Garmin DriveSmart 66 Review: Is This 6" Sat Nav Worth It?

The Garmin DriveSmart 66 is worth buying for drivers looking for a comprehensive and user-friendly GPS navigation solution. With a 6-inch high-resolution display and detailed maps covering the UK, Ireland, and all of Europe, this sat nav offers a range of features designed for everyday journeys and long road trips alike. Priced at £189.99, which is currently the lowest ever recorded, it competes well in the car electronics market, where it holds a 4.1/5 rating from 1,276 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception from users.

First Impressions

Upon unboxing, the Garmin DriveSmart 66 feels well-made with a sleek design that fits comfortably in hand. The screen is bright and readable even in direct sunlight, which is a significant advantage for UK drivers facing varied weather conditions. The initial setup is straightforward, requiring minimal time to get started.

Key Features in Detail

The DriveSmart 66 comes equipped with several standout features:

Performance Assessment

The performance of the Garmin DriveSmart 66 is generally robust. The GPS signals are reliable, and the navigation is smooth, with timely updates on route changes and traffic conditions. The real-time traffic updates via the Garmin Drive app are particularly valuable for avoiding congestion on busy UK roads. Users have reported that the device accurately reflects current road conditions, which is vital for making informed driving decisions.

Build Quality

The sat nav has a solid build quality, with a responsive touchscreen that enhances user experience. However, the reliance on a smartphone for certain features, such as live traffic, may not be ideal for those who prefer a completely standalone device. Additionally, while the battery life for the device is decent, it is best used while plugged in for extended journeys.

Value for Money

At £189.99, the Garmin DriveSmart 66 is positioned competitively, especially with a 5% discount off the RRP of £199.99. Given the features and capabilities it offers, this model is a solid investment for drivers prioritising navigation ease and safety. Compared to alternatives like the TomTom Go Discover, which starts at a higher price point, the DriveSmart 66 provides excellent value, particularly for those who appreciate its user-friendly interface and additional functionalities.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to competitors, the Garmin DriveSmart 66 stands out due to its comprehensive mapping and additional features like environmental zone routing. Its closest competitor, the TomTom Go Essential, also offers live traffic updates but lacks the extensive POI database of the Garmin. The DriveSmart 66's price of £189.99 sits favorably against the Go Essential, which retails for around £220.

Genuine Weaknesses

While the Garmin DriveSmart 66 is impressive, it is not without its drawbacks. Some users have noted that the voice command feature can be inconsistent, occasionally misunderstanding commands, which could lead to frustration. Additionally, the need for a smartphone to access certain features might deter those who prefer a more self-contained device. Lastly, the device lacks certain advanced features found in higher-end models, such as built-in dash cam integration or more advanced traffic and weather notifications.

Conclusion

The Garmin DriveSmart 66 is a highly recommended sat nav for UK drivers, especially those who value ease of use, comprehensive mapping, and safety features. However, if you seek a device with more advanced capabilities or prefer a completely standalone navigation system, you may want to explore other options. Overall, this device is a great choice for everyday drivers and road trip enthusiasts alike.