Garmin n vi 265WT 4 3 Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator
April 6, 2009 by DigiBliss · Leave a Comment

Manufacturer’s Description (August 26, 2008)
Garmin’s nüvi 265WT improves upon its 200-series predecessors by adding free real-time traffic updates from Navteq (for the life of the device) as well as Bluetooth connectivity to your cell phone. Other significant improvements in the 2×5 series include a predictive technology that provides faster satellite lock, a redesigned screen with more information, terrain maps, and an exciting new photo navigation feature. The 265WT provides complete maps for North America and the handy Text-to-Speech feature, so you get turn-by-turn spoken directions with the real names of streets (e.g. “turn left in 50 feet at Nebraska Way”, rather than merely “turn left in 50 feet”).
The nüvi 2×5 models all sport the slim design that Garmin introduced with the 200-series last year, so they all fit comfortably in your pocket or purse, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that makes them convenient for navigation by car or foot. All of the models include useful travel tools like a JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more. The 265WT also offers a wide 4.3-inch (diagonal) screen that displays 70% more of the road around you.
Integrated Traffic Receiver
Steer clear of traffic with an integrated GTM 20 FM traffic receiver designed to receive alerts about traffic tie-ups and road construction that might lie ahead on your route. No subscriptions or additional hardware needed. Just open the box, turn it on, and get instant access to traffic information–the traffic updates are free for the life of the device.
All you have to do is simply touch the screen to view traffic details and you’ll be ready to detour around any problem area. And if you end up missing a turn, or you’re forced into a detour that is not relayed through the traffic receiver, the nüvi’s sophisticated automatic routing will get you back on track in no time.
In most areas, the traffic broadcasts are continuous–there’s no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a “silent” FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions.
Hands-Free Calling
In more and more places, it is becoming illegal to use cell phones while driving without a hands-free kit. WIth Bluetooth capability, microphone and speaker, you can match your nüvi to any Bluetooth-capable phone to make hands-free mobile phone calls. Simply dial the phone number with the nüvi’s touch screen keypad to make a call on a compatible phone. To answer an incoming call, just tap the screen and speak into the built-in microphone. Making and taking calls on the road has never been easier, or safer. In addition, Garmin makes it a breeze to look-up and dial numbers from your personalized phone book or even tap into your cell phone’s call history log.
Key Features/Benefits for all 2×5 Series Navigators
- New – HotFix (Long Term Ephemeris Prediction) finds satellites faster (Learn more)
- New – Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Basemap shows 3D shaded terrain features (Learn more)
- New – Faster 333 Mhz processor offers faster, smoother map drawing and vehicle icon motion through turns
- New – Redesigned user interface offers more information (Learn more)
- New – Photo Navigation lets you upload geo-coded photos from a phone, geo-coding camera or photo site and navigate to them. (Learn more)
- New – Add Enhanced MSN Traffic and Content with the optional GDB 55 antenna and charger (Learn more)
- New – Send addresses directly to your Garmin from Google Maps or Mapquest (Learn more)
- New – Automatic Time Zone Transition
- Text-to-Speech gives directions with real street names
- 4.3-inch Widescreen shows you more of what’s around you as you drive (Learn more)
- Memory Card Slots so you can add maps and travel guides, or store photos (MicroSD card slot on 3.5-inch units; SD card slot on 4.3-inch units)
- Preloaded Maps with Navteq data of North America + Hawaii + Puerto Rico, including 6.5 million searchable points of interest (Learn more)
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery for easy portability (up to 4 hours per charge)
- Custom Vehicle Icons let you personalize your navigator (Learn more)
- Integrated Antenna for a slim form factor
- Where Am I? — instantly shows you all of the emergency services nearby (Learn More)
Which nüvi is Best for You?:
Click here to see a quick, simple comparison of features for all Garmin nuvi GPS navigators
Learn More
New – Improved Interface
| One of Garmin’s key product philosophies is to make extremely complex technology easy to use for anyone right out of the box, and perhaps nowhere is that better exemplified than in the user interface for Garmin’s portable navigation devices.
