Garmin zumo 220 Motorcycle GPS Navigator Review

Garmin zumo 220 Motorcycle GPS Navigator - Driving on the open road, and feeling the rush of the wind against your helmet while your motorcycle makes its way down the highway is such a thrilling experience and it take a lot of discipline to travel on two wheels. Braving the elements along the way is an adventure in itself, as you need to be as tough as you can be to over come the challenges of the open road. Nevertheless, you still have to know exactly where you are going and since riding a motorcycle is as thrilling as it is difficult, you need to have the most dependable navigational equipment to guide you through the most intricate roadways along with being able to withstand the incremental weather. One such navigation system is the Garmin Zumo 220, which was built to be as tough as the rider himself when it comes to facing the challenges of the open road. The Zumo 220 is one of the most weather tested GPS navigation system designed by Garmin which can be used under any circumstances, whether that be rain, sleet or snow.

Garmin zumo 220 Motorcycle GPS Navigator

The Zumo 220 has a 3.5 inch resistive capacity LCD colored touchscreen which can offer a high resolution image quality that shows the most important details along your route. Its LCD touchscreen can be used under any lighting condition as it can fully adjust itself with regard to brightness and contrast automatically if needed. The Zumo 220’s touchscreen uses a resistive touch technology that allows riders to access its important control interface even if they are wearing gloves. Aside from this, its screen has a glare repellent feature that reduces the effects of sunlight on its screen’s surface. Its display features include a lane assisting notification that shows the following consecutive lanes that a rider should take before they reach that point. It also has a Bluetooth capability that gives voice notifications directly to a Bluetooth capable wireless headset along with a visual representation of upcoming changes in lanes or turning points along your route.

Added to this, its Bluetooth capabilities allows incoming phone calls from any compatible smart phone which can then be forwarded to the Zumo 220 along with its sharing compatibility with other Garmin navigation systems. It has a compact design that fits well on a motorcycle’s handlebar since it has a measurement of 6.5 inches in length by 6.5 inches in width with a front panel measurement of 4.3 inches, making it small enough as not to obscure your motorcycle’s instrument panel. Weighing at 2.1 pounds, the Zumo 220 won’t offer you any inconvenience whatsoever with regard to the weight that it imposes on your handlebar, as it will not give you any difficulties while you steer. The Zumo 220 has a fairly decent battery life as it can continuously operate for as long as 8 hours, which is ideal if you plan on going hiking while using it as a hand held GPS unit.

Besides its two built in maps (City Navigator NT and MapSource City Navigator), users have the option to load additional maps through the Zumo 220’s expandable SD memory card slot or through its USB data port on a computer. As for its mounting system, it is good to know that Garmin also included two sets of mounting system which allows you to attach the Zumo 220 to either your car or motorcycle, allowing users to use it interchangeably without the need for additional mounting accessories. Included with the Zumo 220 is a USB data cable, a DVD software, a user’s manual, an automotive charging adapter and two separate mounting systems for your car and motorcycle respectively.

Design:

Its compact feature that enable the Zumo 220 to have one of the smallest LCD resistive touchscreen with a measurement of 3.5 inches, given that the whole casing of the Zumo 220 measures in at 6.5 inches in lengthy by 6.5 inches in width and with a front panel area of 4.3 inches makes this motorbike GPS navigation system small enough to fit inside your pockets. Its impact resistant ABS polymer casing also provides adequate waterproofing to protect its electronic components from the harsh elements, including ultraviolet rays, corrosive oil based substances such as gasoline and other harmful compounds that can virtually melt plastic materials. Its small dimensions makes it very well suited to be mounted on a motorcycle’s handlebar as it is also light enough (weighing in at 2.1 pounds) as not to inhibit the way you drive your motorcycle along with allowing you to have a clear view of your instrument panel.

Features:

The Zumo 220 is light and small enough to be used as a hand held GPS navigation unit and along with a decent battery life expectancy of being able to run straight for about 8 hours, users can find an extended use for it that goes beyond a navigational system for vehicles. Built to withstand the elements, the Zumo 220 is a fully waterproof system that can be used under any weather condition as to provide motorcycle-riding enthusiast an efficient navigation system that can competently guide them on each turn they make. What really makes the Zumo 220 stand out among the rest is its special gas mileage feature that coordinates the need for you to fill up your gas tank with regard to the calculated distance that is set up with the route that you are navigating. This unique feature enables the Zumo 220 to estimate the total distance of your route with the amount of gas you have inside your tank and will suggest waypoints that will point you out to the nearest gas station along your route to refill your tank before you even run out of fuel along your way. Added to this, it also has a lane assistance with a voice notification feature that reminds riders through voice and visual representation prior to every turn that they should make without missing any of it.

