Fletch, put your Nuvi 660 in night mode, press an area on the right of the screen where there is no "button" preferablly in a blank screen spot, and hold your finger there. Looking at the SAME screen, is there a distortion on the left side like blur? I found going, that when I went to different retail chains with the Nuvi 660 on demo, all had a distortion. This was achieved by a light touch on the right side of the screen that affected the left, it isn't major, but it takes a noticable eye.

Oh no.. C550 isnt favourite anymore..

I want to clarify on my first posted comment. I know if you press/touch hard enough on any LCD screen, it gets distorted, but what I am talking about is an isolated distortion.

Brian - I am doing what you describe, and do not see any distortion. Then again, I just updated the firmware to version 2.4, so perhaps this was something that got fixed...
--Fletch

I find the inability to plan routes on a pc and the limited number of via points a major flaw. There is no way to block certain routes which can lead you into bad neighborhoods. To me this is most problematic and although the 660 is a serious candidate for a personal GPS I'll keep looking elsewhere.

Zeev - If route exclusion is a deal breaker for you, take a look at the Magellan RoadMate 2200T.
--Fletch

Heya Fletch, the firmware update wouldn't fix a hardware related issue, since firmware as far as I know of, does not physically update hardware parts. Like I said, it takes a noticeable eye, but even then, you can still see a "blobby" distortion on the left side of the screen with a sustainted touch/press on the right most side of the screen. Oh well, time to call or e-mail Garmin.

In other news, TomTom sueing Garmin again...??? As far as I'm concerned, Garmin started the Nuvi line of PND's which are about an inch thick and then comes the NEW TomTom One which is almost that same thickness. Why in the world is Garmin being sued (despite each wanting to take a stab at global GPS domination)? Everyone is so sue happy these days. It's a way to avoid talking about the problem between companies. Apparently sueing is much more effective. Oh well, Garmin still leads the US Market UNTIL TomTom makes the right upgrades to it's PND line.

Fletch,

Great review! I just got my 660 and LOVE it! But I have a question: In your review Figure 32, you say that:"Shortly before a turn maneuver, the Next Turn Page appears. This screen displays the upcoming turn on the map, as well as the distance and time remaining before you reach the turn."
Mine doesn't do this, is there a setting that enables this feature? I'm missing something!

Fletch,
The RoadMate is a candidate. I am waiting for the 2500T. I read that the database detail in the 2xxx models is lower than the Garmin products. I still have to research this issue.
--Zeev

Zeev, you could also wait for the Garmin zumo, it's the rugged version of the nuvi.
I've got one pre-ordered for my bike but it comes with everything for the car and has PC route planning, tracklogs, multiple destinations ...

I like the idea of the 660 using FM as a cellfone speaker but I also use this for my XM radio. Will the 660 FM output 'override' any other FM signal on that frequency?

bstronger -
Yes, but if something else is broadcasting on the same frequency there will be static and interference.
The recommended method is to find a frequency not in use on your FM radio and use that frequency. I don't think that two units can broadcast at the same time to the same frequency.
--Fletch

I'm trying to decide on this unit or the new Magellan 6000T?

I currently use a Magellan 700 with upgraded software to make it a 760.

I wonder between the Garmin or Magellan.

Opinions please

Mozart11 - If route exclusion and multi-destination routing is a deal breaker to you, then I'd say get the Magellan 6000T. If ease of use, FM transmitter, and and better routing engine is more important to you, then I'd say get the nuvi 660.
Personally, I much prefer the nuvi 660 over the Magellan RoadMate 6000T.
--Fletch

Thanks for input. On my current Magellan I really count on the tones alerting me "turn now". Does the Nuvi have this too. Is this the comparable feature from the article,
" Configuring the Attention Tone

If you want to have the nuvi beep before each maneuver to notify you that a turn is approaching, you can do so by turning on Attention Tone. The default setting is Off, and I found the attention tone unnecessary."

Thanks

Mozart11 - Yes, that's the same feature. However, the Magellan does a better job of it, alerting you earlier. Many have complained (and I agree) that the Garmin alert tone comes a little too late. Still, if you really like the alert tones, the Garmin does have that feature.
Really, I think the nuvi is a better GPS than the MRM 6000T. The traffic feature is also much better implemted on the Garmin.
--Fletch

Mike - make sure you're running firmware version 2.40. It will display that view before the turn, but not actually at the turn. Hope that makes sense.
--Fletch

Thanks again Fletch. I think I'll give the Nuvi a shot. Any good recomends to purchase online?

Mozart11 - I've been told not to make official recommendations for where to buy products...but, what the heck -- the best price I've seen is on Amazon, which is selling the nuvi 660 for $759. Can't beat that...
--Fletcher

Fletch, my version is 2.40 and it won't display the Next Turn page view (before the turn)in 2D navigation at all? I've updated several times with the same version and it is not shown it up. What happened then ???

Thanks.

I read the review and really like it I already owned a Nuvi 350 for about 10 months before upgrading to the Nuvi 660. I am happy with everthing except when you miss a turn it takes kind of long to recalculate my nuvi 350 did it much faster. Do you think that is because Garmin did not put in a bigger processor with all the added features that this unit has.

