The Garmin StreePilot 2620 is advertised as being "plug-and-play" and ready right out of the box. This device is aptly named: it is literally a street pilot.
Depending on where you purchase the unit, it comes with a built-in MapSource City Navigator North American or European basemap.
That’s right: it’s pre-loaded.
That means you’re spared the hassle of uploading map database segments each time you travel.
A chief competitor to the Magellen Roadmate 700, the Streetpilot 2620 has all the bells and whistles you need for an in-car GPS navigation unit. Like the earlier StreetPilot 2610, this device has a color touchscreen with voice prompted navigation.
The Specs
The 2620 is a powerful 12-channel receiver, weighing 14.8 oz. The rugged body measures only 3.1" x 5.6" x 2". Users can store 500 waypoints, 2000 tracklog points, and 50 navigation routes. The standard package includes the GPS receiver (with built-in antenna), remote control, external speakers with 12/24-volt adapter cable, PC-USB interface cable, A/C power adapter, dash mount, and a portable bean-bag friction mount.Unlike the StreetPilot III, which used a serial connection, the Garmin StreetPilot 2620 (and its sister, the 2660) use a USB PC connection. Therefore, if you’re upgrading from a III, you may need to review the manual before deciding whether to purchase new accessories.
Available accessories include an extra power adapter, low profile remote automobile antenna, dashboard mount, cables, manuals, bracket mounts, and a wide range of carrying cases - including a deluxe version.
The Pros
- Feature-packed - Because the MapSource City Navigator database is pre-loaded, there is no need for uploading mapping software to this unit.
- Ease of use - The StreetPilot is intuitively designed and the menus are easy to navigate. When in doubt, the manual’s screenshots help answer any questions you may have.
- Screen clarity - The 3.3" W x 1.7" H, 305 x 160-pixel display is a bright 256-color LCD screen. A built-in photo sensor can adjust for lighting conditions automatically, so there is no difficulty viewing the screen day or night.
The Cons
- Price - All those bells and whistles don’t come cheaply. This unit will set you back well over $1300 USD. The price is the primary complaint given in online reviews (but at least consumers are not complaining about the product’s performance.)
Because the cost is so high, you may want to compare prices to find a discount. If you’re lucky, you may find a refurbished or used demo unit.
- Mount - The beanbag mount is not as sturdy as you may expect for a unit of this quality.
Using the Garmin StreetPilot 2620: Some Basic Facts
As mentioned, the StreetPilot 2620 is easy and fun to use. Like its rival, the Magellan 700, this pre-programmed Garmin is especially designed for in-car use. The audible navigation instructions and warnings mean you can keep your eyes on the road and still receive guidance from the StreetPilot.It has a built-in patch antenna, but is equipped to handle an optional external antenna for road trips needing a little extra help. The wireless (IR) remote control allows you to operate the unit from a distance.
The StreetPilot 2620 has several handy features. For example, you can enter a series of destinations and the unit calculates the most efficient route to take. Additional options allow you to avoid certain roads or select preferred road classes for your journey.
Huge Database
You can navigate to an exact address you’ve entered or access the database of more than 5 million points of interest. The database is amazing, offering guidance to lodging, restaurants, banks, or gas stations. Updates for the map detail and database can be obtained from Garmin as they become available.Users can download maps from the 2620 to a microdrive (such as the IBM/Hitachi 1 GB drive). And, depending on your version of City Navigator, there is extra space on the 2620 for additional maps. Version 5.0 of the software leaves approximately 500 MB and version 6.00 leaves approximately 300 MB.
In short, the StreetPilot 2620 is an amazing product. And, though pricey, it is actually less expensive than most of the factory installed units available these days. Most users will find the expense well worth it.
About the Author
Janette is a hobbyist writer who enjoys using her GPS devices and educating people about GPS accessories, Garmin GPS receivers, and everything GPS!