First Garmin Watch - Love It!

wtches Garmin Forerunner 910XT GPS Enabled Monitor

I know that Garmin has gotten a lot of negative feedback about this watch, but I think a lot of it is unwarranted. Take the instantaneous pace for example. By the nature of GPS, this will jump around quite a lot, especially for something like a watch that is by design allowed to accept a lot of noise in the GPS signal. That being said, I think the biggest issue is expectations. Many users buying this watch were users of garmin's previous watches that did a lot of data smoothing to give a more consistent 'instantaneous' pace. That pace was actually not instantaneous, and that's why there's an expectation problem now. If you're a user of the 110 or the 210 and buying this watch, use lap pace, not 'pace' because that's what your old watch displayed.

It's still early, but so far this watch has done everything it's supposed to do (I've so far done 2 runs, 2 bikes, 1 open water swim, and 1 lap swim with it). It logs everything, it's waterproof, measures swim distances indoors and out with reasonable accuracy, and the auto-multisport mode works like a charm. I literally received this watch on a Friday evening and used it the following morning in an olympic distance tri and had zero issues with it. I'm a software guy by trade so maybe that explains part of it, but I found this device to be extremely intuitive to use.

My only complaints so far is that it has counted a single extra length while lap swimming and that it doesn't easily display the time of day while it's not being used. Neither issue is something that really takes away from my experience. I'll update this post if the lap swimming feature becomes an issue - at this point that is my biggest concern.

Update: I've swam with this device 12 times now. 5 of those 12 sessions, the 910 incorrectly counted a single extra length. I do open turns (versus flip turns), and push off strong and glide. The interesting thing to me is that I haven't been able to correlate any event with the extra lengths. It doesn't happen when pushing hard for the last 50, or when I accidently smack the lane line. The only consistency is that it seems to happen during longer sets 300yds +. This is slightly annoying, but in the end not a huge deal. It still helps me understand how I'm doing pace wise, and still helps me with intervals/sets/lap counting.

The rest of the features are golden. I've never had a problem while biking or running. This thing is packed with features and I'm still discovering ways to use it to better my training. Love the 910xt, best piece of gear I own.

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Review from a million miler +

silver heels review Garmin 4 3 Inch Trucking Navigator Lifetime

I own this unit, and the GARMIN DEZL 560 lmt. I owned the Rand McNally 720 for a day and returned it.
About the 720, beautiful display and plenty loud, but negotiating the menu system was definitely not intuitive. It was good at notifying me of state line crossings and approaching scale houses. It recorded state mileages well, but didn't have a feature to record you actual route and odometer readings when crossing state lines. If you don't have a big brother, company satellite tracking you, it's a feature you'd want for your IFTA records. It navigated me fine from near OKC to Memphis TN, but there's nothing remarkable about that. I returned it because of the complicated interface, it was difficult for me to find walmarts and rest areas along the way, but yes, it will find them, with a lot of screen button pushing.
About the 2 Garmin units.
The 2 are very similar except for that the 560 lmt offers much more detailed IFTA records, has user adjustable speed limits, and a bigger screen.
The 465 on the other hand, doesn't have all the features of the 560, but acquires satellites faster, calculates and recalculates routes a LOT faster, and usually gives me the better route. I typically use the 560 simultaneously for a 2nd opinion, as it doesn't always choose the same route. It's better sometimes, but usually not.
Finding POI's on both units are super easy. The 560 remembers your history better and will bring up suggestions as you search for a name, like walmart. But the 465 is still easy to use. If the 560 would navigate quickly and accurately like the 465, I would say it would be darn near perfect for truckers. If the 465 did IFTA like the 560, I couldn't imagine how it could be better. If you want a navigator that will get you there, fairy reliably, but without all the bells and whistles, go for the 465, especially if you're a company driver under the restrictions and watch of satellites and ELogging.
Note : Always carry a truckers map with you, and be sure that your route if you don't already know it, is clear of height and weight restrictions, and is legal if you're hauling hazmat. No GPS navigator is perfect, no navigator is perfect, not even me, and I doubt Christopher Columbus was either.
That said, the 465 will give you the least head aches.
And those drivers who complain about a lackof trip planning features for breaks and fuel stops... You can do that yourself easily with a map and a shirt pocket sized truck stop guide.

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Simple and Functional

kitchen faucets Garmin Forerunner GPS Enabled Sport Monitor

I'll keep this short and to the point since there are numerous complete reviews. For the past 6 or 7 years, I have been tracking my mileage in Excel which has required using previously measured runs or measuring new ones by computer or bike, etc. I wanted a watch that was the smallest, lightest one that would free me from the same old runs and allow me to run anywhere and easily get the mileage and my time. I didn't want a heart monitor, don't need directions back home or anything else...

The Forerunner links to satellites in about 10 seconds and does everything I need. The software it works with, Garmin Connect or Training Center are excellent also. I use them, but still use Excel for tracking mileage although the Garmin software can do this also.

One key point because there seems to be confusion about this - the watch by default beeps at each mile and tells you your pace for that mile, but at the end of your run, it tells you only the total distance and time. You CANNOT get your mile splits from the watch but you CAN get them by downloading your activity to Garmin Connect or Garmin Training Center. Once you do that (and it is simple and takes just a few seconds), you get all your splits and more including elevations, speeds and a map. Garmin Connect also has a player to replay your runs. Very fun and cool. You change the splits to other values, Miles or Kilometers, and other distances in case you want to run on a track, etc.

Bottom line - I am thrilled with this watch and it has motivated me to run new routes and go greater distances. I have also used it during one race which was helpful and am looking forward to wearing it in a half marathon next month to make my time goal. If I could give this thing 10 stars, I would - it is a great training aid, motivational aid and... cool toy.

