Garmin nuvi 5000

#None

in Midrange GPS Systems

Score: 6.5/10 , Based on analysis of reviews and performance evaluations.

The Garmin nuvi 5000 is best known for a massive display screen that outshines any of its other features. But it's also a competent navigator and a good portable choice for large vehicles.

List Price: $500
Key Features
  • 5.2-inch screen
  • MP3 player
  • Audio book player
  • Wireless FM transmitter
  • MSN Direct
  • Video input
  • Rerouting
Pros
  • Multi-destination routing
  • Large screen good for wider windshield cars
  • Numerous extra features
  • Accepts video for a backup camera
Cons
  • No internal battery
  • Too much nav unless you have a large car

Garmin nuvi 5000 Overall - 6.5 (Acceptable)

Reviewers have a one-track mind when it comes to the Garmin nuvi 5000. It's big. Way big. But for professional drivers, RV users and truck and large SUV owners, the Garmin nuvi 5000 might be the best device to safely see both the road and your directions.

Reviewers also emphasize that unless you have a car that's compatible to the size of this nuvi, there are plenty of slimmer options with the same or more features. Several reviewers note the nuvi 5000 is very similar to Garmin nuvi's 700 series, with the exception of the former's video input features. But in exchange, devices like the nuvi 756T offer Bluetooth, live traffic and more portability. Garmin's suggested retail for the nuvi 5000 is nearly $600.

What the Experts Say: 

  • "With a big rig, it's also important to have a sizable display that won't get lost on a large windshield or dashboard. Garmin's big-screened nuvi 5000 is designed specifically to meet the needs of such drivers." -- PC Magazine
  • "Overall, the Nuvi 5000 can be a good choice for its intended market of truckers, RV drivers (especially if they want to connect a backup/safety AV feed) and those who like a little more screen real estate to show more perspective when navigating." -- About.com
  • "I'm a little reluctant to recommend the nuvi 5000 for most users, due to the lack of an internal battery." --  GPS Tracklog
  • "It has a 5.2-inch touchscreen, stores 10 routes, has a digital elevation map and an MSN Direct option for traffic, gas and weather. Media-wise it'll display analog video from a backup cam or something, and has an SD card-loaded MP3 player." -- Gizmodo
  • "The ability to hook up rear view cameras make the 5000 suitable for delivery trucks and other small features such as the MP3 player, audio book support, FM-transmitter make the device more friendly." -- Navigadget

Garmin nuvi 5000 Performance - NA

Reviewers note the nuvi 5000 is catered toward bigger vehicles in everyway, including its navigation capabilities. About.com states, "some of its navigation features are a little different from typical units, and will help big rig drivers find optimal routes." Most highlight the nuvi 5000's multi-destination routing and detour features as particular favorites for the utility. But almost all reviewers complain that the large GPS' performance is tarnished by not providing an internal battery. "That's right, this beast only works when plugged into your car," as GPS Tracklog quips.

Garmin nuvi 5000 Ease of Use - 8.0 (Very Good)

Most say there's nothing about the Garmin nuvi 5000 that's hard to figure out, especially with one of the largest screens of its class. As GPSLodge notes, "The nuvi 5000 makes it easier than ever to obtain voice-prompted, turn-by-turn directions, route calculation, and automatic rerouting if a motorist strays off course."

Garmin nuvi 5000 Design - 8.75 (Very Good)

Design is the Garmin nuvi 5000's top selling point, but also its most divisive characteristic. PC Magazine says the extra-wide screen made the GPS "quite readable -- even without the reading glasses I'd normally use for smaller-screen devices." But at 9.29 ounces this nuvi is also the least portable of its class, and several writers only recommend this unit for its target audience.

Garmin nuvi 5000 Features - 6.5 (Acceptable)

With an audio book player, an MP3 player, and even video input capability, the Garmin nuvi 5000 has some of the more coveted features for portable GPS today. But to reviewers, Garmin missed some of the more obvious upscale items. "Unlike many high-end nuvis, the 5000 does not include Bluetooth for hands free cell phone use," GPS Tracklog notes. Ubergizmo's blogger writes, "I wonder if it targets larger vehicles like trucks, shouldn't information about the location public toilets be made available just in case of a plumbing emergency?"

Other GPS Devices to Consider

MSRP: $190 Garmin nuvi 350

GPS writers say the Garmin nuvi 350 is a breeze to use. From the moment you turn it on and wait briefly for it to boot, the 350 is simple to program and reliable to get you where you need to go. Its only real flaw is time -- several years after its introduction on the market, its features are less-than-exciting compared to newer affordable GPS.

MSRP: $100 Magellan Maestro 3100

The Magellan Maestro 3100 is an entry-level GPS that aims to provide bare-bones navigation at an attractive price. While not loaded with extras, it will get you to where you're going -- and it won't break the bank in the process.

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: $536 TomTom GO 300

The TomTom GO 300's features and design are universally easy to master for basic navigation. But other models are unanimously seen as stronger navigators with more innovative features.