Garmin Nuvi 200
The Garmin Nuvi 200 series has started to hit store shelves, and we’ve finally put enough miles on our Nuvi 200 to produce a comprehensive review. As the name implies, the Nuvi 200 series is designed to set a new mark for the entry level Nuvi series. Many have speculated that this new series will be a replacement for the StreetPilot “c” series. Here is what we think of the Nuvi 200, and where it fits into the bigger picture of auto GPS devices.
Physical
The Nuvi 200 is almost the exact same size as the Nuvi 300 series. It has virtually the same width and height, but is just a sliver thinner than the 300 models. It also comes in at virtually the same weight.
Like its siblings there is a power button across the top, but the operation of this power button has changed. Rather than a push style button it is a slider. You slide the button to the left and release to turn the power on or off. You can also move the slider to the right that locks input to the device, much like a hold button on an iPod. I’m not really sure why a hold button is necessary on this device unless they have it in mind for the pedestrian mode. Perhaps they will use this on future Nuvi models which include an MP3 player (The Nuvi 200 does not include an MP3 player).
The SD card slot has moved from the right side to the left side. If I had a choice I would prefer it on the right since sometimes I place the GPS up against the left side of the dash, but without an MP3 player it isn’t likely you would use the SD card slot all that much anyway, so no big deal. The right side and bottom have no buttons or connectors. The only other item is the USB/power connector that has been moved from the right side to the back of the Nuvi 200. Since there is no MP3 player there is no headphone jack.
The only other physical difference is that Garmin has finally gotten rid of the “flip up” GPS antenna. As much as I didn’t like the flip up design, being able to disable the GPS did have some advantages. The other Nuvi devices can only calculate routes starting at your current location unless you perform a weird workaround of disabling the GPS, setting a new location, and then calculating a route. Without a way to disable the GPS on the Nuvi 200 series, even that long workaround becomes impossible. I often fly for work and I like to calculate how long it will take to get from my destination airport to the hotel. This isn’t possible with the Nuvi 200 series.
Mount
Another interesting change in the 200 series is the suction cup mount. I’ve praised the mount on the 300 series as being the absolute best mount in the industry. Unfortunately Garmin changed the mount slightly in the new Nuvi series. The mount is still easy to assemble, easy to adjust thanks to the ball and socket joint, compact, and a nice simple design. What sets the other mount apart is that the power cord connects to the mount and then the mount feeds power to the Nuvi. That is gone in the 200 series and instead the power cord connects directly to the device. So now when you take the GPS off the mount you also need to disconnect the power cable and have a power cable dangling inside your car. It just isn’t as clean as the mount for the 300 series.
Screen
A 3.5″ touch screen display powers the Nuvi 200. This screen is BRIGHT! It is brighter than the screen on the 300 series and is visible from a wider viewing angle. The whites are extremely white and bright sunlight never made the Nuvi screen difficult to read. The screen is one area where the Nuvi 200 performs better than the 300 series. This is one of the best 3.5″ screens I’ve seen.
Under the hood the Nuvi has a very powerful chipset which had no trouble quickly acquiring a signal within my office, kept a strong signal, and never dropped out when near tall buildings.
A few of the menu items have been rearranged a little bit if you are used to other Nuvi designs, but not so much that they make an important difference in function. The “Where to?” menu has been changed to include a separate button for Points of Interest rather than cramming them all into the parent menu. This is a welcome change and makes it easier to access the buttons for intersections, cities, browsing the map, etc. And if you need to use the Nuvi 200 for emergency geocaching events it will navigate to a set of coordinates.
Navigating to an Address
Setting up Navigation to an address has changed very little. The buttons have a little bit of a more modern looking design and are more rounded than the squarish buttons on other Nuvis. When it asks for a state the Nuvi still can’t figure out that when I type in “NY” I mean “New York”. Instead it insists on me typing in “N E W _ Y” before it figures out where I want to go. Likewise the rest of the process is the same as it asks you next for the city, then house number, and finally the street name. After finding the address you click the ‘Go’ button and you are on your way.
Navigation to a POI
As mentioned earlier, there is now a dedicated menu button for POIs. The POIs are still not arranged in alphabetical order, but thankfully there are only fourteen primary categories to choose from. Many of the categories like ‘Food’ do include sub menus. In the case of food you can select from about 20 different categories of food to suit your tastes.
The display of search results has also changed on the Nuvi 200 series. The 300 series shows you five results on one screen, lists the name, and straight line distance from your location. The Nuvi 200 series only displays four results per page, but includes the street address (but not town) in smaller print below the title. Personally the town name might be more helpful than the street here, but the important note is that more detail is shown at the sacrifice of one fewer result per page. Clicking on one of the results will display the phone number as well as town of that particular POI, along with a Go button to route to that location or a save button to save it to your Favorites.
Navigating
While navigating the next turn information is displayed in text across the top of the display. I’d still like a nice big graphical arrow showing the next turn somewhere, but I’ve learned to live without it on the Nuvi devices. At the bottom left is a field showing you your estimated arrival time. At the bottom right you are shown the distance to the next turn. Clicking on this button will show you a text display of your next instruction, a zoomed in view of the intersection, a voice prompt will read the distance to turn and the direction of the next turn and the estimated time to that intersection. People seem to be split in their preference of wanting to see “distance to turn” or “time to turn” on the primary display, but you only have the option of seeing distance. There is also no way to see the amount of time you have left to your destination!. Kinda sad that this GPS won’t tell you how long (in time) it will take to get there unless you do the math between the estimated arrival time and the current time.
Voice Quality
The speaker is plenty loud and I could clearly hear instructions at highway speeds with the radio on at normal levels and the windows cracked. It isn’t quite as loud as the speaker on the Nuvi 300 series, but it performed just fine. There is no text-to-speech option on the Nuvi 200 series, but the voice prompting was timely and of very good quality.
Advanced Features
Like the rest of the Nuvi series, the point of this device is simplicity. As a result there are routing features you might want that are not included in the Nuvi 200 series. As mentioned above you cannot set your starting location when calculating routes so you can’t plan ahead unless you are already at your starting location. There is a simple detour function but unlike the detour function on most other devices you cannot specify how far ahead you wan tot detour from the current route.
Likewise there is no ability to specify a group of destinations or multiple via points and build them into one route. You can specify one via point per route, but no more than one.
Purchasing Advice
The Nuvi 200 series is a great simple device. It has an absolutely amazing screen, the voice prompts are easy to interpret, and the map is very easy to follow. If your navigation needs are simple and you just want to get a device that will remind you of turns and take you to new destinations, the Nuvi 200 would be a great choice.
It does have some limitations though. There is no advanced planning function, no multiple destination routing, and a detour function that is too simple to be utilized. But hey, you do get a calculator, currency converter, picture viewer, unit converter, and a world clock. (Slight sarcasm.) It would be worth comparing the Nuvi 200 with the slightly older Nuvi 350.
They both have the same screen size, similar physical size, similar weight, nearly the same interface, similar battery life, and most of the same navigation functions. But the Nuvi 350 offers maps of all of North America (the 200 only has the US 48, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico), the ability to connect to a traffic receiver, an MP3 player, text-to-speech, and small case included. You get all of those extra features and based on current prices you will actually pay less for the Nuvi 350 than the Nuvi 200. I expect that within a few months the Nuvi 200 prices will drop below that of the 350, but for now why pay $40 more for a device that has less features?
