I want to get a car GPS in the next few months. I have a Holux m1000 GPS receiver (used with my n800, traded away the n800), so I could buy a cheap pocket pc or laptop to use it with, but I'm not impressed with any of the software I've seen.
I've narrowed down my options to either a $sub-200 Garmin Nuvi or one of these units from DX. I really like the Garmin's interface and the way the maps look, but map updates cost $100 (almost the same as just getting a new unit). The DX GPS has a less than thrilling interface, but uses Windows CE 5.0 and has many more features (AV in, video playback, can use different navigation programs, bluetooth, internet, etc).
So, should I get the more expensive, refined, costly update unit, or the cheapo jack-of-all-trades unit? I'd prefer replies from people that have experience with either unit (though others can still provide food for thought if they want).
Which GPS?
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Re: Which GPS?
I've got a Garmin Nuvi Widescreen. Got it at circuit city when they were closing out. It's a really great little device. It's extremely easy to use, and very intuitive. The interface is beyond simple, and its easy to type in locations. (Though it tries to finish some locations for you, which can get annoying) You can get the active traffic monitor for $20 a year, which is a steal. (Though I don't have it) It comes pre-loaded with TONS of PoI (points of interest) It has food places, hotels, gas stations, car wash, etc. etc. If you do get it, I'd make sure you get the widescreen. I was hesitant at first, but after using it, its definitely worth it.
edit: You can put movies, pictures, and games on it too.
edit: You can put movies, pictures, and games on it too.
Re: Which GPS?
What model do you have? Does it have a headphone port (to plug it into aux instead of FM)? Now that I think about it, the maps will probably be up-to-date enough to work for several years, by which time I'd just buy a new one with new features. Can it take SDHC cards?
The DX GPS would probably be better suited as a device to play around with, not something to reliably get me from point A to point B...
The DX GPS would probably be better suited as a device to play around with, not something to reliably get me from point A to point B...
Re: Which GPS?
I have a Garmin Nuvi 255w

The only ports it has are the USB for charging via cigarette lighter and pc hookup, as well as a SD card slot. (SD only from what their site says)
Heres the specs page:
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=13431#specsTab" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

The only ports it has are the USB for charging via cigarette lighter and pc hookup, as well as a SD card slot. (SD only from what their site says)
Heres the specs page:
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=13431#specsTab" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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palmertech
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Re: Which GPS?
I have a third gen TomTom. It is awesome, and runs on a linux powered base, so source is available. Woo.
The coolest part is the huge database of free voices you can add. I like "Australian Outback Radio Operator" and "Darth Vader".
The coolest part is the huge database of free voices you can add. I like "Australian Outback Radio Operator" and "Darth Vader".

Excellent
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cowsgoquack101
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Re: Which GPS?
I wouldn't recommend TomTom's. I've had 2 die on my family before. I still have a broken one around here if anyone wants it.palmertech wrote:I have a third gen TomTom. It is awesome, and runs on a linux powered base, so source is available. Woo.![]()
The coolest part is the huge database of free voices you can add. I like "Australian Outback Radio Operator" and "Darth Vader".
Re: Which GPS?
From the pictures I've seen, I like the Nuvi's interface better than the TomTom's. If the price is right though, I still may be swayed to get a TomTom. The TomToms look like they have some neat features that the Garmin units lack (at least the cheaper ones). I'll just have to check out some store displays and do my own comparisons.
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HotDog-Cart
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bicostp
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Re: Which GPS?
I have a couple Rand McNally 2D nav units in the car, and Google Maps is installed on my PDA so as long as I can find a McDonald's (or some other place with free WiFi) I'm all set. 
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Re: Which GPS?
Hm, never really seen any. Looks like they're priced about the same, I'll have to try one out.HotDog-Cart wrote:What about a Magellon?
I bought cow's broken TomTom, we'll see if I have any luck fixing that.


