Garmin Nuvi 255W
Manufacturer: Garmin Part number: 010-00718-20
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- As entry-level GPS navigators go, the Garmin Nuvi 255W is still one of the best choices available for anyone who wants speedy performance without breaking the bank.
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CNET editors' review
Garmin Nuvi 255W price range: $146.20 - $219.99
- Reviewed by: Antuan Goodwin
- Reviewed on: 07/20/2009
The good: The Garmin Nuvi 255W features a large touch screen and an easy-to-understand interface. Start-up, destination entry, and trip routing and rerouting times are slightly faster than the competition. "Where am I?" feature is very useful for emergencies. Text-to-speech reads street and points of interest names aloud.
The bad: The Nuvi 255W's feature set is rather limited. Mounting cradle is bulkier than competing models and not very portable.
The bottom line: As entry-level GPS navigators go, the Garmin Nuvi 255W is still one of the best choices available for anyone who wants speedy performance without breaking the bank.
Editors' note: The following review is of the Garmin Nuvi 205W. The 255W is identical to the 205W in nearly every way, except that the 255W features a text-to-speech function that reads street and points of interest (POI) names aloud and is preloaded with full map data instead of regional data. As a result, the 255W gets an extra point in the features rating category.
When most people think of a GPS device, the first name that pops into mind is Garmin Nuvi. Garmin's Nuvi 200 line of navigators was an excellent blend of ease of use and value. The new Nuvi 2x5 line of GPS navigation devices seeks to build on that reputation with a few new features, while still keeping the price relatively low. The Garmin Nuvi 205W is one of two entry-level models in the 2x5 line, and features only the most basic navigation features.
The standout feature in this new model is the "Where am I?" option that can come in handy during an emergency; but mostly the 205W represents a significant performance boost over the older Nuvis. Buyers who like what they see in the Nuvi 205W can choose to step down to the 205, which features a smaller screen, to save a few bucks, or up to the 255W, which adds text-to-speech to the feature set.
Design
The Nuvi 205W's chassis will be immediately familiar to anyone who has ever used a Garmin PND. The unit measures 4.8 inches wide by 2.9 inches tall by 0.8 inch deep and features a color touch screen that takes up almost the entirety of the front panel. The screen measures 4.3 inches diagonally and displays full-color imagery at a WQVGA resolution of 480x272 pixels.
Along the top edge of the unit is the power/lock slider. Pushing this slider toward the power icon powers the unit on and off. Moving the slider toward the lock icon will lock the touch screen. The left edge of the unit houses an SD card slot, while the back panel is home to the speaker and mini-USB charging/connecting port.
The unit ships with a 12-volt power cable, a suction cup windshield mount and cradle, an adhesive disk for dashboard mounting, and a quick start manual. The cradle features a good amount of articulation from its ball-jointed neck and better adhesion than the TomTom EasyPort mount. However, the Garmin's mount is much bulkier than the TomTom's, and less portable.
After powering on the Garmin, the user is taken first to the Nuvi's main menu screen. Two large options are displayed for "Where to?" and "View map." Along the bottom edge are smaller icons for volume, tools, and--if a destination has been chosen--stop or detour route.
Choosing "Where to?" takes users to the destination entry screen where they are given the choice between entering an address, searching points of entry, or browsing stored favorites.
The Nuvi's interface is a bit more primary than the competition from TomTom, but at the same time, is slightly easier to navigate and understand.
Features
The Nuvi 205W and its smaller sibling, the 205, are Garmin's entry-level models in the Nuvi 2x5 line, and predictably the units are not feature-packed powerhouses. However, the Nuvi 205W has a few tricks.
The unit comes preloaded with City Navigator NT map data for the contiguous United States, Canada, or one European region, depending on where the unit was purchased. (Our tester was loaded with maps for the lower 48 states, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.) For major roads and highways, the Garmin displays a speed limit icon as a warning for drivers approaching or exceeding the limit.
"Where Am I?" is a feature tucked in the Tools menu that displays your current GPS coordinates/elevation, the nearest address, and the nearest intersection, all of which can come in handy when relaying your location to emergency services or roadside assistance. The feature also provides quick links to the closest hospitals, and police and gas stations.
The unit comes preloaded with seven vehicle icons, with dozens more available for download on Garmin's Web site.