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Very quick

camera digital review Garmin 4 3 Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Navigator

I bought this for my sister for Christmas because her TomTom maps were outdated. Rather than keep buying new maps, I went for this Garmin with lifetime maps and traffic updates. I personally have a Garmin and find it easy to use, so I thought that this would be a good option. This one has other bells and whistles including voice commands and Bluetooth, both features that she will likely never use, but I thought would be nice to have just in case. As soon as she opened it, I went to the Garmin website to register it. (You'll have to download a program so that the device can communicate with your computer. I suggest you do this BEFORE plugging in the device.) The registration was a breeze and it immediately told me that updated maps were available. It took about an hour to update the latest maps, which I thought was pretty good. We fooled around with the device and it quickly found our location and surrounding points of interest. I mean, it was almost instantaneous. My Garmin, which is about four years old, can take a couple of minutes to search for points of interest, so this is a big improvement. And you can't beat the lifetime maps. Outdated maps aren't very useful if you're traveling in areas you're not familiar with. All in all, this device is great. Easy to use, has great features, and is very responsive. I recommend it to anyone.

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Non-Readers

kitchen faucets Garmin 4 3 Inch Portable Bluetooth Navigator

I purchased this for my wife to replace an old Mio that she had always been borrowing from her uncle. The size is perfect being a 4.3" screen- it is big enough to see and small enough to stow.

We have used it for a couple of months now and it seems to work pretty well. It doesn't always select the route that seems the best choice if you are somewhat familiar with secondary roads but it has so far always gotten us there. It recalculates pretty quickly if you miss a turn, but like most if there are multiple missed turns in a row you may be better off pulling aside and letting it reorient.

Overall it seems pretty intuitive to use, I can't say I have any real issues with getting it to do what I need it to- plan a route and find destinations.
The traffic finder seems to be 50/50 but that is common with others I have spoken with in the Philly metro area. Honestly, you probably know better if it is in an area that you frequent than the GPS does.
The photo of your upcoming exit has been a neat feature and so far has been very accurate as you approach them.

The main reason I purchased this unit is because of recalculating speed (suppose to be a little faster) and updated user interface (suppose to be easier to use the more common features) compared to the 2011 models I was originally looking at. I was always planning on lifetime maps because based on the GPS she had borrowing- they wanted $90 to update the map and it just seemed to make sense to get the lifetime maps for a few dollars more now. While I haven't done it yet, the instructions state that you get 4 updates per year.

Hope this helps and good luck!

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Exceptional Watch!

camera digital review Garmin Forerunner Touchscreen Watch Monitor

I'm very happy with this so far. I had a Forerunner 210, which I had some trouble with (just that particular unit was defective). I was within the 30 day return, so returned, and paid the extra $150 to go to the 610. I love the wireless uploads, the touchscreen works great, and the customizable fields and ease of reading data (cant say the same on the 210). The only area I'm the least bit concerned with is the screen itself. I dont only use this watch for running, but also in the gym. I'm afraid that the screen wouldnt hold up if I accidentally hit a machine with it, or raked a dumbell across it. No problems here, just an observation that the screen is big, and seems like it would be fragile to impact (not to worry if you only run or cycle with it). Otherwise, just loving it. Not cheap by any means, but I love being able to track everything I do, and have it automatically upload that data to Garmin Connect. One additional benefit to the foot pod, which I also picked up, is that it adds an extra tracking field for your cadence - even when running outdoors (I was thinking the foot pod was only for indoor use). Highly recommend...

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As a veteran runner, and one who has used every gadget, Nike hits the mark on this one...

wedge sandals review Nike SportWatch Powered TomTom Black

Although the Nike Sportwatch GPS is an excellent choice for any level of runner, it can also be easily used by walkers, bicyclists, and hikers.

The interface is very simple, if not intuitive. The menus are very easy to navigate and contain only useful settings and features. The watch can be set to use GPS, the foot pod, or a combination of the two to measure distance ran. The watch can also be set to timed intervals.

The display is large and easy to read, and can be set to standard black characters with white back drop or inverted. The back-light is activated by flicking or tapping the screen, making it easy to light up while running. The display during the run can display two different sets of data at any time with one set able to be switched during the run. The data to that can be displayed includes: Pace, Speed, Distance, Time Elapsed, Average Pace, Calories Burned, and Clock. Distance can be measured in either standard or metric units.

Another feature that is less functional but still nice is your Records. You can access your total miles ran, fastest mile time, fastest kilometer, your fastest 5k time, your fastest 10k time, and your longest run. Also, you can go to your History and look up your most recent runs.

For tracking distance, the foot pod/GPS combination is very accurate. When GPS signal is weak, the foot pod (a small device that is placed under the insole inside of your shoe) keeps track of the pace you're moving, so when the signal for GPS picks up again it can accurately measure your speed during that signal loss. The foot pod takes some experimenting in finding placement that is not uncomfortable. The best place seems to be the very back of the heal so that more of the back of your foot rather than the bottom of your foot is activating the foot pod with each step. I found this to be the least intrusive place, and it does not bother me while I'm running. The watch has been accurate to the 1/100th of a mile for 8 runs, including through heavily wooded suburban areas.

The way this watch goes above and beyond is when you connect it to your computer. After downloading software from nikeplus.com, your watch will automatically upload all of your run data to a profile that you set up. Your profile will display all of your run times, your run routes on a map, your speed during the run, and has a plethora of other features. It can help you set goals with your frequency of running, distance, calories, and speed. You also become connected to the community of Nike runners where you can set team goals, exchange running advice, and download training programs that have specific goals in mind. This is just the surface of the website's functionality.

