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Background
The Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX, released in January 2019, was designed to make travel safer and more efficient. This device retailed between $229.99 and $249.99 when it was released. Even today, many users still rely on it, often calling it a game-changer for straightforward navigation. While newer technologies offer advanced features, the DriveSmart 55 EX remains appealing to users who prefer a simple, reliable, and distraction-free way to navigate without the complexity of modern, feature-heavy devices.
The Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX remains a reliable navigation option thanks to its durable hardware, low-distraction interface, and independence from cellular data. Its 5.5-inch edge-to-edge display, voice-activated navigation, real-time traffic updates, drive alerts, and preloaded lifetime maps made it an appealing choice at its 2019 release, and those same features continue to make it a practical device for drivers today.
Some common complaints and issues with the Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX include, poor battery life (requiring constant plugging in), significant device heating up during use (device overheats), and a steep learning curve for the interface. There are currently no recalls on the Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX. Some components that are known to fail or be faulty include, the battery, charging cable, charging port, backlight/screen, and the GPS Antenna/module.
There have been other navigation devices produced since the release of the Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX, such as the DriveSmart 61, which have aimed to replace the DriveSmart 55 EX. The biggest drawback to the DriveSmart 55 EX that could potentially drive away consumers from it is that it has a smaller screen, which may be less preferable to people who like bigger screens. The Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX remains one of the top-rated standalone GPS devices with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 837 reviews. The Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX was discontinuded for the newer models such as the Garmin DriveSmart 67/76/86 models.
Identification
The Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX itself is a slim rectangular body with round edges and is lightweight compared to larger DriveSmart models. It has a 5.5" edge-to-edge touchscreen, which contains thin bezels, giving it a more modern look. On the front of the bezel is the brand name, "Garmin." The model number is located on the back of the device in the center, where the suction cup would be placed.
Technical Specifications
Brand:
- Garmin
Model Name
- DriveSmart 55 EX & Traffic
Built-in Media
- Preloaded maps with 3D terrain and traffic updates
- 16 GB storage
- Compatible external memory storage
Dimensions:
- 5.40" x 3.0" x 0.70" (13.72 x 7.62 s 1.78 cm)
Weight:
- 5.31 oz (150.5 g)
Display:
- Multi-touch, glass, and HD color TFT with white blacklight
- 4.8"W x 2.7"H (12.1 x 6.8 cm); 5.5" (13.9 cm)
- 1280 x 720 pixels resolution
Battery:
- Lithium-ion rechargeable
- Up to 1 hour of life
Included Components:
- DriveSmart 55 EX
- Vehicle suction cup mount
- Traffic receiver/Vehicle power cable
- USB cable
- Manual
Not included:
- MicroSD card
- Backup camera (compatible feature)
Additional Information:
Garmin Drivesmart 55 EX Owner's Manual