LCD:

As the same with all Garmin product line, the Zumo 220 uses a resistive touchscreen LCD display which can respond to any slight finger pressure applied on it, whether you are wearing gloves or not. This enables its LCD touchscreen to quickly access any aspect of its control interface without giving its users a difficult time in exerting too much effort in applying substantial pressure while using gloves since it is a safety regulation when driving a motorcycle. Despite having a 3.5 inch touchscreen, the Zumo 220 can render high quality images that can be readable under any lighting condition since its LCD was designed to repel sun glare and automatically adjusts its contrast and brightness in conjunction with the time of day and ambient lighting conditions.

Final Thoughts:

Most people would agree that $529.99 is a bit steep if we were talking about some other GPS navigation system, but considering that it is a Zumo 220 that is made by Garmin and that it comes with a free mounting system for both your car and motorcycle, a $529.99 price tag is pretty reasonable. Besides this, the Zumo 220 has this fuel mileage function that monitors your fuel consumption and accurately calculates your distance with your gas consumption which can save you a lot of time and money on gasoline as it can give you an estimate of your route’s distance with the fuel you need to use to get there. Being a weatherproof GPS system with a battery life of 8 hours enables the Zumo 220 to be used as a hand held system for such reasons that you may want to go hiking in the backwoods. Although the entire GPS unit is waterproof itself, there is a slight issue concerning its charging port that is connected to the motorcycle electrical system since the charging port itself lacks adequate protection from the elements that you have to make certain that it does not get wt as not to induce a short circuit in your vehicles electrical system, especially when it is mounted on your motorcycle handlebar.

Garmin Quest 2 Portable Weatherproof Handheld GPS

Garmin Quest 2 Portable Weatherproof Handheld GPS - Garmin has a variety of GPS systems that come with full functionality that range from simple push button interfaces to the more technically sophisticated touchscreen display. Despite of the differences in design, one thing stands out as a common denominator for most Garmin products and that is their ability to integrate the newest GPS technology even in their most simplest model such as the Garmin Quest 2. It may look as simple as it is but underneath its simple design is its sophisticated use of the current WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) tracking technology that is also used in the airline industry to accurately find an airplanes current position.

Garmin Quest 2

The accuracy of the WAAS system gives you the closest proximity of within 3.5 meters, which is very accurate. Apart from this, the system also maintains a 95% consistency with regard to speed of the information being sent by satellites and ground stations. Having an attachable GPS antenna, the Quest 2 also has a 12 channel parallel scanning system that enables it to find the nearest available satellite or ground positioning possible. Although it may look as simple as it is, the Garmin Quest 2 responds exclusively to WAAS signal primarily before it responds to other secondary tracking signals such as GPS.

Garmin Quest 2 Design:

Its design was primarily intended for hand-held use considering the presence of ring loop intended to be used with a lanyard which you can put around your neck. As for its main casing, the protruding area on its back in which the battery pack is located fits snugly on the palm of your hand enabling your fingers to securely wrap around it. The Garmin Quest 2 has a textured back casing that gives adequate traction to the fingers when you should find yourself having to struggle with water along your way. A rubberized silicon sealing gasket that lines the inside seams along with its battery pack, prevents water from seeping into the unit’s electronic components. Adequately designed to withstand the the harsh environment.

Features Garmin Quest 2:

Problem with maps? One reason why most GPS systems “hang” is that most people did not realize that they were actually over using the RAM capacity of their devices. One good example is loading every existing map in your GPS at the same time even though you are in just one particular area. Loading maps when you are not in that particular area just adds the load to your GPS ability to process the maps. In the case of GPS systems with lower processing capacity, it is advised to load a map which you are currently located to avoid over using unneeded RAM into your device.

This practical use of your GPS ensures you that it will only process the needed information of the area where you are currently located, setting free the load from your GPS that it will greatly help in giving you real time data. Despite the ability of your GPS to process data in real-time, you would also have to consider the availability of such services once you enter the area. Since GPS services may vary from state to state, getting precise data may be a problem in some areas in which your GPS services may not give you an exact data of the information that you need.

