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
I bought a nuvi 255 early this year. It worked ok except when I was driving in VA. I heard many GPSs won’t work well in downtown area. However, mine started to lose receiption every couple of minutes 40-50 miles away from DC. After it got the signal back, it would recalculate the route which totally made no sense. I had to return it to Costco. Is this common? Or I just got a bad one? I am shopping for another Garmin but have no idea what to pick. Basically I want one with stable receiption. How about nuvi 500? Any suggestions? Thanks!
It could have just been a fluke. If you hadn’t used it for awhile, started moving before getting satellite lock, had overcast weather and/or it was a bad day for the configuration of the satellite constellation — a combination of enough of those factors could have caused it. Did you try restarting it?
The nuvi 500 is designed for trail + road use. I would want to know more about your specific needs (traffic, Bluetooth, trail use, etc.) before being able to make a recommendation.
Hi Rich,
Thanks for the explaination. Yes, I did try restart, actually several times but it didn’t help. And my friend was riding in my car with her GPS and hers worked fine. Anyway.
I am pretty dummy at these kinds of things. I don’t need fancy functions like Bluetooth. I think most of Garmins have those basic functions like speaking of street names, auto rerouting, POIs, etc. So I am looking for one which will have stable satellite receiption especially in cities. Also, do I have to pay for life-time map upgrades for any of the models? The one I had that for free.
Thank you very much for your help!
Question, I have an opportunity to choose between a Nuvi 265wt or a 1490. Are there any great differences between these 2 models?
Thanks.
Yes, the 1490T has a larger screen and many new features — more customization options, the ability to utilize the pedestrian/mass transit features of Garmin’s CityXplorer maps, lane assist and junction view, and multi-destination routing.
Hi there
Thanks so much for your advice. I went out yesterday and purchased a nuvi 1300. And I’m already having a problem. I turned it on and everything is written in arabic. Nope I’m not kidding. I have searched all over the internet and of course support is closed on the weekends. HELP!!!
Sandi
From the startup screen, click Tools (the wrench icon), then Settings (another wrench icon), then Language (lips icon), then change the language.
hi every one,
can any one tell me please are these Garmin Gps devices working in Asia ? in UAE or any arabic country? or they wont?
Please help
Samy
Yes. Plan on it taking up to half an hour to get the first satellite lock after moving to another part of the world. You’ll probably want some maps for that area too.
Hi, I got a Nuvi 265 from Canada costco through my friend. I live in India. The plan was to use that with India maps on a SD drive. Unfortunately right from day 1 my Nuvi does not recognise any SD card plugged into it. The SD cards that I tried are perfectly okay and work with other Garmins. The problem appears to be a defective set with SD interface that does not recognise any card. I have to send it back to canada to get it replaced/ repaired which is not an easy option for me. The other alternative is to copy the India map from the sd card onto the internal memory. I tried that but i get the message unlock code required. Can anyone here help me out . Is there a way by which i can copy the img frile form the card to internal memory of the nuvi and have it wotking. look forward to your expert advice and help. I am unhappy with Garmins quality check…
Thanks Ramesh
I don’t know of any way to do that.
Thanks for demystifying all of this, Rich. Very empowering.
You’re welcome!
I really want a voice recognition unit. Based on your 885 review stating
“Killer app voice recognition makes Garmin nuvi 880 the best GPS on the
Market I thought the 880 was THE ONE. However, the 880 is discontinued—why would Garmin discontinue their best unit?? As far as I can tell only the 855 has not been discontinued so I am going with that one.
I am curious about the 855 feature “•Backup camera input”. Does Garmin have a camera to use in conjunction with the 855 to add this safety feature to a vehicle?
The 8×5 series updated the 8×0 series with new features. The 880 and 885 were both discontinued due to Microsoft’s decision to end their MSN Direct service. The forthcoming (expected in July) 3790 will feature voice commands as well, but will be quote a bit more expensive, especially at first. FWIW, Garmin will still support the earlier models, even though they are officially discontinued.