While the 205W doesn't support traffic updates out of the box, it can be upgraded to support lifetime FM traffic updates or subscription-based enhanced MSN direct service with add-on antennas and/or cradles.
In addition to navigation-based features, the Nuvi 205W also features a picture viewer (which displays photos stored on the internal memory or an inserted SD card), a world clock, a calculator, and a unit converter.
Performance
Cold boot time for the Nuvi 205W was noticeably faster than for the Nuvi 200 that it replaces, with a much faster satellite-lock time, which means less waiting between flipping the power switch and hitting the road.
Powered up and locked on, we searched for a few well-known points of interest. Nearby POIs are loaded quickly. The Nuvi doesn't support any sort of predictive text entry or autocomplete, but inputting a POI name or address is painless thanks to the Nuvi's responsive onscreen keyboard and fast search. The screen seems to buffer inputs, so you can quickly type a name without waiting for the Nuvi to register your inputs.
Our destination chosen, we hit the road and found the Garmin's routing of our test trips to be quick and, in most cases, identical to those chosen by the TomTom XL 340. Because the Garmin doesn't have to process IQ Routes or MapShare data, routing on the move and rerouting after missing turns is noticeably faster on the Nuvi 205W. (On the other hand, the Garmin doesn't benefit from learning better routes or free map micro-updates.)
In sum
Most users in the market for the Garmin Nuvi 205W should probably cross-shop the TomTom XL 340, which stacks up almost feature-for-feature with the Garmin. The TomTom unit's IQ Routes and MapShare features potentially give it a slight edge over the Garmin in the long run. However, the Garmin is a much faster, simpler, and easier-to-use device right out of the box, making it a better choice for nontechnophiles.
We gave the Nuvi 205W high design marks for its intuitive interface and big, bright screen. Its feature set is limited, but adequate for an entry-level device, resulting in an OK feature score. Finally, the Garmin's speedy booting, routing, and data entry earned it a good performance score.
User reviews
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The best GPS I have had
by cordner on July 20, 2008
Pros: Spoken turns
Cons: I have found one yet.
Summary: I have had GPS' for the last six years. I have had the Garmin PDA versions and the laptop versions. The 200W was ok but then the wife wanted one. ...
Summary: I have had GPS' for the last six years. I have had the Garmin PDA versions and the laptop versions. The 200W was ok but then the wife wanted one. I figured I would upgrade to the 255W. It was the best money spent. I keep my GPS simple. I adjust claims and the street function is fantastic. The maps are really an updated. I will be using it for a very long time. I stay away from the units with too many functions. I believe in keeping the GPS simple.
21 out of 23 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great bang for your buck + perfect interface
by ntgoodwin1 on February 8, 2009
Pros: Text-to speech, lightning fast route calculations, shows speed limit on many roads, customizable, extremely easy to use right out of the box, extremely easy and fast to enter/save/find destinations.. could go on and on
Cons: none so far... the 255w is very clean, fast, and straightforward
Summary: This is an exceptionally well-designed, easy to use GPS with an awesome user interface that makes entering locations a breeze. I love that the color scheme can automatically change depending ...
Summary: This is an exceptionally well-designed, easy to use GPS with an awesome user interface that makes entering locations a breeze. I love that the color scheme can automatically change depending on the lighting conditions and I love the text to speech, meaning that it can speak street names. I have used it on several trips and It does a great job letting you know that turns are coming up and which specific exit to take etc, especially on difficult interchanges where you might not be clear on where to turn. The only feature I wish it included was advanced lane guidance, as that seems like a really useful extra but the 255W does a great job without it anyway. There are several ways to enter a destination which is also a plus. You can choose a POI which are broken down really cleverly into sub-menus and sorted by distance which means that I can enter just about any place I want to go with just a few taps of the screen, and you can search by place name as well if you don't know the address or anything else. Generally, it is very predictive and does a great job at guessing where you're trying to make it go so that you don't have to enter in every letter of the place, a big time saver. You can avoid certain streets if you want and do many other things, but basically it comes with just about all of the extras you could possibly want. It is extremely fast with route calculations and recalculations if you miss a turn, and there is practically no wait time. Overall, this is a great GPS and I did a lot of looking around before I bought it. I managed to get a really good deal on it as well, so it was a no brainer when I decided to buy it. If you are unsure whether to go for it or not, the best advice I can give you is to go for it unless you want lane assist and 3D building view, which really are over-hyped features anyway and are generally only found on much more expensive units. This is the best GPS I have ever used for the price.
