Garmin nuvi 255 review

The Garmin nuvi 255 is one of Garmin's newest entry level navigators and, like the rest of the nuvi 2x5 series, it is loaded with features previously unavailable in the nuvi line or found only in high-end models. Before we get into those though, let's look at the basics.

The 255 sports a 3.5" touch screen and includes pre-loaded maps of the U.S. and Canada. It also has text-to-speech, so you'll hear "drive one-half mile, then turn left on Oak Street." instead of just "drive one-half mile, then turn left."

Compare prices on the Garmin nuvi 255

Step up to the nuvi 255W, and you'll get the same feature set on a wide 4.3" screen. Going the other direction, dropping down to the nuvi 205, you'll lose text-to-speech and maps of Alaska.

I've been very impressed with the nuvi 2x5 series, which I dubbed the best entry-level GPS on the market in my hands-on review of the nuvi 205W. Check it out for a full list of the features found on the 2x5 series, including the nuvi 255.

More Garmin nuvi 255 reviews

• Consumer-authored Garmin nuvi 255 reviews are being posted at GPS Now
• User-written Garmin nuvi 255 reviews have also been posted at Amazon
• GPS Lodge has posted a nuvi 255 review

I'll be posting more hands on GPS reviews as they appear, but in the meantime, here are some...

Other Garmin nuvi 255 resources

• A PDF version of the Garmin nuvi 255 quick start manual
• Confused about so many models and choices? Use this Garmin nuvi comparison tool or check out my own Garmin nuvi comparison chart.
• There is a dedicated Garmin nuvi message forum at GpsPasSion.
• The official Garmin nuvi 255 web page.
• A video demo of the Garmin nuvi 255:

Compare prices on the Garmin nuvi 255 at these merchants:

• Find the low price on a Garmin nuvi 255 at GPS Now, where shipping is free on orders over $99 (and the upgrade to overnight shipping is dirt cheap!); order by 5 p.m. Central Time for same day shipment
• Check the current Garmin nuvi 255 price at Amazon
• Get the Garmin nuvi 255 Portable Automotive GPS System with North American Maps at TigerGPS, where you get free shipping on orders above $250
• Buy the Garmin nuvi 255 Personal Travel Assistant at REI.com, where satisfaction is guaranteed and members get 10% back on eligible purchases.
• Get the Garmin nuvi 255 for an amazing price on eBay
• Check out our GPS deals site for current specials and rebates on a wide range of GPS receivers

Related posts:

• Our GPS reviews
• Auto GPS buyers guide
• Top ten auto GPS

Comments

[Vic]

I recently bought one of these. I had to send it back after a couple of days because the speaker was bad, it would give off static when giving directions.

I now have had a second one for about a week and its speaker is going bad also. Not sure what the deal is, but I am trying to decide whether to replace this one or just send it back and go with another GPS.

[Rich Owings]

Vic,

I've not heard of this problem before. Sounds like a bad batch. The best options may be to return to Garmin rather than the dealer, or get a refund and buy elsewhere.

[Bill Boozer]

how do you replace the screen protector on a nuvi 205 when it gets scratched. I can't seem to get the thing apart, don't see any screws. does it just snap together?

[Rich Owings]

It doesn't have a built in screen protector. You have to add those yourself. They are just applied to the screen surface.