I think the nuvi 8×0 and 8×5 series implementation of backup cameras was problematic. I’d investigate the costs and installation issues thoroughly before deciding to do this. From garmin.com support:
Question: Can I use a backup camera with my nuvi?
Answer:
It is possible to use a backup camera with the nuvi 5000 and the nuvi 8xx series. The nuvi 5000 can be used with a backup camera by purchasing the following A/V Cables.
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1375
The nuvi 8xx series requires the purchase of the VIB 11.
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=164&pID=9653
Hey,
I love my 1390T, however, the bluetooth does not recognize my phone for very long. It initially “finds” it, but then the next time I get in my car, it says it can’t connect. When I try to re-pair it, it works for a little while, then it stops again. I tried to find any new downloads that might fix the problem, but couldn’t find any downloads that I thought would work on my unit on the Garmin website. Suggestions?
Jim
First thing I would do is try this… Install Garmin’s WebUpdater if you don’t have it (http://www8.garmin.com/products/webupdater/howtoinstall.jsp). Run it multiple times until no new firmware comes up. You want to be sure you have the latest nuvi 1390T firmware and the latest Bluetooth firmware. Hopefully it will turn up some firmware you haven’t come across.
I am looking at a 1490T but a lot of places are out of stock. Are they discontuning these? Also are these capable of topo I do a lot of roaming off road? is there a way to use this as a backup camera?
I haven’t seen any indication they are going to be discontinued anytime soon. We’re probably a year or two away from that.
Yes, you can add topos to them.
No, this unit does not have backup camera capabilities.
Thanks
What’s the differences between the nuvi 780 and the nuvi 785t? The chart doesn’t seem to list any difference.
It adds lane assist, junction view, 3D buildings and customizable fields on the map screen. Details in my 785T review. Beware that MSN Direct service is terminating on 1/1/2012.
Mr. Garmin guy,
You may already know this, but I wrote about losing connectivity with my phone. You recommended I download the newest software, which I did. Also, though, I notice that if I leave my GPS on and exit the car, when I come back it doesn’t connect with my phone. However, if I turn it off and then back on, the bluetooth functions just fine.
Just thought you might like to know that.
Jim
Oh, my unit is the 1390T.
Jim
Did the software updates help?
Maybe. They didn’t totally fix the problem or I wouldn’t have discovered that if I turn the unit off and back on that the phone reconnects. Otherwise it shows my phone on its list of devices, but does not operate and does not show the phone icon. After I restart the GPS it will then give me the icon and work again.
Jim
I have a 660 that has been used very little, but currently it is erratic/malfunctioning when using the keypad to enter addresses, destinations etc. I can have Garmin repair it for a flat $69, but I’m wondering if any of the newer units have features that show highway rest areas, (important to us, anyway) for instance. The 1300’s are fairly cheap now – any thoughts on whether to go new, or fix up the old one. I’m a bit disappointed the 660 has troubles so soon……….
Ooops, sorry – when I said 1300’s, I meant the series in general – I’d likely consider the 1350 or 1350T in particular.
I’d go new rather than repair an outdated unit that may have out of date maps.
FWIW, rest areas are found under Food, Lodging, etc. > Auto Services > Rest Area. You could probably also find a custom POI databse of rest areas. This is an old post, but it should help get you started…
http://gpstracklog.com/2006/03/custom_pois.html
The whole 13xx series is pretty nice, but they don’t have a powered mount. You’ll have to connect the mini-USB plug each time, unlike your 660.
Thanks Rich,
I had downloaded and printed out the owners manual when I bought the 660 (why they don’t offer them with the units is beyond me) and found a section on recalibrating the touch screen. I tried that, and thought it solved the problem, but it soon reverted back to being erratic.
Garmin offered some information, including updating some software and then recalibrating, I tried it, and right now it seems to be working OK, but I’ll give it some more time to see if it really did the trick.
Meanwhile, I think your advice re: springing for a new unit is the best idea. The maps in the 660 are overdue for updating, so if it becomes unreliable I’d likely opt for something new with current maps already in place. The map upgrade alone is half the cost of a new unit.
