Garmin nuvi 205

#1

in Inexpensive GPS Systems

Score: 9.2/10 , Based on analysis of reviews and performance evaluations.

One of the newest entry-level PNDs, the Garmin nuvi 205 delivers Garmin's trademark simple design and easy operation.

List Price: $170
  • Overall
Key Features
  • 3.5-inch display screen
  • Trip log display
  • MSN Direct
  • Photo navigation
Pros
  • Loaded with features, all for an attractive price
  • Well-liked minimalistic design
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • No integrated power cord
  • No text-to-speech

Garmin nuvi 205 Overall - 9.167 (Excellent)

Reviewers are full of recommendations for the new nuvi 205. A part of the 2x5 series of Garmins, this little nuvi features a redesigned map screen and a faster processor that should improve map and routing speed, plus it offers feature previously not seen on an entry-level Garmin -- like a possible real-traffic connection. But text-to-speech still eludes the Garmin nuvi 205, and you'll have to upgrade to a nuvi 255 for the luxury of called out street names. Also keep in mind the Garmin nuvi 205W, featuring all the same features as the regular 205, with a 4.3-inch display screen. 

What the Experts Say: 

  • "No longer at prices that force PNDs into locked glass cabinets, the Nuvi 205 and its presentation all speak to the growing commodity status of standalone GPS systems." -- EE Times
  • "Let's face it, at the base, you are buying into a quality brand with all of the makings that got Garmin to be the #1 GPS maker in the US. The routing is solid, the interface is better than ever and the prices are very reasonable. ... The Nuvi 205W and Nuvi255W are great choices for the GPS buyers out there interested in solid navigation with great additions." -- GPS Lodge

  • "The Garmin nuvi 205W is a joy to use. I recommend it, or any other member of the nuvi 2x5 series, without hesitation. Garmin has set a new standard with this product line, the nuvi 2x5 series is the best entry level GPS on the market." -- GPS Tracklog

Garmin nuvi 205 Performance - 9.5 (Excellent)

Preliminary reviews can't stop singing the praises of the Garmin nuvi 205, but surprisingly spend no time assessing the device's accuracy. GPS Review does note, "A faster 333 MHz processor is said to speed up map drawing and route calculation time. Garmin is also releasing a new 'HotFix' feature which will likely be similar to TomTom's QuickFix system of acquiring satellite signals faster." 

Garmin nuvi 205 Ease of Use - 8.5 (Very Good)

Garmins have generally have a reputation for great usability, but reviewers note the nuvi 205 ups the ante. According to GPS Lodge, the new device comes with an improved interface "that may seem like a subtle change, but I think that this is a big difference and keeps the Garmin Interface fresh, easy to understand and makes the Garmins' more intuitive than their already excellent interface." 

Garmin nuvi 205 Design - 9.5 (Excellent)

Just as sleek and sexy as GPS writers have come to expect from Garmin's entry level devices, the nuvi 205 also earns kudos for its simple screens. O'Grady's Powerpage.org notes, "The home screen would make Steve Jobs proud, since it only has four options. You can select from 'Where To?,' 'View Map,' 'Volume,' and 'Tools.'" 

Garmin nuvi 205 Features - 9.0 (Excellent)

The Garmin nuvi 205's features list is extensive. EE Times reports, "Garmin is neither the first nor the only vendor to field a $200-or-less PND, but the Nuvi 205 comes with a pretty rich feature set given the price. A 3.5-in. diagonal 320x240 touch screen serves up full-color 2-D and 3-D mapping data from Navteq, all preloaded on the device. Turn-by-turn audio directions are features, along with optional FM-band derived traffic information and news via MSN Direct services."

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The Garmin nuvi 500 Series gets favorable reviews because it can handle any navigation situation you throw its way -- in the car, on a bike, on a trail, even on a boat.

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The Harman Kardon Guide + Play 810 is a premier device that successfully blends GPS navigation with the Harman Kardon brand's reputation for quality audio and video.

MSRP: $300 Magellan Maestro 5310

The Magellan Maestro 5310's large and easy-to-read screen is one of its key highlights for the class, but GPS writers contend a similar or better device can be had for a fraction of the 5310's price.