With so many inexpensive GPS units now available, the price to update an older model doesn't always seem to make sense.

However, it appears Garmin has come down on their map update pricing. I have to check further but I believe a one time update is now $49.99, lifetime $89.00. That seems like a pretty good deal. I'm happy with the GPS we have and see no need to get another with any more bells and whistles.

I don't like being a part of the "throw away" society, so I may just buy the lifetime update and hope the GPS continues to work as well as it has.

What say you all?

 

I was just talking to someone who has the Garmin and the new Droid.
He said that the Droid has a larger screen and is more accurate in getting you to your destination, than the Garmin.

Personally, I have a Garmin and it works for me.

 

I am adding the SW states dirt road maps for jeeping. I have to see if I can add a traffic receiver to my Nuvi 350. Otherwise I'll leave the 350 in Colorado and get a 1490T or something similar for the S.

 

If your Garmin is working, I would probably update. I commented on the other thread regarding my Droid 2. The Garmin does have a bigger screen than my phone, but it is a toss-up on the directions, with a little pref to the Droid and Google maps.

 

^
I'm leaning that way, Ken. I didn't update before our trip to Canada and we had more navigational errors this trip. Not sure if it was the lack of update, or the Canadian maps.

Generally, I've updated every other year. It's worked out, OK except for a few minor changes in the roads. There is the occasional trip over water when the Nuvi didn't know about new bridges.

 

I was considering getting a new Garmin but after I added up the cost of the new cords and plugs I would have to replace (they are not the same as the older models) I decided on the Lifetime Map upgrade.

 

yea but what about the times when you dont get good reception for your phone. i was in a mountain area and my phone couldnt locate where i was at. while the gps worked fine.

i have been borrowing my parents and their map is couple years old. i plan on buying one for myself and with all the new developement im going to make sure and get lifetime maps.

although the new 3d gps is pretty cool.

 

Good point. It's like getting a "free cellphone" it's never free once you buy adapters, cases, etc.


My cell phone is not used for internet or navigation. I think the Nuvi map update will be on the afternoon "to do" list.

 

I'm thinking of getting my first Garmin...so that I don't get my a** lost in SoCal at HC II in a month.

Which model would you cognosenti recommend for a frugal person who just wants "the basics" and street names announced?

And what model upgrade would you suggest if you want more bells and whistles....but still <200 bucks?

There are so many models that I don't know where to start....any suggestions appreciated

 

The local Costco store has a 1490T for $199.95 with instant rebate. Go to Garmin.com for a survey of all their models with features of each.