Garmin’s interface is a key to their success part of what makes their devices such a pleasure to use. Simple controls and sub-screens make it easy to enter or search for destinations and get data about your trip. 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 smooth map updates as you navigate. This year, Garmin has redesigned its interface to include much more useful information. |
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Old Interface |
New Interface |
New – HotFix™ – aka: Satellite Ephemeris Data Prediction
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Your GPS device locks onto transmissions from a dedicated network of Satellites in order to determine its position. Until the device gets a “lock” on three satellites, it can’t effectively navigate, so decreasing the time it takes for your device to get “satellite lock” is always a goal of GPS manufacturers. With Garmin’s new HotFix technology, your Garmin GPS remembers the position of all satellites it is tracking when you turn it off, and calculates their movements in order to predict where they should be the next time you turn it on. This gives the device an idea of where it should look for satellites, and dramatically decreases the time it takes for your Garmin to get its position and start navigating. HotFix can predict satellite positions for up to 3 days after the device was last turned off.
Using Garmin’s unique Web site — Garmin Connect Photos — users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nüvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide. |
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New – Navigate by Photo
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Using Garmin’s unique Web site — Garmin Connect Photos — users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nüvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide.
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New – 3D Terrain Maps
| Shaded relief terrain maps show you when to expect hills, mountains, forests and other natural features. Topographic terrain maps are viewable when using the 2D “birds-eye” view. | |
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New – Send Addresses Directly from Google Maps or Mapquest
tching to try out a new restaurant, or setting off on a road trip to locate the best toffee apples on the east coast? Now, it’s easy to search for locations on Google Maps or Mapquest, then transfer the addresses directly to your Garmin GPS navigator.
The address will instantly transfer to your Garmin device, The point will be saved as one of your favorites, and you can navigate to it or view it on a map just like with any other favorite. The process does require a small plugin, which you can get at Garmin’s website at http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=3739. You can send business addresses to your Garmin device from these countries: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. |
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| Search for the location you want.
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Pick “Send to GPS”.
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Go!
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Traffic-Capable for Either FM Traffic or Enhanced MSN Direct Content
MSN Direct Enhanced Traffic and Content
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With an optional receiver, you can access enhanced dynamic content from the MSN Direct service. Check the weather, avoid traffic backups, compare local gas prices, get enhanced movie listings, stock information, news and local events when you travel with your unit. Even plan trips from the convenience of your computer, via Windows Live Local, and wirelessly send custom to your nüvi.
Check out a full description of MSN Direct content features, or a coverage map for MSN Direct services. A 3-month subscription to MSN Direct is included with the receiver. After that, subscription fees are $49.95 per year, or $129.95 for a lifetime subscription. |
FM Traffic
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With an optional receiver, you can get alerts from TMC Clear Channel about traffic tie-ups and road construction that might lie ahead on your route. All you have to do is simply touch the screen to view traffic details and you’ll be ready to detour around any problem area. And if you end up missing a turn, or you’re forced into a detour that is not relayed through the traffic receiver, the nüvi’s sophisticated automatic routing will get you back on track in no time. In most areas, TMC Clear Channel traffic broadcasts are continuous — there’s no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a “silent” FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions. A 3-month subscription to TMC Clear Channel’s Total Traffic Network is included with the receiver. For more information on subscription fees, coverage in individual cities, and traffic data networks in the United Kingdom and Europe, check the Garmin website. |
Widescreen — See More of What’s Around
| The super-bright, 4.3-inch (diagonal) touchscreen display gives is anti-glare for ease of viewing during the day and automatically changes its color profile for easy viewing at night or in dim light. It offers 2d or 3D perspective views.
The widescreen format gives you 70% more actual screen area than a 3.5-inch screen. Primarily this translates into a better view of the area through which you are driving. This is especially useful in showing you what parks, restaurants, ATM, gas stations, etc. are nearby, or in letting you know whether a detour is a good idea. Also, the device itself is larger, meaning controls on the screen are more widely spaced and somewhat easier to push. |
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| Wider screen lets you see more of what’s around. Compare these actual size views of a 3-inch (diagonal) screen
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and a 4.3-inch diagonal widescreen
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Where Am I?
On any nüvi (including this one), you can just tap “Where Am I?” to find the closest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address and intersection. Also see your exact latitude and longitude coordinates.