Last I noticed alot of home addresses i search for are off around 0.1 to 0.2 quite far considering your on a street with homes right next to each other it sometimes annouces the address is on the right when it is on the left and vise versa Version 8 seems to be a little off where as version 7 i never had any problems. I thought version 8 would have been the same as version 7 except for new streets and new home developments. thanks alot maybe they will speed up the recalculation in another unit and also fix the software version city navigator north america v8.

Fletch -got my Garmin 660. One question, that Garmin, when I called them, could not answer; If you 'missed' or did not quite understand a turn 'command' (outside noise, someone talking to you), is there a way to have the machine repeat it? Thanks... HDW

Fletch -got my Garmin 660. One question, that Garmin, when I called them, could not answer; If you 'missed' or did not quite understand a turn 'command' (outside noise, someone talking to you), is there a way to have the machine repeat it? thanks... HDW

Fletch,

If the 660 was just out of reach for the money, what would be the next best unit with SiRF III that you would purchase. I just took on GPS's as a new line for my company and want to get one for myself and not to sure which way to go.. I could get the 660 but I know as soon as I do Garmin will come out with one even better to fix all the issues you stated, it never fails..Please reply back when possible.. Thank you Fletch..

Fletch, I am in real estate and need multiple destination capability. Thought Tomtom 910 was the answer until I heard about mapping issues. Ideally, would like to set "itinerary" at home have the gps unit pick the route so I don't have to spend an hour with a map picking the best route to view up to 10 properties...( Would also like to be able to exclude a particular hwy)....then pop it in the car in the morning and go. Is there a sirf III unit out there perfect for me? Thanks JGK

jgk - the Magellan RoadMate 6000T will do what you need. The design of the unit leaves something to be desired, but it does have good maps, a good routing engine, route exclusion, and can build an itinerary and optimize the route. Click on Reviews up top and read the full review of the Magellan RoadMate 6000T for more details on what it can do.
Cheers,
--Fletch

Thanks Fletch, I agree with your review that the 6000t is not very "stylin" (ie it's ugly) but it looks like it will do the job. Is there anything new coming along that might be worth waiting a few (very few) months for? Best, JGK

JGK - Next year the Magellan RoadMate 8000T will come out, which sounds promising. I've not seen it yet, and it's at least 4-6 months away (maybe longer). I know a lot of products will come out in Q1 of '07, but I don't have any specific info yet. I don't know of anything that's right around the corner.
Best,
--Fletch

Thanks for the review Fletch. I am moving to the Czech Republic next year (Aug) but would love to purchase a GPS for the remaining year I have here in the US that would also be a great GPS in Europe. Does the 660 come preloaded with European maps as well along with the traffic notifier (GTM 21) like the Garmin c550 does? Thanks, Jason

One more question. On my 700/760 Magellanmit voice prompts me at 3 miles, 1 mile and half mile via voice. And then the two tones at my turn.

Does the Garmin do something similar? Voice prompts counting down to a maneuver?

The BILINGUAL version (which comes with the part # 010-00540-12 as opposed to the regular version which is 010-00540-00) is cheaper on both Amazon.com by approx $50 and on Chumbo.com by about $7 dollars. Also the bilingual unit is in preorder until the 30th of this month. Anybody know why the difference in price? Are they the same in every other way?

Sonal

I'm just getting my first GPS. Garmin 660 vs. TomTom 910? Opinions? Will use in NA, hands free phone, traffic reroute, portablility to rental cars are important to me. Thanks.

WER,
Read the 910 review. I too was stuck between those two models until I read the TomTom review and its flaws. I just bought the 660 and still awaiting the arrival. Where is NA anyway? - Jason

That was an excellent review. I have ordered the 660!
I have a combined cd/radio in my car. Can I listen to the cd with the fm transmitter on for traffic
alerts?

WER - no contest: get the Garmin. Better maps in North America.
--Fletch

Hi Fletch - thanks for the great review!!!

A quick question for you. You mentioned that the Audible player can playback MP3s as well as Audible files. Can you also bookmark the MP3 files like you can the Audible files? I listen to podcasts, and being able to bookmark them would be great.

Now if Amazon would only lower their price back to $739 again.... ;-)

Thanks!

Andrew - You can't bookmark MP3s on the nuvi 660. You can pause an MP3 file, and return back to the player later and resume, but you cannot save your place on a per-file basis like you can with Audible auio books.
As for the pricing, Xmas is just around the corner. I'm sure price drops are not far away...
--Fletch

I just bought the Nuvi660 based on your recommendation and I am lovin' it! Very nice screen and lots of goodies. I love the size of the screen and how I was able to pair it with my Samsung a900 cellphone

Just got the 660 after reading the review. I love it!! Only 1 day so far and it is so cool! Love the widescreen size. A really neat toy to have!

