct (found on the 785T) is shuttering its business on 1/1/2012. Be aware that none of these databases are fully up to date and that they won’t have every Starbucks in there. But you can add a custom points of interest file to the nuvi that will have more of them. Here is one: http://www.poi-factory.com/node/12311
Hi Rich, Thanks for the great info site. I’m a newbee at the auto GPS options, but shopping for one to suit my needs. However, one of my major problems is poor hearing. I was wondering if there was any Garmin GPS that offers a plug-in for my own supplied ear bud to assist hearing street names and other audible messages, in the event that the speakers in the GPS itself are not audible enough to me. Thanks, Harry McDiarmid
I don’t know of any GPS that does. Some nuvis (the 7×5 and 8×5 series) offer an audio out jack and FM transmitter. The former can be connected to your car stereo if it has an auxiliary input. The latter can send sound to your car stereo via FM, but the transmitter is a bit weak and may be problematic depending upon your car and the area where you live. Hope this helps. Feel free to follow up with more questions.
I have a Garmin 855 and finaly got some songs downloaded to it but some songs I don’t want but cant find a way to delet them???
You should just be able to connect it to your computer and delete the individual songs from the Garmin directory.
Is there a Garmin model that works equally well on both land and water? I am an avid fisherman and would like to be able to view street level directions to get me to the lake, but would also like to view the Mapsource US lakes with fishing hotspots.
The GPSMAP 378, 478 and 640 are the main units that are set up to do this. You could get a Garmin handheld and add the appropriate charts and highway maps to it, but that might be an expensive option. There are some older handhelds (Colorado 400i, Oregon 400i) that come with pre-loaded inland waterway maps, but the screens are pretty dim compared to the present generation Oregon 450, which unfortunately doesn’t come in an “i” model yet.
Hope that helps get you started. Feel free to ask followup questions.
Rich,
On my wifes new nuvi 1450, when I use it I notice it comes up with streets in Chicago even though I did not enter anything for Chicago. I am in California. Would you please tell me what I need to do to correct this problem.
Charlie
Is this in the Streets folder when entering an address? How do you know they are Chicago streets? The nuvi will remember any streets you enter, regardless of city or state. You should be able to get rid of all streets by doing a factory reset. If you have entered favorites, I’d back up the current.gpx file first.
Hi Rich,
I think I have earned the Daaaaaaaaaa award for the month. I just happened to know some of the street names in Chicago and they showed up on the street map. When I started putting in my street name for my home the same street name but was an ave. came up on the screen. I suspect for some reason was because I was in my computer room. I earned the Daaaaa award because it just dawned on me that my wifes nuvi 1450 does not have an external antaenna like my nuvi 650. As mericals happen when I went out side the 1450 works just fine.
Charlie
Ah, glad all is well. Regarding the Garmin Agent isssue, I’d try reinstalling the plugin. Otherwise, you probably need to call Garmin.
Rich,
I contacted Garmin about deleting cars etc. and here is there response which did work OK.
1. connect the device to a computer
2. wait 30 seconds
3. open the “My Computer” window (XP), “Computer” window (Vista, If you have a Mac please go to step 4.
4. locate the Garmin drive and right click on it
5. click on open
6. double-click on the vehicle folder
7. delete the ones you do not want
8. close the window
I notice the nuvi 1450 does not have all the different colors for cars etc. that my nuvi 650 has.
Once again thank you Rich for all the help you pass on. What would we do with out you. It would be nice if Garmin provided a manual for the user with more tech. information.
Regards,
Charlie
Rich – Great site! As a GPS newbie, I’ve been able to get up to speed quickly on auto GPS thanks to you!!
I have a question re: purchasing a new GPS. I am in sales and travel to 5 different states. I primarily drive solo during these trips and typically make 5-8 stops (various addresses) per day. I have narrowed my GPS wishlist to the following:
Garmin 885
Garmin 1450
Garmin 855
All have pros and cons, I realize. I was unaware that the 885 has been discontinued and have reservations about buying one. I can get an 885 refurbished (about $200 bucks), a 1450 at Costco for $199 and the 855 on Ebay for $160. I want to stay at or under the $200 mark.