The Quest 2 is a very straight forward piece of hardware since it gives you your exact location at the most quickest possible time through different methods. Considering it uses a very orthodox means of accessing its functions through regular control buttons on its interface is not only convenient, but rids the need for you to frequently touch the screen compared to that of using newer touchscreen displays as it does prevent you from incurring smudges on your display.

LCD Garmin Quest 2:

Considering that its display screen only measures 2.2 by 1.5 inches may be a bit small for those who have a problem with viewing the images on such a scale. But despite its size, it is nevertheless very interactive since it can automatically zoom in at about a mile before you reach your next turn or exit along with its ability to make turn by turn voice notifications to make sure you do not miss that turn. Its glare free screen texture does not reflect back ambient light coupled with its 240 by 160 pixel resolution which is readable under any lighting condition.

Garmin Quest 2 Final Thoughts:

Everything about the Garmin Quest 2 is quite efficient, as much to say the least considering that it is small and compact. Using WAAS as its primary tracking system gives users the accuracy of knowing their location in real time along with its 12 channel scanning ability that reduces “dead spots”. Added to this, its outstanding battery life of 20 hours is more than enough to get you through a whole day of driving without having to worry about recharging the GPS unit. Its compact size fits in well as a hand-held system for outdoor recreational use which can be used under any weather conditions since it is also water proof as well. The Quest 2 was ruggedly designed to do just that along with its ability to give your current location without worrying about its accuracy since it is using the latest WAAS tracking technology.

Review Garmin Zumo 350LM Motorcycle GPS

Garmin Zumo 350LM - Motorcycle GPS systems are one of the most resilient types of navigational systems that you can use under any type of weather condition, may that be rain, sleet or snow and are considered as one of the most preferred navigational aides that any outdoors-man, adventurer or better yet, a motorcycle rider can have.

The Garmin Zumo 350LM was specifically designed to be used on a motorcycle as it features a fully weather resistant ABS polymer casing that was rated of having an IPX 7 grade, meaning that it can be immersed under water with a depth of up to 1 meter deep for a duration of up to 30 minutes. An IPX 7 rating also means that the USB ports, power input ports along with other external switches, are able to resist any water entry at this point.

Garmin zumo 350LM Motorcycle GPS

Garmin Zumo 350LM 

An IPX 7 rating also means that the Zumo 350LM’s shockproof casing can easily survive a 5 foot drop without cracking its protective casing. Besides being able to survive drops, the protective casing can also resist the corrosive effects of fuel based substances, acids and the destructive effects of UV (ultraviolet) rays. Since this GPS navigational system will be spending most of its time on a motorcycle’s handlebar, having a tough, resilient outer casing is of the utmost importance to ensure that the important electronic components are intact, safe from the damaging effects of dust and moisture.

Its protective casing features a rugged sporty design that was made to be seen on a motorcycle’s handlebar as its shape blends in with the existing instrument panel on your bike. Having a 4.3 inch LCD touch screen display can be very advantageous to any user as it can provide a better image quality compared to smaller GPS systems with a smaller screen. Although it has a big touchscreen, Garmin was able to keep the size of the 350LM to a minimal without obscuring the view of the instrument panel. Measuring 5.1 inches in length by 3.7 inches in width and with a thickness of just ½ of an inch, with its battery already included, the Zumo 350LM gives more emphasis on the size of its touchscreen to make it less bulky, while providing its users the best viewing advantage.

One of the best features that the Garmin Zumo 350 has might probably be its ability to efficiently calculate the amount of fuel that you have in your gas tank and notify you the remaining amount with regard to the distance that you already have covered along your route. This makes it easy for riders to adjust the amount of gasoline that would need to reach their destination, along with the distance and time that it takes to achieve it. This special feature works alongside the Zumo 350’s ability to guide you to the nearest point of interest such as a gas refilling station in order for you to adequately supplement the remaining amount of gas left in your tank until you reach your point of destination. Users will be able to calculate and plan the shortest, most economical route with regards to saving time and gas, making traveling time much more convenient.