The watch itself is very sporty looking. It's black face with neon green/yellow back side gives it a very loud look. The band has 9 settings and a very effective clipping system that keeps the strap from flapping loose.

This watch has exceeded my expectations, and while I could do without the the neon coloring , it is a tertiary concern and with little consequence. Stylistically, a lot of people will appreciate it. As far as functionality is concerned, I give it a 11 out of 10. This GPS watch does everything I could want and more.

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Perfect for what I wanted

tablet review Garmin Forerunner GPS Watch Black

I started running this year and was using a free app on my iPhone to track my times, distances, and pace. I eventually got sick of carrying my phone with me every run and decided to get a dedicated watch. I was looking for something light that would allow me to track simple running metrics, and had no interest in heart rate or other factors. I happened to walk in to our local Garmin store in Chicago the very day the Forerunner 10 went on sale, and ended up buying one that day. I've now been using it for about 6 weeks and have been very happy. It usually finds a GPS signal in about 30 seconds. Uploading my data to GarminConnect is simple, taking only about 15 seconds. The day-to-day reproduciblity of the data is very high. I start and stop at the same spot every day, and the watch always records the same distance at that spot. The reports on GarminConnect are useful to me (maps out your route, shows graphs of your pace and elevation at every point in your run, lets you compare multiple runs, etc). Overall the Forerunner 10 provided everything I was expecting.

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Excellent "Quick Release" GPS

shoes Garmin 4 3 Inch Bluetooth Portable Navigator

This Nuvi 3790 LMT simply rocks.. It's a refurbished unit, it worked perfectly right out of the box.. After I charged it for a bit, I was able to register it on Garmins Website and download a newer map, all on a Mac running OS Lion, without a hitch. This Mac app will run in the background if you want and keep tabs on when a new map is available for it.. can't get much easier than that. This unit just has a beautiful high resolution screen, once you see it, you don't want to go back to anything below that, its that good. The screen lane assist screens that popup are amazing, photo like images of upcoming exits. It automatically zooms in and out based on where you are in your route, it alerts you of upcoming red light and speed cameras even if you do not have a route set, here in the Cleveland, Oh area it has alerted me to a half a dozen so far. When traveling through downtown Cleveland, all the building take on a 3 dimensional look to them, this makes it easier to navigate around them, as you leave the area the building gradually sorta disappear, its a cool feature. Voice command works well, the key is you need low background noise and you have to talk when the icon is green, if you don't then you will find yourself repeating commands. Bluetooth works but like others said.. its not great. Traffic info.. ok so it seems to work, an icon is green if traffic around you is low, yellow if there is some traffic and red if traffic is high.. you can tap on the icon and it will tell you where this traffic is and if you have a route programmed it will give you a couple of alternate routes you could choose. You can even set it to do this automatically, I found I did not like this being turned on, since it would pick some out of the way routes.. will need more time with this to see how it works. As far as pop up ad's they are there, but I've only seen one so far in the two weeks that I've had this and it went away as soon as I drove and did not come back.. so maybe its based on where you are. So coming from a Garmin 855 this is a wonderful step up, slim, lightweight, crystal clear display, very bright and very loud when its in the cradle. I recommend it .. my refurb unit works great so far. Will update after a couple of months.

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Nike Plus for Marathon Training

bike Nike SportWatch Powered Included Anthracite

Although the Nike Sportwatch GPS is an excellent choice for any level of runner, it can also be easily used by walkers, bicyclists, and hikers.

The interface is very simple, if not intuitive. The menus are very easy to navigate and contain only useful settings and features. The watch can be set to use GPS, the foot pod, or a combination of the two to measure distance ran. The watch can also be set to timed intervals.

The display is large and easy to read, and can be set to standard black characters with white back drop or inverted. The back-light is activated by flicking or tapping the screen, making it easy to light up while running. The display during the run can display two different sets of data at any time with one set able to be switched during the run. The data to that can be displayed includes: Pace, Speed, Distance, Time Elapsed, Average Pace, Calories Burned, and Clock. Distance can be measured in either standard or metric units.

Another feature that is less functional but still nice is your Records. You can access your total miles ran, fastest mile time, fastest kilometer, your fastest 5k time, your fastest 10k time, and your longest run. Also, you can go to your History and look up your most recent runs.

For tracking distance, the foot pod/GPS combination is very accurate. When GPS signal is weak, the foot pod (a small device that is placed under the insole inside of your shoe) keeps track of the pace you're moving, so when the signal for GPS picks up again it can accurately measure your speed during that signal loss. The foot pod takes some experimenting in finding placement that is not uncomfortable. The best place seems to be the very back of the heal so that more of the back of your foot rather than the bottom of your foot is activating the foot pod with each step. I found this to be the least intrusive place, and it does not bother me while I'm running. The watch has been accurate to the 1/100th of a mile for 8 runs, including through heavily wooded suburban areas.

The way this watch goes above and beyond is when you connect it to your computer. After downloading software from nikeplus.com, your watch will automatically upload all of your run data to a profile that you set up. Your profile will display all of your run times, your run routes on a map, your speed during the run, and has a plethora of other features. It can help you set goals with your frequency of running, distance, calories, and speed. You also become connected to the community of Nike runners where you can set team goals, exchange running advice, and download training programs that have specific goals in mind. This is just the surface of the website's functionality.

The watch itself is very sporty looking. It's black face with neon green/yellow back side gives it a very loud look. The band has 9 settings and a very effective clipping system that keeps the strap from flapping loose.

