Mio DigiWalker C510E

Guide price: £199.00

Super compact SIRFStar III handheld GPS navigator. This model has 512MB internal memory, a large bright 3.5" screen and comes with a DVD with maps of the whole of Europe at postcode level. (This means you can enter up to a full 7 digit postcode (UK) and navigate to that destination without fuss or map switching. This model also features a photo viewer and MP3 player and has an SD Slot for adding up to an extra 2GB of storage. This model has a lithium-Ion battery with expected life without charging of 3-4.5 hours, has a car mount and in-car charger.

Bluetooth connection is available on this unit and the 'pairing' process with your mobile is quick and easy, this means you can safely drive and take phone calls handsfree. The speaker, although small is surprisingly clear, undistorted and powerful and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack is also provided. This is found next to the USB connector on the base.

Voice prompts are delivered extremely politely and precisely by 'Thomas' your virtual Butler! (You will understand this comment if you heard him!) Although you may prefer English (US) with the voice of 'Jason' All languages are available, so men might prefer hearing instructions by 'Janette' in French or 'Anna' in Polish! (All of these voices (19 in all) are available on the unit as well.) Full postcode search is available for every country in Europe and although you will have to download extra European Countries from the DVD (included) you do not need any unlocking keys. Map updates are also free and easy to acquire via the Mio Website.

The only added expense immediately necessary for full European navigation, is a large capacity SD card to store the extra data onto. The great thing about this Digiwalker is that navigation across other countries is seamless and no manual map selection is necessary.

A number of key safety features have also been built in to the C510E, including a database of safety camera locations with free downloadable updates for the first year and the ability for users to enter additional, new safety camera locations. Users are given an audio and visual warning as they approach a safety camera location.

The C510E also provides an indication of the speed limit on the current road and the user can set up audio and visual warnings should this be exceeded.

Avoiding traffic congestion

With support for the Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC) system, the C510E is the perfect device to help drivers avoid congestion. With an optional TMC receiver plugged in, the C510 will receive live updates of traffic problems and hotspots and automatically plan a new route to avoid problem areas.

No performance compromise

Hilary's Conclusion: A superb feature packed SatNav in a perfect compact,totally portable easy to use package. A real 'Best Buy' and extremely competitively priced as well!