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More Info About Garmin DriveSmart 61 NA LMT-S with Lifetime Maps/Traffic
Stay connected behind the wheel with Garmin DriveSmart 61 NA LMT-S, the navigator that features a collection of smart features in addition to helpful driver alerts and easy-to-follow directions. From hands-free calling and live traffic information to Built-in Wi-Fi and more -the future is on your Garmin. Just look ahead and drive. The display size is 6.0 x 3.5 inches (15.2 x 8.9 cm)
Top Review
I was a bit concerned when I read some of the reviews about this unit. It is a new model, so it's reasonable to be wary about bugs at the very least or serious hardware problems at worst.
Now that I've setup the unit and used it on the road, I can say that you have nothing to fear. I've owned several Garmin GPS units over the years and this one is by far the best with regards to the amount of useful features, screen size, screen readability, navigation prompts, etc.
To ensure that you have a smooth experience, make sure that you charge the unit, put it on your WiFi network, and update the firmware before you do anything. Second order of business is to update the maps. Thirdly, read the manual. Most of us reasonably expect that a modern device is going to be user-friendly, but this GPS -- at least for me -- was a huge jump in terms of features. So do yourself a favor and take a look at the user manual.
Lastly, look into all of the apps that allow it to connect to your phone or even compatible smart watches. New devices can work in ecosystems to bring you the best features while keeping costs down. The DriveSmart 61 LMT-S definitely fits that description. Since I am my girlfriend's official pilot wherever we go, I just paired up my smart phone so that I can take advantage of extra features while driving.
That takes me to voice controls. Smartphones generally use "natural language" for voice controls. The DriveSmart 61 LMT-S is a bit different. It relies on short voice commands and a menu-driven system to perform tasks for you. Make sure that you give it a good "wake up" command to avoid the frustration of being ignored. I gave my unit the command "Garmin wake up!" and it works very reliably. Longer wake up commands work better.
In general, the unit understands my voice commands pretty well. However, it has a bit more trouble with street or business names. Garmin has some homework to do in that department, but everywhere else, this unit shines. I loved the improved prompts, generally better pronunciation, the visual assistance for turns, the hazard warnings such as pronounced curves on the road, etc.
I am so happy with this unit that I ordered a Garmin Fenix 5X watch to try out expanded navigation after I've parked my car. Unfortunately I was born geographically challenged; I get lost in my own living room. I need all the navigation help I can get. I'll post updates to this review as needed. -
Rommel
Top Review
Absolutely love this product. Have had numerous Garmins before and this is the best yet. I almost didn’t buy after reading other reviews - glad I decided to give it try.
Just travelled from California to the East coast (made a wide circle so I didn’t have to travel the same route back) and it worked great. The warning header that people had issues with did not bother me. The screen is so big that it didn’t interfere with the directions and views - just helped keep me more alert.
One review noted that you had to buy the traffic cord that goes to the Garmin for $50. Thanks to that, I purchased separately. Also, to use traffic alerts you need to download the app and pay a five dollar a month subscription fee. Not a big issue - I paid for two months while on cross country trip and then cancelled.
I found this product to be a good fit for what I was looking for. Very easy to use - I didn’t need directions. As I said, have had a few Garmins before and a little playing around with it and it set up nicely with no issues. -
Guinn
Warranty & Support
Amazon Return Policy:You may return any new Garmin DriveSmart 61 NA LMT-S with Lifetime Maps/Traffic purchased from Amazon that is "dead on arrival," arrives in damaged condition, or is still in unopened boxes, for a full refund within 30 days of purchase. Amazon reserves the right to test "dead on arrival" returns and impose a customer fee equal to 15 percent of the product sales price if the customer misrepresents the condition of the product. Any returned product that is damaged through customer misuse, is missing parts, or is in unsellable condition due to customer tampering will result in the customer being charged a higher restocking fee based on the condition of the product. Amazon will not accept returns of any product more than 30 days after you receive the shipment. New, used, and refurbished products purchased from Marketplace vendors are subject to the returns policy of the individual vendor.