This watch has exceeded my expectations, and while I could do without the the neon coloring , it is a tertiary concern and with little consequence. Stylistically, a lot of people will appreciate it. As far as functionality is concerned, I give it a 11 out of 10. This GPS watch does everything I could want and more.

Get your Nike SportWatch Powered Included Anthracite Now!

Works great

silver heels review Garmin 4 3 Inch Portable Navigator Lifetime

This GPS is simply amazing! I am coming from an older 1300, so the differences are shocking. First - Gorgeous, bright, full-color screen makes it easy to see whatever you're looking. Second - the voice commands are very interesting. No they're not without faults, but once you get used to how it's laid out, there is very little reason to even have to touch the screen. much safer! It acquires satellites very quickly, even indoors. Unlike my previous GPS, I can find my route from inside my garage without any problems, before I even leave. But the most surprising thing was the automatic orientation. I don't know if the other ones have this, but I love being able to rotate the screen and use it in portrait orientation. It's MUCH more logical to use it this way so you can see more of what's coming in front of you.

By the way, I am mixed on the traffic features. I get perfect reception with the digital tuner (put it above your dashboard if possible - I have mine on a dash mount, so no problem there), but it's usefulness is rather limited. yes, it alerts you to congestion, jams, accidents, etc; but by the time I get to the location, the jam has already cleared, usually by hours. I don't like having to take detours past non-existent traffic accidents. Now I basically use is just to get an idea of traffic conditions ahead - not as a rule.

I have no problems with this unit, and have not experienced any poor routing. In a nutshell - expensive, but you get what you pay for!

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Finally, a great looking women's GPS watch!

printed pencil skirt Garmin Forerunner Watch Pink White

I started running this year and was using a free app on my iPhone to track my times, distances, and pace. I eventually got sick of carrying my phone with me every run and decided to get a dedicated watch. I was looking for something light that would allow me to track simple running metrics, and had no interest in heart rate or other factors. I happened to walk in to our local Garmin store in Chicago the very day the Forerunner 10 went on sale, and ended up buying one that day. I've now been using it for about 6 weeks and have been very happy. It usually finds a GPS signal in about 30 seconds. Uploading my data to GarminConnect is simple, taking only about 15 seconds. The day-to-day reproduciblity of the data is very high. I start and stop at the same spot every day, and the watch always records the same distance at that spot. The reports on GarminConnect are useful to me (maps out your route, shows graphs of your pace and elevation at every point in your run, lets you compare multiple runs, etc). Overall the Forerunner 10 provided everything I was expecting.

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Awesome

wtches Garmin Forerunner 405CX Sport Monitor

I have used this watch for 2 weeks now, and I am almost 100 percent satisfied with it.
First of all, it is very easy to use. After 15 minutes I knew how to access most of its features.

The touch bezel works great. Even when it was raining I was able to use it with no trouble at all.

The battery life is not great, but it's ok. It takes about 3 one-hour workouts (5 days) to wear out the battery.

The GPS is not 100 percent accurate, but it is good too. Sometimes the map shows my route as if I had been taking shortcuts through the bushes. I would rate its accuracy as been 8/10. It's my first GPS device though, I don't know if they are all like that.

The heart rate monitor is excellent, much better then my Polar. It's more accurate (doesn't show absurd values like the Polar does sometimes) and it allows you to change the battery instead of having to buy a new one when the battery dies.

Another great thing about this watch is that it allows you to select the data fields that you want to view during your workout. So, you can configure up to 3 sets of data with 3 fields on each one to view during the exercise. You can either change the data sets by touching the bezel or configure the watch to rotate through them.

The data transmission to the computer is very nice, too. You only have to stick the usb receiving device into your computer and it detects the watch and retrieves the data.

So, after all that, I can say that it was a great purchase, and I recommend it for anyone who likes running and gadgets.

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All I want is my distance, and that is exactly what this does!

kitchen faucets Golf Buddy GolfBuddy Voice Rangefinder

On a whim I bought this because the other range finders I used were either too bulky, too complicated, too high mainenance, or too hard to read. All I want is my distance so I can select my club. I don't want to have to remember to load the course, or pack batteries. I can't comfortably wear most of them on my belt and the watch ones are huge! (I have enough trouble with golf glove tan without adding watch tan.) This product solves all those issues. I wear it on my shirt and can choose to hit the button and have her tell me the distance or I can look at the display. Accuracy has been excellent. It automatically finds the course and announces the hole I am on. A charge will get you through 36 holes. It will give you distance to front, middle, or back and will also measure a shot distance. It is super easy to use! LOVE IT.

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A Time Saver

watches woman Garmin Widescreen Bluetooth Portable Navigator

I now own 4 Garmin GPS with this being the newest one. I will get right down to the point of interest as to why this GPS is one of the BEST out today. I bought this not too long ago and have been testing every aspect of the GPS. I will rectify the Free Lifetime Traffic first due to its mass complain about the pop ads. Will like they say nothing is free without string attached, I have used it on 2 hour destination on heavy traffic areas and the pop ads rarely pops up and it only pops up when completely stop arriving to your destination and when you first start the ignition and the Garmin boots to the main menu screen, all you have to do is click on view map or other buttons to get rid of the pop ups and most of the time the pop doesn't even pop on start ups. I think that it is a very small price to pay for lifetime traffic, Garmin would not be able to support free lifetime service without funding from ads. Duuhh! Really guys the ads are not intrusive at all and if you really don't like the ads you can turn off the free lifetime traffic in the menu and not get the ad and the traffic service. Done and done.

