Review: Garmin Nuvi 500
If you are looking for one GPS unit to meet your needs as an auto driver, hiker, bicyclist, motorcyclist and boater, look no further than the Garmin Nuvi 500. It is waterproof and shows street maps, topo maps, and optional marine maps. It is slim, lightweight, and has a bright screen.
Original MSRP $500.00
Dimensions 4.2 x 3.4 x 0.9
Weight 7.6 Ounces
Slim Yes
Pocketable Yes
Screen Inches 3.5
Pixels 320 x 240
Colors QVGA
Widescreen No
Touch Sensitive Yes
Maps Preinstalled Yes
Base Map USA Contiguous & Topo
Vendor NAVTEQ
Connectivity
Bluetooth Hands Free No
Bluetooth Data No
Wireless Data Yes
USB Yes
Included Traffic No
Optional Traffic Yes
FM Transmitter No
Multimedia
Music No
Photos Yes
Video No
Optional iPod Cable No
Directions
Text-To-Speech No
2D Display Yes
3D Display Yes
Waypoints 1000
Routes 10
Waypoints/Route 50
POI Database Items Millions
Environment
Electronic Compass No
Barometric Altimeter No
Waterproof IPX-7 (waterproof)
Battery
Type Replaceable Lithium Ion
Duration 8 Hours
You could build your own comparable system by purchasing a less expensive auto GPS unit, plus load up a waterproof hand-held unit with topo maps, in effect obtaining two units to do the work of the Nuvi 500. Some people will want the convenience of all capabilities in one unit like this one. I like its long battery life and bright screen. I value text-to-speech capabilities, while others don’t, and this unit will appeal more to them. Two units or one? You will have to decide what is right for your own needs.
I think the price tag is a bit steep for this unit. I would be happier with the two units you mentioned. The hand-held unit will be a more convenient size and shape to use when hiking or geocaching.
Comment by Chris C —