Pros: nüLink! Services, hands-free calls, elevation readings
Cons: Too many ads, MicroSD media
Released in January 2010, the Garmin Nuvi 1690 Hiking GPS is equipped with many features to make navigation easier. It’s nüLink! Connected browser services provide fast, real-time updates on gas prices, traffic conditions, flight status, weather, and more. That’s a huge plus, as you can stay up-to-date on all the information you want on the go. And it also informs you about local events, restaurants, movie times in theaters near your location. It also allows you to search Google using preset categories or search terms of your choice. NüLink! The service works on the AT&T EDGE network and is free for the first two years of use. You will save a lot of dollars there! After this free subscription time, you may have to pay a small fee to continue with this service (that’s a real spoiler!).
When it comes to design, Garmin Nuvi looks very sleek and stylish with its glossy black frame and chrome trim. The 4.3 inch touch screen gives you a clear view of the streets and maps. The touch screen is unresponsive at times. Navigation, on the other hand, is very simple. (Although many have to press the buttons a little hard). Just press the up / down buttons or swipe the screen to navigate the menu.
Like most Garmin nuvi models, the 1690’s main menu is also very simple. It has two large icons: “Where?” and “View Map” with a row of small buttons for Volume, Phone, and Tools at the bottom.
The Bluetooth settings make it very easy to pair your phone with the browser to transfer all the phone numbers. But, the downside is that you can’t get to the number you want directly, instead you have to scroll up and down to get to the correct number.
Garmin 1690 has only one microSD-sized card slot. It means less capacity, but it also means that you can use a wide range of compatible SD cards. Therefore, this function does not go up or down.
Nuvi’s Ciao Friend Finder is an interesting addition to the device. This patent pending software helps you share your location and other details with shared friends. It might come in handy, if you could take your eyes off the road to say ‘Ciao’ to your friends !!
The bottom line:
If you are looking for a reliable GPS for navigating around town, the Garmin Nuvi 1690 is a good choice.