Help!
Rich – as a follow up….
Your discontinued list does not include the 885(t). Can you verify this has been discontinued? Just not sure if I want to chance buying a refurbished, discontinued model online. I assume there are so many of these refurbs available due to some glitches that Garmin needed to fix?
Hi Rich,
After conversation with you regarding purchasing a Garmin GPS, I bought the Model 885. With my limited hearing I was pleased with the FM transmission this unit provides. However, there are two things that I don’t care for, one being the 885 off / on lock switch. Lock is a given but my switch will not move all the way to the exrtreme left to off position and you have to fumble with on and off in a very narrow band of the switch. I was wondering if this was a chronic problem.
The orher problem is the run around I’m receiving trying to sign up for the MSN three month trial. I get cut off on the phone and via internet I get constant error messaages when entering their security letter / number code. I’m always wrong until I get a Web page cancellation. I wonder if MSN is making this sign up more difficult as they don’t want the business. Any suggestions? Harry McDiarmid
If its like my 765T, the switch isn’t designed to stay in the left position. You slide it there to turn it on or off, but it returns to the center position.
MSN Direct is ceasing operations on 1/1/2012. I wonder if they have cut back on staff. I’d call (not email) Garmin and complain. Maybe they’ll send you a free lifetime traffic receiver.
On the Nuvi 1200 GPS one of it fixtures is SAFETY CAMERA, what is this?
Pease advise?
Thanks
This is a subscription product designed to warn you as you approach red light cameras, or if you are going too fast as you approach speed detectors…
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=287
Hi Rich,
Great chart! and ranked no.1 by Google for nuvi comparison chart.
Do you know which nuvis actually record the tracklog (not just display track) so that you can export a copy of the data to use with PC mapping appilications?
Thanks (to you and Google)!
AFAIK, every one that records a tracklog has export functionality. Just copy current.gpx from it.
I’ve not worked with current.gpx. I have a 1390 here on my desk and I see under Tools > My Data the user can “Clear Trip Log” which is where I assume you can clear the tracklog from current.gpx. Is this your experience?
And do you know how the current.gpx file is managed (i.e. 10,000 track point maximum with first-in-first-out storage)?
Yes, that should work. You could clear it and then see if it still shows up in current.gpx. The tracklog specs vary by model. The 1xxx is pretty weak — 500 points, FIFO. On the 5xx and 7×5, it’s 10K, then it goes to archives. As long as memory isn’t an issue it will archive 200k points.
Hi Rich, my husband and I are of the not ” very technically savvy” crowd and are looking at buying a GPS at Costco who is offering rebates on the following: the Garmin Nuvi 1390T ($199) or the 765T ($204). Since I doubt we would take advantage of the more advanced features and all we really want is something to help us find our way on our travels, which one do you recommend?
I’d probably go with the 765T personally, due to the powered mount. You just clip the unit in and go, whereas on the 1390T, you need to plug in the mini-USB cable each time. But the 1390T can utilize the full mass transit and pedestrian features found in Garmin’s CityXplorer maps (http://gpstracklog.com/2009/06/garmin-cityxplorer-review.html), which may be a good reason to with that model if you find yourself traveling and using mass transit in cities you aren’t familiar with. They are both good units. I’d base the decision upon the features you need.
Great site. Thanks for the help. I opted for a Garmin nuvi 1390T after my Magellan 3000T battery quit charging. Just got it but very happy so far. Can’t wait to try the bluetooth feature, hope it works better than your explanation of them. Also traffic updates in San Diego will be helpful. Thanks for all your work.
Jim
You’re welcome! Glad to help.
Rich – just picked up a 1490T at Costco today. In trying to get my traffic transmitter operating, do I need to download anything? When I select the traffic icon and selct “new”, it asks me for a “key code”. I went online, registered the device and am now downloading what appears to be an entirely new map version….been three hours and the thing is still chugging away. Eegads.
What to do? I have a feeling that I don not need to download anything (as per the quick-start guide) but how do I tap into the traffic transmitter?
