Reviewing the Garmin Nuvi 255w
Posted by admin on April 17th, 2009 filed in Auto GPS SystemsThere are so many different makes and models of GPS systems on the market these days that it can be an overwhelming chore just figuring out which one will best meet your needs. Every model has pros and cons that need to be evaluated before you make a final decision. For starters, you might want to look at price. GPS system prices can be less than $100 for the most basic units and climb to over $1,000 depending on the specific features and capabilities you want. When you look into the choices that are available, one of the options you’ll want to examine is the Garmin Nuvi 255w.
Garmin products are considered to be the Cadillacs of the GPS world, and the Nuvi 255 is no exception. Like all 200 series models, the slim 2×5 unit fits easily into a pocket or purse for pedestrian use, but also mounts on the windshield for use while driving. Directions are given text-to-speech using clear, concise instructions. Instead of saying, “Turn right in 500 feet” like some other models say, the 255w includes the actual street name in its directions: “Turn left on First Ave. in 30 yards”.With you GPS device speaking the directions, you won’t have to take your eyes off of the road
at the 3.3″ screen often.
The Garmin Nuvi 255 is preloaded with maps of all of North America. In addition, the unit has a JPEG picture viewer, a rechargeable lithium battery, a currency and measurement converter, and a world clock. Touch screen technology makes for easy viewing, especially with its anti-glare display. With the larger screen of the nuvi 255W you will see more of the area you are driving in than with a smaller screen unit.
All GPS systems have some drawbacks and the nuvi 255 is no different. You should also realize that some of the capabilities involve seperate service agreements which will increase your costs. Although software updates are part of the package, you’ll only get map updates by paying extra fees. These updates can be purchased singly or as lifetime deals. Another potential expense is that you won’t be able to replace the battery yourself. Although the battery is designed to last for a number of years, if it should happen to crash on you, you may or may not be able to find a technician who’ll be able to change it for you, especially at a cost that’s economically-feasible.
Other Garmin Nuvi 255w reviews have commented that the user’s manual is too basic to be of any assistance, but some say that the operation is so simple that anyone should be able to figure it out. Although there is a website to help you if you run into problems, some users find it to lacking in useful information and not very user friendly. If you’re trying to plot the route of a long trip, it’s also likely that you’re going to end up frustrated because there isn’t enough memory to do long, elaborate planning like this.
General consensus has it that the Garmin 255 is going to be easy to use and give you all of the features you need to travel in unfamiliar territory. If you’re interested in having your GPS be equipped with Bluetooth capabilities so that you have hands-free calling, this isn’t the model you’ll want to buy. But if you need a basic GPS unit that will be easy to use and reliable, the nuvi 255W is going to be a solid choice.
Mail this post
Leave a Comment