First-Rate Map Data
![]() nüvi accepts custom points of interest (POIs). View larger. |
The nüvi comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator NT street maps for all of North America, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, including a hefty POI database with hotels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with 2D or 3D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. Garmin gets its map data from NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping. In addition, nüvi 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 Important note about map updates: Due to our high volume of sales, almost every Garmin portable GPS navigator sold by Amazon.com will come with the most recent map version. If you ever do need a map update, you can purchase one from Amazon.com at our Garmin Store. |
Garmin Lock
Garmin’s patent pending theft prevention system that disables the unit from performing any functions until the user types in a specific 4-digit PIN or takes the unit to a predetermined secure location
Beyond Navigation
Browse your stored pictures with an easy-to-use JPEG viewer.![]() |
Navigation is just the beginning. The nüvi 2×5 models features travel tools including a JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more. This device is compatible with optional content plug-ins available via microSD card, such as the Garmin Travel Guides and Garmin SaversGuide provide detailed data for attractions and information on nearby merchants offering discounts, so you can customize nüvi for your travel needs. For Accessory Map Cards and Travel Guides the Units Feature: a MicroSD Card Slot on the 3.5 inch Units, and an SD Card Slot on the 4.3 inch Units. Garmin has also added the ability for customers to add custom points of interest (POI’s) from third parties such as school zones and safety cameras. |
Trick Your GPS Ride
Custom vehicle icons let you ride in style, at least inside your GPS. See more icon option |
All Garmin nüvis support configurable vehicle icons. These fun, customized car-shaped icons come in a variety of colors to add a personal touch to your vehicle’s position on the map. |
What’s in the Box?
nüvi 265WT, Preloaded City Navigator NT for North America (full coverage), Lifetime traffic, FM traffic receiver with vehicle power cable, Vehicle suction cup mount, USB cable, Dashboard disc, Quick start manual
Notes
- Optional software for language translation, detailed travel guides, and savings programs allow you to customize your nüvi to fit your travel needs
- Like most USB Mass Storage Devices, the nüvi is not compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me.
Which nüvi is Best for You?
Note: All nüvis come with detailed NAVTEQ maps containing more than 6 million pre-loaded point of interest locations.
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Screen Size inches (w x h) |
Included Maps |
Text-to-Speech (Directions in Real Street Names) |
Traffic |
Bluetooth |
Media
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3D Terrain Maps |
Photo Navigation |
FM Transmitter (audio through car stereo system) |
Multi- Point Routing |
Battery life (hours) |
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| Cont. U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico |
AK and Canada |
Europe | |||||||||||
| nüvi 200 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos |
up to 5 | |||||||||
| nüvi 200w | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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Photos |
up to 5 | |||||||||
| nüvi 250 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos | up to 5 | ||||||||
| nüvi 250w | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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Photos | up to 5 | ||||||||
| nüvi 260 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos | up to 5 | |||||||
| nüvi 260w | 3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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Photos | up to 5 | |||||||
| nüvi 270 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos | up to 5 | |||||||
| nüvi 205 | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||||
| nüvi 205W | 3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||||
| nüvi 255 | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||
| nüvi 255W |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||
| nüvi 265T | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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Integrated FM receiver with lifetime traffic; MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver) |
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Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||
| nüvi 265WT |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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Integrated FM receiver with lifetime traffic; MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver) |
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Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||
| nüvi 275T | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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Integrated FM receiver with lifetime traffic; MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver) |
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Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||
| nüvi 350 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s |
up to 8 | ||||||
| nüvi 360 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | up to 8 | |||||
| nüvi 370 | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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FM (receiver included) |
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Photos, MP3s | up to 8 | ||||
| nüvi 650 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s | up to 7 | ||||||
| nüvi 660 |
3.81 x 2.25 |
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FM (receiver included) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
up to 7 | ||||
| nüvi 670 |
3.81 x 2.25 |
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FM (receiver included) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
up to 7 | |||
| nüvi 680 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN (receiver included; 1-year free); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
up to 7 | ||||
| nüvi 750 |
3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | ||||
| nüvi 760 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | |||
| nüvi 770 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | ||
| nüvi 780 | 3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (receiver inc.; 3 months free) receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | ||||
| nüvi 850 |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||||
| nüvi 880 |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (receiver inc.; 3 months free); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||
| nüvi 5000 |
4.5 x 2.7 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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external battery only |
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| Basic MSN Direct Content Features | |
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Traffic Reports
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Gas Prices
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Weather Reports
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Movie Times
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| Enhanced MSN Direct Content | |
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Web Favorites (Send custom destinations to your GPS with Live Search Maps)
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Local Events
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Stock Quotes
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News Headlines
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| MSN Direct Coverage Map | |
Get detailed info for your Zip Code at the MSN Direct website. |
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User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars JC Abq
I bought this GPS receiver about 5 weeks ago for my car because it was recommended in some places I did research (Consumer Reports, Amazon users, maybe CNET, etc.). Overall, it works well, but it has a few quirks. I put in a couple of local destinations I go to frequently, and the unit wants me to go in a roundabout way. Not a big deal as I know the area, but if you were in a new city and that happened, you’d probably lose time. I like the wide display, the “Where am I?” feature, and the voice prompts. Haven’t gone out of town with it yet, so no evaluation there. Supposed to have a free traffic feature, but I’ve seen no sign of its presence. The price dropped $50 in a month, so I wish I’d waited to buy.