Hi Fletch - Thanks so much for an excellent review. You have convinced me.
1 Question- Must I always turn my radio on and listen to it in order for the Nuvi 660 to work ? There are times when I don't want to listen to any music and all I want is a quiet time. Thanks

I was at Circuit City demoing the Nuvi 350 or 360 unit and then the Nuvi 660 unit. Undoubtoudly, the Nuvi 660 is the clear winner, being bright, wide, and technologicaly glorious. But feeling the shell casing, it does look a little bit and feel a little bit more fragile than the Nuvi 350 and 360 units. Is the plastic casing thinner? Does anyone know if the LCD screen is not completely flushed with the casing like on the Nuvi 350 and 360? When I pressed the screen, the screen seemed to "sink" maybe less than a millameter from the plastic casing. Is this an issue with anyone who currently OWNS a Nuvi 660 or was it just the unit I demoed which many customers also demo too?

Fletch, is the Nuvi 660 indeed a lesser quality casing than it's predecessors?

Also, I have to know, I have an AT Hyundai 2004 Elantra, and the shift stick on it conflicts with the 2 ciggarette outlets. How far does the traffic receiver/power supply unit stick out of the ciggarette lighter when plugged in in inches? Thanks!

Brian - I think the nuvi 350/360 and 660 are the same quality, but the bigger size of the 660 makes the slightly cheap quality more evident. Still, I've been using the nuvi 660 pretty regularly (it's the GPS now installed in my car), and I've not had any problems with it. It just feels kinda cheap in the hand. I haven't noticed the "sink" in the screen you describe.

As for the 12v adapter, it sticks out about 2.5 inches (it's actually longer, but it's at an angle, so it only pertrudes around 2.5 inches).

Hope that helps!
--Fletch

Gilda - No, you don't have to use your car stereo to hear the nuvi. You can either use the nuvi's built-in speaker, or press mute on the unit and hear nothing (enjoy your quiet time).

--Fletch

Hi All,
I found that the points of interest do not show up in the 3D view. Is that true of am i doing something wrong? The TomTom units show points of interest in 3D view.

Fletch

Thanks for a great review, I am in Australia & the 660 is only being released here late this month, whilst your review was very in depth you did'nt go into the phone screens etc at all do you have anything on what these look like

I ordered my Nuvi 660 based off your recommendations. It arrived last Friday and it's my new best friend. It's the first GPS we ever owned and should last us quite a while. Very inuitive and easy to set up for this first time user. Very accurate and a pleasure to use.
Now if only my husband would quit changing the voice to the female Australian. I like hearing the British male :)

Anybody knows where I can buy the US 12/24V power adapter???
Lives in Denmark, and just bought it. Loves it, but would really like the FM transmitter :-)

I just ordered my Nuvi 660 from easttrades for $719, I think this is the best price out in the WWW. I am looking forward to getting it.

Berglund - Why do you want the US power adapter? The FM Transmitter is in the nuvi unit itself, not the 12v adapter.

The US 12v adapter has the integrated traffic receiveer in it, but I don't think that will work in Europe. Your European nuvi should already have the FM transmitter. Tap the power button twice to switch over to FM from the internal speaker.
--Fletch

The FM transmitter function looks great but I understand that in countries where such devices are illegal the nuvi 660 is supplied without this functionality. (The UK is one such, although it looks as if legislation will be changing soon [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/4993528.stm ]

I asked Garmin support about this, and they told me

“Thank you for contacting Garmin Europe.

As the FM transmitter is illegal to use in some countries in Europe, the
nuvi 660s that are sold in Europe do not have the FM transmitter hardware
installed inside the unit, because of this there is nothing that can be
activated by a software update (as there is no FM transmitter inside the
unit).

We are aware that they are looking into the law on FM transmitters later
this year, we haven't put the FM transmitter into the Nüvi 660 as it is
currently illegal to use. If the law does change, then we will review the
situation but I still cannot guarantee that the FM transmitter will be
included in the European Nüvi 660s.

So, the comment “European nuvi should already have the FM transmitter” may not be true for all countries. Does the European version sold in all European countries have the UK mapping (i.e. if I were to buy a nuvi 660 in a country in which FM transmission was legal) could I get one with integrated FM transmitter?

Cheers,

Richard

Great review, but nothing is said of the optional accesories. The external antenna, the other holders for the 660???? which are good and might want to be purchaced and which are crap?

Kevin

Love it! So much better than Tom Tom, but where is the altimiter I thought they were going to include? Build in XM radio and visible weather/road conditions and you've got the perfect box!

Does ANYONE know if the Garmin Nuvi 660 runs a little slower than the Nuvi 350 and/or 360 due to its larger screen size or more functionality?

Also, is it true that the Garmin Nuvi 660 is made of less quailty material (like the casing) than the Nuvi 350 and 360?

Lastly, should I wait to buy the Nuvi 660 if I decide to get it, so any manufactuer glitches in firmware and/or hardware is worked out? Any people with negative problems with the Nuvi 660?

How is it overall and is there ANY word about new upcoming Garmin systems?

Thanks!

Garmin does not provide any software for the Mac. While you can transfer MP3s and photos, you cannot do software updates or add points of interest without the special Garmin installers.

The list of bluetooth phones supported is smaller than the nuvi 330. For example, none of the Treos are supported. This might change with a future update. If I could update it on my Mac.

