What's this? This score mainly reflects how easy a navigation system is to use, combined with factors such as information given, portability, and routing options. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Price range:
$79.99 - $349.99
We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Garmin Nuvi 1200 although it may differ in price and features.
The Garmin Nuvi 1250 is a GPS available from
Garmin.
The Nuvi 1250 typically costs
between $79.99 - $349.99.
Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's
our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on GPS
models like the Nuvi 1250.
Screen size (in.):
The diagonal length of the display screen measured in inches and rounded to the nearest tenth on an inch.
Weight (oz.):
Measured weight of just the unit (excluding mount) in ounces rounded to the nearest tenth.
Spoken street names:
Commonly referred to as "Text-to-Speech," this helpful feature is the ability to pronounce proper street names. For example, a system with this feature would say, "Turn right on Truman Avenue" rather than, "Turn right in 500 feet." Spoken street names allows the driver to confirm directions with street signs without looking at the screen.
Tested Model
The Ratings of Garmin Nuvi 1200 were applied to untested model Garmin Nuvi 1250, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
By far the biggest selling brand, with more than 50 percent of the market. Based in Olathe, Kan., Garmin was founded in 1989, and today it has 7,000 employees. Garmin GPS navigators have consistently scored near or at the top of our ratings. In addition to portable GPS units, Garmin makes a variety of fitness training devices and products for marine and aviation use. The company announced plans to sell its own telephone with built-in navigation two years ago, but the scheduled release date has been pushed back several times.
Features & Specs - Garmin Nuvi 1250
Screen size (in.) The diagonal length of the display screen measured in inches and rounded to the nearest tenth on an inch.
Screen size (in.)
3.5
Weight (oz.) Measured weight of just the unit (excluding mount) in ounces rounded to the nearest tenth.
Weight (oz.)
4.7
Bluetooth hands-free calling Allows user to make and receive hands-free telephone calls using the unit's internal speaker, microphone, and screen. Automatically quiets directions while call is being made. Can display user's telephone book, and shows caller ID on the screen. Can also dial phone numbers of point of interest locations. Requires a Bluetooth-compatible telephone.
Bluetooth hands-free calling
No
Spoken street names Commonly referred to as "Text-to-Speech," this helpful feature is the ability to pronounce proper street names. For example, a system with this feature would say, "Turn right on Truman Avenue" rather than, "Turn right in 500 feet." Spoken street names allows the driver to confirm directions with street signs without looking at the screen.
We bought it because we were going to be traveling to New Jersey and New York. I don't know what we would have done without our GPS. My son had told us to get one but I did not think it was necessary. Boy was I wrong. I even use it whenever I have to travel locally and I am not sure of the directions. I would recomend it to anyone who is thinking about getting one.
By
Anonymous
from
Bedford, NH
3.0
Another so-so unit from Garmin
10/28/2010
Pros
Compact
Easy To Read
Easy To Set Up
Large Screen
Cons
First one quit
Replaced with rebuilt
Short Battery Life
Best Uses
Comment:
I use this when I'm going into unfamiliar territory. If the battery is dead, the unit doesn't work until it's been charging for a while. If it's left charging too long it freezes, and only after removing it from the charger and waiting a while will it start to work. The first one died under warranty...and very little use...so they replaced it with a rebuilt unit. I would expect to get another new unit when the first one was only six months old. If this is the way Garmin treats their customers, there's plenty of room for competition.
By
Anonymous
from
Long Island, NY
4.0
Good value for basic functions
10/28/2010
Pros
Compact
Easy Menus
Easy To Read
Easy To Set Up
Simple Controls
Cons
Acquires Satellites Slowly
Best Uses
Finding Specific Address
Planning Trips
Comment:
Great for trip planningas it is very accurate with alternate routes. In urban settings, sometimes does not provide most efficient routing as it tends to navigate for shortest distance
Other User Reviews
5.0
(based on 1 reviews)
By
Anonymous
User has of experience with this product
5.0
11/11/2009
Strength
Extremely easy to use. I live it.
Weakness
None.
This GPS is the best I've owned. It is so easy to program. I purchased a weighted mount that sits on my dashboard so I can easily shift the unit to my other car by simply lifting it up and placing it back down.
7 people have reviewed this model.
Screen size (in.)