Now the good part; I have the 885T to compare it to and I had the 885t for 2 years now it makes that GPS look like a pile of pooh, I hated that GPS slow at everything no street display on upcoming street, and if there was it would pop up like 4 house down after you pass the street. With the 2460 all the upcoming street pop up a block away even on route to destination. That is a big plus to me.

The annoying recalculation is now gone when you make a wrong turn and it automatically reroute to your destination and with MyTrend feature the GPS over time will learn the route you take from what the GPS suggest. I did have problem with it at first, it would take me around the block to get to my house when you can just go straight but the GPS learns my route and that's fixed.

The Voice Command works great but not the best, on occasion you have to repeat yourself a few times to get the command but it's no big deal. For some reason it has a hard time understanding the word "UP" in the menu command I don't know if it takes time to learn your speech pattern but it does not sway my 5 star down. It is still a great feature that I appreciate.

The ecoRoute is simply amazing, I love that feature because in the summer I visit lots of national parks on a road trips and the ecoRoute can calculate how much the cost of gas on the total trip base on your vehicle profile and current gas prices that you can update at the pump. It is also helpful on your driving habits and will give you an icon weather you're driving green or pedal to the metal.

LaneGuidance assistance has to be the best feature in GPS history this has a hug upgrade from the 885t which was the flagship back in its time. Lane assistance now shows a photo real of signs on the freeway with arrows to each lane which you can take on an upcoming turn and it is very accurate when it ups pop (not too far or too close to miss the sign) and closes when you pass the sign. Although not all Lane has assistance maybe it will be there on the next map update and yes this has a Lifetime Map Updates on this version and that is one of the reasons why I bought this GPS to server me it's very best until it breaks. This also has speed indicator, letting you know what the speed is on the current street you are driving and the best part for the 2460 version is that you can edit the speed limits as you drive by and if the GPS does not support the street sign yet, you can hit the + button on the screen where the speed limit should be to add manually on the fly.
Bluetooth connection just simply works but I wish you can pair an ear piece for better voice command against wind noise, can pretty much assess your phone book via voice command another feature will appreciated.
A lot of people's gripe about update taking way too long, well they are right but that should not the case to knock a few stars down because Garmin wants to improve your product, any device and software you buy now requires updates so review this product to what it can do for you and does it serve you will.
I think this investment was worth it, I finally have that feeling that this is a real GPS unlike that nuvi 885t that unit suck-out-loud!

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Excellent unit -- shows why smartphones aren't there yet

wedding dress review Garmin 4 3 Inch Portable Navigator Lifetime

I purchased this for my wife to replace an old Mio that she had always been borrowing from her uncle. The size is perfect being a 4.3" screen- it is big enough to see and small enough to stow.

We have used it for a couple of months now and it seems to work pretty well. It doesn't always select the route that seems the best choice if you are somewhat familiar with secondary roads but it has so far always gotten us there. It recalculates pretty quickly if you miss a turn, but like most if there are multiple missed turns in a row you may be better off pulling aside and letting it reorient.

Overall it seems pretty intuitive to use, I can't say I have any real issues with getting it to do what I need it to- plan a route and find destinations.
The traffic finder seems to be 50/50 but that is common with others I have spoken with in the Philly metro area. Honestly, you probably know better if it is in an area that you frequent than the GPS does.
The photo of your upcoming exit has been a neat feature and so far has been very accurate as you approach them.

The main reason I purchased this unit is because of recalculating speed (suppose to be a little faster) and updated user interface (suppose to be easier to use the more common features) compared to the 2011 models I was originally looking at. I was always planning on lifetime maps because based on the GPS she had borrowing- they wanted $90 to update the map and it just seemed to make sense to get the lifetime maps for a few dollars more now. While I haven't done it yet, the instructions state that you get 4 updates per year.

Hope this helps and good luck!

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All I hoped for!

gps review Garmin Forerunner Receiver Heart Monitor

I've had my Garmin 305 for more than 6 months now and I absolutely love it! It's helped me train and finish a marathon. It was a wonderful help with my 20 weeks of training. I programmed it with my interval training sessions sessions -- it was very, very easy to program my different training sessions (for example, run 4 minutes/wal 1 minute). It also helped me when I got lost on my long runs -- I went from running 3 to 4 miles at a time to running 20 miles (that was my long run) so I got lost. With my Garmin 305, I marked various locations and it directed me back to them so I could find my way home.

I would not have been been able to train for my marathon without it! OK, maybe I could have, but it would have been a lot less fun, a lot harder, and I would have gotten lost.

One more thing -- I'm a pretty small woman, and even though the wrist unit is pretty big, I found it pretty comfortable to wear.

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I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT

statement ring review Garmin Forerunner GPS Enabled Sport Monitor

I'll keep this short and to the point since there are numerous complete reviews. For the past 6 or 7 years, I have been tracking my mileage in Excel which has required using previously measured runs or measuring new ones by computer or bike, etc. I wanted a watch that was the smallest, lightest one that would free me from the same old runs and allow me to run anywhere and easily get the mileage and my time. I didn't want a heart monitor, don't need directions back home or anything else...

The Forerunner links to satellites in about 10 seconds and does everything I need. The software it works with, Garmin Connect or Training Center are excellent also. I use them, but still use Excel for tracking mileage although the Garmin software can do this also.

One key point because there seems to be confusion about this - the watch by default beeps at each mile and tells you your pace for that mile, but at the end of your run, it tells you only the total distance and time. You CANNOT get your mile splits from the watch but you CAN get them by downloading your activity to Garmin Connect or Garmin Training Center. Once you do that (and it is simple and takes just a few seconds), you get all your splits and more including elevations, speeds and a map. Garmin Connect also has a player to replay your runs. Very fun and cool. You change the splits to other values, Miles or Kilometers, and other distances in case you want to run on a track, etc.

