So for each update to this guide, we sought out the latest models from the major brands, set up each in a car, and put them through their paces in environments ranging from rural countrysides to the urban depths of New York City.
We evaluated the driver-friendliness of the screen layout, the accessibility of the menus, and how quickly we could input a destination and get a route—both by entering it on the screen and, when possible, by using voice commands.
We tinkered with the settings, evaluated the routing, assessed how easy it is to update the map and POI data, and judged the sturdiness of the included mount and simplicity of installation and removal of the device. We also paired each unit to a smartphone, when possible, to see what advantages that provided. This latter feature results in a larger, 5. As with your smartphone, the 55 allows multi-touch gestures, such as pinching or spreading for easier zooming on a map.
This is a clear step up from the resistive displays of less expensive units, which allow only single-finger gestures and require you to tap on the plus and minus buttons to zoom in or out. Like some TomTom models, the DriveSmart 55 and its larger sibling, the DriveSmart 65 also now include 3D mapping; in some major cities, it shows familiar buildings and landmarks as recognizable 3D images, which can help you more easily orient yourself with your surroundings in an unfamiliar area.
This made us more aware of those unexpected changes where police often like to park themselves with radar guns. Each alert is accompanied by a small icon, which pops up in the lower left corner of the screen, and a soft chime, which you can turn off individually for each type of alert.
The feature is particularly convenient while driving, because, by default to reduce driver distraction, Garmin blocks you from inputting destinations or changing settings on the screen while the car is moving. Repeating the same destination in Google Maps resulted in nearly instant directions. The DriveSmart 55 provides traffic alerts along your route using data from the Here traffic network, which is updated roughly every five minutes via an FM radio signal. Alerts pop up on the screen and are accompanied by spoken warnings for example, that traffic is causing a five-minute delay along your route.
However, traffic alerts are available only on interstates and other major highways near major metro areas. Connecting the DriveSmart 55 to the Drive app adds features in other areas, as well.
We could input a destination on our phone, press Go, and then have the navigator instantly calculate a route to it, which is very convenient. You can also get weather updates, see nearby parking prices and locations provided through Parkopedia in many US cities, and view live traffic-camera images. If having comprehensive traffic data is important to you, we recommend using a smartphone instead of a GPS navigator.
You can also download maps of other countries from the Garmin website or order them on SD cards, but they can be pricey. The TomTom Go , with free lifetime access to world maps, is a good alternative if you want a GPS device that you can easily use in countries outside of North America. It also comes with a handy powered magnetic mount that lets you easily attach the TomTom to the windshield and remove it without having to mess with connecting and disconnecting a power cord each time.
TomTom says that you can use Siri and Google Assistant through the Go , but when we tried it with our Android test phone our directions came through in Google Maps on our phone. It provides the same reliable directions, intuitive user interface, extensive points-of-interest database, and helpful driver alerts for a lower price.
Canada Mexico Europe 4. Here is a link to a coverage map. Most Garmin nuvis with a T following the model number have ad-supported traffic see reviews for screenshots. 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.
Multi-point multi-destination routing — A very nice feature, but not a critical one. 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. This shows up as a thin blue line as shown below. It can be helpful in finding your way in unfamiliar areas. Found on all current nuvis, but only some discontinued models.
Lane assist — Shows which lane you need to be in for Interstate exits and some surface streets in larger metros. Easily set up your route on the basis of time, distance or scenery. If you are in a rush you can direct your GPS to give you directions that will get you to your destination as fast as possible.
Maybe you are not so concerned about time but would like to cover less distance. Program your GPS to travel within the city, so you can minimize mileage. This function also allows you to take a less traveled route.
Choose directions that are less direct, but offer you great, scenic views. Load restaurants, shopping areas, or tourist spots that interest you and may not be recognized by your system. You have the choice of either entering your custom location manually or transferring it from your computer to your GPS system with the appropriate software. Easily navigate through unfamiliar areas when viewing the lane assist page.
This function also offers a view of upcoming road junctions and a bright colored arrow that indicates what side of the junction you. Garmin DriveAssist 50LMT North America is a five-inch auto navigator with pinch-to-zoom display, built-in dash cam and driver awareness features to encourage safer driving. DriveAssist records your drive, automatically saving collision footage on impact.
You also receive "go" alerts when you're stopped and the traffic in front of you starts moving. Garmin Real Vision feature displays a camera view when approaching select destinations. Other features include Forward Collision and Lane Departure Warnings, Bluetooth hands-free calling, voice-activated navigation, maps of North America with lifetime updates, free lifetime traffic and much more.
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