Das Auto! Among other things...: 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.