I've got a Garmin Street Pilot III, and found their MetroGuide software maps better (for me) than their City-Navigator...I've had the unit since they came out with the SPIII (June 2002?) and used it on many trips. As far as "dash" mounts...my preference is a RAM suction mount to the windshield. No permanent glues or adhesives to melt, and they have held up to the GAP, and other trips.

I don't think there is yet a "best" GPS portable/auto system, just different features, functions, ease-of-use (in the eye of the owner) and cost!

-Justin

 

I just got a Navman PiN last week and an early x-mas present (from myself).

So far I'm pretty impressed although it has given me some weird directions at times. But that is the maps, not the unit.

What I really like about the PiN and the iQue is that you can run other software with the GPS. I have a speed camera warning system and traditional GPS software running simultaneously using a port sharing app.

 

I'll tell you up front that I've no experience with any Magellan model ... or even the particular Garmin you are asking about. However, I do use both panel mounted (stacked 530 / 430) and hand-held Garmins on a daily basis, albeit, these are all aviation based. Remember this ... any GPS will tell you where you are. So, it boils down to user friendliness, the map and the screen.

I will say that my Garmins have never let me down, from a reliability point of view. And, while aviation units are more difficult to program (far more options and settings), the Garmin has a good reputation in the industry. Even my hand-held, carried as a back-up, is user friendly. All I

 

I probably shoulda moved this to the Electronics forum...doing so now.

 

I have been thinking about getting one also...

 

i have a magellan roadmate 500. works great. they are all pretty much the same, cant go wrong either way.

 

The new Garmin Quest looks pretty cool too. Some more sites that might help:

www.geocaching.com

www.gpscity.com

Good luck

 

My experience over the past few years is with Garmin units. I currently am using a GPSMAP 76CS. I went with the handheld version because I use it on my kayak, on the bike, hiking, and for Geocaching as well as in the car. The Carman units are easy to use and, in the case of the MAP 76, rugged. The screen size of the MAP 76 is a bit small for use in the car but works well enough. My wife used it last week on a trip to Montreal. When I downloaded the maps and route for her I got the standard "yeah right" look from her. Half way on the way to Montreal I got a call telling me how well it was working. I have been very happy with the Carman maps.
I did not go with a PDA based unit because I do not think they will hold up as well as a dedicated unit for my type of use.
Take a good look at the menus. You will spend a lot of time using them.
If you want some good reviews look at http://www.gpsinformation.net. These guys really know their stuff. I have had very good service from thegpsstore. Just took a look at their site - the Garmin Quest looks like a good unit for use in a car.

 

Sorry, had a double post.

 

wow, thank you all for great replys!