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khamai · 04-13-2009, 10:23 PM

Marketshare in the US
#1 Garmin (50-60%)
#2 TomTom (20-25%)
#3 Magellan (10-12%)
#4 Mio (5-6%)

New Garmin and TomTom models are being released in the next 30 days. Good chance you'll see older models being discounted (like TomTom 125 for $99 or less at Walmart) in May.

Magellan is using new software (a version of Nav N Go) on their higher end models and just announced some new hardware - very sleek and thin.

I recommend going with a larger screen, like 4.3". It's much easier to see and use (buttons are larger on the touch screen).

Traffic is nice, but will only work in major metro areas. Some now will get fuel prices, which is pretty cool. Bluetooth is over rated in my book.

Personally, handset solutions are still inadequate for real navigation and guidance. There's latency issues and the screen is small and the speaker isn't loud enough for clear audio instructions. Of course things will change, but today the PND (Portable Nav Device) is still the better solution.

Cheers,
Kiyoshi

04-13-2009, 10:23 PM	#4 (permalink)
khamai Plain ol' Lotus-nut Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Nor Cal Posts: 3,563	Marketshare in the US #1 Garmin (50-60%) #2 TomTom (20-25%) #3 Magellan (10-12%) #4 Mio (5-6%) New Garmin and TomTom models are being released in the next 30 days. Good chance you'll see older models being discounted (like TomTom 125 for $99 or less at Walmart) in May. Magellan is using new software (a version of Nav N Go) on their higher end models and just announced some new hardware - very sleek and thin. I recommend going with a larger screen, like 4.3". It's much easier to see and use (buttons are larger on the touch screen). Traffic is nice, but will only work in major metro areas. Some now will get fuel prices, which is pretty cool. Bluetooth is over rated in my book. Personally, handset solutions are still inadequate for real navigation and guidance. There's latency issues and the screen is small and the speaker isn't loud enough for clear audio instructions. Of course things will change, but today the PND (Portable Nav Device) is still the better solution. Cheers, Kiyoshi __________________ life is better behind the wheel of a Lotus...