I appreciate your reply and advice.
RB
Hi Rich,
An update here: The 660 seemed to be OK for about a week whenever I fired it up, but now it’s frozen – the touch screen won’t respond to any command, I can’t even get into the Settings/Display mode.
Considering how little I’ve used it since new, I’m disappointed that it’s failed so quickly.
Maybe the thing to do is to buy a bare-bones cheap model, if these are built as throwaways.
RB
Did they have you do a full factory reset?
I think so. They sent instructions via email, which I believe I followed correctly. (I am now on telephone “hold” with their Tech support, hopefully I can explain or describe my dilemma to them).
I heading off on a multiple-destination road trip tomorrow, so this is the worst time to encounter a failure.
RB
Hi Rich,
Update of this morning’s update – The Garmin Tech Support representative attempted to walk me through a master reset, however the touch screen would not accept any commands no matter what we tried.
So, long story short, after almost 2 hours telephone time, including initial “on hold” time – here’s where we stand. Based on the serial number my 660 was purchased in July 2008, (I thought it was actually older, but not so) apparently the touch screen sensors on some of the early 660’s were found to be troublesome, and Garmin has agreed to replace the unit at no charge. My only cost is return shipping to KS.
The representative was extremely patient and courteous, and aside from the inconvenience of being with out it for a short while, I’m pleased with the end result. Garmin went the extra mile to keep me satisfied, and I think that’s a good business philosophy.
Thank you again for your assistance and suggestiopns.
RB
I want a garmin, I know that; I want the larger one – 4+”; I do not really care about Bluetooth or FM; I like the speed limit display; and I want something that I can hook up to my iMac for updates. Is there also one that is easy to put into the car as opposed to having to “hook it up” via a cable every time I want to drive with it? I also like the idea of voice prompts using north, south etc. I would like to stay below $200 max. Thanks for the help.
I’m stuck in Windows hell myself (actually my gripes are more about cheap hardware than software), but I think you would use MapInstall…
http://www8.garmin.com/macosx/
To eliminate cable hassles, get a unit where the power cord plugs into the mount. Current models with this include the 295W, 7×5 series, 855, 1690 and the forthcoming 3700 series. The first three are the ones you’re most likely to find for under $200. For an even easier experience, ditch the suction mount for a friction mount. I don’t think you can get voice prompts saying N, S, etc., but the 7×5 series can be customized to display direction of travel.
My 1490, only a few weeks old won’t boot up. It just flashes the Garmin logo on and off like it’s caught in a loop. I’ve tried the “soft” reboot by plugging it into my computer and then holding the on/off button down for 15 to 30 seconds. Still won’t turn on. Please help.
Thanks
You could try a hard reset. Back it up by copying the current.gpx file first, since this procedure will erase all favorites.
From Garmin.com support:
Question: How do I perform a master reset on my nuvi 200, 205, 465, 500, 600, 700, 705 or 1000 series device?
Answer:
To perform a Master Reset on the nuvi 200, 205, 465, 500, 600, 700, 705, 1200,1300,1400 or 1600 series device:
Note: A master reset will erase all waypoints or favorites and will restore your unit to the default factory settings. If you would like to back up your favorites you can find instructions to do so here.
Start with the unit OFF and unplugged from power
Touch and hold the lower right corner of the screen with an index finger or the eraser end of a pencil
Continue touching and holding the lower right hand corner of the screen then power the unit ON
Release the power button when the device powers ON
You will see a new message: Do you really want to erase all user data?
Remove your finger from the touchscreen when this message displays
Touch Yes
The device will automatically reset. Follow the on screen prompts then place your device in an area with a clear view of the sky until it acquires satellites.
I tried that, still nothing happens. The unit just keeps flashing on and off the Garmin Logo. Won’t go to any other screen prompts.
I think you’re going to have to call Garmin Monday morning. You may have a 20-30 minute wait, but I’ve found it to be much better than emailing them.
