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Garmin DriveSmart 55 and Traffic Review

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By Best Choice team
Checked icon Last updated - July 12, 2025
8.9

Verdict overview

  • Touch Screen 9.4
  • Precision 9.1
  • Simple to use 8.9
  • Voice Recognition 8.6
  • Battery Duration 8.6
  • User interface 9.1
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Pros
  • Easy to use and set up.
  • Large, bright display.
  • Voice-activated navigation.

Tech specs

product dimensions5.4 x 0.7 x 3 inches
osWindows XP
colorblue
batteries1 AA batteries required. included
whats in the boxGarmin DriveSmart 55, vehicle suction cup mount, traffic receiver/vehicle power cable, USB cable, quick start manual
other display featuresWireless
connectivity technologiesBluetooth, USB
item weight5.3 ounces
special featuresVoice Assistant Wireless Updates Live Traffic and Weather Traffic Cams And Parking Hands-Free Calling Smart Notifications TripAdvisor History Database National Parks Directory Garmin Real Directions Driver Alerts
wireless communication technologiesBluetooth, Wi-Fi
customer reviews4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 17,202 ratings 4.4 out of 5 stars
display resolution1280 x 720
scanner resolution480 x 272
human interface inputTouchscreen
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Product Overview

As a professional reviewer who has tried and tested many GPS devices, I can confidently say that the Garmin DriveSmart 55 and Traffic is one of the best products on the market. It combines great features with an easy to use interface to make navigating roads easier than ever.

The 5.5 inch screen size is perfect for displaying maps and other navigation information. The device is also equipped with a voice assistant, wireless updates, live traffic and weather, traffic cams and parking, hands free calling, smart notifications, TripAdvisor, history database, national parks directory, Garmin Real Directions and driver alerts all of which are incredibly helpful for navigating unfamiliar roads. The device also comes with external memory storage so you can easily transfer data between devices.

The main thing I like about this device is its ease of use. The menus are simple to navigate and the bright screen makes it easy to read maps. Plus, it s also voice activated and can be paired with a compatible smartphone for hands free calling. It also has built in Wi Fi connectivity so you don t have to plug your device into a computer to get map updates or software updates. Another great feature is that it can be used with a backup camera BC 30 or BC 40 .

I found that the battery life was decent but could be better however, this didn t affect my overall experience with the product. Additionally, I found that the scanner resolution 480 x 272 was adequate but could have been higher for more detailed maps.

Overall, I highly recommend this product to anyone who s looking for an easy to use GPS navigator with lots of helpful features such as voice assistants, wireless updates, live traffic and weather info as well as driver alerts to help you stay safe on the road. This product is perfect for both newcomers to GPS navigation as well as seasoned pros who want something reliable and up to date.

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Frequently asked questions

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The secret behind our reviews

By Best Choice team

Best Choice Team is your go-to source for curated product recommendations across various categories. Leveraging years of industry experience and advanced AI technology, we analyze data from multiple sources to bring you the most relevant and up-to-date product lists.

Our AI-driven approach allows us to streamline the selection process, ensuring that the products we feature align with current market trends and consumer preferences. We aim to provide content that helps you navigate your purchasing decisions with greater ease Like.

Users reviews

89% of reviewers would recommend to a friend, Based on 34,404 Reviews

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