If the ability to have more advanced routing features is important, compare the Nuvi 200 vs the TomTom ONE. The Garmin Nuvi 200 isn’t a bad GPS by any means, it is an extremely solid performer, but the pricing is what will make or break this GPS for many people.
| Store | Rating | Best Prices |
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Compare all prices on the Garmin Nuvi 200 Auto GPS ranging from $119.99 to $199.00. | ||
 |  In Stock at ActionGPS.com | $134.95 |
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Just a word about the Advance Planning, it can be done on the nuvi 200 series. I have a nuvi 250 (firmware version 2.40) but this should apply to the 200 as well. There’s a settings option to turn off the GPS (menu->wrench->settings->system->GPS Simulator->on). After you do this, you can use the workaround as mentioned above.
Also it is possible to check total time until you reach destination.
Just click the text on top of the screen and then View map.
I have a problem navigating with an address. It does not seem to recognise any on the towns in Malaysia.
BY the way mine is a Nuvi 200
I received this as a Father’s Day gift when visiting my daughter in CA. Within a short time I was able, without maps or written directions, to drive to Half-Moon Bay, Napa wine Country and other places with ease. Problem: home in AZ it doesn’t list some small towns and if I do not list an address, there is a problem. So, I just devise an address… Also, I checked and there are no updates for my serial number; however, we have major changes on I-10 (Tucson) not recognized. Once I take the detour, Nuvi 200 “recalculates” with no problem. This is a wonderful driving helper! I highly recommend it because it is SIMPLE and portable.
hi there just want to say i have just purchased the nuvi 200 and all these other functions duch as mp3 players and bluetooth do you realyneed them?i find its user friendly software and simple small desgn is perfect!only garmin needs to be more open with maps as many people get fustrated after buying a gps and find that it dosent work in there country!
can the nuvi 200 be set to display current speed when driving please?
Yes, but not on the same screen as the map view.
For what it costs it works pretty good. [snip] Voice is clear, display is great. 4Hrs on batt charge. So how do you update the maps in a few years???
1. For Malaysia, you can’t use “address” - this is for USA. But, you can, at POI, “spell name”, enter the road name, like “Tun Razak J” or just “Tun Razak” and it will search for the road or others begin or end with Tun Razak. (J stands for Jalan)
2. For current car speed, you can tap on the lower left to switch another page showing all the meters….including current speedometer.
In the review the complaint is no arrow for the turns….How big an arrow does he want? My Nuvi 200 has a very prominent arrow that points out the turns! I’m very pleased with my unit, but would have liked some mounting options beside the suction cup.
I want an arrow in one corner of the screen which always points the direction in the next intersection. Almost every other GPS on the market has this other than the Garmin devices. Yes, the Nuvi does display an arrow on the map itself on top of the street, but that only does you good when you are close to the intersection. I want to know further ahead what direction the next turn is with a visual indicator.
Arrows: by touching TOP of the screen (which shows the next route), you can see Three Upcoming Route, with ARROWS (reading Top Down); presseing BACK again with resume to the orignal MAP page;
Hong, yes. I’d love it if that arrow, but a bit smaller, was on the primary map display. I’d rather not touch the GPS to get that information while trying to drive at the same time.
Does this run off of car power to recharge the batteries i.e. does it plug into the car or does it stop working if I am on a 10 hr trip?
Yes, there is a car charger.
Just bought a Garmin 200. Have not used it yet. Can you tell me if it audibly (sp) gives names of up-coming streets?
is the SD slot used for future map updates?
Karl, the 200 doesn’t include “text to speech”. The most similar model that does is the Nuvi 260.
Mark, map updates typically override the maps in the internal memory. You could however use the SD card slot to add maps of a region not already covered on the device.
I get very frustrated trying to figure out something (a common driving experience) like “How do I get back to route 10″. If you put Route 10 in the address it won’t work. It wants to know the town first and what if I don’t know what town I want? ANyway to have it find a numbered route?
“Address” is only applicable to USA. If you wish to find a road, like “Route 10″, you have to search from POI, and then spell the name. It all depends on data in the origianl map whether the name of the roads exist. None of the Map is perfect!
I found the Nuvi 200 often worse than useless. Final straw was when it took me a half-mile beyond the restaurant address I was seeking in Waco and I ended up lost and late to meet my colleagues. At least half the places I tried to navigate to in OK and TX were not found. Although my hotel was in it’s database, the address was on the wrong highway. A great screen, easy menu, good voice instructions and a super accessory dashboard-top mount are of little use if the unit can’t get you where you want to go. BestBuy gives a 30-day return with 15% restocking fee. They’ve got it back and my life is a lot better for it. I won’t be buying another Garmin to replace it, either.
Richard, beware that the grass is probably not greener on the other side. As you mentioned most of the issues you had were with the mapping, not the device itself. Mapping is an issue regardless of device. Here in North America all of the GPS manufacturers use one of two vendors to provide their maps and most POIs. So even getting a device from a different manufacturer can get you a device with different functionality, but the exact same maps with the exact same issues. And even if you get a device which uses maps from the other major mapping vendor you will still run into those issues from time to time.
I’m not trying to talk you into keeping the Nuvi 200, but just making sure to set your expectations of what other devices will deliver.
Tim, that’s important information. I wonder if there are varying levels of mapping detail from the two source map providers. The Nuvi 200 has a pretty small memory, and no ability to accept maps from CD like higher-end Garmin’s.
I’m thinking about the Tom Tom Rider 2 or Lowrance i600. Both are waterproof and will work on my motorcycle as well as car. I like the itinerary feature of Tom Tom and the marine map and satellite imagery feature of the Lowrance.
I did download some software called ExpertGPS to build my own waypoints for the Nuvi 200 and that worked well. Do the Tom Tom or Lowrance also accept .wpx files for personal waypoints? Your’s is a fine website and the comment responses are super.
Hi Richard, the mapping detail is pretty much identical for a given line of devices. For example the most expensive Nuvi will have the same road database as the 200. There can be small differences, but those differences are generally things like the number of lakes/rivers shown, but not something like the precision of addresses or locations of streets.
The TomTom devices can also accept custom POIs, and there are tools online where you can convert custom POI databases built for Garmin devices into the TomTom format. I don’t recall if custom POIs are available for the Lowrance devices, but I believe they are available there too.
what’s the difference between the Maps of North America and US 48? I live in NYC and I travel everywhere (north east, south, west). Is the map in the 200 able to cover cities and highways in the US or not? Am I supposed to buy or download more details into the unit to get to an address in Phoenix as well as in Washington DC? Thank you for your answer and my compliments for your site
“North America” means the maps cover all of North America, i.e. the United States and Canada. “US 48″ means the maps cover just the 48 continental United States.
I am new to the GPS world and looking at the 200. The “Traffic Option” - that tells you a better route if there are delays or construction?
Yes, however the Nuvi 200 doesn’t have an available traffic receiver.
Just got the Nuvi 200. I like the unit but would like to add some additional voices other than the default. Is that possible?
looking at buying first gps unit…either TomTom One, or Nuvi 200? don’t need all bells and whistles, but advanced planning would be a good thing. recommendations?
Brad - Not that I know of.
Chaz - If you need advanced planning then the TomTom ONE is the way to go.
Does SD data card, City Navigator Australia NT or Mapsource City Navigator Australia work on the Nuvi 200?
The guy in the office next to mine purchased the 200 and loves it. I am considering getting one as well. The thing is, the first address I asked him to put in the unit to see if it ‘works’ would not come up. The street (Logan Way) in Youngstown, OH does not show up either. It has been in existence more than 25 years. This makes me wonder about the unit, although, as has been indicated in other comments, this is not necessarily the unit’s fault. Should Garmin be made aware of shortcomings like this, or the map vendor? Also, do you have an opinion on the ‘Traction’ mount which sits on the dashboard and can be removed easily? Can these units be left in a hot car? I had a Wayfinder compass which seemed to have a meltdown during warm weather. Thanks for the information and the site.
Dave - Yes, either will work. The SD card can be more convenient if you don’t already have an SD card.