3 Stars OK GPS but lacking
I’ve owned a Garmin C330 for over 5 years, and have grown to depend on it for traveling for work. I upgraded, mainly because the receiver in my C330 was taking too long to lock onto the GPS satellites and I wanted a wider screen. I opted for the traffic, mainly because it was only another 40 bucks, and if I keep this one for another 5 years, I don’t want to kick myself in the butt for not getting the additional feature. Anyway, my review focuses mainly on the device as a pure GPS device. I don’t care much for the photos, mp3 player, blue-tooth, etc.
PROS:
First Time to Lock: Took about 45 seconds.
Subsequent time to lock: Unit locks within 20-30 seconds
Speed limit sign: Very cool, and accurate, showing the current posted speed limit
Next Turn indicator: Again, really nice. New feature indicates the direction of an upcoming turn. It also shows which side of the road a particular destination will be as you are coming up on it.
Last entered city: Pull down for last cities entered. No more typing San Franciso, Santa Clara, etc.
Screen refresh and rendering is much faster than previous model.
Traffic: Although I haven’t used this much, it’s still cool to know that I can make decisions related to traffic reports.
CONS:
No outside volume control: This is HUGE for me. Of all the control I used on my C330, I frequently adjusted the volume control via the little control disk on the outside of the unit. Listening to the radio, talking on the phone and talking to passengers all encouraged me to frequently adjust the volume. To adjust the volume on the Nuvi, you must switch to a different screen to adjust volume, all the while, you no longer have a map view.
Voice is “Tinny” sounding: While decent, the voice on the C330 was much richer.
Tone before announcement: The C330 allowed you to set a function that alerted you before a voice announcement was to be made. This was a nice feature, because sometimes, you’re not paying attention to your GPS and a turn announcement can come to you as a surprise.
Power Cord: I liked the C series, because the power was built into the mount. All I had to do was pull it out of my glove compartment and attach it to the cradle. With the Nuvi, the power cord just dangles in the car until you connect. Then of course you have to take your eyes off the road while trying to figure out which way the little mini connector fits into the device. If you leave the device permanently mounted, this isn’t a big deal.
Pop-Up advertisement: Not a real big deal, but still an annoyance and it can’t be turned off. I’m waiting for the first law suit due to the distraction from the devices primary purpose.
In all, this device is OK. The biggest issues are the lack of integrated power to the cradle and external volume control.
5 Stars Out of the box this was and incredible BUY
I read a lot of reviews and was prepared for anything, including that this would be a good GPS as my first foray into the GPS arena. This is a GREAT GPS out of the box I think this unit is incredible.
Follow the instructions, maybe wait a month to do the update, but in any case, what a pleasure to use and so functional.
5 Stars Garmin Nuvi
The Garmin Nuvi 265W is just terrific. But I would have gotten one higher level in the series for more street detail, had I realized more specific features. This was my fault, not the product’s. An excellent buy and real help on the roads.
5 Stars Highly recommend the Garmin Nuvi 265WT
You can’t go wrong with this compact GPS. I have had others and this is by far the best. Easy to use and excellent at getting around. I’m a Realtor and it is essential in my job.
I love not having to wear my blue tooth in my ear while driving.
This GPS has it all and I am thrilled to have chosen one that far exceeds the others.
Garmin n vi 265WT 4 3 Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator
April 1, 2009 by DigiBliss · Leave a Comment

Manufacturer’s Description (August 26, 2008)
Garmin’s nüvi 265WT improves upon its 200-series predecessors by adding free real-time traffic updates from Navteq (for the life of the device) as well as Bluetooth connectivity to your cell phone. Other significant improvements in the 2×5 series include a predictive technology that provides faster satellite lock, a redesigned screen with more information, terrain maps, and an exciting new photo navigation feature. The 265WT provides complete maps for North America and the handy Text-to-Speech feature, so you get turn-by-turn spoken directions with the real names of streets (e.g. “turn left in 50 feet at Nebraska Way”, rather than merely “turn left in 50 feet”).
