When it comes to GPS navigation systems, Garmin is a household name that has been providing top-notch devices for years. Two of their popular models, the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55, have been making waves in the market with their advanced features and sleek designs. But what sets them apart? In this article, we’ll delve into the differences between these two models, exploring their features, functionalities, and overall performance.
Design And Display
At first glance, both the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 appear to be identical in terms of design. They both feature a 5-inch capacitive touchscreen display with a resolution of 480×272 pixels. However, there are some subtle differences in their physical dimensions. The DriveSmart 51 measures 5.5 inches in width, 3.3 inches in height, and 0.8 inches in depth, while the DriveSmart 55 is slightly larger, measuring 5.6 inches in width, 3.4 inches in height, and 0.8 inches in depth.
In terms of display, both devices offer bright and clear visuals, making it easy to navigate through menus and view maps. However, the DriveSmart 55 has a slightly higher brightness level, making it more suitable for use in direct sunlight.
Mounting Options
Both devices come with a suction cup mount that allows for easy installation on your windshield or dashboard. However, the DriveSmart 55 also includes a magnetic mount, which provides a more secure and convenient way to attach and detach the device.
Navigation Features
Both the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 offer advanced navigation features, including:
- Preloaded maps of North America, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico
- Turn-by-turn directions with voice guidance
- Real-time traffic updates to help you avoid congested roads
- Points of interest (POIs) such as restaurants, gas stations, and hotels
However, the DriveSmart 55 takes navigation to the next level with its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows for seamless map updates and syncs with your smartphone for real-time traffic updates.
Smartphone Integration
Both devices offer Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and smartphone integration. However, the DriveSmart 55 also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps and music directly from the device.
Additional Features
In addition to navigation, both devices offer a range of additional features, including:
- Weather forecasts to help you plan your route
- PhotoReal junction views to provide a clear view of upcoming intersections
- Speed limit displays to help you stay within the speed limit
However, the DriveSmart 55 also includes voice-activated controls, allowing you to access features and navigate through menus with ease.
Driver Alerts
Both devices offer driver alerts, including:
- Forward collision warnings to alert you of potential collisions
- Lane departure warnings to help you stay in your lane
- Speed camera alerts to alert you of upcoming speed cameras
However, the DriveSmart 55 also includes driver attention alerts, which monitor your driving habits and alert you if you appear to be drowsy or distracted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 offer advanced navigation features and sleek designs, the DriveSmart 55 takes the lead with its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, smartphone integration, and additional features such as voice-activated controls and driver attention alerts. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line GPS navigation system with all the bells and whistles, the DriveSmart 55 is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a budget and still want a reliable navigation system, the DriveSmart 51 is still a great option.
| Feature | Garmin DriveSmart 51 | Garmin DriveSmart 55 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5 inches | 5 inches |
| Display Resolution | 480×272 pixels | 480×272 pixels |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | No | Yes |
| Smartphone Integration | Bluetooth only | Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Voice-Activated Controls | No | Yes |
| Driver Attention Alerts | No | Yes |
By considering the features and functionalities of both devices, you can make an informed decision and choose the GPS navigation system that best suits your needs.
What Are The Key Differences Between Garmin DriveSmart 51 And 55?
The key differences between Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 lie in their display size, resolution, and additional features. The Garmin DriveSmart 55 has a larger 5.5-inch display compared to the 5-inch display of the DriveSmart 51. Additionally, the DriveSmart 55 has a higher resolution, making the display sharper and clearer.
In terms of features, the DriveSmart 55 has more advanced navigation features, including Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and voice-activated navigation. It also has a built-in Wi-Fi connection for easy software updates and map downloads. The DriveSmart 51, on the other hand, has more basic navigation features and does not have Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity.
Which Device Has Better Navigation Features?
The Garmin DriveSmart 55 has more advanced navigation features compared to the DriveSmart 51. It has voice-activated navigation, which allows users to control the device with voice commands. It also has a feature called ” Garmin Real Directions,” which provides more natural-sounding directions and uses recognizable landmarks and buildings to guide users to their destination.
The DriveSmart 55 also has a feature called “Active Lane Guidance,” which provides a visual representation of the lane the user should be in to make a turn or exit. This feature is particularly useful in complex intersections or highway interchanges. The DriveSmart 51, on the other hand, has more basic navigation features and does not have voice-activated navigation or Active Lane Guidance.
Is The Garmin DriveSmart 55 Worth The Extra Cost?
Whether or not the Garmin DriveSmart 55 is worth the extra cost depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences. If the user wants a device with more advanced navigation features, a larger display, and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, then the DriveSmart 55 may be worth the extra cost.
However, if the user is on a budget and only needs a basic GPS device with turn-by-turn directions, then the DriveSmart 51 may be a better option. The DriveSmart 51 is generally less expensive than the DriveSmart 55, but it still provides reliable navigation and a user-friendly interface.
Can I Use The Garmin DriveSmart 51 And 55 For Off-road Navigation?
Both the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 can be used for off-road navigation, but they are not designed specifically for off-road use. They are primarily designed for on-road navigation and may not have the same level of detail and accuracy as a dedicated off-road GPS device.
However, both devices do have a feature called “Off-Route Recalculation,” which allows the device to recalculate the route if the user deviates from the original route. This feature can be useful for off-road navigation, but it is not a substitute for a dedicated off-road GPS device.
Do The Garmin DriveSmart 51 And 55 Have Traffic Updates?
Both the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 have traffic updates, but the DriveSmart 55 has more advanced traffic features. The DriveSmart 55 has a feature called ” Garmin Traffic,” which provides real-time traffic updates and suggests alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion.
The DriveSmart 51 also has traffic updates, but they are not as detailed or accurate as the DriveSmart 55. The DriveSmart 51 uses a feature called “Traffic Trend,” which provides general traffic information and suggests alternative routes, but it is not as comprehensive as the Garmin Traffic feature on the DriveSmart 55.
Can I Use The Garmin DriveSmart 51 And 55 With My Smartphone?
Both the Garmin DriveSmart 51 and 55 can be used with a smartphone, but the DriveSmart 55 has more advanced smartphone integration features. The DriveSmart 55 has Bluetooth connectivity, which allows users to make hands-free calls and receive notifications on the device.
The DriveSmart 51 does not have Bluetooth connectivity, but it can still be used with a smartphone using a feature called ” Smartphone Link.” This feature allows users to download maps and software updates to the device using their smartphone. However, it does not provide the same level of integration as the DriveSmart 55.