Garmin Zumo 350LM Design:

When it comes to functionality and appearance, the Garmin Zumo 350LM is a combination of both as it has that rugged look without compromising its most important features as to give your exact location when you really need it, along with being able to function efficiently under any detrimental driving condition. Being IPX 7 rated means that this GPS system can be used under any extreme condition, even if it means for it being submerged in water. Another characteristic that IPX rated electronic gadgets have is its ability to easily resist shock with regards to accidentally dropping them from heights from up to 5 feet. The protective casing of this motorcycle nav allows it to be fully weather proof and being hermetically sealed around its seams and even in its connecting ports and external switches, it gives users the convenience of using it wherever they would like to take it. Having a dimensional measurement of 5.1 inches in length with a width of 3.7 inches and with a thickness of ½ of an inch, the size of this Garmin motorcycle GPS is comparable to that of the size of an average smart phone. Having such a streamlined design gives users the convenience of being able to put the Zumo 350 in their pockets after using it on their motorcycle or car.

Garmin Zumo 350LM Features:

The most prominent design feature that the Garmin Zumo 350LM has is having an IPX 7 rated protective casing that can easily survive a 5 foot drop along with being able to survive being immersed under water with a depth of 1 meter for a duration of about 30 minutes. This can be considered as one of the most important factors that determine the durability with regard to withstanding the harshness of any weather condition since it will be used on a motorcycle handlebar for the entire duration of its serviceable life. When it comes to functionality, the Zumo 350 features two very distinct navigational capabilities that will surely be a benefit for those who spend most of their time riding the open road. The Garmin Zumo features a lane assisting notification feature that automatically zooms the route that you are currently traveling on, and notifies you of any upcoming lane changes before you reach that point far back as a mile prior to making that important turn. The visual zoom in notification is followed with an audio notification that is relayed through the Garmin Zumo 350’s Bluetooth system that lets you effectively hear the audio notification through the use of any Bluetooth compatible headset device. Another special navigational feature is its ability to calculate fuel consumption with the distance that you are planning to travel. This even allows riders to set up a route planner that would allow them to find the shortest route, consuming the least amount of fuel and saving on both time and money while reaching their destination at the shortest possible time.

LCD Garmin Zumo 350LM:

The Garmin Zumo 350LM features a 4.3 inch LCD touchscreen that was designed using the latest resistive multi-point touch technology that allows users to access and control the user interface while wearing driving gloves which is quite advantageous compared to those GPS systems that utilize capacitive touchscreen. Its 4.3 inch wide angle touchscreen features an automatic back light system that adjusts accordingly to ambient lighting conditions as that of cloudy, overcast driving conditions or even while driving to the sunset as it automatically switches to night-mode to give a better and more detailed image resolution under dim lighting conditions. The Garmin Zumo 350’s touchscreen also has a glare free protective coating that enables its LCD touchscreen to be readable even under direct sunlight as it automatically adjusts it brightness and contrast to give a crispier image quality.

Final Thoughts Garmin Zumo 350LM:

With a price of $605.95, the Garmin Zumo 350LM comes with a free motorcycle handlebar mount, along with a car dashboard suction mount as well. Clearly, with the kind of quality that Garmin has put into designing this GPS system, which makes it completely weather proof and having a very responsive and high resolution LCD touchscreen seems to be a reasonable price to pay for quality and durability.

And as the same with all Garmin products that are backed up with their warranty, a price of $605.95 may seem to be expensive compared to other GPS system, but this is a Garmin GPS system which has proven itself as it is used by the world’s formidable explorers and adventurers. Frankly, would you rather pay for something cheaper if you’re touring safety and convenience is compromised with a lesser quality product?

Review Garmin Zumo 390LM Motorcycle GPS Navigator

Garmin Zumo 390LM Motorcycle GPS Navigator - There is no need to further substantiate the efficiency and durability of Garmin GPS devices as they have been subjected through time tested situations in which they were used to navigate through some of the most unforgiving environments on this planet, from scorching arid deserts to the frigid fringes of the Antarctic. Because of this, Garmin still continues to improve on the way they integrate current technologies, which can be used on a daily basis with regard to navigational purposes. One such product is the Garmin Zumo 390LM which has a 4.3 inch touchscreen LCD display that can be readable under any lighting conditions. The Zumo 390LM was designed as a portable hand held navigation system specifically for motorcycle road use.

