Garmin nuvi 205

Reviews say Garmin has packed extraordinary features and functionality into its entry-level Garmin nuvi 205 auto GPS. Experts and consumers both find that the nuvi 205 generates routes and maps more quickly, locks onto satellites more readily, and is easier and more intuitive to use than earlier Garmin nuvis. You can also download geotagged photos of your destination to navigate toward, or add a traffic-alert receiver, which costs extra. However, the nuvi 205 doesn't speak street names (e.g., it says "Turn left in 300 feet" rather than "Turn left on Spruce Street in 300 feet.") Consumers who own the Garmin nuvi 205 say they don't miss that feature, but experts say it makes navigating easier. They recommend at least stepping up to the Garmin nuvi 255 (*Est. $165) for spoken street names. The most highly recommended under-$200 GPS is now the Garmin nuvi 265T (*Est. $180), which not only speaks street names but also includes Bluetooth and free traffic alerts for the life of the unit (the alerts cost extra on the nuvi 205.)

The GPS enthusiast websites GPSLodge.com and GPSTracklog.com conduct extensive expert tests, and both recommend the Garmin nuvi 205 as a top entry-level navigator. Laptop Magazine disagrees, finding the nuvi 205 a little too stripped-down. ConsumerReports.org includes the nuvi 205 in its unbiased, expert tests, but only subscribers can read the report. We found valuable user insight at Amazon.com.