Hi Rich –
I have a 2 month old 1490T that’s been working flawlessly up until now. On a recent business trip to Las Vegas, it would not acquire satellite. Now at home (Phoenix) it’s doing the same thing.
Any advice?
Thanks!
Try turning it on and setting it under open sky for 20-30 minutes. It should acquire.
If it had not been used in more than a few days, was in difficult conditions (urban canyon, bad weather), and / or in a moving vehicle — any of these conditions can make it more difficult to acquire signals. A combination of these factors could be responsible for your experience. Does any of this ring true?
How do I view the topo on a 1490T? I have loaded some of the sections from the west 24K to the 1490t but can’t seem to view them?? Any help would be great.
Thanks Do the 1490t normally have an owners manuel? Mine only had the quick start guide. I tried to download it and it told me that I can not save or copy it. It wants a password to save it. Don’t get that?
Try this link: http://www.garmin.com/manuals/3130_OwnersManual.pdf
Thanks Rich that worked.
Tools > Settings > Map > Map Info. Select the topo map and deselect City Navigator.
Rick,
I have narrowed my search down to Tomtom XL340-s live, Magellan Roadmate 1475T and several Nuvi’s 1490t 885t 765t 775t What do you think?
I am very hard of hearing and will need something clear and precise and LOUD! which one do you suggest on that?
Also I am a lead foot so need speed limit feature.
Was looking at Tomtom xxl series for easy viewing what do you suggest on a nuvi for that?
Thanks for all your help. Your reviews on all GPS devices are great and very helpful.
I don’t think the Magellan will display the speed limit. I’d suggest a Garmin or TomTom. Unless you need the LIVE services, there’s no need to get the TomTom XL 340-S LIVE; you could just go for the XL 340-S. Nuvis are brighter than TomToms. The nuvi 1490T has a 5″ screen, like the TomTom XXL series. There’s no need to go with the nuvi 775T unless you need the European maps. The nuvi 885T uses voice input; it works well, but I find touch screens faster. If you drive a lot solo and want to use it while driving, it can be a nice feature. I don’t pay a lot of attention to volume unless it’s really low, so I’d check out user reviews once you narrow it down. Hope that helps. Feel free to follow up with more questions.
I respect your opinion on the GPS systems because you have either tried them out or received good feedback. I’m trying to decide which GPS I should purchase between the 755T, 765T or 1390T. I read some where the 1390 has to be plugged into a cable while in use, whereas, the other two do not and only have a 4 hour battery charge anyway. The features I would like to have are: lane assist; junction view; turn-by-turn directions; spoken street names(is speech-to-text the same);auto re-routing; lifetime FM traffic updates and is the FM transmitter an important feature?
They each have those features, except for the FM transmitter, which can be used to send audio (directions, MP3’s and audiobooks) to your car stereo. If you have a large vehicle, and the antenna is in the rear of the car, you may find the nuvi’s FM transmitter is too weak. The FM transmitter is found on the 7×5 series and not the 13xx models. And yes, text-to-speech = spoken street names.
Rich,
Any idea why Garmin is not putting the mp3 players in new GPS units? It is my understanding that the mp3 player is necessary to play TourGuide content. TourGuides are a neat feature. I don’t understand why Garmin would not at least enable their high-units to play TourGuides.
– Doug
Doug,
I assume they just aren’t a big selling point. You might want to ask at http://developer.garmin.com/forum/
I am looking for my son who is a new driver. Initially, I am considering the 1350. In reading some of the other Q&A’s, it appears that this unit not only requires being plugged in to operate, but requires a USB port in the car. (Another review I saw says this unit does have a 4 hour battery.) Therefore, if a car doesn’t have a USB port, is this model out of the equation. Also, what is pedestrian navigation? I assumed that meant you could use the unit while walking around a city. If it needs to be plugged in, how does that work? (Or does the unit give you walking directions while plugged into the car & you just have to write the directions down & use the written info? Finally, the features I would want are text to speech, lane guide (although if it only available in Atlanta as mentioned above, maybe not), voice command, and auto re-route. Lots of questions, hopefully of value to other users of your site. Thanks.
