Verdict overview
- Precision 8.4
- Touch Screen 9.1
- Simple to use 8.4
- Voice Recognition 8.4
- User interface 7.9
- Vacuum strength 8.6
Pros
Large, high-resolution display for clear navigation.
Voice assist for hands-free operation.
Real-time traffic updates via smartphone.
Cons
Poor spoken direction.
Tech specs
product dimensions | 4.7 x 0.77 x 7.6 inches |
color | Black |
batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. included |
whats in the box | Garmin DriveSmart 86, vehicle suction cup mount, traffic receiver/vehicle power cable, USB cable and documentation |
other display features | Wireless |
connectivity technologies | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB |
item weight | 10.4 ounces |
special features | National Parks Directory, Large Display, Live Traffic and Weather, Traffic Cams and Parking, Driver Alerts, Voice Assist, Smart Notifications, Find Places by Name, Hands-Free Calling, Tripadvisor |
wireless communication technologies | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
customer reviews | 4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,231 ratings 4.4 out of 5 stars |
display resolution | 1280 x 800 |
human interface input | Touchscreen |
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Product Overview
The Garmin DriveSmart 86 is an 8 inch navigator that comes with a host of features to make your road trips more enjoyable and hassle free. It has a high resolution, dual orientation display with map updates of North America, Europe and other countries. What makes the Garmin DriveSmart 86 really stand out is its hands free calling feature when paired with your compatible smartphone via BLUETOOTH technology. Combined with the convenient Garmin voice assist you can ask for directions to places you want to go without ever touching your phone.
The Garmin DriveSmart 86 also comes with road trip ready features such as the HISTORY database of notable sites, a U.S. national parks directory, Tripadvisor traveler ratings, and millions of Foursquare POIs. To ensure that you stay safe on the road, it also offers driver alerts for things such as school zones, sharp curves and speed changes which help encourage safer driving and increase situational awareness. With its built in Wi Fi connectivity you can easily update maps and software without needing a computer.
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In addition to all these features, it can also access live traffic information, fuel prices, weather, parking and smart notifications when you pair this navigator with your compatible smartphone running the Garmin Drive app. The interesting part is that it also has Alexa Built in so you can ask for music, listen to audiobooks, hear the news and more all while keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road!
Overall I would highly recommend this product for anyone who enjoys long drives or travels often by car. It makes driving easier by providing accurate directions and timely updates about traffic conditions so you never get lost or stuck in traffic jams again. The Alexa Built in feature is especially useful since it allows you to stay connected while driving without having to take your eyes off the road or lose concentration while navigating. The 8 inch screen size also provides great visibility even during night time drives making it perfect for any journey!
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