We have taken a closer look at the most popular and well-known navigation devices currently on the market. In the categories equipment, handling, route calculation, destination guidance and map updates, we have put navigation devices through their paces to find out which product stands for a high level of comfort or a good price-performance ratio.
The conclusion of the Garmin DriveSmart 51 turned out rather mediocre in our navigation device review.
review results of the DriveSmart 51 LMT-D EU from Garmin
The Garmin product came in fourth out of five in our review series. Except for the target guidance, the device had to accept slight deductions in all other evaluation categories. First of all, the price. Here, this navigation device is in the midfield and can therefore be described as a product for everyone. No excessive price, but also no cheap product. Nevertheless, for the price of over 200 €, perhaps somewhat weaker than comparable products from other manufacturers and competitors.
The equipment
The Garmin device had to be equipped with a five-point trigger. Although the device has a long range with over 46 countries, the equipment could be a bit better. For example, voice control is only possible on the EU version with 46 countries. However, this is no longer available in the downsized version, with 22 countries in Central Europe. In terms of display size, on the other hand, you have the choice between a 5 inch display or a 6.95 inch version. In comparison to the Garmin 60 LMT, the model is meanwhile lagging behind in a few points.
The handling
In our review, the product also had to accept a point deduction in handling. Of course, the rating with four points is still good, but here, too, it can be said that one could have got even more out of the device with a few hand movements. In comparison to the review winner, the Tom Tom 52, voice control with a Garmin device is not necessarily present. An active magnetic mount is also not integrated in the DriveSmart 51 LMT-D EU.
The route calculation
What can you say. Also with the route calculation it did not quite reach a top result of five points. So far, the evaluation so far makes it clear that this product is rock solid, but not a premium product. Neither from the price, nor from the total scope of services. When calculating the route, no traffic jam times or accidents are included in the time specification. This can often lead to confusion, as many people now assume that exactly such short-term events are included in the route calculation.
The target guidance
Nevertheless, the Garmin DriveSmart was able to achieve the full score in one category. Namely in the finish line. This shows no flaws in our review and is almost perfect. No unclear announcements or other things cause confusion for the driver. The lane assistant and the graphics on the display make it clear long before an event when it is time to change lanes.
Kartenupdates
Although the manufacturer Garmin promises lifelong card updates for the DriveSmart 51 LMT, it is not quite enough for the perfect result. The reason for this is simply that with 46 and 22 countries respectively, a rather small range can be covered for today’s conditions.