For those of you with a GPS Unit

[dbot]

I was looking at the Nuvi's for a while because they're so sleek but they're pretty expensive. So I was looking at the c550 the other day and it has a good amount of features.

It has the new chipset, touch screen, SD slot for upgrades, and comes with the traffic antenna and 3 months of free traffic monitoring out the box.

Decent price at around $380.

Anyone have one of these, or if you went with something else, why?

 

[arcas]

I have a c550. I like it but if I had it to do over, I'd probably go with the cheaper c530. I don't get traffic signals in my area and don't really use the 550's bluetooth capability. A hack exists to add voice street names to the c530.

I wish the 550's bluetooth capabilities were more robust. I'd like for the 550 to establish a bluetooth data connection to my phone so that it can run a web browser. That way I can fetch the local weather report or radar without having to fool with my Treo while driving.

 

[LordMorpheus]

I'm partial to my Applanix GPS system: http://www.applanix.com/products/poslv_index.php

 

[kranky]

We have the C330, was about $100 less. Doesn't pronounce street names but I never missed that feature. I use the radio for traffic reports on the rare occasions I want to hear them. If I was getting one today, I'd get the same unit. The features of the higher-end units don't do anything for me.

 

[dbot]

Actually, I think I'm going to go with the Nuvi 350. It has basically the same features except for the bluetooth calling which I won't use and the traffic tracking is optional which I don't think I will use either because I basically know I'm going to hit rush hour at the times I drive to adn from work anyway.

I'ld rather have the compact design of the Nuvi rather than the larger streetpilot series.

 

[arcas]

The Nuvi 350 is a highly-rated unit. Very portable. Be even nicer if you could get good topo/trail maps for it (I think I've seen some but don't know how accurate they are).

Kranky - The c330 is based on an outdated chipset so I don't think I'd recommend it today. These days, SiRF Star III-based units can be had for the same ballpark price and they'll be a lot more reliable in downtown areas where buildings block much of the sky.

 

[Chryso]

The Nuvi 350 is cheaper at amazon that the unit you originally listed.
I JUST bought a Nuvi 350 for my wife's birthday. (I can't comment on it because it is still hidden until next week)

 

[lokiju]

I got the nuvi 350 rom Frys for $380.

Same price as what you're looking to spend.

I love it. The only issue I've had is the suction cup mount it came with melted to my windshield and won't suction anymore. I called tech support though and they're sending me a free friction mount.

 

[imaroon]

Yes I agree if you have the $ get the Nuvi 350 ... check this list out of the top gps systemstop gps systems

 

[Fritzo]

Originally posted by: dbot
Actually, I think I'm going to go with the Nuvi 350. It has basically the same features except for the bluetooth calling which I won't use and the traffic tracking is optional which I don't think I will use either because I basically know I'm going to hit rush hour at the times I drive to adn from work anyway.

I'ld rather have the compact design of the Nuvi rather than the larger streetpilot series.

I own the 350-it rocks. Pocket sized, throw it in the glove compartment, connects and charges with a standard USB cable, and it's got a great antenna (works in the middle of NYC---NOTHING wireless works in the middle of NYC ).