19 out of 19 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Easy to use, Easy to view
by OliversForrest on November 10, 2008
Pros: Easy to use, and use right out of the box....no nothing needed, just grab and go. No matter what the light is like, screen is easy to view. it is a smart little bugger, has great name recognition when entering an address.
Cons: havent found anything i dislike yet...easy to use... ok well the suction cup is a little difficult to get off the windshield when un hooking.
Summary: product ready to use out of box, turn it on and let it find a satellite. easy to read screen, easy to enter address, town etc. easy to find locations, ...
Summary: product ready to use out of box, turn it on and let it find a satellite. easy to read screen, easy to enter address, town etc. easy to find locations, gas, shopping, fun places to go. all you need is an address and garmin nuvi 255w will get you there.
14 out of 15 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Best I have owned. Very easy to use, fast and accurate
by c_gutta on February 6, 2009
Pros: It very easy to use. The maps are more are better than the TomTom's that I have owned. Do your research on TeleAtlas vs Navteq maps.
Cons: I really can't think of anything.
Summary: This is a good gps. Some people that have used the older Nuvis might not like the speech on the newer models. They have compressed the audio so they don'...
Summary: This is a good gps. Some people that have used the older Nuvis might not like the speech on the newer models. They have compressed the audio so they don't sound as rich as they used to. Other than that, its awsome. If you buy the unit, register it right away and get the latest maps. If the my.garmin.com says you have to pay for the maps, call tech support and complain that you shouldn't have to pay for a map update on a new GPS. They will add the map on your account for free. I recomend buying it from a place that has a good return policy like Radio Shack without a restocking fee. This is my second one because the other one got stolen. I notice a few changes to the newer software like the ecoDrive option.
10 out of 10 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Easy to use fast & accurate
by moonnyc on December 15, 2008
Pros: Best GPS in its class & price. Buy it now you will thank me later
Cons: Garmin 255W does not come with USB cable, charger or even the user manual - shame on you Garmin
Summary: Voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions that speak street names, widescreen display and ultra-easy to use what else you can want from GPS.
Summary: Voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions that speak street names, widescreen display and ultra-easy to use what else you can want from GPS.
7 out of 9 users found this user opinion helpful.
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This system is affordable, acurate, and customizable!
by MrsLiver on March 3, 2009
Pros: The wide screen is easy to read, the system is 99.9% accurate right out of the box, and the price is reasonable. The website offers free customization to include voices and vehicle icons.
Cons: This particular system does not have bluetooth capabilities, but there are more expensive models that offer this feature.
Summary: I really like this product and have even named it Dr. Nightmare! Cheesy, but with downloadable voices, it's really fun to use. This model allows for customization, so family ...
Summary: I really like this product and have even named it Dr. Nightmare! Cheesy, but with downloadable voices, it's really fun to use. This model allows for customization, so family pictures can be added. When the system is not in use you can run a slideshow of all your family pictures! The screen color changes based on the lighting so it is really easy to read day or night. The most important reason I like the system so much is because it's accurate. Right out of the box without downloading the system update, it provided great directions. The system also has an SD slot which allows for supplementary maps etc. Without a doubt I recommend this system.
5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Keep it simple stupid
by Adriandel713 on June 28, 2009
Pros: Reliable, dependable signal, sleek design, easy to use interface. Nice text to speech feature. Decent display graphics, nice wide screen, SD slot a plus. Fast recalculations even on the road. easy to use system.
Cons: You have to fork out an extra 50$ for a map of Mexico when other comparable brand models include it. Bluetooth would be nice, but it is available on more expensive models.
Summary: This is my first car gps that I got as a gift. Comes ready to use right out of the box, it was even charged. I have used other friends ...
Summary: This is my first car gps that I got as a gift. Comes ready to use right out of the box, it was even charged. I have used other friends gps devices and the map accuracy is pretty good and the design is superior to most for the price. Being a tech guy I would have liked some more features, but I can't complain because the few that this device does have seem to be very solid and work flawlessly. I really like that it detects light and automatically changes map colors for day and night. Text to speech is great to have. (It reads you the street names) Does have a SD card slot for memory expansion. I have yet to extensively test this bad boy, but all n all it is a smart simple to use well designed device that you can now bargain buy pretty much anywhere. Recommended for first time users who can see over features like bluetooth.