I find the mount a bit short, so finding a place on the windshield is difficult. I've used a goose-neck mount, which gets the Nuvi where I want it, but it doesn't hold the device very well with the antenna extended.

Otherwise, a very nice unit. The screen size is especially nice on my aging eyes. It would even make a great portable e-book reader, if Garmin put some time into it.

Fletch - Best review I saw so far.

I'm looking for a new GPS but not sure if I should pick the Garmin Nuvi 360 or the Garmin Nuvi 660.

Can anyone tell me what's the different between the Garmin Nuvi 360 & the 660 besides the screen is bigger and come with the FM transmitter? Is there anything more?

Thanks

I've managed to update the nuvi software using my Mac by downloading the update file, using Stuffit Expander to unzip the executable, and dragging the enclosed files over to the mounted nuvi. You have to move the files from Nuvi>Garmin into the Garmin folder on the mounted nuvi. I checked to see which files would be overwritten, and made a copy of those.

Once the copying is done, dismount, and the nuvi should start its update. It takes a few minutes, so be patient.

Although I can make Points of Interest files, I cannot figure out a way to get the nuvi to recognize them. The POI Loader that you can get from Garmin probably creates an index or database that you can't easily replicate by hand.

So basically Mac support sucks.

Tell me more about the POI database. The 6000T has them preloaded and you can supposedly instantly locate the closest to your current location. Can the 660 do that as well? What is their POI DB like compared to the 6000T's?

Fletch what happened I downloaded software version 2.5 from the Garmin website for the Nuvi 660. Then next morning 11/3/06 The verbal directions were stuttering and not smooth as it was before. When the unit pronounces the directions on where to turn it does not speak some of the directions correctly anymore, is this happening to anyone else.

interesting about the verbal directions stuttering after upgrade. I checked the garmin site and there is no update to be found for the nuvi 660. This is strange because it was up on the site a couple of days ago. I wonder if there is a problem with the upgrade.

Hi Doug I called Garmin and they said that the people who design the software are aware of the problem and they told me that a software fix would be coming out soon, but they did not tell me exactly when. By the way the software version 2.5 for the 660 was on the Garmin website they must have taken it off. To bad they did this after I already downloaded it into my Nuvi 660 hope they fix it soon. Lew

For the complaints about the FM transmitter, you can always hook up the headset port to your cars "input" jack if equipped.

I've always had one MAJOR question about the Nuvi that no one can seem to answer. I hope someone here can:

It's a MUST that my GPS show "distance to destination" on the map screen. It looks like the Nuvis only show this on a secondary page, instead showing "time of arrival" on the main map page. Is there a way to change the display so as to show "Distance to destination" on the front, main screen?

Thanks, everyone!

Robinson

I've got the Australian version of the Nuvi 660, appears to be the same as elsewhere. 2 issues for me;
FM transmitter is very poor, even though my arial is on the front of the car.
There is no Alarm clock in the travel kit.

I emailed garmin - they tell me there is! - can someone else please verify.
If there isn't an alarm clock garmin needs to include a software plugin, even if it needs to be plugged in to use it.

New Firmware available on the garmin web site that at the moment only appears to install via the web-updater.

This update package contains:
Nuvi 6xx System Software 2.60
Traffic Receiver Software 3.70
Bluetooth Software 2.40
GPS Software 2.60

I got the nuvi660_260.exe version.
(crc=34288658, md5=ad583876aeefea6120c326496fe59779, ed2k=c108fbfac4326d1f7a651f5f6a340c85)

I think I'm missing something here and I hope you all can help! I am planning on buying soon and I'm deciding between the Mag 6000T and the Nuvi 660 and I really can't decide. I know the whole world seems to gush over the the Garmin's but I really don't see a huge win. You have to pay for additional POI's, the input is touch-screen only and the other features are pretty much identical. I care about screen size but only to a point and I could care less about bluetooth for right now. Plus, I've already got my iPod setup w/an FM transmitter so I'm not going to get a Nuvi for that feature. I'm really leaning toward the 6000T based on price, but if someone can give me a convincing argument, I'd change my mind. Thanks!!

Cyberdude, I just updated to the 2.6 firmware and I do not see anything like an alarm clock. There is the World Time, but no alarm clock on mine.

Hi, MrCyberdude and all


I am also from Australia. How do you find Nuvi 660 using in oz? I am going to buy a gps between Nuvi660 and tomtom 910. So far I incline to Nuvi660. However if I can get some feedback on 660 from you, it will help me to make a decision. Is it accurate in oz road? Does the speaking street names sounds ok?



Thx advance.

I've been using a Garmin 2620 for the last two years. One feature that I use all the time is find poi "near current route". I can choose the distance off the current route I am willing to go to find a poi, ie. 1/2 mile, 1 mile, 2 miles, 5 miles, or 15 miles. I understand that the 660 has a "near current route" but I think it only has a preset search range from the current route. Does anyone know what that range is? (one garmin tech told me 500 yards, one told me 15 miles). Is there any way to tell ahead of time how far off the selected route that point is? Thanks.

Fletch, this is a fantastic review. You have really taken the time to look into the finer points that someone who uses the unit on a daily basis and who wants configurability can appreciate and use. Thanks!