No, as long as they are charged, they all work without being plugged in. Models with an FM traffic receiver must be plugged in to receive this data though.
The power cord plugs into the cigarette lighter. This, in turn, plugs into a mini-USB port on the unit itself. There’s no need for a USB port in the car.
Voice command is the one feature in your wish list that is only available in a few select models. Personally, I prefer touch screen entry and find it faster. Though you can do touch entry on voice command units. I just mention this as it may not be a feature you really need.
@RB – Well that turned out nice. I’ve heard lots of similar stories. It’s always possible to have a bad experience, but their customer service often rocks. Glad it worked out.
Yes, it did. I think that handling problems like this on a case-by-case basis, rather than a “one size fits all policy” certainly goes a long way to keeping a customer satisfied – and that translates to repeat business.
I was looking at a used 200W at a pawn shop.It is locked.I dont know the PIN or security location.Can it be unlocked?
Not without trying all possible 4 digit combinations or sending the unit back to Garmin. Is it still loaded with favorites (home, etc.)? One of those could be the security location.
I am looking to buy the latest garmin out there, that has everything, lane assist, blue tooth, lane junction, reroute,etc.,I am looking to get this for my father for his birthday. should i wait till the nuvi3700 series comes out in July? willing to pay up to $350.00 -$400.00 for the best Garmin out there, what Garmin series should I be looking at? I saw some infor on the Nuvi 765T and the garmin 1490t what one would you recommend?
Thanks,
Roe
The 3700 series is available now…
http://gpstracklog.com/2010/06/garmin-nuvi-3700-series-hits-the-market.html
I have a 3790T in hand, but have just started testing it, so I’m a bit hesitant to say.
Thanks, Rich
Ok, I am going to wait to see what your take is on the 3790T and are you also going to test the 3760T as well? Truly appreciate your input and advice on this. I want to be sure if it is worth getting the voice activated 3790T or to get my father the 3760T he is 79 years old and I want to get him the best one. Looking forward to your test results on the 3790T and also the 3760T if you test this as well.
Thanks for the quick response.
Roe
I probably won’t test the 3760T, but will highlight the differences with the 3790T.
Ok, sounds good…..looking forward to hear what your test results are on the 3790T. do you have a time frame when you will post your test results on the 3790T ?
Thanks,
Roe
Target posting date is July 12 or 13, but it could slip a week.
Thank, Rich
Will check around those dates to see if test results are posted or otherwise will check the week after, looking forward to see what the test results turn up. happy test 🙂
Roe
Do you check for file transfer speed on the various units? Reading over on the gpspassion site, I see many complaints about USB 2 spec devices having USB 1.1 speeds. I think the 37×0 series finally has USB 2.0 speed.
I haven’t been testing that. Seems to be a bit of an esoteric concern. I expect that they are right about it though.
As a long time Street Pilot 2610 user, I am looking to replace the 2610 with a current model for one simple reason: Garmin does not offer any further updates to the 2610 maps/firmware and my maps are several years old.
My current research has narrowed down the field to the 765T, 855, 1490T, and the 1690.
None of the above appear to offer the robust display feature set of the 2610… a disappointment. OTOH, at least the maps are up-to-date… which IS a requirement.
I fear I will end up being disappointed by the lack of customization that current GPSs provide, relative to the 2610.
Therefore I am trying to see what I may best be able to compromise… and may be willing to give up BT in order to get the 855 at at decent price (compared to the others). OTOH, I really like the connectivity options that the 1690 provides… but at a $200 premium? I think I can use my cell phone to find what I need and plug the data into a less expensive GPS.
Still pondering on the choices. Costco has the 1490T for $230. But that’s still $90 more than the 855.
I’m not happy with all the compromises made between the 7×5, 8×5, and 1×90 models.
I’m not currently using BT in my vehicle, but anticipate hands free being mandated sooner rather than later for cell phone use. So the BT option is on the table.
