Nuvi Complete with Bells AND Whistles

I've been enjoying the ease of use provided by the Nuvi 350. The devise packs the necessary array of useful navigation tools along with a few features that may be useful to some, but certainly not essential.

Quickly, right out of the box, the device boots up quickly and has intuitive menus and necessary "settings" buttons right on the first menu. Anyone who's comfortable navigating a PC or a PDA will appreciate simple menu navigation setup. Far easier to navigate than most phones that each of us own already. The screen is bright, the buttons are big and descriptive. The volume from the speakers is crisp and clear.

While more expensive than many of the other leading, well advertised devices, like that Tom Tom and Magellen, the more advanced features packed into this device cost several hundred dollars more when offered in those other devices. I was particularly interested models whose "Text to Speach" feature actually spoke the name of the street instead of just "turn ahead" or rang a bell. Tom Tom 900 was the least expensive model in that line to offer this feature, and at $200 more than the Nuvi 350.

I like the PDA-size, portable feature of this line of devices. It's small size lends itself to quick and easy removal from the stand and either storage in a shirt pocket or glove box. Years ago, car owners had to defend themselves against thieves searching for aftermarket, upscale stereo to prey on. Today, our GPS devices are the new target for these thieves. Also, the battery life of 4-8 hours eliminate the need for using the electric cord. And, I can program my "favorites" in the device in the comfort of my home instead of sitting in the car.

The Nuvi has many other features, like points of interest, an MP3 player that automatically lowers the sound to announce street directions, and a sensor that changes the display between day and night traveling. The non-glare screen really makes it easy to just glace at the display, instead of staring at the screen and wrenching ones neck to get the proper angle of view.

More features are available from the rest of the Nuvi line. I, however, am quite pleased and confident that this device gives me the best bang for the buck!

Happy Trails!