Garmin nuvi 500

#4

in Midrange GPS Systems

Score: 8.0/10 , Based on analysis of reviews and performance evaluations.

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.

List Price: $300
Key Features
  • Waterproof casing
  • 3D map views
  • Custom points of interest
  • FM traffic connectivity
  • Geocaching
Pros
  • One of the most flexible GPS systems on the market
  • Smooth user interface
  • Geocaching abilities
Cons
  • Mixed reviews on unit design
  • No text to speech

Garmin nuvi 500 Overall - 8.0 (Very Good)

Similar to a Swiss-army knife, the Garmin nuvi 500 is a good GPS unit for different modes of transportation. It's waterproof (three feet deep in water up to 30 minutes) and it even has the fun geocaching feature, an ability not normally associated with GPS devices that work in cars. It has the light weight (7.6 ounces) usually associated with hiking navs, but the price and features that accompany a car-centric GPS. Prices for the Garmin nuvi 500 Series range from the high $300s to above $500.

For those interested in a more traditional car GPS that's loaded with features, try out the Garmin nuvi 750. If you're looking for an advanced unit with voice-activated navigation, try out the Garmin nuvi 850 or Garmin nuvi 880. 

What the Experts Say:

  • "For those movers and shakers who cruise on four wheels, two wheels, by sea, and even hit the pavement with their own two feet." -- CNET
  • "For out-doorsy types, there's a shaded digital elevation map option, and a dedicated compass page and tracklog." -- Gizmodo
  • "The Garmin Nuvi 500 does fill a huge void in the GPS market providing both auto navigation as well as off-road capabilities yet retaining functionality such as a touch screen." -- GPS Review

  • "The nuvi 500 combines the best of Garmin's various GPS products into a single, easy to use device that's equally at home on the road, trails, or water." -- GPS Magazine

Garmin nuvi 500 Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)

The Garmin nuvi 500 has a wide array of abilities, but how does the actual navigation perform? According to GPS Magazine: admirably. "When set to driving mode, the nuvi 500 is a full-fledged nuvi GPS, providing Garmin's unmatched routing and navigation capabilities in the car," they state. CNET, however, does point out, "Satellite acquisition time was a bit slow." 

Garmin nuvi 500 Ease of Use - 9.5 (Excellent)

Reviewers praise the nuvi 500's user interface. CNET says, "As with other Garmin GPS, the Nuvi 500 has an easy-to-use interface and all the onscreen icons are large and clearly identified." And GPS Magazine agrees, saying that the "excellent map screen is easy to read." 

Garmin nuvi 500 Design - 8.0 (Very Good)

Design is a mixed bag for the nuvi 500. CNET plays devil's advocate, saying, "Some might complain about the smaller display size, but we understand that some sacrifices had to be made for portability ...." GPS Magazine likes the "bright, sunlight-readable screen", but feels that the unit "isn't the most elegant design to date." Regarding build quality, they feel that the "plastic housing isn't as rugged as it could be; could scratch or crack if dropped. For frequent outdoor use, a protective carry case is probably a good idea." 

Garmin nuvi 500 Features - 6.5 (Acceptable)

The nuvi 500 has some nifty features. GPS Review says, "Waterproof to IPX-7 standards and an 8 hour battery life make the Nuvi 500 series very capable for off-road tasks. Topographic maps are included with the Nuvi 500 so you can tap a switch and move from auto maps to topo maps." GPS Magazine enjoys the Geocaching feature, which they explain "is a GPS assisted treasure hunt where 'Geocachers' seek hidden treasure, or 'caches' using GPS coordinates posted on the Internet. Geocaching is growing in popularity, and a fantastic way to discover new places and enjoy the outdoors." But one drawback to the unit is that it's missing text to speech functionality. CNET says, "This means the system won't speak actual street names, which is a disappointment..." 

Other GPS Devices to Consider

MSRP: $40 Mio Digiwalker C220

In a field dominated by Magellan, Garmin and TomTom, you might not have heard of the Mio brand. But the Mio Digiwalker C220 is not to be overlooked. Experts say it's just as competent as the premiere manufacturers at getting you around town, and for an outstanding price.

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.

MSRP: $400 Magellan Maestro 4250

The Magellan Maestro 4250's sharp design, easy operation and nifty features are a nice blend. Some reviews point out occasional touch screen lag and even some cases of the unit freezing up. But despite this, the Maestro 4250 receives favorable reviews for its overall value.

MSRP: $200 Garmin nuvi 255

Like others in the nuvi 2x5 series, the Garmin nuvi 255 is well-liked for its simple operation and bloated features list. And considering what is offered with the nuvi 255, preliminary reviews especially appreciate the price.