Todd
Was this in your car? Once you plug in the power cord/traffic receiver, it should automatically recognize the unit as having a lifetime subscription.
The download is probably the guaranteed newest map when you register your device within 60 days…
https://my.garmin.com/maps/nuMaps.htm
I bought a new Nuvi 1350T which was defective. I returned it go Garmin and they replaced it with a ‘newly overhauled” Nuvi 1350. Since it was defective upon receipt I expected a ‘new’ replacement not a rebuilt one.
Also the replacement unit was a 1350 which they say is identical to the 1350T
becuse the T or traffic option is in the power cord. Is there any difference at all in the 1350 and the 1350T units?
Yes, that’s the only difference. Your experience is a good reason to return to the place you bought it, rather than the manufacturer. You could complain to Garmin and see if they’ll send you a new one.
My husband is going into sales in Central Ky and needs a GPS unit to find his way from store to store to sell to. He needs one that will find the most economic routes. I was looking at the Garmin 1300 and 1350T units. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Yes, he’s going to want one with multi-destination routing (see chart above), which is not found on the 1300 series. The nuvis with this feature will optimize the route, which will be close to the most efficient. Getting the precise most efficient route is very difficult. It’s known to mathematicians as “the traveling salesman problem.”
Is there a particular model that you would recommend?
A lot would depend upon other specific needs, like whether he will be in cities with traffic problems, or if he wants Bluetooth for hands-free cell phone use. Having said that, some models to look at would include the 755T, 765T, 1450 and 1490T. I like the 7×5 series due to the powered mount. That way he wouldn’t have to fiddle with the mini-USB cord every time he uses it.
Some of the models say nuLink for traffic, what does this mean? Is this a yes they do or a optional feature you have to purchase?
This is only found on the “connected” nuvi 1690 so far. Its free for two years then $5 a month. I discussed it in this review… http://gpstracklog.com/2009/11/garmin-nuvi-1690-review.html
I rig my own mounting system so I must have a unit where the power supply connects with the unit itself, not the mount. I understand this rules out the 7×5 units. What about the 8xx series?
I was looking at the 885/855 units. Does the voice recognition feature recognize mulitple voices or only one voice?
The lane assist/junction feature is wanted also. Can you recommend a unit with voice recognition, lane assist/junction which powers direct to the unit?Thanks
I don’t think there is such a Garmin model. Every current or announced nuvi with voice input has a powered mount. They do recognize multiple voices though — no training required. If you’re willing to give up voice commands, that will give you several options (1390T, 1450, 1490T).
Hi Rich
I’m brand new to this. Hubby and I would like a unit with spoken street names and lot’s of point’s of interest. We’d also like to be able to switch it between his truck and my car.
Unless you need more advanced features such as traffic for large metro areas, pedestrian/mass transit use, Bluetooth for hands-free cell phone use, etc. I’d suggest looking at the nuvi 255W or 1300. Then get a Garmin nuvi friction mount and it will be easy to move from one vehicle to the other. Feel free to follow up with more questions.
I’ve just moved to Phoenix to retire and need to learn how to get to destinations such as speciality store, Lowes/Home Depot, shopping malls, grocery, medical, POI’s, etc. for my personal use and have looked at the 205W and 1300. I am new at using one of these devices and would like to know which of these would work best for my type of driving or there is another series that would be best for me.
I’d go with the 1300, since it calls out street names for turns. Not everything will be in it, especially newer stores. For those missing, you’ll need to enter the address. Be sure to register your device within 60 days, as you may be eligible for a free updated map (http://garmin.com/numaps).
Well, I bought the 1390T several days ago. I LOVE it! I worried about if I would make the transition from Magellan to Garmin. No worries! The Garmin is even more intuitive. It is compact! It is fast! It is accurate! And it is loaded with POIs!
I can’t wait to see how the traffic update works when I get home where such is broadcast. (Still in the country right now…no broadcasts here.) Got a great deal on it, too!
Jim
Cool! Glad you’re enjoying it.
