Reviewing the Garmin Nuvi 255w
Where Do You Live?
There 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. The 255 is portable and will fit into almost any pocket or purse and also mounts on the windshield or dash while driving. Text-to-speech allow directions to be given clearly and concisely. Instead of hearing “Turn left in 2/10’s of a mile” as in some more basic models, the 255W includes the street name in the verbal directions, “Turn left on Main Street”. in 500 feet”. Since your GPS will speak to you, albeit in somewhat robotic tones, you won’t be distracted by having to look
at the 4.3″ 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.The anti-glare display provides easy viewing, especially when combined with the touch screen technology. The fact that the screen is larger than those of many GPS units means that you get a view of more of the area using a Garmin 255.
Of course, like with all GPS technology, there are some downside issues to contend with when using the Nuvi 255. You need to be aware up front that the price of the unit itself is not the only cost you will be facing. Although software updates are part of the package, you’ll only get map updates by paying extra fees. These can be purchased as lifetime updates or singly. Another potential expense is that you won’t be able to replace the battery yourself. The battery life normally lasts for several years but if you should need to replace it, you will need to find a service specialist to change it out for you.
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.
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