Garmin is the undisputed leader in GPS navigation units of all kinds, and particularly portable vehicle GPS navigation units.

It’s no wonder our #1 pick for a portable GPS system is the Garmin Nuvi 265W, which is consistently rated high by people who have purchased and used it.

You can buy less expensive units and you can certainly buy more expensive units, but this model represents the best value for the function you get.

Before you buy, make sure you select the unit that has the features that you want. Of course, you pay extra for additional features. Also consider how you’ll mount it in your vehicle. Most portable GPS units come with a vehicle mount, such as a windshield suction cup, but you might want something different. If so, you’ll pay a little extra to get a different mount.

One of the most popular new features of vehicle GPS navigation systems is traffic and traffic route assist. For the Garmin Nuvi 265W, if you want traffic and traffic assist, you’ll want to buy the 265WT model — with the “T” in the model number. This is free lifetime traffic — no subscriptions, no fees — although you pay a little more for this worthwhile and recommended feature.

Here’s what owners/users are saying about the Garmin Nuvi 265W/265WT GPS: 

“This GPS has all the features I was looking for. I wanted upgraded maps, traffic, and Bluetooth. I am happy with the whole package …”

“The Garmin Nuvi 265 is a great improvement over previous GPS. It is easy to use and calculates routes instantaneously. No directions are needed because it is so easy …”

“And this is the second Garmin 265WT I’ve purchased in the last few months. The first one was for my brother …”

“This is my first GPS and I can’t believe how I’ve managed to live without one …”

“I bought the Nuvi 265WT as my first GPS unit. After using this for some time now, I really like this product. Pros: Easy to use, Speech is very clear, Bluetooth works well, Satellite reception is great, Easy to set up, Great display …”

“The Garmin nuvi 265WT comes at a friendly price for those wanting their first GPS. At first I thought the widescreen display would be kind of worthless, since GPS devices show you driving from bottom to top, with the direction you are driving shown at the top. However, I quickly realized that this widescreen format allows the nuvi to show much greater detail of the surrounding area …”

“I can tell you, though, that the Nuvi 265 has surpassed my expectations for a GPS of this price …”

WATCH VIDEO REVIEW OF THE GARMIN NUVI 265WT