Bob - Sometimes it comes down to not being familiar with how to search for addresses. I found Logan Way in Youngstown on my Nuvi 200 without any problems. You will find map errors though with any GPS and the best thing to do is notify the vendor.
I’m sure the owner’s manual specifies some sort of temperature storage limit. I haven’t had a problem with any device itself being left in a hot car, however I’ve had a few suction cup mounts melt to the windshield.
The friction mounts work very well. You can read comments about them from here, here, and here.
Tim,
Thank you very much for your prompt response and for the review links.
Bob
Can the 200 series be used to put in a coordinate for a destination.
I checked out vent mounts for the nuvi 200 as suggested by links in earlier post. Some say they have ’swivel’ mounts, while others advertise ’stabilizer bars’. Some even call themselves ‘high end’. Some units are more than 3 times the price of other ones. Are they all basically the same?
Thomas - Yes, you can enter coordinates as a destination (Where to -> Coordinates) however depending on what you are trying to do it can sometimes give some odd results/routes if the destination is too far from an existing road.
Can you change the position format and the map datum as well to for exemple RT90 (Swidish Grid)?
You can change the coordinate format, I don’t believe you can change the datum.
Ok, thanks Tim for your help.
The latest update from Garmin has “log tracking” (touch “speed” from main map & hold down speedometer dial for 10 seconds). You can also use track logs to reset your start position. Also get the Bravo GPS chip update through “web-updater” if you don’t have it.(top of the list). -Locks on satellites much faster now.
I just got my nuvi 200, and I remember seeing something about downloading new voices when I was playing with it last night. Now I can’t find it. I’ve done a bunch of searches on google as well as at the Garmin site to no avail. Can someone please tell me if there’s a way to get new voices?
Truman, use Garmins “web updater” to see the voice updates for the 200. Check Garmin.com/vehicles for new vehicles for all nuvi’s (check out the new “Christmas sled”. -Ron
What is the chip GPS chip set for 200 or 250 and what is the processor speed of 200/250 compare with the new 750/770
Charles, Garmin hasn’t released those specs and we haven’t yet independently confirmed any of them.
Ron - Thanks for the info. It sounds like you are telling me that the only way to get new voices for the nuvi is when Garmin creates them and makes them available?
Truman, there are some 3rd-party voices available however I would stay with the Garmin site. Also check the gpspassion site for more detailed info regarding nuvi’s. -Ron
Is this the latest version map for the nuvi 200:
NT 2008
Dave, yes that is the latest map available from Garmin for your device. According to Garmin it is based on the NAVTEQ Q3 or Q4 2006 release.
Is it possible to create a custom route with the nuvi 200, manually selecting the roads for your trip?
No, unfortunately it is not. Sometimes you can force the route you want by selecting a cleverly placed “via” point, but otherwise no.
I have a TomTom that I bought a 3 years ago. I got a sticker shock when I tried to update the maps. It looks like it may be cheaper to buy a new unit - so I am considering the Garmin Nuvi. Does anyone have any comments on the cost of updating maps for Garmin?
Alam - If you qualify for an update from Garmin, as opposed to needing to purchase a full map product, the cost is typically about $75. The full map product is about $150.
Thanks for the info Ron.
Why Garmin don’t want to release GPS chipset information of the 200 series. Is it that because they use a cheaper or not the most update tech chipset than others?
Charls, not listing a specific chipset is becoming more and more common from all manufacturers recently. I suspect they might be wanting to help get rid of the notion that the SiRFstarIII is the only good chipset out there (it isn’t, others have caught up) or so that they could make a change in mid production without needing to update specs.
Does the Nuvi 200 come with a USB cable and a Mapsource CD so that you can put in waypoints on a computer then transfer them to the unit?
Thnaks
It doesn’t, Scott. You need to purchase those extra.
Is it difficult to put in waypoints with this unit?
Thanks again!
What types of things are you referring to as waypoints?
Tim, using the via point option to force a route the nuvi 200 temporarily takes me off the main highway and then brings me back to the main highway to continue my trip. When I actually take the trip I will ignore the via point route instructions that temporarily take me off the main highway and continue on the main highway. Will the nuvi 200 just recalculate the trip once I by pass that via point and have me continue along the main highway?
I’m not completely sure I’m following you because I’m not sure why you would put in a via point if you don’t want to go there. However it won’t make you go back to the via point once you have reached it.
Tim, the via point was only used to force the route because I wanted to create a custom route to my destination. Thanks.
I was wondering if you could point to a spot on a road or highway ( on the touch screen ) and have the unit go to that spot. You see, I had a Streetpilot 2610 which had that option.
Yes, you can. From the Map view you can zoom out, then click on a location, and click GO. You can also select Where to -> Browse Map -> click on a location, and click Go.
Thank you!
I have been trying to update a the latest map on my nuvi 200. I went to the Garmin site and downloaded the webupdater and downloaded from that the latest updates. Is this how I update the maps?..or am I doing it wrong?.. because it doesnt work. The map is still out of date and doesnt contain new roads and takes me to petrol stations that have been shut down for ages etc…
Plz help. Thanks.
Kes, those programs won’t update the map. You would need to purchase the map update on CD/DVD from Garmin (called City Navigator NT) if you don’t already have the most recent available from them.
Is there a address book in Nuvi 200, searchable by names?
Can I see the coordinates for a location? If I can’t what is closest models that will show?
Thanks
Hi Tim, I am new to the GPS world…I am interested in the Nuvi 200 but was wondering if there are any others in the market that would be a better bet as a starter product or if this would be a good start…I know some of the top lined models do practically everything, but I don’t think I am at that level yet…thanks.
Ararat - There is an address book. It is sorted, and you can search it. You can’t see coordinates for a location unless you are already there as far as I know.
Naveen - The Nuvi would be a great place to start, as would these devices.
Am thinking of getting a GPS and have heard (and read here) that the nuvi 200 is good entry level. I do a lot of back road motorcycling … I come to a cross road and don’t know where the side roads lead to. Can I scroll right / left on the display to see where roads go (ie lead to a dead end, etc)?
Does the Nuvi 200 give local information like restaurants and hotels?
Art - Yes, you can scroll the map.
Mary - Yes, it does have POIs.
For Author Jerry Osser:
As a use of Nuvi 200 since receiving it as a Father’s Day gift. I strongly support your comments. It continues to make my driving so much easier. Incidentally with my bad hearing I have the sound up to 100 percent and appreciate the voice guidance. I named her “Hortense”. I do have a question: Since we in Arizona do not have daylight savings time, I keep the time zone on Pacific - that’s now one hour earlier. Is there a way to keep it on MY time zone?
I enjoy the comments section very much.
I have the Nuvi 200. Is there any way to verify what version of maps is loaded on the unit. I purchased the unit in mid-September. Also, how does the unit calculate the route to take? Sometimes it seems as if it is not the most direct route, is it based on time or distance?
Thank you
John, you can check your map version by going to Tools -> Settings -> Map -> Map Info. ‘City Navigator … 2008′ is the most recent.
Route calculations take into consideration many factors. Obviously the speed limit of the road times the distance will give you an estimated time which is the primary way it determines the fastest way, but also things like knowing that any turn you need to make will take time, thus fewer turns should make for a faster route all other things being equal. Even things like right turns are known to be faster than left turns because left turns typically require crossing traffic.
Can I use my Garmin 200 on my motorcycle. I know its not water proof and thats not a problem. Can the unit itself stand up to the vibration.
Thanks for your last reply, Tim. I have come down to either the TTOne LE or the Nuvi 200…which one do you prefer? (I am leaning towards the TTOne…)
Mike, I think I just answered your question in the forums.
Naveen, Both are excellent picks in this category.
