Monday, October 31, 2011

Garmin Nuvi 5" GPS (1490 LMT) Review

The price of quality, name brand GPS systems has been steadily decreasing over the past couple of years. This can mainly be attributed to the prevalence of GPS systems being included in new vehicles, as well as people using their smart phones for that same purpose.

A quick browse through any electronic store's inventory will reveal numerous good deals on GPS units, but there is one unit in particular that I would like to highlight - the Garmin Nuvi 5".

As a name brand product, the price definitely caught my eye. But as I read over the specs of this unit, I was surprised at how good of a deal this actually is. Equipped with Bluetooth hands-free calling and free lifetime updates, this unit contains most of the features you need, and leaves out the ones that you would probably never use. See the below chart for more details.
Bluetooth Handsfree Calling - Yes
 
Dimmable LCD - Yes
 
Keypad Interface - Yes
 
LCD Resolution - 480 x 272
 
LCD Screen Size - 5"
 
Touchscreen Interface- Yes
 
Vent Mount - No
 
Windshield Mount - Yes
 
Address Book - Yes
 
Audible Directions - Yes
 
DC Car Adapter - Yes
 
Distance Log - Yes
 
Downloadable Maps - Yes
 
Downloadable Voices - Yes
 
External Antenna - Not Applicable
 
GPS Chipset - Multiple
 
Includes Lifetime Map Updates - Yes
 
Includes Lifetime Traffic Updates - Yes
 
Integrated Antenna - Yes
 
Points of Interest Yes - 6 Million
 
Programmable Waypoints - Yes
 
Product Depth - 1.6 cm
 
Product Height - 8.6 cm
 
Product Width - 13.7 cm
 
Product Weight - 221 g
 
Remote Control - No
 
Warranty Labour - 1 Year(s)
 
Warranty Parts - 1 Year(s)



Garmin has always been known for standing behind their products, and creating quality technology to being with. In a store, you can expect to pay at least $200 plus tax. I did some searching around, and it seems that Amazon is the cheapest place to buy the Garmin Nuvi. Even with shipping, it still usually works out to be cheaper than buying it in store.
I recently ordered a couple of these units  that I intend on using as Christmas gifts this year. Why not shop early before the price goes up?