Bottom line - I am thrilled with this watch and it has motivated me to run new routes and go greater distances. I have also used it during one race which was helpful and am looking forward to wearing it in a half marathon next month to make my time goal. If I could give this thing 10 stars, I would - it is a great training aid, motivational aid and... cool toy.

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Excellent!

statement ring TomTom Widescreen Portable Navigator Lifetime

I just wanted to provide this small tip to new users of the TomTom. It's about the suction cup for the windshield - I've read review that it doesn't hold well, and one person said that if he wet the cup before sticking, that worked for a while. The windshield mount that comes with the TomTom actually is designed to hold - but the instructions aren't clear. So here's how you get it to hold really tight - you couldn't even pull it off.

You will need to figure out the position of the mount first, then separate it from your TomTom, since you can't do the rest of this with it attached. With the suction cup facing the windshield (away from you), turn the disk that is in the center all the way counter clockwise. Then stick the mount onto your windshield where you want it, and while you push it with your hand, use your other hand to turn the disk in the center all the way clockwise. That motion, turning it clockwise, makes the suction cup really tight. Then you can put your TomTom back onto the mount.

Hope this helps some folks. My mount fell off a couple of times, then I realized what I'd done wrong.

When I went to the web site to set up the My Tomtom account and check for updates, I have to say that it wasn't super intuitive - at first it wouldn't take my code. Not sure why that is, but after going through some stuff I was able to do it. The GPS itself is very nice, I like the choices of voices, and the display is nice. It does reroute quickly when you make a different turn than it tells you.

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EVERYTHING I wanted a GPS to do!

tablet review Garmin Oregon 550 Waterproof Hiking

The only negative with this GPS is that the user's booklet doesn't give very much information. The manual on disk is a "4" on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the best). However, the GPS is easy to use and most of the menu items are pretty much self-explanatory. Having the TOPO maps included is a big plus. If you were to buy the more inexpensive 450T and have to buy the maps for various regions you could easily spend far more to have maps for the entire U.S. than what this device costs. The scale is acceptable, the contour intervals are not as good as a USGS map of course, but you do have the option to purchase more detailed map (at at least $99 a "pop"). I've found that I don't really need that much detail. As a backpacker, I found setting a route using my own waypoints to be a great asset. I've also used this GPS for geocaching and it is pretty accurate. The camera is another plus, the detail is good enough unless you want to print an 8X10 photo. Downloading the photos was relatively simple and I was able to easily bring pictures into my Kodak Easyshare program as well as my Nikon program. Again as a backpacker I like to only take items with me that have more than one purpose (I use a frisbee as a dinner plate, but I have yet to find more than one use for my toothbrush). Anyway, I'm pleased with this GPS and reccommend it.

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Great looking and works flawlessly

cheap silver heels Nike SportWatch Powered TomTom Black

Although the Nike Sportwatch GPS is an excellent choice for any level of runner, it can also be easily used by walkers, bicyclists, and hikers.

The interface is very simple, if not intuitive. The menus are very easy to navigate and contain only useful settings and features. The watch can be set to use GPS, the foot pod, or a combination of the two to measure distance ran. The watch can also be set to timed intervals.

The display is large and easy to read, and can be set to standard black characters with white back drop or inverted. The back-light is activated by flicking or tapping the screen, making it easy to light up while running. The display during the run can display two different sets of data at any time with one set able to be switched during the run. The data to that can be displayed includes: Pace, Speed, Distance, Time Elapsed, Average Pace, Calories Burned, and Clock. Distance can be measured in either standard or metric units.

Another feature that is less functional but still nice is your Records. You can access your total miles ran, fastest mile time, fastest kilometer, your fastest 5k time, your fastest 10k time, and your longest run. Also, you can go to your History and look up your most recent runs.

For tracking distance, the foot pod/GPS combination is very accurate. When GPS signal is weak, the foot pod (a small device that is placed under the insole inside of your shoe) keeps track of the pace you're moving, so when the signal for GPS picks up again it can accurately measure your speed during that signal loss. The foot pod takes some experimenting in finding placement that is not uncomfortable. The best place seems to be the very back of the heal so that more of the back of your foot rather than the bottom of your foot is activating the foot pod with each step. I found this to be the least intrusive place, and it does not bother me while I'm running. The watch has been accurate to the 1/100th of a mile for 8 runs, including through heavily wooded suburban areas.

The way this watch goes above and beyond is when you connect it to your computer. After downloading software from nikeplus.com, your watch will automatically upload all of your run data to a profile that you set up. Your profile will display all of your run times, your run routes on a map, your speed during the run, and has a plethora of other features. It can help you set goals with your frequency of running, distance, calories, and speed. You also become connected to the community of Nike runners where you can set team goals, exchange running advice, and download training programs that have specific goals in mind. This is just the surface of the website's functionality.

The watch itself is very sporty looking. It's black face with neon green/yellow back side gives it a very loud look. The band has 9 settings and a very effective clipping system that keeps the strap from flapping loose.

This watch has exceeded my expectations, and while I could do without the the neon coloring , it is a tertiary concern and with little consequence. Stylistically, a lot of people will appreciate it. As far as functionality is concerned, I give it a 11 out of 10. This GPS watch does everything I could want and more.