You can select Tools (spanner symbol) and select setting to see your system. Actually you may install webupdater provided free by Garmin and when you connect your Nuvi 200 (using USB cable), it will update automatically, when there is any new version. I have done it before.
Is there a way of checking the satellite status in the nuvi 200?
Ramanesh, on the top left corner of the main menu there is a satellite reception icon. If bars are in red it is still trying to get a signal. Also during that time the top of the map view will say ‘Locating Satellites’. Once it has reception the quality will be shown in the top left of the main menu again, but with the bars in green. More bars = better reception.
Tim, thanks for your speedy answer. I understand what you’re saying, but I mean is there a way to check the satellite status on the nuvi 200? I know it is possible on the nuvi 200w.
Ramanesh - Unfortunately the 200 currently does not have the detailed satellite status “map” page the other nuvi’s have, just the signal bar Tim mentioned. But the latest firmware updates from Garmin lock on and hold satellites much better now, so it is not really an issue for me. (Be sure to get the latest “Bravo” sat chip flash update using Garmins’ “Web Updater”) -Ron
Thanks for the info Ron. My nuvi 200 is with a SIRF chipset and has the firmware version 3.40 which is the latest, I think.
I HAVE RECENTLY AQUIRED A NUVI 200 AND HAVE BEEN GENERALLY SATISFIED. THE PROBLEM I’M HAVING IS WHEN I PLUG IN THE POWER CABLE FROM MY VEHICLE THE DISPLAY JUMPS FROM WHEREEVER IT IS TO A STATIC SCREEN SHOWING THE ICON ONE SEES WHEN ITS PLUGGED INTO A COMPUTER FOR UPDATES. IF I DONT USE THE POWER CABLE ITS WORKS PERFECTLY. MY QUESTION IS IS THE POWER CABLE ONLY USED TO CHARGE THE UNIT AND THEN DISCONNECTED, OR IS THE UNIT SUPPOSED TO HAVE THE POWER CABLE CONNECTED AT ALL TIMES WHEN IN USE.
Remember all - The “Bravo” chip flash update is listed separately from the 3.40 firmware update. It should be listed at the top of the Web-updater list (above the new voices, etc.)(Note: Bravo is Garmin’s version code name for the satellite chipset found most new nuvi 200’s today).
Sean, if your device is going into USB mode when you plug it into the cigarette lighter then most likely it isn’t getting the proper voltage. Most GPS devices determine if they are being charged or if they are plugged into a computer by the voltage. I’ve seen this several times before and in every case either the cigarette lighter wasn’t producing the proper voltage or the device was being plugged into a cigarette lighter splitter or some other device rather than going directly into the car.
This is an excellent website, I am currrently in the market for either a Tom Tom one or a Nuvi 200, after reading all the preceding post, I am more confused as to which brand to buy. I did recently receive a ViaMichelin X-930, I have just started using it and it does have some of the features that some of you had said Garmin does not do such as pre-planning route, any comments on this unit?
I bought a nuvi 200 for my wife and havent recieved it yet. I bought online and say that there were no maps for canada. So I bought a tom tom sd card that has the maps, it didn’t even dawn on me that they might not be compatible, are they?
If I buy a brand new nuvi 200 during thanksgiving from any store, can I expect to find the latest map version preloaded on it?
Joe, those are popular in Europe but haven’t made much of a splash yet here. I don’t have much info on them.
John-david: no, those maps won’t be compatible. Each manufacturer has their own proprietary map format.
Sri - You are not 100% guaranteed, but I’d be very shocked if it didn’t.
RON–WHAT CAN I DO TO ADD MAPS OF CANADA TO MY NUVI WHICH HAS MAPS OF “NORTH AMERICA” ?? AS SOON AS I CROSS THE BORDER IT LEAVES A LOT TO BE DESIRED THANKS — **YOU HAVE A VERY INFORMATIVE SITE **
If I have saved a point to favourites, where do I read its coordinates?
Murray, on the nuvi 200, first switch on gps simulator, then go to your desired favorite location and tap on show map, then tap on set loc. then go al the way back to the main screen and tap on view map, and then tap on the car icon to get your coordinates..simple as that.
Jan, you can purchase them from Garmin.
Do you know the internal storage capacity of this unit? Is it 2gb like most of their newer units, or 1?
Can you use this unit just as a GPS, without navigating to a destination? I really don’t like the turn-by-turn directions on GPS units, but would still like to see a map of where I’m at, versus having it try to map my destination.
David - I don’t have it with me to confirm but I think you are correct.
Van - Yes.
I am considering the Magellan 3200 and the nuvi 200. This is my first GPS purchase, so I am not sure if I am comparing the critical features accurately. The nuvi 200 is described on Best Buy’s website as having download capability, while the Magellan system is listed as not having this capability. Why would this be an important feature? Any help would sincerely be appreciated.
Pat, I have no idea what they could be referring to.
Bought the parents Garmin Nuvi 200 - they live in central Minn and have been having issues with dropped satellite coverage in MN and on travels to Montana. Any hints or updates suggested?
Cheryl - See comment #60 on the 760 page. A reset (described in the manual) beforehand can also help. GPS comes from satellites, not terrestrial sources, so as long as you are on Earth and have a view of the sky you should get good reception.
Tim, during Black Friday, I bought a TomTom 3rd edition, and someone also bought a Garmin Nuvi 200 for me. I’m going to return one of them, but not sure which. There are several things that are important to me.
Map accuracy is probably the most important, of course. I’ve read a lot about how Tele Atlas comes in second place when compared to Navtek, and would love your opinion on this.
Second is the number of POIs. I tried looking up the # of POIs for both of these units, and I see anything from 2 million to 6 million for either one. That’s a WIDE range!
Third, I’d love to be able to add changes in the map to my unit. Basically, I like Mapshare. I know this comes with the TomTom, but I don’t think the Garmin 200 has anything like this, but I’m not certain. This is imporant to me for one big reason– I live in the middle of a block, but right next to my house is a government-installed gate that basically separate the “old” part of the street from the “new” part of the street. Only gov’t types have a key to this gate. Because of this, I’m forced around the block just to get to the other side of the gate, and online maps like Mapquest and Google don’t realize this. If I want to reach a main road, thye just tell me to simply go down the street past the gate, and that’s physically impossible. I’m guessing the TomTom would allow me to make this change onto my GPS, but can I make a similar change on the Garmin? Thanks!!
Dave - Tele Atlas Versus NAVTEQ Article. Most of the GPS manufacturers don’t provide exact numbers of POIs installed, which I agree is a pain. Keep in mind that 2 million versus 6 million is still a tiny fraction of all known POIs. Garmin doesn’t have anything like TomTom’s MapShare at this time. The current Garmin map is based off the Q3 or Q4 2006 release from NAVTEQ.
Tim, I read the article. Seeing as how Tele Atlas is on par, or superior to, NAVTEQ in locating addresses, AND it allows for Mapshare, I don’t see why the TomTom doesn’t win HANDS DOWN in this comparison.
There is one thing that I don’t think was addressed in your article, though, and that is the intelligence of the systems in finding routes. I read a review of the TomTom that praised all aspects of the unit EXCEPT its ability to find the best route. In the review, both the Garmin and TomTom could find both the “to” and “from” addresses with ease, but the routes taken were different; and the Garmin was clearly shorter. Can you share your opinion on this?
Finally, I feel like I’m still unclear on this. I understand that Garmin doens’t have something that’s the equivalent of Mapshare, but is the user at least able to update a map/destination in his own unit permanently? I mentioned the gate in my street that essentially makes my house at the end of a cul-de-sac. If the unit can’t recognize that, it’s a BIG minus. Thanks again.
David,
the built in memory of the nuvi 200 is 256MB, but the memory can be expanded with an SD card up to a maximum size of 2GB.
