Garmin Nuvi 205, 205W, 255, 255W
Garmin announced four new Nuvi models in the 200 series this morning, dubbing them the “2×5″ series. The biggest news is that now traffic, by way of MSN Direct, will be offered in these devices. These devices will also come with a new “shaded elevation mapping display” which we can only imagine is similar to that found on the HP iPAQ 310. They get a few more welcome updates as well.
A faster 333MHz processor is said to speed up map drawing and route calculation time. Garmin is also releasing a new “HotFix” feature which will likely be similar to TomTom’s QuickFix system of acquiring satellite signals faster.
Like the 200 versus 250, the Nuvi 205 and Nuvi 205W will have maps of the contiguous United States (hey, they actually got it right) while the Nuvi 255 and Nuvi 255W will offer the United States and Canada.
The new Nuvi 2×5 series will have the ability to connect to traffic services through the purchase of an optional traffic cable. Other Nuvi 200 series models were not compatible with those traffic receivers.
Expect to be able to get one of these in your car in the next couple of months.
205 - $213.32
205w - $266.66
255 - $319.99
255w - $373.32
This is getting absolutely ridiculous imo how many Nuvi models there are now. Imagine someone who knows nothing about GPS technology trying to choose between all of these…
Yes, taking a quick count it looks like there are now 30 Nuvi models just in the USA right now… not even counting the “pink” edition.
Must say I like that they’ve added a turn arrow display to the UI now… might have to look at the 255W actually.
Ryan, I couldn’t agree more!
Looks like the industry wide movement may be towards base units with value-added additions at users discretion.
RxNetworks will be supplying the Hotfix, optimized for STMicroelectronics chipset.
Ryan - that’s me. Trying to get a new gps, looking at garmin, want tts and bt, don’t have any idea which one to buy.
beeze - for a Nuvi with TTS and Bluetooth, review this chart of those four devices.
Do you think this will lead to Garmin discontinueing and retailers dumping Nuvi 200 series soon? I can’t imagione both in production for such close pricing.
I don’t think the other models in the 200 series will be discontinued soon. The original 300 series and 600 series models haven’t even been discontinued yet.
Do any of these have golf yardage capabilities?
Mike - no.
Is there a unit out there that does do both?
Not that I’m aware of.
Is there software that can be installed thru SD for golf course info?
Not that I know of.
Anyone know the chipset (s?) used in these? Thanks!
whats the difference between 260w to 255w?
Erin - See comment #107 over here.
Do these have the new 2009 Map preloaded?! Thanks!
Britain - Yes, they should. I can’t image that they wouldn’t, but if they didn’t you should be able to get an update anyway.
I am debating between the Nuvi 255w for [snip, see comment policy] or the nuvi 750 [snip] . I was leaning towards the 255w until I read the comments on the sound quality. I am concerned about the 750 and the time it takes to find a signal. Any suggestions or opinions. This is my first GPS so I am looking for all the help I can get.
I’d go for the 750. It doesn’t take any longer to find satellites than most any other GPS.
Thank you Tim for your quick response.
Would your answer be the same if I also wanted to use the GPS on an upcoming trip to Italy ? I kow I will need to purchase the Europe map .
Then you might want to check out purchasing the Garmin Nuvi 770 instead as it includes the European maps. That might be cheaper (and more convenient) than adding them to the 750.
The 750 plus purchasing a map separately is considerably cheaper at the prices I have available. That being said would you recommend the 750 ? Also the prices of the 750 and the 255w are very close .
If the 750 meets your feature needs– it is a good buy.
may i ask which of the 200w & 205w is better option to buy
lol Ryan your comment made me laugh I am that person that knows nothing about GPS systems and I’m trying to buy one I’m looking at Garmin and its to the point they all look the same..any advice?
Lindsy - I’d checkout this and then we can help narrow down the list for you.
well I am from HK and now staying in Malaysia, I have just got my driving lienence, my car is a latest Toyota model. Since I am a brand new citizen and newly ride on road. Just as Ryan & Lindsy comments, & my last comment/query, I have got 2 models in my hand for me to choose..pls advise @_@
The 2×5 series devices gain the option to connect a traffic receiver, shaded terrain in some areas, and a graphical turn arrow instead of text. However the voices don’t appear to be quite as clear as the older models, and the newer models are at a higher price since they are so new.