Garmin StreetPilot I3

Advantages: Gives you turn by turn directions; gets you back "on-track" if you go wrong.
Disadvantages: Big Brother knows where You Are!

... Why Choose The Garmin StreetPilot i3 GPS Unit? Comparing it to much more expensive units (like the TomTom), it seemed to have sufficient details for our usage: * It has a fixed color screen of about 2inches * it finds destinations by postcode or street address * you can save addresses to "Favorites" and name them * it is powered either by 2 AA batteries or connection to the cigarette lighter socket (or both) * it is compact and can be attached ...
...to mount in another car * Importantly, it lets you know if you have missed a turning and re-directs you. Upgrades and more information are available on the website: http://www.garmin.com/products/spi3/ What Did We Receive? The 5" x 5" x 5" cube carton contains a StreetPilot i3 display unit - a fist-sized monitor that connects to a swivel knob and windscreen suction-cup mount. This is programmed with your maps. Also included are the USB ... Read review

Advantages Simple to use, convenient, compact
Disadvantages Takes time to lock on signals

...What an item. After buying my Garmin StreetPilot I3 I was up and running withing minutes. It is an amazing piece of kit. The support from Garmin has been exceptional and software updates are sent to me when they are available. The only downside that I can mention is that when not using back-up batteries it does take a little longer to 'lock on' to the satellite signals. However having said that, if that is all that there is to complain about then thats a small disadvantage. I use my street pilot 7-8 hours a day, 5 days a week. It is unobtrusive, simple to use and easy to update. I also use it more for keeping an eye on my speed. When not actually navigating the display shows what speed you are doing, this can be in MPH or KPH. All in all, well done garmin... Read review

Advantages Tells you directions and shows you, turn by turn. Can assist you in getting back on the right route if you miss a turning.
Disadvantages Big brother knows where you are - tracks you while it gives directions.

...points, of course, for the actual money spent when the item was purchased. An e-mail from themutual.com before Christmas directed me to Maplin Electronics (a partner - where "Mutual Points" loyalty points can be gained by purchasing through the link). Here, the Garmin StreetPilot i3 (with colour screen) was on offer for £199.99 - and a "B-grade" version would be £144.99. When I told my husband he thought that either would be a reasonable price - particularly the lower price (although he wasn't quite sure about "seconds") - in fact - WHY NOT BUY TWO? (one for Richard, AND one for US!) - on reflection, I agreed that it seemed a good idea, and if Nigel was prepared to PAY for them, probably well worth it. After all, the longest time spent sometimes in getting to his work (doing supply teaching) is finding the school where he is assigned... Read review

Advantages Cost, Style, Looks,
Disadvantages None as yet

...? ** Garmin are relatively new company and have only been on the go since 1989 which in my opinion is not that long at all. They are famous for providing low cost GPS to the entire world. In addition to this they provide free 24hr support in the way of there superb website and of course telephone service. **What Model** I decided on the Garmin Street pilot I3 for a few reason but mainly because is small, sleek and stylish not to forget the absolute superb price it was available at. This particular model was only released in October 2005 and is continually undated via the website; this I thought was another good idea too. Other systems charged you for receiving updates or even charged monthly/annual fees. This model does not have any additional charges other than the initial purchase price. **Cost and Availability** I bought mines from... Read review