Garmin Drive 53 GPS Navigator High-Resolution Touchscreen Simple On-Screen Menus and Easy-to-See Maps Driver Alerts

I had a wedding in upstate NY in a place I had not yet visited. I got driving instructions but felt that the Garmin would make the trip easier and I was correct. Garmin talks, knows where it is, knows where it is going and is relatively unobtrusive in doing its job. Two-hour drive, didn't have to slow down or squint for road signs. It did everything but drive for me. It was even more useful on the return trip. Read more

I previously had a Garmin Nuvi2555 and I’d loved it. I like simplicity, not a lot of bells and whistles. I just want to know how to get where I want to go and back again. This GPS is very comparable to my Nuvi, but it was 12+ years old and quit so I needed a replacement. (It only steered me wrong 3 times in all those years!) The Drive 53 is just what I wanted. The functions are pretty much the same with a few extras. It’s easy to operate, but be sure you get a memory card. You cannot update without one. There are higher priced units that offer more options, with bigger screens, but if you just want basic functions made by someone who’s been doing it successfully for many years, this is a great unit. For the difference in cost get the “new” not the refurbished. Read more

Garmin makes good GPSs, and this is no exception. Compared to some other ones I've seen, this is good because it is not trying to be your music system, or your calculator, or your smart phone - it is JUST a GPS, and does it well. So why the 4 stars? Two things. First off, it is disappointing that Garmin is still using old USB formats for their cable, and they stick straight out from the back of the unit. That makes it hard to mount on the dash, if you are clipping it into vents. They may be expecting that you use their post that suction/glues in place, but I have never had good luck with those. The second is that if you look online, you are going to see stuff that says that the Drive 53 can be updated wirelessly. This is NOT TRUE for this unit. Now, the page doesn't say it will, so Garmin is not lying. However, since it doesn't give much in terms of actual info, and what you find online is misleading... I am not impressed. (Wireless was something I was specifically looking for.) Both of these issues are not major, so I am only knocking off a star. I just wish it was different. Still think it is a good GPS, still kept it. Would still buy a Garmin again. (Even though they are a bit more expensive.) Read more

This works very well. It is not as easy to use as a phone, but it has one major advantage - it tolerates heat. When my Garmin Drive 50 died after many years, I tried just using my phone. In summer the phone got too hot, and was unusable. This is my 3rd or 4th Garmin - I started back in 2000 or 2001. They work no matter how hot it is and how much sun they get. Read more

The Garmin Drive™ 53 GPS Navigator has been a wonderful addition to my car. It is a great GPS even if it is not so big, but it is functional, other brands has so many non useful feather, but this one is great GPS. I love it. The screen is bright and easy to read, even in sunlight, and the directions are clear and accurate. I really appreciate how simple it is to use—just turn it on, type your destination, and go. The lane guidance and timely alerts make driving smoother and less stressful, especially in busy areas. It also updates quickly and reroutes efficiently when needed. Overall, this GPS is reliable, user-friendly, and perfect for anyone who wants a dependable navigation system without distractions. I highly recommend the Garmin Drive 53! Read more

simple, direct, and doesn't ask questions like a smart (relatively stupid) phone... =). love it. nice big screen too that doesn't light up the cab. Read more

Works very well. Very accurate with good verbal directions to accompany visual directions. Did you know that unless you have special phone plans, your mobile phone GPS won’t work as soon as you cross the Canada border? This device avoids that nasty surprise. Read more

I have an older Garmin that died. Physically installing and removing the old unit was MUCH better than the 53. When I put the old GPS into the cradle, the power connection is made. With the 53 the power connection is a separate step. I have to plug in the USB cable. And reverse when removing it; remove the GPS, then unplug the unit. This is a step backwards in ease of use. The mount for the 53 is NOT made for easy dismounting and storing the GPS out of sight. The old unit was easy to dismount, press a button and tilt the unit out of the cradle. The 53 is not as easy to remove. Upgraded my rating once I figured out HOW to unmount the unit. Not as bad as I had thought. Read more