Garmin Zumo 390LM Motorcycle GPS Navigator

Measuring 5.1 inches in length by 3.7 inches in width and with a total viewing screen area of 4.3 inches, the 390LM is made from tough ABS plastic which allows it to be used under any circumstances including rough handling and incremental weather. As with all Garmin GPS devices, the 390LM was specifically designed to resist moisture and dust as it is an all-weather navigational system, which is expected to perform under any situation. Since the integrity of its electronic components contributes to the efficiency of its operation, its Lithium-Ion battery pack has been carefully placed within its sealed compartment, as to securely protect it from the damaging effects of moisture. The Garmin Zumo 390LM weighs approximately 9.5 ounces and can be conveniently handled with one hand without any problem. Its total battery operating time of 7 hours is more than enough to get you through the rest of the way before you need to recharge your unit.

As with all Garmin products, compatibility has never been an issue since wireless connectivity has been one of their standard features with regard to using Bluetooth. There are other Garmin products which are not related to their GPS product lines that can be connected such as the Garmin tire pressure sensor which can give your tire’s current pressure through your GPS navigational system. Wireless headsets and smart phones can be connected through the Zumo 390LM through Bluetooth in which you can conveniently answer any incoming call from your phone through your wireless headset. Turn by turn voice notifications can also be forwarded to your wireless headset, especially if you are riding on a motorcycle since the wind shear can make voice notifications very hard to hear without the use of a wireless headset.

The availability of free updated maps seems to be a standard for Garmin systems as they offer every Garmin product user a lifetime update of the latest maps for navigational use. Although users do have an option of subscribing to other navigational map services, if they should choose to do so, The Zumo 390LM offers the latest turn by turn updates with regard to points of interest and updated traffic routing conditions with regard to speed limits and traffic bottlenecks to give you the advantage of avoiding these areas as early as possible.

Garmin Zumo 390LM Design:

Having a hand held unit has its advantage as you can safely bring it along with you to almost any place that you want to go. With regard to the Zumo 390LM, it follows Garmin’s conventional design which usually has a ribbed textured back casing to optimize handling under any condition. Ergonomically designed for outdoor use, its ABS plastic construction appropriately fits the nature of its use since it is expected to take a lot of punishment such as accidental drops and scratches that could easily break common plastic materials. Again, most common plastics will not be able to hold out against corrosive compounds such as oils, lubricants, acids, gasoline and even the destructive effect of ultra violet rays since ABS plastics are thermo formed which makes them resistive to such conditions.

Garmin Zumo 390LM Features:

Garmin was able to incorporate a lot of good features with regard to the Zumo 390LM such as a relatively large LCD touchscreen which offers the convenience of not having to struggle with trying to determine the details of the features on the image that it is currently displaying. Apart from this, being weatherproof has a huge advantage compared to other GPS systems that are strictly designed of car use since there can be instances in which four wheeled vehicles would not be able to make it all the way to your destination such as mountain trails under bad weather conditions. Any GPS system, which is not specifically made to endure incremental weather, would just simply breakdown, rendering it inefficient. One thing good about lithium battery packs is that they last longer than conventional rechargeable batteries and as with the case of the Zumo 390LM, having interchangeable battery packs can offer users a wider extended time of operational use since GPS systems are solely dependent on its ability to transmit its location with the availability of its battery power. Of course you can opt for the option external power supply to avoid running out of battery power.

Garmin Zumo 390LM LCD:

A touchscreen LCD display with a wide angle viewing area of 4.3 inches is very ideal; especially if you are driving at night in which having a 480 by 272 pixel resolution that can produce vibrant colorful details can work to your advantage. With regard to its LCD touchscreen readability, the 390LM uses the same screen technology used in most Garmin products with being able to effectively adjust to any lighting condition whenever possible. Glare is the most common problem among GPS units that it renders quite a bit of difficulty under such situations such as driving down an open road under direct sunlight.

