Mio C320 Review

Product Overview

The Mio C320 is a navigational unit that features a widescreen interface, US maps, mp3 playback, all in a highly affordable package that make the device a great entry level GPS unit. The device makes its price mark through shedding lesser used features such as Bluetooth and maps of Canada, along with some POI data. This device enables the driver to have access to a GPS unit that is affordable and packed with enough features to be highly functional and convenient.

Mio C320 GPS Navigator

Review Highlights

The design of the Mio C320 is a minimalist design with a sleek frame. The mounting cradle is wide and easy to attach the unit. The mount can be adjusted to a good viewing angle, and once tightened will hold at that viewing angle. There are a couple of design flaws that are not deal breakers, but are still noticeable. The biggest is the mini USB design has the plug attach to the bottom of the unit, and the plug it self is a straight plug instead of a bent L. The result is that the unit needs to be a little higher off the dash than with other units that are out there. The top of the unit features a easy to access power button and it takes but a quick tap to power off the unit. The left side features an SD slot and headphone jack, and the rear features an antenna jack along with a sufficient reward facing speaker. The claim to five hour battery life is accurate.

There are a number of ways that the Mio C230 makes navigation a breeze. The map features a type ahead algorithm that will highlight only those letters that can possibly come after the letter just typed. This results in a speedy input of addresses, which is an overall nice feature. The unit also features 1.7 million points of interest, which is sufficient but a bit lacking. You'll be able to find a Walmart, but not the Gap. The voice prompts are given at appropriate times and the device features a split screen view that enables the display of data or turn lists alongside the map.

The split screen is extremely helpful in navigating. The split screen enables and disables with a simple button push, and when it is enabled, the data side features a tabbed offering of optional data. When you are navigating, the split screen can feature a turn listing as well as current time, estimated arrival, distance travelled and remaining, and a turn indicating arrow. The next tab is a point of interest tab, and tells the driver how far to the nearest gas station, or what ever you have configured, such as restaurants, fast food, post offices, and so on. The third tab features traffic information if that module is installed. It features information on current conditions along routs that you are taking. The last tab is the turn list, which is very helpful since a quick succession of turns may arise and require that you make quick decisions. All of these features are surprisingly easy to use and efficient for navigating purposes, and is provided with out losing view of the map.

The Mio C230 is a solid unit that is a great entry level GPS. The wide screen enables a split display that is easy to use and provides much more functionality than some more expensive units. The low price of the unit ensures that other GPS makers are working hard to be able to compete. The makers are constantly working to drive the price down and ensure competition and innovation, keeping their edge in the GPS market. The navigation itself is solid and the user interface is simple to use. Consumers of the Mio line of devices are all pleased with the devices and enjoy the navigation features that are available at a reduced price.

Overall, the Mio C320 should be at the top of the list when you are shopping around for a GPS unit that is on the value end of these kinds of devices. The ease of use of the navigational features, along with the innovative features such as split screen navigation and information, makes driving and path finding much simpler and less stressful for the driver. The device is primarily sold at Radio Shack, and when you look, price the Mio C520, which adds text to speech and a much larger database of points of interest. If the price suits you, then the upgrade is worth it, but the Mio C320 is a great product on its own.

Product Features

Actual User Comments :

• I bought this after doing a lot of research online. It's probably not the best out there, but it may be the best 'bang for your buck' device out there. Buy the c320, a 4 or 8GB Mini SDHC card, and find MioPocket online. - Nicholas MsGrew, Des Moines
  
• I bought the Mio C320 after doing a lot of research. I originally decided I would get one of the big three brands (Garmin, Magellan or Tom Tom) but ultimately found that the features, look and feel of the Mio was too great to resist. I used the Mio to travel to Utah from Las Vegas for the Christmas holiday. I already knew where I was going, but I wanted to put the routing and POI capability of the system to the test. It passed with flying colors. The map graphics are far superior to those of the other big three brands.

List Price : $149.99

Click here for latest offer on Mio C320
Enjoy Free Shipping & Secure Shopping

Back to top > Mio C320 Review