The nüvi 2×5 models all sport the slim design that Garmin introduced with the 200-series last year, so they all fit comfortably in your pocket or purse, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that makes them convenient for navigation by car or foot. All of the models include useful travel tools like a JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more. The 265WT also offers a wide 4.3-inch (diagonal) screen that displays 70% more of the road around you.
Integrated Traffic Receiver
Steer clear of traffic with an integrated GTM 20 FM traffic receiver designed to receive alerts about traffic tie-ups and road construction that might lie ahead on your route. No subscriptions or additional hardware needed. Just open the box, turn it on, and get instant access to traffic information–the traffic updates are free for the life of the device.
All you have to do is simply touch the screen to view traffic details and you’ll be ready to detour around any problem area. And if you end up missing a turn, or you’re forced into a detour that is not relayed through the traffic receiver, the nüvi’s sophisticated automatic routing will get you back on track in no time.
In most areas, the traffic broadcasts are continuous–there’s no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a “silent” FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions.
Hands-Free Calling
In more and more places, it is becoming illegal to use cell phones while driving without a hands-free kit. WIth Bluetooth capability, microphone and speaker, you can match your nüvi to any Bluetooth-capable phone to make hands-free mobile phone calls. Simply dial the phone number with the nüvi’s touch screen keypad to make a call on a compatible phone. To answer an incoming call, just tap the screen and speak into the built-in microphone. Making and taking calls on the road has never been easier, or safer. In addition, Garmin makes it a breeze to look-up and dial numbers from your personalized phone book or even tap into your cell phone’s call history log.
Key Features/Benefits for all 2×5 Series Navigators
- New – HotFix (Long Term Ephemeris Prediction) finds satellites faster (Learn more)
- New – Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Basemap shows 3D shaded terrain features (Learn more)
- New – Faster 333 Mhz processor offers faster, smoother map drawing and vehicle icon motion through turns
- New – Redesigned user interface offers more information (Learn more)
- New – Photo Navigation lets you upload geo-coded photos from a phone, geo-coding camera or photo site and navigate to them. (Learn more)
- New – Add Enhanced MSN Traffic and Content with the optional GDB 55 antenna and charger (Learn more)
- New – Send addresses directly to your Garmin from Google Maps or Mapquest (Learn more)
- New – Automatic Time Zone Transition
- Text-to-Speech gives directions with real street names
- 4.3-inch Widescreen shows you more of what’s around you as you drive (Learn more)
- Memory Card Slots so you can add maps and travel guides, or store photos (MicroSD card slot on 3.5-inch units; SD card slot on 4.3-inch units)
- Preloaded Maps with Navteq data of North America + Hawaii + Puerto Rico, including 6.5 million searchable points of interest (Learn more)
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery for easy portability (up to 4 hours per charge)
- Custom Vehicle Icons let you personalize your navigator (Learn more)
- Integrated Antenna for a slim form factor
- Where Am I? — instantly shows you all of the emergency services nearby (Learn More)
Which nüvi is Best for You?:
Click here to see a quick, simple comparison of features for all Garmin nuvi GPS navigators
Learn More
New – Improved Interface
| One of Garmin’s key product philosophies is to make extremely complex technology easy to use for anyone right out of the box, and perhaps nowhere is that better exemplified than in the user interface for Garmin’s portable navigation devices.
Garmin’s interface is a key to their success part of what makes their devices such a pleasure to use. Simple controls and sub-screens make it easy to enter or search for destinations and get data about your trip. 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 smooth map updates as you navigate. This year, Garmin has redesigned its interface to include much more useful information. |
|
Old Interface |
New Interface |
New – HotFix™ – aka: Satellite Ephemeris Data Prediction
![]() |
Your GPS device locks onto transmissions from a dedicated network of Satellites in order to determine its position. Until the device gets a “lock” on three satellites, it can’t effectively navigate, so decreasing the time it takes for your device to get “satellite lock” is always a goal of GPS manufacturers. With Garmin’s new HotFix technology, your Garmin GPS remembers the position of all satellites it is tracking when you turn it off, and calculates their movements in order to predict where they should be the next time you turn it on. This gives the device an idea of where it should look for satellites, and dramatically decreases the time it takes for your Garmin to get its position and start navigating. HotFix can predict satellite positions for up to 3 days after the device was last turned off.
