GPS Navigation Garmin StreetPilot c330 vs c340

Open the box, touch the screen and you are ready to travel. Attached to the dash in its swiveling suction cup or hand held a Garmin StreetPilot GPS receiver can be seen and heard. Once the power button is activated and the volume is adjusted all other control of these units are handled through their bright 3.5 inch touchscreen.

The Garmin StreetPilot c330 and the StreetPilot c340- both true simplicity in motion, are designed to be easily used while looking stylish. Interchangeable faceplates may not have much to do with routing your trip but they have everything to do with preserving the looks of your vehicles interior. The beauty of these GPS receivers are more than skin deeper however - straight forward and accurate navigation, compact size and battery powered portability positions these units at the top of their class. Navigating the onscreen menus are simplified by the use of large colorful icons. Along the route preloaded POI (Points of Interests) can be useful, fun and lifesaving.

MapSource City Select software maps your route on the Garmin StreetPilot c330. City Navigator NT software maps your route on the Garmin StreetPilot c340. Both are amazing. Enter any destination whether a local address or any other throughout the US, Canada and Puerto Rico - and a route will be mapped. There are an insane number of searchable preprogrammed POIs available and in addition, they accept customized POIs. Even if you know your way, a school zone or even a traffic surveillance camera can be programmed in so that you are reminded of their presence.Expansion and updates are possible. Up to a 2GB SD card can be loaded with additional maps and a USB cable and port has been included to assist with software and firmware updates.

Routes are mapped and at times remapped according to your instruction or due to variances caused by detours or traffic issues. (An add on receiver and traffic service can be can be purchased that will warn you of unexpected traffic conditions such as accidents and road construction). Turn by turn directions can be seen on the screen and they can be heard through the built in speakers. The Garmin StreetPilot c340 unlike the Garmin StreetPilot c330 does more than just announce the next turn such as turn right in 600 feet. The Garmin c340 speaks street names such as turn right on Birch Street. User reviews report that the sound and volume is more than adequate on both models and can be heard above the radio. Visit Amazon.com for numerous user reviews on both Garmin StreetPilot c330 and the Garmin StreetPilot c340 .

By viewing the map (2D or 3D) you can see information including your satellite position which in simple terms means - where you are now, how fast you are traveling, and in what direction you are traveling. Zoom in or out for a better look at details displayed on the screen. Customize some of those details using the tools icon such as map orientation, level of detail and language.

These units are compact measuring approximately 4.4" W x 3.2" H x 2.8" D. The screen is viewable at approximately 2.8" W x 2.1" H. The internal lithium battery lasts for approximately 4 to 8 hours and is handy for use outside the vehicle. An AC adapter is included for in vehicle use. An optional connector is available to increase satellite reception with the use of an external antenna.

Purchase prices of these units can range from $269.00 to over $800.00 depending on which model you want and where you decide to buy it. Abundant reviews are available online from both professional reviewers and users as well. The ease of use and the accuracy of the mapping appear to be outstanding features that users enjoy. The versatility of use inside and outside of the vehicle counts for a lot. The ability to switch the unit between vehicles makes the value even greater.