You posted in CONs the inability to specify multiple via points twice :) Must be really annoyed with it.

Questions Answered where possible.

Hmmmmmm what processor..... hmmmmmm Divx...... hahahaha it would then be the ultimate.
Even a video input would be über great. ;)

I am consistantly using the mp3/fm and wish it was the actual starting page, not 2 menu selections deep, needs an icon on front page at bottom right. Equalizer also, Garmin have made me expect So Much. Hahaha

The blue tooth works with my Dopod 838(aka HTC, but its not the pro) great, better than others ive used and expected. The voice recognition feature that is on my wm5 phone works ok when i put on an american accent.

I have found the touch screen sometimes thinks a different area is pressed, eg i have pressed 7 three times but the fourth time 9 gets selected. luckly it happens very rarely.

Startup security pin is great but not when u get the pin wrong, it doesnt give you a second go immediately but makes u wait for what seems like ages.

Robinson Robb - "time of arrival" instead of "distance to destination" on the map screen, doesnt look like this is possible. I like the speed on the front page when no destination is selected, it annoys me that it dissappears when the time to destination appears.

Nicholas - Thanks for the firmware feedback about the alarm clock, any other changes that u noticed.

andrewkmz - Nuvi660 in Australia uses the whereis/sensis City Navigator v7 maps and works for me well in Victoria, Melbourne and country east through to Traralgon. u can goto garmin site and look at the online map to see if your area is covered. Garmin IMHO is the best for routing at the moment and the magellan the best for off road.
The street name "Text to Speach" TTS is very good, gets some things slightly wrong like "Cr" as creek instead of "Court" or "Cresent" occasionaly but thats not the TTS issue but the map data, you definetly know what it means and is useful. For those of you that missed it, it can be turned off. This is done by selecting from different languages.(american, Aussie-Aussie-Aussie-oi,oi,oi, British, Espanol, Portugues) The other languages do not appear to have TTS features.

Jay Govinda - POI range does not appear to be distance dependant, but more likely limmited to ~=50 results.
Example; START SCREEN>> WHERE TO>> NEAR..>> DIFFERENT CITY>> typed COOBER PEDY>> FOOD-LODGING..>> LODGING. (search results)

Comfort Inn Coober Pedy Exp 0.3km NE ,(~=48 more results inbetween.)Alice Springs Resort 594.7km N. LOL another search of Bank ATM's gave 744.8km SE.

My attention is to Fletch:

I'am a new owner of nuvi 660 and also new at this gps thing. Would some one PLEASE tell me how to get the "card game" "travel alarm clock" that was specified on this review. Which version should i download?

I have software v2.00/audio v1.8/ gps sw v2.8/ bluetooth sw v2.4. Please Help POST UPDATES of the 660..??

Much Thanks..!

Great review!
One question: I live in Western Europe, and I can't decide between the Nuvi 660 and TomTom 910. The Nuvi seems to be lighter and more reliable, while the TomTom is currently a little cheaper and also includes US maps. Without the FM transmittter in the Nuvi, would all the features work in Germany, Switzerland and France, and if so, does it justify the exra costs of buying separate maps for the US? Thanks

Hi, I live in UK IN Essex, I have using the Navman 750 for near two months now and has just brought the traffic master T1 but getting fed up buying too many other item to fix this things cost me more moneys like Bluetooth, traffic master T1 get in the way for navman, I has contact the Navman peoples to get this Bluetooth built-in and traffic master built-in as well “all-in-one” go to stop wasting more moneys for this stuff for Navman GPS SatNav and so the Navman is sorting this out in the near future. I has notice at Comets shop about the Nuvi 60T with 4.3 widescreen with Bluetooth and traffic master in the packing box that could save my time to stop wasting more moneys spend on Navman 750. I would go looking forward to buy the Nuvi 60T in the near future with the nice more features. I just wonder what is the Processor speed is ! Anyone knows about this. I know I have been study that everyone’s want a World Map GPS SatNav with built-in Bluetooth, digital camera built-in, traffic master built-in on "all-in-one" of wireless the State of the Art Higher Tec. Fletct, your site is a great helpful to understand these thing to help everybody’s the rest of the world that Garmin website don't show it every much with no pictures to show it of not being helpful with it, the rest of the GPS SatNav Website got to show it with pictures and details to the peoples like the way you did fletch. Great much help. Thank you Fletch.

I have been very satisfied so far with this GPS. When there was traffic up ahead, clicked reroute, took a turn 0.3 miles away, and added about 1 hour more to my Sunday. It's nice having the option to have it show you the closest gas station to fill up at, or a faster route that you wouldn't have taken.

It is an amazing piece of technology, no buyers remorse here!

Same problem as Mike 101906 "in Figure 32, you say that:"Shortly before a turn maneuver, the Next Turn Page appears. This screen displays the upcoming turn on the map, as well as the distance and time remaining before you reach the turn."
Mine doesn't do this, is there a setting that enables this feature? I'm missing something!" - -
I have software 2.60ver loaded, and it does not do this feature either - is there something we are doing wrong ???
=
You said 'firmware 2.4' how do we check &/or reset the 'firmware' version ??

