Well, after seeing how nicely the hand-held units are, and considering the expense and vulnerability of the fixed aftermarket version. I'm stuck between these two Navigation gadgets...

Yeah, I know I don't need them (Rand McNally & MapQuest), but, hey, I like toys...

So, here are the two I've nailed it down to. If you have experience with these, or a preference/reason why one is better than another- feel free to elaborate.


Circuit City:


Mio DigiWalker™ C310x GPS Navigation (C310X)

Maps included: The C310x comes complete with preloaded maps of the entire US (including Alaska and Hawaii) to make sure that you're up and running right away.

Large display: The large 3.5" screen has 65,000 colors to display mapping information in crisp color.

Touch screen: Navigate the menus easily with the touch-screen interface.

Voice guidance: The DigiWalker C310x will give you audible directions while you're navigating, eliminating the need to look at the unit so you can keep your eyes on the road.

Stylish design: Completely self-contained and portable, the C310x slips easily into a pocket or purse.

Audio player: Play audio books or MP3s for education and entertainment on the road.

Expansion module: This navigation unit also features an integrated SD memory card slot so it's easy to carry your entire music collection with you. (If they can figure out a way to wire this into my stereo, I'm really sold...)


Best Buy:


Ready for TomTom PLUS services, including real-time traffic information, 5-day weather forecasts and more (additional fees may be required)

High-sensitivity SiRF Star III GPS receiver with support for an external antenna

Clear, accurate turn-by-turn voice instructions with voice prompts; door-to-door navigation in the US and Canada with millions of preloaded points of interest

USB connection for charging, updates and downloads

Plug-and-play design makes it ready to use right out of the box

Compact design for easy transportation from car to car

Rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 2 hours of battery life

Secure Digital card, windshield mount, car charger, USB cable and software included

 

I received one of these from a friend - I was skeptical, but I travel heavily for work and it has performed FLAWLESSLY all over the US, including Dallas on Monday of this week !

http://www.nextar.com/frontend/prodd...35&co=10000312

Take a look - I see them brand new on eBay all the time for less than $200.

Comes with the windshield mount, a dash mount, 12V charger and carrying pouch. It operates just like the more expensive units - touchscreen, etc.

If you just want a portable for casual use, it may fit the bill quite nicely.

PS. It uses the Navteq software, do it is very much like Neverlost...

 

I can tell you I'm partial to Garmin because I did my research before I purchased one. The MIO is not worth your money. Go with the Tom Tom if you don't get Garmin. I can tell you from personal experience lately (last two weeks) Garmin's customer service is stellar. I would have bought their product just for the service I recieved. Do your homework and you will find that the Tom-Tom that you have pictured is pretty good. But they are based in Europe. I chose my Garmin nuvi because they are based in Kansas and use Navteq nav software (much better for North America). Plus everywhere i looked for reviews my garmin was always at the top (along with the Tom-Tom). So good luck and do your homework!

 

Garmin baby! That Nuvi ktexas mentioned is bad ****. I have a Garmin 2820 that is badged as the BMW Nav III. Got it with my motorcycle. Came with a car kit to boot, so I can yank it from the bike and take it in the truck. I love it. Great interface, dead nuts accurate but sometimes annoys me on the path it routes. It reroutes very quickly however when I go my own way..

Anywho, they are not needed but sure are fun!!! Just get one!

 

Garmin nuvi 350 all the way!!!!! Check it out!!!

 

Garmin Nuvi 350! I have had mine a couple of weeks and it is flawless. Walmart has them on the floor for $488.74 and I got Circuit City to price match it. CC was $599.99 on the floor. I'm not much on online sales to get a lower price, but then waiting for delivery. Cheapest online price I saw was also WW at $454.

Called Garvin on a Monday and ordered a second mounting kit w/power cord. Had it on Wednesday. Makes pursuits so much easier to look at my Nuvi and see cross streets instead of looking for missing street signs!