Using Garmin’s unique Web site — Garmin Connect Photos — users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nüvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide. |
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New – Navigate by Photo
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Using Garmin’s unique Web site — Garmin Connect Photos — users can choose from millions of geo-located photos provided by Google’s Panoramio photo sharing community and download them to the nüvi for a richer navigation experience using pictures as a guide.
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New – 3D Terrain Maps
| Shaded relief terrain maps show you when to expect hills, mountains, forests and other natural features. Topographic terrain maps are viewable when using the 2D “birds-eye” view. | |
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New – Send Addresses Directly from Google Maps or Mapquest
tching to try out a new restaurant, or setting off on a road trip to locate the best toffee apples on the east coast? Now, it’s easy to search for locations on Google Maps or Mapquest, then transfer the addresses directly to your Garmin GPS navigator.
The address will instantly transfer to your Garmin device, The point will be saved as one of your favorites, and you can navigate to it or view it on a map just like with any other favorite. The process does require a small plugin, which you can get at Garmin’s website at http://www8.garmin.com/support/download_details.jsp?id=3739. You can send business addresses to your Garmin device from these countries: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States. |
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| Search for the location you want.
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Pick “Send to GPS”.
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Go!
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Traffic-Capable for Either FM Traffic or Enhanced MSN Direct Content
MSN Direct Enhanced Traffic and Content
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With an optional receiver, you can access enhanced dynamic content from the MSN Direct service. Check the weather, avoid traffic backups, compare local gas prices, get enhanced movie listings, stock information, news and local events when you travel with your unit. Even plan trips from the convenience of your computer, via Windows Live Local, and wirelessly send custom to your nüvi.
Check out a full description of MSN Direct content features, or a coverage map for MSN Direct services. A 3-month subscription to MSN Direct is included with the receiver. After that, subscription fees are $49.95 per year, or $129.95 for a lifetime subscription. |
FM Traffic
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With an optional receiver, you can get alerts from TMC Clear Channel about traffic tie-ups and road construction that might lie ahead on your route. All you have to do is simply touch the screen to view traffic details and you’ll be ready to detour around any problem area. And if you end up missing a turn, or you’re forced into a detour that is not relayed through the traffic receiver, the nüvi’s sophisticated automatic routing will get you back on track in no time. In most areas, TMC Clear Channel traffic broadcasts are continuous — there’s no waiting for scheduled traffic news updates or random alerts. Because traffic broadcasts are received via a “silent” FM data channel, you can still listen to music or news programming on your car radio without interference from incoming FM traffic data transmissions. A 3-month subscription to TMC Clear Channel’s Total Traffic Network is included with the receiver. For more information on subscription fees, coverage in individual cities, and traffic data networks in the United Kingdom and Europe, check the Garmin website. |
Widescreen — See More of What’s Around
| The super-bright, 4.3-inch (diagonal) touchscreen display gives is anti-glare for ease of viewing during the day and automatically changes its color profile for easy viewing at night or in dim light. It offers 2d or 3D perspective views.
The widescreen format gives you 70% more actual screen area than a 3.5-inch screen. Primarily this translates into a better view of the area through which you are driving. This is especially useful in showing you what parks, restaurants, ATM, gas stations, etc. are nearby, or in letting you know whether a detour is a good idea. Also, the device itself is larger, meaning controls on the screen are more widely spaced and somewhat easier to push. |
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| Wider screen lets you see more of what’s around. Compare these actual size views of a 3-inch (diagonal) screen
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and a 4.3-inch diagonal widescreen
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Where Am I?
On any nüvi (including this one), you can just tap “Where Am I?” to find the closest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address and intersection. Also see your exact latitude and longitude coordinates.
