The Garmin 285wt GPS device is primarily intended to be used while driving. The purpose of this article is to give you a brief overview of the basic features of this device. My hope is that after reading this overview, you will be in a better position to evaluate whether this particular GPS device fits your needs.

Dynamic information

Personally, this is what I consider to be the strongest feature of the Garmin 285wt. Thanks to its built in traffic receiver, you can receive updates in real time while you are driving, for all sorts of useful information: Flights status, local weather, traffic, movie times, stock information, gas prices, local events are to name a few.

In order to get this service, you need to have an active subscription to MSN Direct. The cost of the device includes a three-month free trial to the service. After this free trial expires and you still wish to have this service, you need to pay a monthly fee.

Widescreen display

You most probably agree with me that the size of the display and its brightness are features, which are quite important, especially in driving conditions.

The Garmin 285wt has a 4.3-inch display, with vivid colours, easily readable even in bright sunlight.

Easy to use right out of the box

In today's world of increasing complexity, we all come to appreciate gadgets that are simple to use and don't require from us to read any complex manuals to set them up.

You can rest assured that the Garmin 285wt has minimum degree of difficulty and you can start using it right out of the box. Its interface is intuitive and there are no button sequences to remember, since navigation of the different menu selections is done though the touch screen display.

And while you drive, you don't have to constantly keep your eyes on the display and run the risk of running into something. The device gives you turn-by-turn voice directions, to make sure you reach your destination fast and safely.

Preloaded with maps

The Garmin 285wt comes preloaded with detailed city navigation maps of North America and Europe. And what's even more interesting is that its software is also loaded with six million points of interest (theatres, restaurants, shops etc.) to make your journey as enjoyable and fulfilling, as you desire it to be.

And for those of us that are savvier with electronics, it is good to know that you can even customize additional points of interest, adding the ones you want to remember.

Affordable price

You will be pleased to know that this neat gadget can be purchased at quite a competitive price, under $200 from Amazon.