August 20, 2005

GPS Review: Garmin StreetPilot c330

Another positive review of the Garmin StreetPilot C330 has hit the wires. They have accurately picked up on the target for this device, the simplicity of the interface and features attract the GPS Newbies. Garmin has taken a $200 price drop on the item to a new list price of $699. While serious users may want something more sophisitcated, the StreetPilot c330 offers quite a bit. The StreetPilot c330 offers pre-loaded maps on a hard drive, with a simple easy to use interface and a decent sized screen that adapts for night viewing by changing the color scheme. The voice promting is also included on the c330.

"If you're looking for a simple-to-use portable GPS, especially if you are new to the technology, the StreetPilot c330 is a good choice, especially considering its price."

There are some interface issues that make it a pain, like the inability to add a location to the favorites list easily and quickly; unfortunately you need to click through several menus to accomplish this. It also does not offer the ability to leave tracks across where you just drove; a common feature of many GPS devices, and a must if you need to back track your route. Some other GPS features it can't display are satellite status, and your current lattitude and longitude.

Looking down the line at the StreetPilot c320, you sacrifice the hard drive in favor of an SD card that you need to load with maps (a pain if you are going to travel outside of your regular region). Similar situation with the RoadMate300 - (no hard drive, with voice promting). Honestly, it's worth paying more to get the product pre-loaded, so stick with the Garmin StreetPilot C330.

If you want to move up in features, and cost, there are several to choose from, including the new Garmin StreetPilot C340 (optional ability to include traffic alerts) StreetPilot 2760 (feature rich with optional traffic and weather feeds), the Magellan Roadmate 760 (autorouting around traffic issues, IR beaming of waypoints), or the TomTom GO 700 (integrated Bluetooth to also download services through your Bluetooth enabled phone).

Read other GPSLodge.com postings on the StreetPilotc330:
GPS Review May 2, 2005 - Early Review on the StreetPilot and its easy to use interface
GPS Review - July 29, 2005

See our Head to Head Review:
GPS Review: Garmin StreetPilot 2720 vs. Magellan RoadMate 760

review via pcmag