Navigation devices for every budget: We took a closer look at four models from TomTom and Garmin. One of our favorites even costs less than 85 euros.
A navigation system is now practically part of the standard equipment of vehicles – but far from all. And although (or precisely because) many drivers let themselves be guided by their smartphone, mobile navigation devices are still very popular: on the one hand, independent navigation systems often offer a better readable display, on the other hand, of course, they conserve the cell phone battery. The market is firmly in the hands of the two top manufacturers TomTom and Garmin.
Of course, the pioneers also meet the increased requirements for topicality and service. In the following, we will show you our favorites among the navigation devices that navigate you unerringly through cities, villages and landscapes. The prices are between 84.99 and 219 euros – well below what a good smartphone costs.
TomTom Go Premium: high-end equipment for maximum comfort
The TomTom Go Premium almost fulfills everyone wish: Voice input and live traffic jam information are available, as are pedestrian routes and even IFTT. Next to the extensive Ticket offer get it lifelong traffic and speed trap updates as well as extremely convenient route planning via the MyDrive service.
IFTTT (If This Then That): This allows you to control your smart home devices on the go. The IFTT also networks with digital assistants such as Alexa and Siri.
Is an easy-to-read display important to you? The up to six-inch display offers one color intensive reproduction the route and enables easy operation, whereby the device can also be controlled by voice command. Next Bluetooth and WiFi the Go Premium has a micro USB interface. If required, the 16 GB internal memory can be easily expanded using a microSD card. in the Battery operation the TomTom Go Premium has a very good endurance of 145 Minutes.
TomTom offers with its service MyDrive a practical route planner: This allows you to easily plan routes for your vacation or excursion using the browser and then transfer them to the navigation device. You also have the opportunity to be inspired by suggested routes and maybe discover a new place or two.
Tom Tom Go 520: Arrive quickly and smartly
Another popular navigation device is the TomTom Go 520. Here you get real-time traffic data and traffic warnings without additional costs via GSM. In addition, regular map and speed camera updates are available free of charge. The route planning done according to preferences conveniently via touchscreen, Android or iOS app and voice control.
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications): Is the name of the location of a device (e.g. smartphone or navigation device) via a cellular network.
The TomTom Go 520 has one five inch Large multi-touch display as well as a Bluetooth hands-free system and 16 GB of internal memory. The latter is due to the extensive Card offers out of a total of 152 Countries definitely an advantage. If the memory is still not sufficient, a MicroSD slot is available for expansion.
The Battery life is over two hours. Matching accessories like one GPS mount or a Replacement charging cable are also available on eBay.
Garmin DriveSmart 55: Live traffic data via DAB +
The 5.5 inch display of the Garmin DriveSmart 55 is high-resolution and very easy to read. However, you should ensure the power supply of the DriveSmart 55 on longer distances, as the battery with a runtime of 82 minutes does not last too long. The sharp display darkens automatically in the tunnelso that you are not dazzled while driving.
So that you can avoid traffic jams as possible, the navigation system receives the corresponding ones Information about TMC and TMC pro (Traffic Message Channel). For the Garmin Live traffic data you need an app on your mobile phone, which is then connected to the navigation system via Bluetooth or you can use the reception via DAB +. The internal one 16 GB memory can also be expanded with a microSD card.
The device only misses a pedestrian mode. The navigation system starts quickly, has a short reaction time and reliably brings you to your destination. Thereby the announcement striking Points like traffic lights driving.
Garmin Drive 51: top navigation system for only 85 euros
You are on one pure navigation function interested in no frills? For a small budget, the Drive 51 model from Garmin navigates you to your desired destination. This version is largely classic with a focus on route guidance, but still includes some useful Features.
In comparison to the devices already presented, you have to make a few compromises when it comes to comfort: to receive live traffic jam updates, the navigation system over Bluetooth connected to the smartphone app. A WLAN module is not on board, but it does Mini USB interface a fairly simple update of the map material.
The calculation the route succeeds brisk and the navigation system gives significant points for better orientation via voice output. One trick should be mentioned: That Touch display is resistive built up and therefore requires a little more pressure to operate than capacitive screens like those found in most smartphones. The device is already available for a smart 85 euros.