Multi-destination routing is a must have. I want speed limit too. Lane assist and junction view are nice features… if adequately supported.
Voice commands? Dunno. It semi works on my cell phone in the noisy environment of the vehicle. Not sure how well this is implemented on the Nuvi so it’s hard to prioritize that.
Best prices I’ve seen to date:
765T – ~$220
855 – ~$140
1490T – ~$230
1690 – $325
Bought a 1690, a friction mount, and the ecoRoute HD tonight. Got a good price on the ecoRoute HD which forced me to make a decision on the GPS.
I’ve been waiting for the Scan Gauge II to go on sale, but saw this and decided to take a chance on it. I think it provides pretty much the same data as the SGII.
I tried to post a link but this blog doesn’t appear to support html tags. But a Google search will tell you everything about the ecoRoute HD.
Yeah, WordPress may not allow tags except for authors. You can always just drop a URL. It will go to moderation, but I would typically approve something like that.
Why are there so many nuvi 1690 refurbished units on the market? How soon do you think it will be till Garmin comes out with it’s 2nd unit that utilizes nulink?
Thanks.
No idea. Are there more 1690 refurbs than other recent models?
The next round of product announcements will likely come in August or September, with availability in the fall. Whether they include a nuLink unit is anybody’s guess. But…if they can get AT&T to hold the $5 price point, I’d expect to see some mid-line nuLink models introduced.
What does Calibrating The Screm Mean.
I tryed it and it just showed a dot that moved around the screen.
You’re supposed to tap it in the crosshairs each time. It’s supposed to increase the accuracy of screen taps.
I’ve noticed several places (online & retail stores) offer lifetime maps w/the purchase of a Garmin. I’m looking for lifetime maps and traffic, street names spoken, speed limit listed. Do you have any recommendations?
All nuvis that end in a T (except for x8x units) have lifetime traffic. The chart above shows which ones have speed limit display. I’d suggest looking at the 1350T, 1390T, 1450T or 1490T.
Thanks for the quick response and suggestions. Your site is awesome!! After posting the question, I found the 1350T (with free lifetime map updates) for $180 (+free shipping) @ amazon.com. Seems like a good price, but want to review all of my options.
After reading your review of the 1350T and noting your most recent suggestions, I know what to look for. Now I just do a little research online and see if I can find a better deal. I’ll let you know.
Again, awesome site and thanks for the help!!
What is the best Garmin for dual usage on a boat and in an auto? I believe the handheld ones like the 76cx charge extra for boat/marine maps.
The GPSMAP 620 and 640 were designed for this, but judging from the comments here and reviews on Amazon, they had some early problems…
http://gpstracklog.com/2008/10/garmin-gpsmap-6.html
The Oregon 450 + City Navigator maps + marine charts might be a good choice, but it would be expensive and there would be inevitable compromises. Unless you really need a dual-use unit, I’d get a cheap nuvi for the car and whatever best fits your needs for on the water.
I am going to be driving around Israel for 2 weeks next month, and I expect more such trips in the future. I have a Nuvi 260 but it will not accept Israel maps, so I will need to purchase a new unit. Which GPS unit do you recommend for price and features?
It only works with the nuvi 1xxx and 37xx products. I would have to know more about your needs, budget, etc. to make a specific recommendation. But… the lowest model I would suggest is the 1300 (for the 4.3″ screen, not found on the 1200 series) or the 1350T if you want traffic.
Whats the difference between the 1490 and the 1490T. I like this garmin and need to know before I make my purchase
There’s no official 1490 model. If you find one for sale, it should just be the 1490T without the lifetime traffic cable.
Hi, Rich
How is the testing coming along for the 3790T ? When do you think you will post your test results?
Thanking you in advance,
Roe
I’m going to try to have it up Tuesday. Nice unit, BTW.
Thanks for the quick reply. looking forward to finding out what test results were. Ok,I am going to ask a silly question, What does BTW stand for? Glad to hear it is a nice unit.
http://www.all-acronyms.com/BTW
By the way…
Thanks ! Will be checking back in on Tuesday 🙂