Garmin iQue M5 Reviews

Summary of review published by Handheld Computing — September, 2005 (page 50)



This capable unit is a GPS with the power and convenience of a PocketPC, holding all of the GPS software in ROM, leaving over 50MB of storage free, as well as 16MB of safe storage and an SD slot. The screen is a relatively low-resolution 320 x 240, but the reviewer reported that the software and maps are clear and uncluttered enough that the lower resolution is not an issue. Being a car-use-oriented device, the mounting system is a weak point, as it is not designed for vehicles with low-angled windshields, especially since the antenna flips out from the rear of the device as a short panel, rather than an adjustable tower, further reducing mounting options. Interface is a bit abtruse, as the icons are not readily decipherable without having spent time learning other iQue applications, from which the Garmin M5 takes its cues. On the road, the M5 works beautifully, with clear directions and information on the maps that is easily assimilated with a glance, such as narrowing the focus of the moving map when turning off a freeway onto an exit leading to tighter turns such as a residential area. The display is 2-dimensional, but effective nonetheless. Route finding and adjustments due to "off-route" recalculations are quick and efficient, as the PocketPC swiftly calculates the alternate routes, and the reviewer was impressed with the suggested routes, as it recommended a route even faster than the one the reviewer thought was best. As it is an all-in-one unit, misplacing a separate GPS receiver is not an issue and makes the unit easy to use. Display was dimmer than the reviewer would have liked, but it was adequate. Solid choice for an all-in-one GPS unit.
Pros:
-Clear and easily-assimilated info while in transit
-Plenty of storage memory
-Effective rerouting when "off-course"
-Speaker built in to power plug
Cons:
-Low-resolution display, though adequate
-Abtruse pre-trip menus and buttons
-Annoying registration for both software and hardware
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