The Garmin Nuvi 255W has continued to be a popular GPS model for consumers. Even though it is not a recently released model, the Nuvi 255W remains in the Garmin line-up simply because it is a nice system that provides the basics plus some extras and does so at a really reasonable price.

With all the choices out there, it can be a tedious process to find the correct GPS to fit your needs. Garmin is a leader in the GPS industry and offers many selections to ensure their customers get what they need whether it be the basic functionality or something with more bells and whistles.

In this article, we will be reviewing a pretty basic GPS with the Garmin Nuvi 255W. So if you are searching for a GPS that has all the available features that can possibly be packed into a system, then this one probably is not for you. Garmin does offer more advanced models and I would suggest you check out their web site to narrow down which ones are more appropriate for you before you start bargain shopping for it.

What makes the Garmin Nuvi 255W so great:

Speech to Text Functionality

The Garmin Nuvi 255W offers speech to text functionality which is a very convenient feature that allows you to have the directions basically read to you. No more fumbling with printed directions or constantly checking the GPS display to make sure you are still on track to your destination. This is a must have function for GPS units.

Usability & Display

This GPS unit is really easy to use and the user display is very intuitive. Directions are accurate and will update very quickly if you veer of course or come upon a detour forcing you to change your route. The display is very vibrant, making it easy to see and to read. Even though you don’t have to look at the directions, I know many will want to glance up and see the upcoming turns which are displayed prominently for you.

Speed Limit Details

A great feature on the display is the speed limit functionality. On every road you travel, the Garmin Nuvi 255W displays the posted speed limit for you. No need to try to guess that any more when you suddenly see a police cruiser in the vicinity and are wondering whether you are speeding. In addition, the Garmin Nuvi 255W also displays your current speed so you can glance at the display quickly to get both how fast you are driving compared to how fast you should be driving.

Gas, Restaurants & More

There is “Points of Interest” selection that lets you find the closest gas stations if you find you are running low. This can be very helpful if you are in an unfamiliar area or a big city with a lot of one way streets, such as Boston, making it difficult to navigate around. The same menu also lets you find restaurants which are in the vicinity so you don’t have to drive around looking for a place to stop. There is quite a selection of restaurant types such as American, Italian, French etc. plus even Fast Food, Deli, Pizza, etc. (to name just a few) if you are looking for a certain atmosphere rather than a specific kind of food.

Take Me Home & Favorites

Typing in an address only has to be done once, including designating your home address. You can save frequent trips to your Favorites menu so you will have it for the next time. Once it is time to go home, all you have to do is select “Home” and the Garmin Nuvi 255W hones in on your current location and provides you directions to get back home.

Price

The last point to cover is the price. All in all, the Garmin Nuvi 255W provides you beyond just the basics plus some really cool extras and does so for a very reasonable price. You should be able to find this unit for easily under $200 when it goes on sale. Another option is buying online.

Garmin Nuvi 255W Review Conclusion

For anyone looking for a good, reliable GPS unit to get you where you need to go, this is a good option for you. Now it does not have every feature in the world, but many people don’t want or need all those extra functions. Plus, the more functions you get, typically the more you will pay too. The Garmin Nuvi 255W is easy to use, provides accurate directions and still has several other features and is inexpensive for those on a budget or those who just like getting a good deal.

Tagged with: •

Filed under: GPS Reviews

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!