Hey - is there a need to use an external antenna with the nuvi 660? Thanks.

Does anyone know of a GPS unit that can calcuate a mileage log? As a self-employed piano tuner, I would love to have the device I eventually buy be able to store every trip in memory and then I can categorize them as personal, commuting or business miles. Then the device would be able to give me the total miles in each category when requested. This would save me HOURS of work every year at tax time. Is there any GPS unit that does this ??

I got a replacement nuvi 660 and found new frustrating problems with this unit that I didnt have with the original unit that had its own problems. I am had the following frustrating problems with nuvi 660:

1. It keeps taking me on the scenic route, despite being on the 'fastest time' setting and even when there is barely any traffic on the highway!! Although this may be alright when you know the route (i just ignore the nuvi) but, its VERY frustrating when I want to go to a new place and am unfamiliar with that route. When the setting is on "fastest time", I except such an expensive GPS unit to take me to the destination in the fastest time possible and dont expect it to take me on the scenic route filled with traffic lights. This is a very frustrating flaw of the nuvi 660.

2. The charge only holds for about 2 hours maximum.

3. While travelling on a regular route, it asks me to take an exit (which is in fact the correct route and the one I routinely take) but, once I take that exit it starts recalculating for no apparent reason and directs me to a different, scenic, route (yes, even when traffic receiver is off or when there is no traffic)!! This happened everyday on the same exit every time I tested it and also on few other routes in FL.

My nuvi 550 doesnt have this problem at all and takes me on the correct path every time.

This is another frustrating flaw when you are in a new area and dont know the route.

4. I took the 660 to Chicago recently and tried to find a hotel (nation-wide hotel chain), which has been there for yonks but the 660 couldnt locate it despite clearly entering the address. This was VERY frustrating because I was short on time. I wished I had the directions printed on mapquest.

I tried different ways, moved to various locations hoping that the 660 will accept & detect the address/hotel but it didnt. It didnt locate it even when I tried to find the hotel by entering the name. Finally I went into the "find lodging,food" menu and then entered the hotel name in the "ABC" menu...it eventually detected the hotel this way. I lost a lot of time just trying to figure this out when I shouldnt have had to. I had the correct address of the hotel and yet the 660 just couldnt detect it when I entered it!!

There were other problems I encountered with the original unit I had returned, which I dont have time to post here now. But in my view, the nuvi 550 outperforms the 660. I wanted to upgrade to a bigger screen but am truly disappointed with the 660s' performance in FL and IL.

I am returning this second unit also and getting a refund.

Based on my experience and in my opinion, it is simply not worth investing hard earned cash in nuvi 660 until Garmin fixes the problems with the 660.

I hope Gramin is taking these problems seriously and trying to fix them, via software updates, if possible. I guess there is nothing they can do with the products already in the market if its a hardware problem.

Bottom line: Buy the 660 for its big screen but in my view and based on my experience, the nuvi 550 is far superior to nuvi 660 in terms of guiding you to the correct destination without hassles.

Hope this unbiased review helps anyone who is planning on getting the nuvi 660.

I was not sure if I would keep the NUVI 660 so I wanted to buy it local if I needed to return it--The best price I found on the web was $748---I was out shopping at BJ's and low and behold, the NUVI was there for $749 with a 30 day return poilicy--OK, it cost me 7% sales tax but the ability to return it was too great---Anyway, after 2 days with the NUVI and new to GPS--You will have to pry it out of my dead bodies fingers!! My only complaint--I like to listen to the radio which I thought the NUVI FM could override.

My take on the Nuvi 660. Great piece of hardware, but the following NEEDS to be fixed:

1.) Quality Design - The Nuvi 660's casing is in fact cheaper quality than that of the Nuvi 350 and 360. Also the touch screen isn't as fixed in the casing as it should be, if pressed a little more, the screen sinks in, not much of the case with the 350 and 360. Garmin, PLEASE make your products durable, it's NOT okay to make a great GPS with cheap parts. We want Durability, not Breakability.

2.) Battery - Garmin, please, more battery life, not less.

3.) Processor - The processor in the Nuvi 660 is in fact similiar to the Nuvi 350 and Nuvi 360 processor. A more feature packed GPS needs an enhanced and better processor to take the work load.

4.) Speaker - The speaker on the Nuvi 660, in fact all the Nuvi's are a joke. Garmin needs to catch up on other GPS Manufactuers internal speaker(s) technology. The Nuvi needs a better quality speaker, I don't like distorted sound.

5.) SiRF StarIII - This awesome GPS Receiver chipset needs to be integrated INTO the Nuvi, not a flip-up patch that can break.

6.) Traffic Receiver - It would be nice to integrate the traffic receiver into the unit, activation, expiration can be done in the unit internally, and then get more service through connecting the device to the computer and activating.

7.) Other Considerations - Video Player; Real Satalitte pictures of the world stiched together (some PND's have this already); bookmark individual music files; more support for music, picture, and video file formats; Better User Interface; touch screen "buttons" for having a dynamic zoom up to down and down to up on any map your on when on the road like the Mio C310X has; DURABILITY and all mentioned notes above; look at other features from GPS manufactuers and learn something new to implement or improve over on; and lastly, a BIGGER BETTER PROCESSOR!