Final Thoughts Garmin Zumo 390LM:

With regard to the technology that was used along with the ability to give pin point accuracy in real time, the Zumo 390LM can be compared with some of the most efficient GPS systems that Garmin has created in the past and based upon Garmin’s reputation, its retail price of $539.99 seems to be quite reasonable compared to the quality and features of what this GPS system has to offer. Of course there are some lapses from completely enjoying the features of this product in some aspects such as it does not come with a free car mounting systems unlike other that comes free with other GPS systems. It could be considered as one of the downsides of this product considering it costs $539.99 and Garmin does sell optional accessories, which can be a little expensive sometimes. Another aspect concerning its battery life which lasts to about 7 hours as there were Garmin GPS systems that were sold in the past that had rechargeable battery features that can last for as long as up to 16 hours, although a 7 hour battery life can be more than enough for any normal road navigational use. Using the Zumo 390LM as a navigational aide in vehicles do not pose any such problems compared to using them for navigating through mountain trails since using it in vehicles with the help of a cigarette charger does not impair the battery power since it is constantly connected to its charger. Other than this, The Zumo 390LM can be considered a good choice to use on a daily basis as a navigational aide without much of a problem.

Garmin Zumo 590LM Motorcycle GPS Review

Garmin Zumo 590LM Motorcycle GPS - The Zumo 500 series of GPS navigation systems were first released way back in 2006 in which it was designed specifically for motorcycles. The early Zumo navigational systems were already considered advance for their time and some models even had built in digital cameras in which users can instantly tag the pictures that they have taken with their GPS unit with their current location on their route and upload it or even share the data of their waypoints among their friends. As of date, the Zumo 590LM is the latest addition to the already growing product line which has the same features of all other Zumo GPS systems and more. Recent models of the Zumo usually had touch screen sizes of 3.5 to 4.3 inches, which has been well accepted by most people who know how utterly good these GPS systems perform under any circumstances, as they seem to be quite satisfied with every aspect of its features. The best just got better as Garmin has improved a lot of features on the 590LM, one of which that it has a 5 inch resistive touchscreen that allows you to control its interface even if you are wearing gloves, which can be very advantageous, especially if you are driving in cold weather.

Garmin Zumo 590LM Motorcycle GPS

As with other Zumo systems, the 590LM also has the same self-adjusting screen brightness that conforms to any lighting condition automatically, along with its anti-glare panel that enables users to view map details without much difficulty whether it be mid-day or sunset. The Zumo is known for being waterproof as it is the first model made by Garmin for motorcycle use, although they had to completely re-design the casing from scratch since it is bigger than most Zumo models before it and that current existing Zumo components will not be adequate as compatible parts for the 590LM. As it turned out, the 590LM is a new line of GPS system that is far better than its previous ancestors since it is technologically advanced in more ways than one. The 590LM is fully integral with current smart phone technologies which are used in iPhones and Android systems.

As far as data synchronization is concerned, the 590LM can easily access multi-media files in your smart phone such as video and music and simultaneously connect to both your smart phone and Bluetooth intercom at the same time without disrupting its operation. It has the ability to control and synchronize GPS related applications on your smart phone such as weather and traffic updates and use these data to coordinate with its own to give you an even more precise information of what you expect to encounter along your route. By far, one of its newest features is its ability to use 3D mapping technology that gives you a precise visual representation of your maps to give you an idea of the surrounding topography of your current location. Although these specialized maps are bought as an optional addition to the Zumo 590LM’s built in maps, being able to use this unique map-rendering feature is something that any GPS navigational system user can look forward to.

Design:

Although looking similarly like other previous Zumo models, the 590LM is a lot more different in many aspects. With a measurement of 5.9 inches in length by 3.8 inches in width and with a 1.3 inch thickness, the 590LM is considerably a lot more thinner than previous Zumo models that have protruding battery packs on their back portion, since the 590LM looks more like a smart phone rather than a GPS unit. Weighing in at 13.3 ounces, it is a bit heavier than previous models which is reasonable enough since it is much more bigger than others before it although the shape and its texture is unmistakably that of a Garmin Zumo. Garmin made changes with the battery pack and opted to use flatter Lithium-Ion batteries that will efficiently operate its 5 inch LCD touchscreen. As same with all weatherproof Zumo models, the 590LM uses the same ABS plastic polymer material that resists most corrosive compounds such as oils, acids and fuels that can degrade ordinary plastic casing materials since ABS polymer plastics are specially made to resist cracking and chemicals. Along with being shock and chemically resistant, the Zumo 590LM has been internationally rated of being IPX7 which renders it waterproof to an effective water depth of 1 meter deep for a maximum duration of about 15 minutes.

