Portable GPS recommendations

[BAPhotowerks]

Considering getting one for my Mom, looking to keep it under $300. I've played with a buddy's Garmin on a roadtrip, and also heard good things about Tomtoms. Any input is appreciated!

[NickP]

I bought a Garmin Nuvi 350 and am very pleased with it. It was about $425, but I believe the 200 series Garmin's have many of the features of the 350's and others. Of great use is the GPS speedometer which has helped me calculate my speeds on 73S with it KM speedometer using 60 series tires!

It is very intuitative and easy to use right out of the box. It is also very accurate and up to date on everything I have encountered. The 350 has voice commands for steet names which is way better than on my 06 911 or the Lexus SUV. Great for travel.

Nick

[JimR]

I'll second Nick's recommendation.

[Bummler]

I have purchased four Garmin's over the last six years, three of which are still in use, those being a C330, 2610, and a 2720. I mainly began using the 2610 on my motorcycle trips and transferred it to the car when needed. The 330 is one I purchased for my daughter who is constantly getting lost. It's a good little unit easy to operate and quick calculating. The 2720 I bought finally for my car rather than continue to switch the 2610 from the bike.

Garmin has given me great service support both in and out of warranty. I would look at the Zumo ond Nuvi. these units are smaller and easy to operate. Shop around there are some real deals out there.

[JCR]

Here's one place to look for a deal:

techbargains.com

[BAPhotowerks]

Thanks guys, I'm leaning toward the Garmin Nuvi, which I think is what I had played with previously. Thanks again for the input, I knew there would be a few ideas out there!

Cheers,

BA

[karlusmagnus]

Reviving this, as I wanted to see if more people adopted these for their cars, and what they found of the present models on offer. Updated advise, so to speak.
Looking for something small, and no huge window sucker or attachment device if possible.
When driving to cali, last year, some of the guys had them, and it was pretty handy at times (particularly when we needed a fuel pump at 7pm in an unknown town )

[berettafan]

have played with several and find the Tom Tom (which i own) to be the best navigational tool. great maps, very good directions, etc.

however if you get hit with a sudden urge for MSG it's not the best at finding local chinese buffets.