Dave - Comparing routes is tricky business. In my article comparing addresses I used a sample size of several hundred and was criticized for not having enough of a sample. Comparing routes on that scale is very difficult. Consider this. How many times have you seen, or participated in a debate about the “best” way to get from point A to B. Everyone has their own opinion… ask 10 people their roue from A to B and you will often get several errors. You might find this interesting. After all of my years working with GPS I can find routes that are poorly created (in my opinion) on any GPS.
In the example of your street, you cannot change where the street numbers are, but you can create favorites based on their actual location (coordinates) rather than the physical address. But no, you can’t change anything about the underlying map.
I live in Alaska. Garmin handheld works great, so I know coverage is good. Problem is adding maps to the Nuvi 200. Do I have to buy a chip for ~ $139, or is there a cheaper method to add maps for AK? Almost doubles the (Holiday sales) price. Thanks.
Tim, do you know if the current production of Garmin Nuvi 200 units come with new 2008 maps or outdated ones from a couple years back? I just bought it at a major retailer on BF.
I just realized that Garmin’s website doesn’t list a USB cable as being part included “in the box”. I haven’t gotten my Nuvi in hand yet so I can’t confirm this, but how can that be? If I want to get any sort of updates or downloads, I guess I’ll have to buy this separately
Frank - Depending on how long you’ve had it an the return policy you would likely be better off with the Nuvi 250 which includes Alaska and Canada. Otherwise you are correct.
Dave - I believe the new production models are shipping with 2008. Of course 2008 is a bit of a misnomer because that product is based on the NAVTEQ map release from the second half of 2006.
Dave - Correct, no USB cable in the box. If you have a digital camera there is a good chance it is the same cable. (USB to mini USB.)
I was having “buyers remorse” with the 200, until I found this site. WHEW! It sounds like a fine “entry level” GPS. Think I’ll still keep the Rand McNally atlas for a while, though. Thanks
Is there an after-market battery charger (wall) to use for the 200 instead of the cigarette lighter charger that comes in the box? Hard to believe this isn’t standard equipment since one feature is “pedestrian”. Thanks!
Hal - You could pick up an inverter at an electronics store or purchase the Garmin AC adapter. The part number for the Garmin AC adapter you would need is 010-10723-00.
I recieved the NUVI 200 as a birthday present from my brother. I am interested in using it for GeoCaching. Will this unit allow me to load Delorme Topo-USA? Will it allow me to download waypoints from the GeoCaching website?
John, you won’t find the Nuvi 200 very useful for geocaching. It isn’t designed for outdoor use and creates routes on roads.
Great review! Curious, so far the device is working fantastic; however, I am wondering how to get POIs to show up while I am driving. For example, the fork along the highway. I have been through the device numerous times and just cant figure it out.
Again, so far the device has been amazing. There are several insurances when I could not find a particular POI, but found another that was similar.
Michael - You actually can’t do that on the Nuvi devices. They don’t display POI icons in the map view like many other companies do.
Thanks Tim for the quick reply. That is interesting because a sales clerk was able to get it to work on a 200w. It was not a POI icon, but just plain symbols like a fork representing a restaurant. Are you sure it is not capable on a 200?
Thanks again!
Michael, you can see POI icons (including the one you mentioned) in the 2D mode while browsing/panning the map, but not in the 3D driving mode. That applies to the 200W as well.
Tim,
We had a chance to use Garmin C330, loved it. Bought us a Delphi Nav 200, thinking all GPS are same … not! It takes about 5-10 seconds to load up the page, everytime. The screen freezes too. Now, we got Garmin Nuvi 200, and need to know if it is fast in loading up the page, I mean is it at least as fast as C330?
And what would you get C330 or Nuvi 200?
Thank you in advance!
Tim, do you know if it’s possible to “hard reset” the nuvi so that it’s completely restored to factory settings? Like some others here, I bought both the TomTom LE and the nuvi 200 on Black Friday. I’d like to test the nuvi (if even just for a day or 2) and possibly return it, but the store has a 15% restocking fee. Unlike the TomTom the nuvi comes in a regular, unsealed box so it can be repackaged. However the CSR at the store said they will turn on the nuvi to see if has been used. I couldn’t test the reset of the nuvi in the store display unit.
BTW, I know the TomTom does a full reset, but it doesn’t matter because I am using it and plan to keep it (or give it to my parents if I like the nuvi better).
I just bought the Nuvi 200 and informed the sales person that I was from Canada. He assured me that it would work in Canada. I tried it out on my way back yesterday and I wasn’t able to find simple locations like the Airport in Mississauga. When I type in the province of Ontario, it doesn’t recognize it. What should I do to ensure that it works correctly. Thanks.
Shakil - Yes, the Nuvi 200 will be as fast as your c330. I’d prefer it over the c330 because of the more sensitive GPS chipset.
zkam - Page 9 of the user manual details the reset options.
Deb - If you purchased the Nuvi 200 in the States it doesn’t include Canadian map coverage.
Does the Nuvi 200 charge (when plugged into my car) all the time or just when the unit is turned off? If all the time, does it charge slower when it’s turned on? And, how long to fully charge the Nuvi’s battery from almost dead (again, charging in the car). And what the heck is the “GPS Simulator”? Thanks.
John - Yes, it charges all of the time. It does charge slower when turned on, but not by too much. Full charges will probably take 3-4 hours from completely dead. The GPS simulator allows you to preview/simulate the drive as if you were moving along the route.
Hi, I couldn’t find a forum for Nuvi260, so I thought I’d give it a try posting my question here. I’ve just got my new Nuvi260 and I’m wondering if I can charge the battery by connecting it to my PC or I have to do it with my car? If PC works, how long to fully charge the battery from almost dead? I read in the last post that it’ll take 3-4 hours charging it in a car, does it apply to charging it with PC too?
Thanks a lot! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!:)
Kate - You can charge it via USB so long as your USB port is “powered”. Charging it that way will typically take longer, probably 5-6 hours.
Deb - The 200 only has the US lower 48 and Hawaii + Puerto Rico. (Hopefully you can return yours)You need the 250 for +Canada or the 260 (adds TTS & +Europe). The 260 is available under $300. I would highly recommend it. *****
Now that I am going to be stuck with the challenge of trying to exchange or sell my Garmin - US version I was wondering which do you find is better. I want the GPS for travels mostly within Canada but also to the US. I would like one that has completle coverage and not select coverage… example the Garmin that I currently has coverage of Continental US and Puerto Rico and Hawaii. I saw some that are selling at the same electronic store, but in Canada. Which would you recommend of the ones I’ve listed or others that I may not know about? TomTom One 3rd Edition GPS Navigation System or TomTom One GPS Navigation System - Bluetooth Ready
-Thanks.
Hi Tim, thanks for the quick response… but how do I know if my USB port is “powered”…?
Thanks!
Deb - That TomTom ONE would (either edition) would be good choices and include North America coverage. The ONE 250 would also be good and is identical to what you purchased except for full North America coverage.
Kate - If it is directly connected to your computer then it is most likely powered. If it is connected to a keyboard, monitor, or USB “hub” then it might not be powered. So plug it directly into your computer if you can.
Garmin has released thier new 3.5 firmware update for the 2xx series, available through the Garmin web updater.
Changes made from version 3.40 to 3.50:
(note: the hidden track log feature has been
removed from v3.50, but performance has improved noticably).
* Improved overall map drawing speed to display refresh up to twice as often.
* Fixed an issue where the last entry in a list of Custom POIs could be blank.
* Fixed an issue where using an SD card with maps overlapping the maps pre-loaded could cause the unit to shut down.
* Fixed an issue where searching for an intersection across all cities in a country could result in no matches being found.