Folks, the Nuvi 660 is good, but has its flaws. I'm planning on getting something different, cheapness and slow processing IS NEVER ACCEPTABLE.

Hi Fletch: Just bought Nuvi 660 based on your review. I had similar problem to earlier post: the "turn in" view does not automatically show up prior to a turn. I must manually press the "turn in" icon; it then shows up for a few seconds only. I have version 2.60 on my unit. Thanks.

I am in Australia, recently purchased Garmin 660...find it easy to use, with clear instructions and nice bright screen...the windscreen mount is excellent (better than tomtom). MAJOR PROBLEM...dont download any upgrades from Garmin Web, I did and wiped off all the Maps...luckily retailer replaced with new one!

Very informative review! I was deciding between the TomTom 910 and the Nuvi 660 and the article convinced me the 660 was the better choice. After trying it all day, I think it is terrific also. The change to the wide color screen is a big improvement over the GPS V unit I have had for a while. And the improvement in route calculation speed and off route recalc speed is much better also. To transition to this new unit without loosing all the collected data, I have one question: Does anyone know if, and how, I can transfer the stored waypoints from the Garmin GPS V unit I have been using for the past five years? Thank you for any help here.

I have a GPS V and have just upgraded to the nuvi 660. I managed to transfer waypoints in two different ways.

They appear on the 660 as favourites or as custom POI.

To transfer them as favourites make sure you have the latest version of Mapsource which recognises the nuvi. Connect the GPS V and upload the waypoints from it to Mapsource. Disconnect it and connect the nuvi. Then save the waypoints to the nuvi and they will appear as favourites.

The other method involves saving the waypoints from Mapsource as a .gpx file using "Save as". You then need to download the POI loader from the Garmin website. Use that to upload the waypoints as a set of custom POIs.

Both the favourites and the POI display only the nearest waypoints by default. If you select the waypoints using spell you can see them all.

PLEASE NOTE: The only trouble I have had is that my backup of waypoints within Mapsource had the maps that I had loaded to the GPS V included as well. There is a danger of uploading these old maps by mistake so make sure you only have waypoints loaded in your Mapsource session. I very nearly loaded GPS V maps to the nuvi but managed to abort it before it had started the upload proper.

I am wondering about the FM feature. I am planning on buying the 660 mostly for the bluetooth and fm feature and I am wondering if I am listening to the radio and the phone rings do I have to change the station on the fm radio before I can answer or does it change automatically when the phone rings?

I should have added that the POIs that you create can be viewed under Extras when selecting a destination.

I like how the Magellan allows you to pick any American Interstate and list what services are at each exit. Does the Nuvi 660 do this same function?
Also, is it posible to change the upcoming turn warning, so it starts warning you at 2 miles, then reminds you again at 1 mile, then again at 500 feet?

In response to a previous post, the Treo phones are compatible with the 660 bluetooth. They are listed under "palm one".

Not sure what the purpose of the SD card is. If all of the maps are pre-loaded, what additional maps would you need? Can you load MP3 files directly to the 660, or do they have to go to the SD card? I have seen 4GB SD cards, are these compatible with the 660 if you want to load all of my iPOD songs on the 660? Thanks for the help.... Jeff

Jeff Popa,

The purpose of the SD Card is if you want to load more MP3's onto the unit after you have exceded the internal free memory storage limit. You can also load maps of other countries if you wish as well as photos. An SD Card can also be used for firmware updates for the unit. I don't believe 4GB SD Cards are supported at this moment, however I could be wrong.

Here is some news on the new upcoming Garmin Nuvi. The Garmin Nuvi 670/680 has been unofficially anounced and new features include the MSN Direct/SPOT Network. This allows for real time data flow over an FM signal band for weather, traffic, sports, stock, etc.. More features are sure to follow as well.

http://www.gpslodge.com/

http://gps.engadget.com/2006/11/28/garmin-nuvi-670-680-with-msn-direct/

Hello. I am looking at getting the Nuvi 660, but read that the FM Transmitter option will not work in Canada. Is that true? Does the Traffic Data option work in Canada? I want the best GPS out there, but I dont want to pay for options I can't use. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I am considering buying the Nuvi 660 for use in the United States, but will be traveling in Spain soon and would like to use it there too. Can anyone tell me if it comes preloaded with the maps I will need for Spain?

I just ordered the Nuvi 660 and someone mentioned that I should check the compatibility of my phone for the bluetooth connection. My phone, the Samsung SGH D807(Cingular), is not listed on Garmin's website, though many similar models are. Does this really mean that I won't be able to use the bluetooth connection at all, or may it just limit the functionality through the bluetooth? Are you aware of anyone trying to connect with this phone?

URGENT: My Magellan Roadmate 760 has failed and I am seriously considering replacing it with the Garmin Nuvi 660. I have some vision limitations and the device serves a critical function in the capacity of a handicap driving aide. Because of this, the following questions are really important. I have an upcoming road trip and need information ASAP:

Prompting:
My Magellan Roadmate 760 provided prompts at 2mi, 0.5mi, approaching the maneuver and a tone at the required maneuver. What prompts does the Nuvi 660 provide?