3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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I would recommend this unit to anyone. BUY IT!!
by CTroadrunner on April 22, 2009
Pros: It is accurate and simple to use. I just took it out of the box and used it - didn't even need to refer to the manual.
Cons: I can't think of one negative thing!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Serious problems with the Nuvi series
by petergnyc on July 25, 2009
Pros: It doesn't work! Garmin paid for the second return.
Cons: If your Nuvi crashes, as mine did, when performing a manufacturers required software update, you will not be able to reset the unit.
Summary: If your Nuvi crashes, as mine did, when performing a manufacturers required software update, you will not be able to reset the unit and have to send it back to ...
Summary: If your Nuvi crashes, as mine did, when performing a manufacturers required software update, you will not be able to reset the unit and have to send it back to Garmin for a repair. The repair takes 14 to 20 days, and Garmin does not pay for the return shipping. This has happened to me 2X.
Total out lay or the Nuvi 765 with accessories is close to $600
Customer service is very slow and hold times when calling are over 30 minutes.
Do not buy with out sellers extended warrantee.
Expect the worst from Garmin.1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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very easy to use
by poche16 on June 11, 2009
Pros: user friendly
Cons: none until today
Summary: 150 in best buy
Summary: 150 in best buy
1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Garmin
- Part number: 010-00718-20
- Description: For peace of mind on the go, nüvi 255 leads the way with voice-prompted turn-by-turn and optional MSN Direct to get you there on time and keep you informed. It's packed with millions of destinations and maps for North America or Europe. Like the rest of the compact nüvi 2x5-series, this portable navigator is priced right and ultra-easy to use. nüvi 255 comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator NT street maps, including a hefty points of interest (POIs) database with hotels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. It even announces the name of exits and streets so you never have to take your eyes off the road. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with turn-by-turn voice directions, 2-D or 3-D maps and and smooth map updates as you navigate. Its digital elevation maps show you shaded contours at higher zoom levels, giving you a big picture of the surrounding terrain. In addition, nüvi 255 accepts custom points of interest (POIs), such as school zones and safety cameras and lets you set proximity alerts to warn you of upcoming POIs. With HotFix satellite prediction, nüvi calculates your position faster to get you there quicker. Like the rest of the nüvi 2x5-series, nüvi 255 sports a sleek, slim design and fits comfortably in your pocket or purse. Its rechargeable lithium-ion battery makes it convenient for navigation by car or foot. With its "Where Am I? " emergency locator, you always know your location. Simply tap the screen to get your exact latitude and longitude coordinates, the nearest address and intersection, and the closest hospitals, police stations and fuel stations.
General
- Width 4.8 in
- Depth 0.8 in
- Height 2.9 in
- Weight 6.1 oz
GPS System
- Recommended Use Automotive
- Connectivity USB
- Voice Navigation instructions, Street name announcement
- Antenna Built-in
- Features Clock, Calculator, Custom POIs, Garmin Lock, Photo viewer, Garmin Garage, Built-in speaker, Currency converter, Measurement converter, 2D / 3D map perspective, TMC (Traffic Message Channel) ready
- Supported Memory Cards SD Memory Card
- Software Included MapSource City Navigator North America NT
Navigation
- Waypoints 1000
- Trip computer Trip timer, Trip distance, Avoid highways, Avoid toll roads, Fast/short route
Built-in Display
- Type TFT - Widescreen
- Resolution 480 x 272
- Diagonal Size 4.3 in
- Display Illumination Yes
- Color Support Color
- Features Anti-glare, Touch screen
Connections
- Connector Type USB
Battery
- Battery Enclosure Type Internal
- Battery technology Lithium ion
- Mfr estimated battery life 4 hour(s)
Miscellaneous
- Included GPS accessories Power cable, Suction cup mount
Manufacturer info
- Garmin
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Garmin products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.garmin.com
- Address:
1200 E. 151st St, Olathe, KS - Phone: 913-397-8200
- Fax: 913-397-8282