Deb - I would highly recommend the nuvi 250 (has Canada) or 260 (has Canada + TTS) or if you need bluetooth one of the other nuvi line like the 7xx series - but I may be biased
Thanks Tim! I have one more question. How can I update my nuvi’s map when it’s time…? The nuvi shows up as a removable hard drive on my computer…
Thanks so much!!!
Kate - The maps typically come as a DVD with an installation program. You just connect your Nuvi to your computer via USB and run the updater program which will load the maps for you.
i bought the Nuvi 200 on saturday, and so far i love it. i was looking for a plain get me there GPS, and this seems to do the trick. i don’t need all the other stuff that just runs the price up. i have found that around town, it likes to stay to the main roads, and not the side streets. most of the time around town, i stay off the main roads to avoid traffic. my only question is, when i set my own favorites, can i go back to see the long./lat. and elevation of these? it seems like i can only get that information if i am at that location.
Lee - I don’t believe you can access the lat/long of the favorites from the device itself. However there are probably some “back doors” to get the lat/long (but probably not altitude) from the file that gets saved on the device with your favorites.
Kate, when you plug the USB into the Nuvi, it will come on. When it says “Loading Maps” at the bottom of the screen, press the power-on switch and hold it for a second or two.
A Battery charging message will appear for a few seconds then fade out.
Leave it hooked up for few hours and it should be good to go..
I use the USB socket on my Cable TV box to charge my Nuvi 200 when the computer isn’t on..
Lee, if you want to use side roads and shorcuts, set the nuvi to shortest distance instead of faster time in the navigation settings. Also, you can view the coordinates of all your favorites on your nuvi by following these simple steps. Turn on gps simulation mode, then go to your desired favorite, tap show map and then tap set loc. Then go all the way back to the main screen and tap view map. It will displat the location of your favorite. Tap the car icon to get your coordinates. As simple as that!
Lee, same as Ramanesh said, also try:
show map > set loc > back to where to, down to “coordinates” will also show you lat/long
of your selected favorite or anywhere else you set loc to.
i live in an area where there is alot of sub divisions, and the nuvi dosnt recognize them to help find streets etc… can i upgade or download more maps to it?
Dan, if your map version is “City Navigator 2008″ (settings, map, map info) then you have the most recent map available which was released in the second half of 2006. Assuming you have that version there isn’t anything you can do at this time, you have the most detailed map available from Garmin.
I purchased the nuvi 200 after seeing a demo of it and being talked in to getting it. I then did some heavy research and I returned it, got a TomTom One 3rd edition and about $40 back. HANDS DOWN it is better in so many ways I am really shocked at the difference. A few examples, you can have multiple waypoints and advanced planning. You can download custom stuff and fix your maps and get fixes from other users for FREE. Garmin nuvi 200..none of this. The only advantage to the Garmin that I saw after using 3 days each and about 150 miles each is that it has a picture slideshow……and a slightly prettier map…slightly the keyword. BUT the tomtom displays about 5 things the garmin doesnt….simply put it is a wonder to me that this thing is cheaper because it is FAR beyond the nuvi 200. Also worth mentioning is that the tomtom 7 out of 10 times literally took me to the driveway of a house, where the garmin did that 0 out of 10, usually putting me about 2 blocks past the actual street number. Dont waste your money on this people, seriously.
I bought the Nuvi 200W earlier this month and, with it being my very first GPS, am quite happy with it. There are things that it doesn’t come with, but in the world of GPS units I find that higher price doesn’t equate to better performance (necessarily) as much as it equates to more features…which you may or may not want or need. I laughed at the text-to-speech feature, for example, after hearing it botch a street named ‘Muskatanipus Circle’ during a demo. That was enough to convince me of the marginal utility of this feature. So, I’m happy with my Nuvi 200W.
One issue I read about was the satellite map. Some owners of the 200 series said that they couldn’t bring this screen up; others said that Garmin disabled it. In my case, a quick touch of the ‘bars’ does nothing. BUT, if you hold your thumb over the bars about FOUR SECONDS, the satellite map DOES come up.
One question I have: when downloading custom POI lists (found in the ‘Extras’ section), is there a way to delete them if you’d like to do that?
Chris - The smaller 2xx series does not have the satellite status screen the wider 200W does.
Cory - All: Garmin.com has released the latest firmware version 3.60 available free through their web-updater. This version increases performance and accuracy. There may also be a GPS chip flash update available at the top of the main web-updater list page depending on the GPS chip your unit has.
You can find your nuvi 2xx version numbers tapping: Tools > Settings > System > About
-Ron
My firmware updated automatically yesterday. Has this happen to anyone else ? Do I still need to update anything else from Garmin.
Dennis, Garmin webupdater automatically updates your nuvi to the latest firmware and any other updates like the gps sw, etc. After updating, try updating again, and if it says no new updates, then you have all the latest softwares on your nuvi.
Where do I find information on the use and downloads for the SD memory? Who, what, where etc. I have this folder from Garmin but no idea what to do with the information.
Thanks. Gene
Basically on the 200 the SD card can only be used for viewing .jpg picture files or loading supplemental maps or poi’s.. that I know of.
Thanks Ron. I have a 250W but I assume the basic features are the same as the 200. By the way when I press the bars in the signal strength section for a five seconds and release it the satellite information shows up. What I was wondering was is there a place with other features not listed in the manual? I just got this and I will never be without one again. Thanks Garmin.
I have had my NUVI 200 for 3 days and am new to GPS systems. The problem I’m having is that when the calculated route comes to an intersection, the unit, visually and verbally indicates a turn one way and then an immediate turn the other way. It results in a “jog” in the large arrow which shows direction. It appears that the unit is correcting for a misalignment of the magenta colored route track with the road on the map. I’m wondering if anyone else has reported this and if there is anything I can do to correct it, short of returning and exchanging the unit. I do like it and so far it has performed as it should with this one exception. Thanks.
I’m not sure if I’m interpreting your problem, but my 200W will ask me to take a right at an intersection then a left…which if I do that would put me on the same road as if I had just gone straight through the intersection. I toggled between ’shortest distance’ and ‘quickest time’ and that directed me the ’straight-through-the-intersection’ way. Maybe you can toggle between those options and see what happens. Again, I may be totally misinterpreting your issue, and I apologize if I did.
You understand my dilemma perfectly, Chris. It doesn’t happen at every intersection, but more than I think it should. I’ll try going between the “shortest distance” and the “quickest time” as you suggested. Thanks for your suggestion. I’m really happy with the 200!
You have it right, I believe, Chris. The “left and then right” occurrs at an intersection where there really isn’t anyplace to turn, other than maybe to another lane and immediately back to the lane and road where I was! It doesn’t happen at every intersection, but seems to be more than I’d expect! I’ll try going between the “fastest” vs. the “shortest” routes and see if that helps. Thank for your suggestion.
Gene - Some undocumented nuvi features:
On all nuvi’s from map > tap speed, in the speed status screen hold down the center of the speedometor dial for 10 seconds for system status.
On the 2xxW & most (wide) versions from menu > hold down very top left corner of screen 3 seconds for satellite status screen. Tap screen to exit. This feature is not on smaller 2xx units.
On some wide versions, hold down top left corner when turning on unit for maint. screen.
On all nuvi units hold down lower right corner while turning on unit to reset user data.
On the 2xx (small) units from menu > hold down battery icon for 10 seconds for diagnostic screens.
On most nuvi units tap tools > system > about for software version numbers. On the nuvi 2xx:
GPS SW x.xxb = bravo gps chipset
GPS SW x.xxm = MTK gps chipset
GPS SW x.xxs = Sirf gps chipset
(all are decent, they evolve with time).
Note: Do not change things in the various maintenance screens unless you know what you’re doing! Disclaimer: ..at your own risk!