Features:

One of its most notable features that make it stand out amongst all Zumo models is its full integration with current smart phone technologies, besides Bluetooth. Integration with smart phone applications which can be used to gather GPS data such as current weather and traffic conditions are just some of the newest capabilities that the Zumo 590LM can offer its users. It is very rare to see a GPS system that can use the data of third-party applications such as those used by smart phones and adapt to it without complicating the information that it uses to determine your current location. Fact is, the Zumo 590-LM enhances the data it has received along with the information that it is synchronized with a user’s smart phone and evaluates the information, which it then uses to plot your current position along your route.

Another added feature is its ability to directly access and control media files in your smart phone through its 5 inch LCD touchscreen panel. Besides being Able to answer your phone through Bluetooth, you can also directly listen to your favorite songs while you are driving down the road. One prominent improvement that Garmin made in making the Zumo 590LM is that it uses a fast processor that runs its video rendering capabilities which enables it to use fully compatible 3D maps which gives you a more detailed description on all aspect of terrain, inclination, elevation and topography which you can look at with a 190 degree viewing angle. Added to this feature is the way in which users can quickly switch from either portrait or panoramic viewing angles all just by rotating the Zumo 590LM on a horizontal or vertical angle.

And additional feature you can add, is the Garmin tire pressure monitor system (TPMS). With two sensors you can check your tire pressure on your Zumo 590LM very easily. This great feature is increasing road safety enormously since the only contact with the road are two small areas of your tires.

LCD:

Garmin takes credit for being able to integrate multi-functional LCD touch screens which can be used by people who ride motorcycles, in which wearing gloves provides protection to their hands. But there are some cases in which gloves may not be very helpful when it comes to accessing controls on a touchscreen since you would need to apply adequate pressure on the LCD screen for the GPS system to respond properly. Thanks to Garmin’s design, the Zumo 590LM uses a resistive touchscreen LCD panel that needs little pressure in order for it to respond to your every gesture, regardless if you are wearing gloves or not. Along with this, the Zumo 590LM still inherits the same type of LCD design that previous Zumo models had, enabling it to be readable under any type of lighting condition. It also has the same features of being able to automatically adjust its contrast and brightness according to its environment, making it very readable under any condition. A bigger 5 inch touchscreen will enable those who have poor visual acuity to be able to see things more clearly and it was a good improvement compared to previous Zumo models that only have a 4.3 inch display.

Final Thoughts:

Given a chance to choose performance and size, people would obviously choose both and knowing how Garmin makes their products, a $799.99 price tag on the Zumo 590LM is quite reasonable considering that it is a brand new product with great new features and functions in which users will definitely benefit from. Having a 5 inch touchscreen, fully waterproof, ability to use 3D maps and multi media capabilities, along with having a fully compatible system integration with current smart phone features and applications makes the Zumo 590LM the first of its kind to bridge and effectively use third party software applications to its own advantage. Its also good to know that Garmin has also included a complementary motorcycle mounting system for the Zumo 590LM as it usually sells these accessories as an optional separate item. Although it is a bit of a disappointment when it comes to its battery life which can only operate within a 4 hour period, which does not make it an ideal hiking GPS system as you need to constantly charge it. Nevertheless, it is an efficient, all weather GPS system when used on a motorcycle since it has a slimmed down design which eliminates the bulky battery pack which is usually a common feature on all previous Zumo models.

Garmin Oregon 450t Handheld GPS

The Garmin Montana 450t is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand but despite of its seemingly small proportion, it can give you the efficiency of a fully functional GPS system in a very big way. Although it was designed to be specifically used as a hand-held unit, the Montana 450t can also be used as a regular navigation system for most vehicles, provided that you may have to purchase its optional mounting system and USB cigarette charger. With a measurement of 4.5 inches in length by 2.3 inches in width and with a 1.4 inch thickness, the Montana 450t packs a lot of very useful features that gives its user’s the best navigational experience as possible.

Garmin Oregon 450t Handheld GPS

Garmin Oregon 450t - Amazon

Made specifically for outdoor use, the Montana 450t is highly resilient to moisture and can be used under any weather conditions. Having a completely sealed casing including its battery compartment, this small GPS unit can be used for just about any navigational purpose, whether that be on terrain or in  open waters, you’ll be sure that any amount of moisture will not be able to penetrate its main electronic components, regardless of how you use it. Its expandable memory card slot is securely hidden away underneath its battery compartment, making sure that your data, including your maps are safe from system corruption.