Thanks for letting me know to register within 60 days for a possible map update as there are lots of new areas in and around Phoenix. Both series call out the distant, direction and name of the streets to make the turn, the screens are almost the same size and clarity of graphics as also about the same. I will not be a heavy user and am not real techno so bluetooth isn’t that important to me. Do I just go by the cost or is one more advance and be a better deal over the long run?
The 205W doesn’t speak street names. It is an older unit, and while Garmin will continue to support it for years to come, it will likely be discontinued in the near future. The 1300 does have a few new features, the best probably being full compatibility with the mass transit and pedestrian features of CityXplorer maps…
http://gpstracklog.com/2009/06/garmin-cityxplorer-review.html
I’d go with the 1300 unless you can find a significantly better deal on the 255W, which does offer text-to-speech.
Thank you for all your information, I will go with the 1300.
What does the “T” and “W” indicate after the model number?
In general, “T” indicates lifetime traffic (the exception being the x85 models). The “W” stands for wide-screen, although the 1400, 1600 and 5000 series also have screens > 3.5″, even without this designation. And in the upcoming 295W model it stands for WiFi. Confusing huh?
Yes, indeed it is confusing. Thank you for clearing that up for me.
With so many models available, I’m still having a difficult time choosing the model I want for myself and fiances’ parents. They travel to Mexico and Las Vegas a lot because they have property there. What would be the best model for fuel efficient routes, POI’s, resturants, spoken street names, Lifetime traffic, not necessarily bluetooth, definitely lane assist. I know we would have to buy the Mexico software and who knows what streets are indicated for the different states. Which ones would you recommend to narrow my decision?
You might want to consider the 1350T. It has lane assist, but not junction view. Lane assist shows which lane you need to be in, while junction view shows a photo-realistic view of freeway interchanges. Having said that, be aware that coverage for these features is scant. The only place I’ve seen it is in Atlanta.
I pretty much decided to go with a 1300 series unit. The chart shows the same features for the 1350T, 1370T and the 1390T, What does the 1390T buy you over the 1350 and/or the 1370?? I dont think the 1350 has the ‘Junction” feature—-do the 1370 and 1390 units both have this feature?
Also is there a newer version of the 1300 about to be introduced? What features will that one add ? Thanks again.
Yeah, the chart space is pretty limited — there is only so much detail I can include here. Follow the links to the reviews (left most column) for finer levels of differentiation. The 1370T has preloaded maps of North America and Europe. Unless you need the latter, it will come down to the the 1350T or 1390T. The 1350T has lane assist, which shows what lane you need to be in. The 1390T adds Bluetooth for hands free cell phone use and junction view, a photo-realistic view of freeway interchanges. Be aware though, that coverage for junction view and lane assist is quite limited. The only place I’ve seen it is in Atlanta.
Oops, just realized I didn’t answer your other question. No new 1300 series units AFAIK, but the 295W (http://gpstracklog.com/2010/05/garmin-nuvi-295w-with-wifi.html) just became available, while the 3700 series (http://gpstracklog.com/2010/04/garmin-nuvi-3700-series.html) should debut this summer.
Rich
I want to buy an 855, can
I use it on my goldwing motorcycle or walk around hiking?
It is not waterproof or ruggedized, so I wouldn’t. The nuvi 500 or 550 would be more appropriate. You also may want to read this…
http://gpstracklog.com/2009/04/dual-use-gps-for-road-and-trail.html
I bought my daughter a Nuvi 265WT. The unit got stolen, but not the Traffic power cord. I have a 1350T but I dont use the traffic feature. Will the power cord from the 265WT work on the 1350 thus making the 1350 a traffic unit?
If not/or as another available option, would the 1350T traffic power cord work with the 1390 thus making a 1390T from the basic 1390?
Regarding the stolen 265WT—does it have the capability for law enforcement to locate and track the unit to its current location?
Thanks for your help.
That will probably work. All the ones you mention use the same traffic receiver. I’d love to hear back if you try it.
Auto GPS devices don’t have a transmitter (only a receiver), so there is no way to track them.