debcook

Several members of my family have recently purchased Garmin Nuvi GPS devices. I write a lot about GPS devices so they are always asking me which is best and which one they should buy. I answer the same way each time. It depends on the features you want and the price you want to pay.

I understand the confusion. There are so many models to choose from. Just because any particular model may be later in the series there is apparently no rhyme or reason to the features that are included. For example, the Nuvi 850 does not include Bluetooth and the Nuvi 265WT does. The Nuvi 850 lists for $799.99 and the Nuvi 265WT lists for $349.99. There are quite a few other differences between these two Nuvi units but I consider Bluetooth to be a pretty major feature.

The best prices that I have found on Garmin GPS units are on Amazon. Since I have not purchased one yet I am obviously still trying to decide which one I want. So far the one that satisfies my wants and needs the best is the Garmin Nuvi 880. My favorite features are:

· Speech Recognition – It talks to you and you can talk to it too.
· Route Planning – Enter up to 10 routes at a time and the Nuvi 880 will sort out the best route among all of them. A trip log is included so you can track where you’ve been.
· The antenna is internal so it is thinner. It can be carried and used in an automobile or on foot
· Where am I? – records your location when you remove it from the vehicle and can lead you back to it. Have you ever lost your car at the mall?
· The Nuvi 880 has built in speakers and microphone.

Until the time I make a final decision for myself I will continue using the GPS on my iPhone. I used it earlier today and it worked perfectly.