The Garmin Montana 450t comes pre-loaded with the latest U.S. Topo 100K maps to help you navigate to where you plan on going. The maps can be updated at any given time and can be loaded directly or through its expandable SD memory card slot. Accessing data can be done through USB data cable or wireless between similar Garmin GPS units with the same functionality. How accurate is the Garmin Montana 450t when it comes to giving your exact location in real-time? Besides a 3-axis motion compensated electronic compass and barometric altimeter, it also uses the latest WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) and HotFix technology to give you the fastest means of determining your location through satellites and ground stations.

HotFix technology can compensate for frequent satellite signal losses during traveling. It reduces “dead spots” to a minimum as it scans all available satellite tracking links within your area. As for its battery life, the Montana 450t has a substantially long battery life that can maintain its operational features up to 16 hours. Although you have to fully charge it before using it, you may want to avail an optional USB cigarette car charger if you plan to use it for driving purposes. The Montana 450t has a 16 hour battery life which is quite useful since most people travel at an average of 12 hours a day

Design Garmin Oregon 450t:

The Garmin Montana 450t is small enough to fit in your pocket as well as waterproof that you can practically use it just about everywhere, even under incriminating weather. Despite being compact and handy, it has a very robust design that can handle the roughest condition that you may come across during traveling. Its durable impact resistant ABS plastic casing is well suited for outdoor use along with its hermetically sealed silicon rubber gasket that completely seals it off from water and dust. The controls can be accessed using both its touchscreen and external control buttons located on its sides, giving you alternative methods in accessing the Montana 450t in the event that one control interface might fail to respond. Its Lithium-Ion battery can sufficiently operate for as long as 16 hours straight before requiring charging and its SD memory card slot is conveniently tucked away underneath it as it is protected from moisture as well.

Garmin Oregon 450t Features:

The Garmin Montana 450t is surprisingly fast when it comes to determining your actual locational and since it is a GPS system, we really don’t want to fall short on this aspect. WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) and HotFix are two or the best applied tracking technologies that are used in the airline industry today. A three point triangulation system that simultaneously gives you your exact location within an area of 3 to 5 square meters is considered very precise since WAAS is 95% accurate since it uses all available satellite information. HotFix is more of a scanning protocol used to get the best possible signal from passing satellites within your area coverage that reduces “dead spots” and the frequent “GPS signal lost” notification on your unit.

Being weather proof is a must for all GPS systems and it is so good for Garmin to make all of their 600 series navigational units to have the ability to be resilient in all types of weather including the Montana 450t. Added to this, being able to use the latest U.S. Topo 100K maps a getting the latest turn by turn information on all of the newest points of interest along the route that you are traveling along. Maps such as these are easily upgradable anytime that you need new information from the Montana 450t and can add any way-point that is presently within your vicinity.

A 3-axis motion compensated electronic compass easily gives you your current heading regardless of how you are holding your GPS unit, compared to other GPS systems that require you to hold your unit at a constant horizontal level to get exact readings on your location. The Montana 450t has a 16 hour operational battery life that can get you through a whole day of driving since most people who drive spend an average of 12 hours on the road. When it comes to off road use such as negotiating trails, 16 hours seems to be too much for a day of walking from one point to another.

LCD Garmin Oregon 450t:

A 3 inch LCD touchscreen display is adequate enough to get you through most of your navigational tasks for one day and can be considered as an industry standard when it comes to instrument panel sizes with regard to the automotive industry. The Garmin Montana 450t has a 3 inch touchscreen display that can render a 240 by 400 pixel resolution with its ability to be clearly seen under any lighting conditions. It may be a minimalistic approach along with its simple control interface but the amount of clarity and detail that its LCD touchscreen can render is more than enough to give you a complete detail of your present location including the details of all available points of interest in one small screen.

Garmin Oregon 450t Final Thoughts:

A price of $335 is considered mid range compared to its navigational features. Some people may want a bigger touchscreen just for the sake of wanting to view the details of everything within a 10 mile radius. But since the Garmin Montana 450t is built like a rock with regard to its appearance, along with its ability to use the latest WAAS and HotFix tracking system, you can consider its price to be more than reasonable compared to what it can actually give you. Weatherproof and a reasonably long battery life of 16 hours is more than what an efficient GPS system can modestly give its user since it can provide you more than what you paid for with regard to efficiency and durability.