Thanks Ron. I enjoy these unusual modes. I also have only had a GPS 4 days. Being a test system designer I look for wierd patterns and operation to try and understand why and how this unit works under odd conditions. I also noticed an unusual attempt to jog like George and I continued down the road the GPS was trying to prevent me from going. I “suspect” the data base believed this road was a dirt road or a bad road. It kept trying to route me off it even at the expense of a longer travel time. I live on a dirt road and it doesn’t like to route me there either which is why I believe this may happen sometimes.
I use it on the ocean sometimes.. Don’t forget there is an “off road” (crow fly) mode. Settings > Navigation > Route preference..
Also for those of us that prefer that blue triangle vehicle icon: The nuvi has a default slate blue 2d triangle icon if there there is no vehicle icon available. To see this slate blue triangle icon just change the name of your selected vehicle icon with your pc in the nuvi garmin\vehicle folder (you won’t lose it) and let the nuvi reboot. The slate blue triangle will remain until you select another vehicle icon in settings > map > change vehicle. I actually prefer this slate blue icon most.
I didn’t read the whole list, but I bought a new NUVI 200 in Dec 2007 and several streets so far are not correct. My question is there an update card that has been issued and when will the next one be available. Are the updates pretty accurate? Where can they be purchased. I bought 2 so will one update card work for both NUVIs? Thanks for any replies.
Map updates come out about once per year (typically late Spring) and cost about $75. The most recent map (called 2008) is based on a release from their map vendor in the second half of 2006.
A nice entry-level unit, with some very awkward design choices. I am astonished that they set intrinsic display polarization to 45 degrees off vertical - it’s a tad cheaper to cut the glass, but throws away a third of the brightness when wearing polarized glasses. I also think it’s a real shame that they waste so much screen height (when there’s width to burn) or chartjunk. Would have been just as easy to put the MENU button on one side. And with voice available, it would be nice to be able to toggle off the top line of text. Silly having a 4:1 or so aspect ratio for anything but 3D view, and terrible for “track up” plan projection. Also details like positioning the plug in back, which makes it harder to run the cable and handle the unit when connected. I hope that software updates will add access to data features commonly available on even cheap handhelds.
How does the pedestrian mode work? I would expect the compass to at least change directions when I turn around in pedestrian mode, am I wrong or is there something else that needs to happen I’m not aware of?
Al - You can read here about pedestrian routes. The GPS can only determine direction via movement, it cannot determine what direction you are facing.
Oh yeah, of course it’s the movement to ‘triangulate’ the position…wasn’t thinking..thanks
lots of good information here.
Does the 200W store track logs in internal memory (how many points?) and can they be backed up to the PC?
Also, can an SD card be used to store track logs, if so, how do you set it up?
Thanks in advance.
On a new 200W I just used Webupdater to update the unit. It now says that my software version is 2.90. The program did not find any other updates, such as Bravo chipset. Some of the comments mention software v3.40. Is this correct?
Mike - The 200W is a different bird than the 200. The webupdater should have you on the latest update for your unit. 2.90 sounds right. The 2xx (small) units are now on SW v3.60… If you did not find any GPS SW updates on the top of voice/vehicle other update list in webupdater, then there are none, you are up to date.
I am looking to buy a GPS unit. Based on my needs and price range I have narrowed it down to the nuvi 200 or 350. I’m not sure which one to get. Any suggestions would be helpful.
Also, what is the difference between the nuvi and the street pilot?
You can compare the Nuvi 200 and 350 at that link and read about the differences between the Nuvi and StreetPilot at that link.
I really no nothing about GPS systems, my job will be much easier once I get one though. Any suggestions on a good model to start with. Thank you.
If I purchase a new Nuvi 200, do I need to buy the 2008 map update? Does the map update include anything that doesn’t come in the device?
The “2008″ map from Garmin is based on a release they received from their map supplier in the second half of 2006 and is likely already on the Nuvi 200.
My garmin language changed to greek, what do i do to put it back to english? I cant even read the screen…please help
Amy, check out our tutorial about Changing the Language on a Garmin Nuvi GPS.
I’ve noticed that sometimes the unit will not show a road the first time I drive the area but often the next time I’m in the same area it shows up. Is there an automatic updating of some sort that goes on?
The first time I drove into work it didn’t show the road leading back to the building, it was all blank. The main highway I turned off from was still showing but the road I was driving on wasn’t on the screen. A few days later it was showing the road and even all the small driveways leading to the other buildings in the area as well…
I haven’t connected it to the computer to do any updates…
I just got a nuvi 200 and am very happy so far since I’ve had it for a few hours. I only bought it as a device to check speedometers and odometers and it seems pretty good for this and the Nav functions are surprising for the price. I will be using it’s NAV capabilies in my 2nd car as my first has a factory unit. Is any usb cable good enough for charging? I am getting a picture on the screen that shows the unit attached to a computer but not the regular screen that shows the battery condition. Is this still normal. Any comments on the chronometer and odmeter functions would be appreciated. BTW i returned a Magellan 3225 today since standing still in my home it showed I was travelling at 1 MPH and was calculating distance at that rate. I prefer the Garmin by far with the little knowledge I have. Thx for any help.
I see that after unplugging any usb, the nuvi shows to be fully charged. Sorr, newbie mistake. Any chronometer and odometer funtion comments would be appreciated. Nice unit, nice site!
I have a Garmin 200W. I got it in early January, so I know I have the ‘latest’ maps. But when a new map-set comes out from Garmin, I know I will be required to buy it. That’s fine. But is there a process by which the embedded maps within the unit (what the unit originally came with) get updated when I insert the SD card? I sure hope I’m not required to keep the SD card in the slot in order to use the new maps. That would take away that slot for other things (like Garmin Saver card, which I like).
Chris, you don’t need to purchase the map update on SD card. You can purchase it on DVD and have the installer overwrite the internal maps.
Is there a way to preview a trip route with the satellite GPS off, and not have to suffer the time required while the program drives through the route at 35 mph. Can the route be viewed beforehand? or speeded up?
That’s a great question, Charlie. It’s one I would have asked. The whole ’simulation mode’ seems to be silly if all it does is do a route in real-time. Who wants to sit in a chair while it does that? I’d much rather it zip out the magenta-colored route in a second or two, so I can at least grasp the difference between, say, a ‘fastest time’ or ’shortest distance’ route while I’m sitting inside a building or my home (where the Nuvi can’t ’see’ the satellites). That’s what would appeal to me, and maybe my 200W does this but I haven’t figured out how.
No, you can’t change the simulation speed. 1x is it.
How can i get maps of Canada onto my 200?
The easiest way would be to purchase Garmin’s SD card of Canada, part number 010-10966-00. You can find it here among other places.
I’m a fireman and will be using a GPS for calls. My mom and sister both have the garmin C330 and they said it has an Emergency Vehicle Mode you can select. Does the Nuvi 200 have this option, what does that option do, and do you think it would be a good thing for me to have? PS Great site.
The Nuvi 200 does not have an emergency vehicle mode.
Hi ,i am clueless about these things as my query will suggest . i want to know if it is possible to buy a garmin navigation system , that has maps only for holland and the benelux region , and then later buy or borrow maps from other european countries and add them to this system. i want to know if this is possible because when i buy a system with only these 2 maps it is far cheaper than buying one with maps for the whole of europe.
muks, you can go to the following page and click on the ‘Versions’ tab to see models with different pre-installed countries.
https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=134&pID=9160
Hi,thank you for your response.I am aware that the nuvi 200 and 250 come preloaded with maps of holland and the benelux region.The link you provided me confirms that but it does not mention whether i can or cannot add maps later on and that is my query .If you know about it kindly let me know.
