Garmin 255W Review

Garmin 255W reviews have been highly positive. The Garmin nuvi 255 and widescreen nuvi 255W GPS navigators were released in 2008 as the latest in Garmin's entry level 200 series automotive GPS lineup. The nuvi 255W went on to become the top selling GPS navigator of 2009, and has received acclaim for its extensive set of features and low price point.

Originally priced around $300, Garmin's suggested retail price for the nuvi 255w is now $219.99. Consumers can do even better shopping on Amazon, where a new Garmin nuvi 255W can be now be purchased for as low as $119.99; the smaller Garmin 255 sells for $109.99.  At those prices the nuvi 255 and 255W represent one of the best GPS bargains available for the 2009 holiday season.

The Garmin 255 and 255W  improve on their predecessors with the addition of higher-end features including optional add-ons such as FM traffic updates and MSN Direct content. The redesigned screen presents more information, including an easy-to-see indicator showing the direction of and distance to the next turn, as well as speed and speed limit readings. Both units incorporate text-to-speech technology, so you hear spoken street names and driving instructions.

The nuvi 255s come loaded with Garmin's US and Canada map and POI package, and also include terrain maps and Garmin's new photo navigation feature. As with other nuvis, updated maps are available on a quarterly basis through the Garmin numaps Lifetime GPS map update program.

Reviewers have found little to dislike about the Garmin 255 and 255w. Here are a couple of examples.

GPS Tracklog wrote:

"The Garmin nuvi 255W is a joy to use. I recommend it, or any other member of the nuvi 2×5 series, without hesitation. Garmin has set a new standard with this product line; the nuvi 2×5 series is the best entry level GPS on the market."

Here's what Testfreaks had to say:

"The key to a good GPS is the interface and the Garmin nüvi 255W’s is one of the best ones that I have dealt with...Garmin has been regarded as the leader in GPS technology and they continue the trend with the nüvi 255W...Its features and function make it act like a more expensive GPS model...If you are looking for a deep starter GPS unit, then the Garmin nüvi 255W is the one to get."

CarGPSReviews places the Garmin 255w at number two on its top ten GPS list, just below the slightly more expensive Garmin nuvi 780.

Consumer reviews for the Garmin nüvi 255W 4.3-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
have been similarly positive, earning this nuvi 4.5 stars on Amazon.

Ebay is another great place to look for the best possible deal on new and used Garmin nuvi 255 and 255W navigators. Check for special deals and bonuses from ebay stores and vendors. Free shipping is available on ALL Garmin 255 and 255T GPS units listed below.