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PERFECT!!!!!

tablet review Garmin Forerunner Watch Green White

I started running this year and was using a free app on my iPhone to track my times, distances, and pace. I eventually got sick of carrying my phone with me every run and decided to get a dedicated watch. I was looking for something light that would allow me to track simple running metrics, and had no interest in heart rate or other factors. I happened to walk in to our local Garmin store in Chicago the very day the Forerunner 10 went on sale, and ended up buying one that day. I've now been using it for about 6 weeks and have been very happy. It usually finds a GPS signal in about 30 seconds. Uploading my data to GarminConnect is simple, taking only about 15 seconds. The day-to-day reproduciblity of the data is very high. I start and stop at the same spot every day, and the watch always records the same distance at that spot. The reports on GarminConnect are useful to me (maps out your route, shows graphs of your pace and elevation at every point in your run, lets you compare multiple runs, etc). Overall the Forerunner 10 provided everything I was expecting.

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Does what it says it does well

vacuum cleaner review Garmin Forerunner GPS Enabled Unisex Sport

I'll keep this short and to the point since there are numerous complete reviews. For the past 6 or 7 years, I have been tracking my mileage in Excel which has required using previously measured runs or measuring new ones by computer or bike, etc. I wanted a watch that was the smallest, lightest one that would free me from the same old runs and allow me to run anywhere and easily get the mileage and my time. I didn't want a heart monitor, don't need directions back home or anything else...

The Forerunner links to satellites in about 10 seconds and does everything I need. The software it works with, Garmin Connect or Training Center are excellent also. I use them, but still use Excel for tracking mileage although the Garmin software can do this also.

One key point because there seems to be confusion about this - the watch by default beeps at each mile and tells you your pace for that mile, but at the end of your run, it tells you only the total distance and time. You CANNOT get your mile splits from the watch but you CAN get them by downloading your activity to Garmin Connect or Garmin Training Center. Once you do that (and it is simple and takes just a few seconds), you get all your splits and more including elevations, speeds and a map. Garmin Connect also has a player to replay your runs. Very fun and cool. You change the splits to other values, Miles or Kilometers, and other distances in case you want to run on a track, etc.

Bottom line - I am thrilled with this watch and it has motivated me to run new routes and go greater distances. I have also used it during one race which was helpful and am looking forward to wearing it in a half marathon next month to make my time goal. If I could give this thing 10 stars, I would - it is a great training aid, motivational aid and... cool toy.

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Great GPS

shoes Garmin Portable Bluetooth Navigator Lifetime

After reading reviews I was skeptical, that this garmin would be better than our old one. Here's my summary: updating- took maybe a half hour and it was super easy- cord is included to plug into computer, you go to site and follow the clear instructions from the website. The screen is beautifully , clear quality, nice colors, glass and touch screen perfect. Clarity of color and screen reminds me of my iPad. It's super easy to use, just like before.3d effect on screen is cool, it acquires signal way faster then my old one. In the bright sunlight, it has been clear as can be. Sound is clear and loud, even with the music on. Pairing phone to it was easy. I like the part where It shows the next road coming up across top of screen. It also prompts, you earlier and better, then my older garmin. I'm glad I bought it. I like that you can choose different icons and screen displays and voice. Buy it you won't regret it.

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Excellent

kitchen faucets Garmin eTrex Worldwide Handheld Navigator

As with any electronic device, it takes some learning and getting used to. Give it a chance is all I am saying. The Etrex 20 has been out with me geocaching, hiking, and scouting for about a week now. I have used it quite a bit in the little time I have had it. It has proven to be a very good unit. Satellite signal is very good and does not appear to be hindered by heavy cover. I have on several occasions, gotten a signal inside a house. The screen is very easily read- even in direct sunlight. I got the bundle package with the Topo US 100K maps and while it's not as detailed as 1:24K, it's still pretty darn good and quite accurate. Very well priced compared to buying the GPS and mapping software separate. I will say that it took me a minute and some questions to GPS forums to figure out how to get this unit to talk to Google Earth and import/ export data from Google Earth. But once you learn how, it's incredible. You can actually get aerial images from Google Earth and get them onto you GPS!! There are a lot of other mapping and POI managing system out there besides Google earth and the KML file converter that I am using so shop around and try a couple. They all have a learning curve. The batteries on the unit, seem to last quite some time (I have my backlight turned down to 50% though). I am still on my first pair of batteries and I am reading full power after using the hec out of it. The menus are pretty user friendly and you will get good at accessing them after some practice. The manual that comes with it is only "quick set up", so you will need to download one off the internet. Using this in the car I have it mounted on the dash and have not lost signal yet- even on cloudy days while driving fast. Garmin custom maps is a pretty cool tool that I used to get the aerials on my unit. You can access learn about that from Garmin's website. The only downside that I have seen with this unit so far is the toggle stick on the front top right of the unit that is used for scrolling through menus and maps. The unit does not have a "lock feature" for it and if you pocket the unit, there is a very real chance of bumping the toggle stick and putting you somewhere else in the GPS than where you want to be. Other than that little glitch, I am very pleased with this unit. My friend after watching mine in operation is seriously considering getting one. I would recommend it to anyone that wants a real affordable and dependable GPS mapping and geochaching unit.