First-Rate Map Data
![]() nüvi accepts custom points of interest (POIs). View larger. |
The nüvi comes ready to go right out of the box with preloaded City Navigator NT street maps for all of North America, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, including a hefty POI database with hotels, restaurants, fuel, ATMs and more. Simply touch the color screen to enter a destination, and nüvi takes you there with 2D or 3D maps and turn-by-turn voice directions. Garmin gets its map data from NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping. In addition, nüvi 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 Important note about map updates: Due to our high volume of sales, almost every Garmin portable GPS navigator sold by Amazon.com will come with the most recent map version. If you ever do need a map update, you can purchase one from Amazon.com at our Garmin Store. |
Garmin Lock
Garmin’s patent pending theft prevention system that disables the unit from performing any functions until the user types in a specific 4-digit PIN or takes the unit to a predetermined secure location
Beyond Navigation
Browse your stored pictures with an easy-to-use JPEG viewer.![]() |
Navigation is just the beginning. The nüvi 2×5 models features travel tools including a JPEG picture viewer, world travel clock with time zones, currency converter, measurement converter, calculator and more. This device is compatible with optional content plug-ins available via microSD card, such as the Garmin Travel Guides and Garmin SaversGuide provide detailed data for attractions and information on nearby merchants offering discounts, so you can customize nüvi for your travel needs. For Accessory Map Cards and Travel Guides the Units Feature: a MicroSD Card Slot on the 3.5 inch Units, and an SD Card Slot on the 4.3 inch Units. Garmin has also added the ability for customers to add custom points of interest (POI’s) from third parties such as school zones and safety cameras. |
Trick Your GPS Ride
Custom vehicle icons let you ride in style, at least inside your GPS. See more icon option |
All Garmin nüvis support configurable vehicle icons. These fun, customized car-shaped icons come in a variety of colors to add a personal touch to your vehicle’s position on the map. |
What’s in the Box?
nüvi 265WT, Preloaded City Navigator NT for North America (full coverage), Lifetime traffic, FM traffic receiver with vehicle power cable, Vehicle suction cup mount, USB cable, Dashboard disc, Quick start manual
Notes
- Optional software for language translation, detailed travel guides, and savings programs allow you to customize your nüvi to fit your travel needs
- Like most USB Mass Storage Devices, the nüvi is not compatible with Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows Me.
Which nüvi is Best for You?
Note: All nüvis come with detailed NAVTEQ maps containing more than 6 million pre-loaded point of interest locations.
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Screen Size inches (w x h) |
Included Maps |
Text-to-Speech (Directions in Real Street Names) |
Traffic |
Bluetooth |
Media
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3D Terrain Maps |
Photo Navigation |
FM Transmitter (audio through car stereo system) |
Multi- Point Routing |
Battery life (hours) |
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| Cont. U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico |
AK and Canada |
Europe | |||||||||||
| nüvi 200 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos |
up to 5 | |||||||||
| nüvi 200w | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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Photos |
up to 5 | |||||||||
| nüvi 250 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos | up to 5 | ||||||||
| nüvi 250w | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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Photos | up to 5 | ||||||||
| nüvi 260 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos | up to 5 | |||||||
| nüvi 260w | 3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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Photos | up to 5 | |||||||
| nüvi 270 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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Photos | up to 5 | |||||||
| nüvi 205 | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||||
| nüvi 205W | 3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||||
| nüvi 255 | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||
| nüvi 255W |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||||
| nüvi 265T | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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Integrated FM receiver with lifetime traffic; MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver) |
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Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||
| nüvi 265WT |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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Integrated FM receiver with lifetime traffic; MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver) |
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Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||
| nüvi 275T | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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Integrated FM receiver with lifetime traffic; MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver) |
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Photos | ![]() |
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up to 4 | ||
| nüvi 350 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s |
up to 8 | ||||||
| nüvi 360 | 2.8 x 2.1 |
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FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | up to 8 | |||||
| nüvi 370 | 2.8 x 2.1 | ![]() |
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FM (receiver included) |
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Photos, MP3s | up to 8 | ||||
| nüvi 650 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s | up to 7 | ||||||
| nüvi 660 |
3.81 x 2.25 |
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FM (receiver included) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
up to 7 | ||||
| nüvi 670 |
3.81 x 2.25 |
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FM (receiver included) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
up to 7 | |||
| nüvi 680 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN (receiver included; 1-year free); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
up to 7 | ||||
| nüvi 750 |
3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | ||||
| nüvi 760 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | |||
| nüvi 770 | 3.81 x 2.25 |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | ||
| nüvi 780 | 3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (receiver inc.; 3 months free) receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 5 | ||||
| nüvi 850 |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||||
| nüvi 880 |
3.81 x 2.25 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (receiver inc.; 3 months free); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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Photos, MP3s | ![]() |
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up to 4 | |||
| nüvi 5000 |
4.5 x 2.7 | ![]() |
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MSN-enhanced (with optional receiver); FM (with opt. receiver) |
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external battery only |
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| Basic MSN Direct Content Features | |
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Traffic Reports
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Gas Prices
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Weather Reports
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Movie Times
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| Enhanced MSN Direct Content | |
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Web Favorites (Send custom destinations to your GPS with Live Search Maps)
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Local Events
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Stock Quotes
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News Headlines
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| MSN Direct Coverage Map | |
Get detailed info for your Zip Code at the MSN Direct website. |
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User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Garmin Nuvi
The Garmin Nuvi 265W is just terrific. But I would have gotten one higher level in the series for more street detail, had I realized more specific features. This was my fault, not the product’s. An excellent buy and real help on the roads.