Repeat:
A button on the 760 could be pressed to repeat the last prompt. Does the 660 have this feature?

Least Use of Freeways:
In some instances (night, especially), I need to exclude travel on freeways. Does the "Avoidances/Highways" option provide this functionality? This is critical.

Map Data:
How current is the map data on units currently available at retail? (Date of map data)

I am also a new owner of a nuvi 660, and I love it. My previous GPS was the CoPilot software built into my Motorola A780 cell phone, and the nuvi blows it away. Thanks for this helpful review. I would also like to ask where the game and travel clock are -- I recently did the web update to version 2.7, but can't locate those two items anywhere. Am I just missing something?

That was a wonderful review of the Garmin 660. I must agree this is the best GPS I have ever used in my life. I purchased on after reading your review and it is truly the best GPS on the market hands down. Thank you for your time and effort, you review reflected it!

After searching the internet for reviews on GPS systems I found your site. Your reviews were very helpful in helping me make an informed decision. When I first began to look at GPS my heart was set on finding the right "Magellan" for me because someone I know gave me a recommendation. I instead read all of your reviews so that I could make an Informed decision. Your reviews helped me be optimistic and understand the general Pros and Cons of the different GPS manufacturers (Garmin, Magellan,Tomtom, etc.) My Wife bought me the Magellan 3000 a few weeks ago before she read any online reviews. After reading all your reviews and your "Units to Avoid" section I took the unit back. After reading that you and many other users were having problems with Magellan units sometimes being sluggish and freezing I decided to start researching the different Garmin units. It seems that Garmin does have many very reliable units. I saw that you made the Garmin Nuvi 660 your "Editors Choice". Among other things, I really like this unit's sleek design. Since I can not afford this unit, I figure the Garmin Nuvi 350 is my next best choice since the "Blue Tooth" and "Traffic" features are not important to me. I narrowed down my search between the Garmin Nuvi 350 and the Magellan 2200. I like both units because they are affordable and have many of the newest technology upgrades and features used in GPS. I know you did not review the Garmin Nuvi 350 but looking at similar Garmin reviews and this Magellan 2200 review I am planning to purchase the Nuvi 350 from Walmart for 440.00 and cross the Magellan 2200 off my list since the only thing I can find it has better is that it is water resistant. I was hoping you and the other readers could tell me if I am making the right decision. Thanks again Fletch your reviews are second to none!

This is a great review thanks.

It helped me more than the Garmin info that came with my 660.

read your article top to bottom..

This is a great review thanks.

It helped me more than the Garmin info that came with my 660.

read your article top to bottom..

Thanks for the review. I drive a similar route to the one you used as an example often. Believe it or not the route the Tom Tom chose would get you to your destination 30 minutes quicker. Just getting from the West Side highway(9a) to the entrance to the Major Deegan can be a 30 to 40 minute ordeal most of the time. I use the route the Tom Tom chose because, although slightly longer, it bypasses all the XBronx traffic(which is generally a parking lot. I just ordered the Nuvi 660 but now have second thoughts that maybe the Tom Tom is more "Street wise".

Just got my Nuvi 660 from TigerGPS and love it. It is the single coolest thing I have ever owned! Thanks for your in-depth review which is largely responsible for my decision to buy it.

But...there is one thing that surpised me. YOU CANNOT NAVIGATE BY ZIP CODE ! (unless you live in Canada). The manual says you can do it, so I tried it but the 660 kept kicking me back to the "search all cities" menu. Garmin tech support confirmed this. The navigate by entering zip code does not work in the US !

To me this is a minor dissapointment, but not a huge deal, as the unit is stellar in every other way.

I thought you prospective 660 buyers may want to be aware of this.

GREAT SITE, AND GREAT REVIEWS!
I am excited to have just gotten my first GPS for christmas! It is the Nuvi 360.
I have been doing reviews to see if we want to upgrade to the 660. I like the idea of the larger screen, however some of the problems I have with the 360, I think I will also have with the 660....
1. THE STOP BUTTON - I have been using the unit for only two days, but I have accidentily hit the stop button more times than not! Is there any reason Garmen put that where the BACK button is? The Back button is probably the MOST used button, why place it where you instictivly press? Why not have it go BACK to the MAP?
(infuriating)
2. More than one way point? Or Swap points? Maybe there is a way to do this?
3. Store a differnt route? We have found that the unit is navigating to the "major" roads, when taking a local street will save time/distance.
3b. Plan the route manually? Again the navigation choose the local "highway" with stoplights, over the interstate, which paralled the local for over 10 miles? Couldn't determine how it was deciding where to go.

Before we "upgrade" to the 660 - is there another unit that might be a better choice?

Again, great site!

Not getting a timlely response from Garmin on
procedure for battery re-
placement for nuvi 660.
It would really be a bummer
if I have to ship the unit
back to Garmin when battery
fails in approx. 3 years. Is there an outlet near
Fremont, Calif. 94536, that
is authorized to replace the battery ?

Great article! I will be traveling throughout the Caribbean next year and