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Great watch. Easy to work around bezel concerns.

watches woman Garmin Forerunner GPS Enabled Sports Monitor

The Forerunner 410 is an absolute GIFT to any casual or competitive runner. The watch can be as simple or complex as you want it... you can build your customizable screens, pair it with the heart rate monitor, create interval workouts, etc., or you can keep it simple and have the watch display distance/time/pace. That's what I love about this watch. I live in NYC and was worried about issues with GPS accuracy, but I just ran a 10K and the watch was PERFECTLY accurate to the hundredth of a mile. I love the Virtual Partner setting, which allows you to race against an imaginary "partner" who is running your goal time, as well as the watch's beeping at every interval (in my case, every mile) with an update on your pace. Garmin Connect is also a great tool, in which you can create courses and send them to your watch, create goals for yourself in a calendar, and get an incredible depth of data from your runs (how your pace, elevation, heart rate, etc. changed throughout the entire run/race). And the bezel is very easy to use.. not sure what all the complaining is about. And if you don't feel comfortable using the bezel during a race to change screens, you can just turn on Auto-Scroll (for which there are three different speeds). I'm far from "tech-savvy" and still had no problems setting up and using this watch.

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Short and simple...

shoes woman Motorola MOTOACTV Sports Watch Player

I ordered the Motoactiv as a Christmas gift (as is tradition in my family, we order our own gift, and another family member reimburses you) for myself, early in December.

At first I figured I would only wear it during workouts, now i wear it all the time, as a watch, basal metabolic rate calculator, pedometer, and as an easy way to discreetly check text messages at work.

When paired with a heart rate monitor (garmin premium hrm works great) and bluetooth headphones ( I picked up the LG Tone+) it is true workout bliss.

I originally picked up the Motoactiv so that I could have a small wireless music player, rather than be tethered by earbuds to my cell phone. At the time the fitness tracking features were just a nice bonus. After 1 month the Motoactiv has changed how I look at fitness and how I workout. Now when doing cardio I am much more cognizant of my heart rate, and work out intensity.

Outside the GPS tracking picks up quickly and is very accurate, it displays a map and your track, as well as distance, altitude and time. You can customize what metrics are displayed.

Inside without calibration the distance meter is pretty accurate, if you choose to calibrate it (walking or running on a treadmill for a set time then entering the distance traveled into the Motoactiv) or use a foot pod it is very very accurate

Personally I think this device shines with the golf features. The 8gig now also supports golfers. You set up what states you play in, what clubs are in your bag, and your distances you hit and what tee boxes your playing from. Once that is done, when you walk onto the course the gps tracker locates you, displays the course, and begins acting as your digital caddie, telling you distance to the pin, and suggesting what club to use. It even tracks swings!

I have been very very happy with my purchase.
The only negatives I have encountered were with initial bluetooth pairing , it took about 5 tries. Once it was paired for the first time with my LG Tone+ headphones it has found them every time after with ease.

If your going to wear it everyday i would suggest a screen protector.

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My Streetpilot replacement - Nuvi 2595LMT

shoes Garmin Portable Bluetooth Navigator Lifetime

What prompted my purchase of the Garmin Nuvi 2555LMT specifically was one, my familiarity with Garmin, and two, the lifetime map and traffic updates. I have two older Garmin units on which I have not updated the maps for a number of years due to the cost of $80/ year.

This unit has easy to navigate screens and provides information which is easy to absorb with a quick glance. The "Lane Navigator" is one of my favorite features. It lets me know if the exit is a right or left exit and how many lanes are used for the exit. The photo realistic view actually looks very similar to the exit lanes themselves!

The traffic feature is also a great feature, but has a minor bug or two. I found myself approaching a very recent accident and an alert appeared on the GPS, which I thought was rather impressive. In other cases, the traffic alert has indicated slow traffic ahead, which has typically been the case, but other times has already cleared up. Yesterday, the traffic alert called out a traffic jam with a one minute delay: the jam may well have been longer than that by the time I got to it. There was enough warning that I was able to re-route without any issues. I recently found myself in a very long line of traffic jam. I chose not to re-route, but it was nice to know about how many miles the jam was.

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Great GPS

gps review Garmin 2555LMT Portable Navigator Lifetime

What prompted my purchase of the Garmin Nuvi 2555LMT specifically was one, my familiarity with Garmin, and two, the lifetime map and traffic updates. I have two older Garmin units on which I have not updated the maps for a number of years due to the cost of $80/ year.

This unit has easy to navigate screens and provides information which is easy to absorb with a quick glance. The "Lane Navigator" is one of my favorite features. It lets me know if the exit is a right or left exit and how many lanes are used for the exit. The photo realistic view actually looks very similar to the exit lanes themselves!

The traffic feature is also a great feature, but has a minor bug or two. I found myself approaching a very recent accident and an alert appeared on the GPS, which I thought was rather impressive. In other cases, the traffic alert has indicated slow traffic ahead, which has typically been the case, but other times has already cleared up. Yesterday, the traffic alert called out a traffic jam with a one minute delay: the jam may well have been longer than that by the time I got to it. There was enough warning that I was able to re-route without any issues. I recently found myself in a very long line of traffic jam. I chose not to re-route, but it was nice to know about how many miles the jam was.

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Garmin Nuvi 1490LMT - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

camera digital review Garmin Bluetooth Portable Navigator Lifetime

I have this GPS for couple of weeks and I like everything about it. I have been a Garmin user for 4 years so did not want to make a switch to other brand. The screen is nice, it gives correct directions (I could validate on the routes I know). I will know more in couple of weeks when I leave for a longer trip.
I have not used the bluetooth yet, some people complained about ads for real time traffic, I did see ads pop up but they were not annoying in any way. If you don't know this GPS tells the speed limit and the car's speed display changes color from black to red if you drive faster than the speed limit. So, far I have been able to identify couple of stretches where it showed wrong speed limit (off by 5 miles/hour). The real time traffic information is nice, it shows a "red/yellow/green" icon in the left denoting how the traffic is and if it anything other than green it lists the delay you can expect in minutes. I am happy with my pick, got it on black friday and hope you enjoy the review!

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