4 Stars JC Abq
I bought this GPS receiver about 5 weeks ago for my car because it was recommended in some places I did research (Consumer Reports, Amazon users, maybe CNET, etc.). Overall, it works well, but it has a few quirks. I put in a couple of local destinations I go to frequently, and the unit wants me to go in a roundabout way. Not a big deal as I know the area, but if you were in a new city and that happened, you’d probably lose time. I like the wide display, the “Where am I?” feature, and the voice prompts. Haven’t gone out of town with it yet, so no evaluation there. Supposed to have a free traffic feature, but I’ve seen no sign of its presence. The price dropped $50 in a month, so I wish I’d waited to buy.
5 Stars Highly recommend the Garmin Nuvi 265WT
You can’t go wrong with this compact GPS. I have had others and this is by far the best. Easy to use and excellent at getting around. I’m a Realtor and it is essential in my job.
I love not having to wear my blue tooth in my ear while driving.
This GPS has it all and I am thrilled to have chosen one that far exceeds the others.
5 Stars Out of the box this was and incredible BUY
I read a lot of reviews and was prepared for anything, including that this would be a good GPS as my first foray into the GPS arena. This is a GREAT GPS out of the box I think this unit is incredible.
Follow the instructions, maybe wait a month to do the update, but in any case, what a pleasure to use and so functional.
3 Stars OK GPS but lacking
I’ve owned a Garmin C330 for over 5 years, and have grown to depend on it for traveling for work. I upgraded, mainly because the receiver in my C330 was taking too long to lock onto the GPS satellites and I wanted a wider screen. I opted for the traffic, mainly because it was only another 40 bucks, and if I keep this one for another 5 years, I don’t want to kick myself in the butt for not getting the additional feature. Anyway, my review focuses mainly on the device as a pure GPS device. I don’t care much for the photos, mp3 player, blue-tooth, etc.
PROS:
First Time to Lock: Took about 45 seconds.
Subsequent time to lock: Unit locks within 20-30 seconds
Speed limit sign: Very cool, and accurate, showing the current posted speed limit
Next Turn indicator: Again, really nice. New feature indicates the direction of an upcoming turn. It also shows which side of the road a particular destination will be as you are coming up on it.
Last entered city: Pull down for last cities entered. No more typing San Franciso, Santa Clara, etc.
Screen refresh and rendering is much faster than previous model.
Traffic: Although I haven’t used this much, it’s still cool to know that I can make decisions related to traffic reports.
CONS:
No outside volume control: This is HUGE for me. Of all the control I used on my C330, I frequently adjusted the volume control via the little control disk on the outside of the unit. Listening to the radio, talking on the phone and talking to passengers all encouraged me to frequently adjust the volume. To adjust the volume on the Nuvi, you must switch to a different screen to adjust volume, all the while, you no longer have a map view.
Voice is “Tinny” sounding: While decent, the voice on the C330 was much richer.
Tone before announcement: The C330 allowed you to set a function that alerted you before a voice announcement was to be made. This was a nice feature, because sometimes, you’re not paying attention to your GPS and a turn announcement can come to you as a surprise.
Power Cord: I liked the C series, because the power was built into the mount. All I had to do was pull it out of my glove compartment and attach it to the cradle. With the Nuvi, the power cord just dangles in the car until you connect. Then of course you have to take your eyes off the road while trying to figure out which way the little mini connector fits into the device. If you leave the device permanently mounted, this isn’t a big deal.
Pop-Up advertisement: Not a real big deal, but still an annoyance and it can’t be turned off. I’m waiting for the first law suit due to the distraction from the devices primary purpose.
In all, this device is OK. The biggest issues are the lack of integrated power to the cradle and external volume control.






