THANX
muks
You can see the maps you can add at the following two links.
http://www.garmin.com/cartography/
mapSource/citynavntEurope.jsp
http://www.garmin.com/cartography/
mapSource/citynavntEuropecards.jsp#europe
Hi,thanx for your reply i now have my answer only it does not mention the storage capacity on a nuvi 200 or 250 , if i buy one of these with preloaded holland and benelux will i be able to add the rest of europe east and west later? or how much more can i fit in later. If you know this please let me know .thanx for your patience.
thanking you
muks
Muks, there is only about 105 MB of space left on it. So you would either need to backup the original maps and replace them with the new maps, then switch back as necessary— or purchase the additional maps on SD card and just load the card when you need the additional maps.
how can i add canada map to my nuvi 200
can i add canada map to my nuvi 200
I have an old ique 3600 ……….what will i miss or will be added with the the 200…………my ique has lost her voice and brightness….old age i persume!
How precise are the coordinates? Can I use it to find the corners of my property using coordinates?
I’m also interested in the addition of Canada maps.
The GPS system is accurate up to about 10 meters.
I have a 200W. The ‘Quick Start’ doc is just what it says. There is no ‘Owners Manual’ and I’ve reminded Garmin about that.
Question: If I load up the SD card with photos, how do I get the Picture Viewer to look there? It just sees the on-board files under ‘JPEG’.
I picked up the Nuvi 200 yesterday and took it on a trial trip. Worked pretty well and was glad it did since i forgot to grab the directions I printed out!!!
But… two different addresses i’ve tried to put in today have given me fits. One gave me problems trying to figure out how a SR12 in Utah might be indicated in the maps (kept saying no match found). Finally stumbled upon it, but it took awhile. However, both that address and another local address would not let me put the correct house number in. I’d type the number, enter the street, and then then nuvi would list it (and map it) as a different house number on the same street. I know the one address has been there for years! What’s happening? I’m planning on taking an extensive vacation into unknown areas with this thing as a guide, but if it can’t find my hotel (one of the addresses I tried) then it’s not going to be as much help as I thought. Why won’t it let me put in the correct street address without changing it on me?
Anyone have experience using the model 270 in Europe? We will be in western Europe for 3 weeks this Spring and would like a good GPS to help us get around.
Mike K, In order to view the jpeg files, you need to create a subfolder called “jpeg” in the “garmin” folder of your sd card. Just put the pictures in there and you can view them using the picture viewer.
Thanks, Ramanesh. I’d done that but still had some of the same pictures in the Garmin JPEG folder. Once I emptied the Garmin JPEG folder the SD pictures came up. Is that the way it works on some other Nuvis?
Jenn - Lots of times streets get renumbered, and maps can sometimes take years to catch-up with those changes.
Hi, does the nuvi 300 have text to speech the garmin website says no few other websites say yes.
cheers
muks
I bought Nuvi 200w a week ago. I’m having some issure with accquiring the satellite. It took me at least 10-30 mins to locate where I m. I tried to look at the “Bravo” Chip set update on the webupdater, but i couldn’t find it. someone please help me.
Colin, try the tips here.
I like the Garmin Garage, where you can download different ‘vehicle’ icons for your Nuvi. The latest two are an ambulance and a stock car. I’ll probably get them both. But my question is this: these little icon vehicles are marvelously detailed, and on the Garmin Garage you see them spinning around so you can view all the detail. But what good is that when you can hardly see the details when the vehicles are in use? In other words, I love the graphics on the sides of the stock car, but I can’t see that level of detail on the Garmin. All I can see in the 3D is a view of the roof, from above and behind. It pretty much renders all that detailing useless. Is it because I have a low-end Garmin (200W) and the higher-end units display these vehicles better or differently?
I have a nuvi 200. On a regular route that I travel, sometimes it tells me to take one exit, other times it tells me to take another exit. The destination is approximatly between exits but how/why the variation?
I just picked one up after I return the Navigon 5100. I have to say it fits my needs perfectly. Its loud enough at 70% volume to hear it in my rig with the windows open and radio on. Its simple to operate.
Our Nuvi 200 does not show "food" listed as a "point of interest" until we are 100-200 miles from home? Is this normal? Would be nice to have restaurant listings close to home
Thank you, Greg & Lisa.
Chris - What you see is pretty much how they are represented on most devices.
Guy - That is strange, I don’t have an explanation.
Greg & Lisa - That doesn’t sound right, it should show the category (and subcategories) regardless of how far away you are from a POI in that category.
Two questions:
1) if your route is going to take you across a time zone, is the estimated arrival time displayed in your current time zone or the time zone you will end in. I.E. does it just calculate straight driving time or does it do an adjustment for the time zone change to end up at the arrival time?
2)We’re planning an extended vacation, so I’d like to put about a month’s worth of different hotels, etc as favorites into my unit ahead of time. Can this be done on a SD card? If so, how? I can’t seem to find much information on how to use an SD card….
thanks!
1) It shows the arrival time in your current, not the destination, time zone. Other GPS devices do it the other way around.
2) Yes, although you won’t need an SD card for that. Unless there are thousands you can fit them all into the internal memory.
Tim - thanks! I wasn’t sure how much internal memory there was available, so was thinking the SD card might’ve been the way to go. Good to know I’m good to go!
Tim, Yup-seems strange? When we pull up POI, the Food category is left out. Only the following appear; spell name, fuel, transit, recreation, attractions. Food will appear once appoximately 100 miles out of msp-st.paul? Drove to Dallas and Food would appear everywhere we went. Once we got home, food disapeared? Were getting hungry……
Thank you, Greg & Lisa.
Just bought a NUVI 200. Can I download Canadian maps as it only has the lower 48, and others but not Canada???
Jimmie, you can get it from Garmin on SD card.
Re; comments 215, 216, 220 - missing categories listed under “points of interest” when close to home.
Brought our Nuvi 200 back to Best Buy and exchanged for another 200 and had same problem again? Went back today and learned from store employees that this has been an issue on the 200 model?
Worked out an upgrade with them for a 260 and everything is working well. It is nice now to find “food” and other POI references close to home.
Greg & Lisa.
I purchased a Nuvi 200 in Canada. I am going to Florida will I be able to use it. My daughter was just in Florida with hers and she couldn`t get it to work. We live in Ontario, Canada
The Nuvi 200 typically just comes with maps of your own country. In the USA it comes with just maps of the USA. I assume it is the same way for the Canadian edition of the Nuvi 200 that it just includes maps of Canada. So you would need to purchase the USA maps for it to provide mapping there.
Thanks for your quick reply. How would I go about buying USA maps . From Best Buy where I bought it and is it expensive. Thanks again.
My 200w only displays half of the alphabet. Is there a way to reset?
Lorraine - You can purchase the maps from Garmin. They do tend to be quite expensive.
Gary - There is a reset button on the bottom, to the left of the serial number.
is there a sequence? I’ve pressed it and the unit goes out. when i turn it back on i still have the same problem.
Can you describe what you mean by only showing half of the alphabet?
the letters a thru o and the space key are the only ones that show up on the keyboard.
What do you see where they should be? Might need to call Garmin or hit the forums on that one.
Is there a Motorcycle handlebar mount for the Nuve 200?.
Hi I was wondering if having a radar detector and the GPS hooked up at the same time will affect either device. Anyone know?
Shouldn’t be a problem Jeff.
We are confused. We are ready to buy a GPS unit and thought we had a narrowed it down to the Garmin 200. Should we or shouldn’t we? If so, why? If not, what do you recommend? We want to spend $300.00 or less. Thanks!
Jason - Yes a 200 will do a great job for you. I have a TomTom XL S that is great also…a little more money, but in your budget. I use them both.
Jason,
What are you confused about? Th