Garmin DriveSmart 61 - Thank you Garmin! Large and Great GPS with Traffic :)

My review of the Garmin DriveSmart 61. Tired of using my cell phone for everything, I found this awesome Garmin 61 ( it has a 6.95in screen, no idea why its called 61) it replaces my google maps on my phone. Extremely happy with the Garmin 61 :)
Bonus is the Garmin only cost me 90 dollars on Ebay, it was in mint condition. The retail price was north of 300.00 dollars.

[@GRRPP]

Yes!!!! it is a PAIN getting a call in the middle of driving ... will look in to getting one.

[@conservovirtus5796]

As a former commercial driver, and first responder, v with far too many miles under my belt, allow me to help you. Put a few drops of water on the suction cup, or spit on it if you don't have water, and spread it across the cup with your finger, and then apply to the windshield while damp. It'll create a water seal that the cup prevents from evaporating. That gps isn't going anywhere.

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thank you

[@Robert08010]

I can confirm, using this method, I have difficulty taking it down, even after many months. I would further suggest making sure the glass is completely clean before attaching it suction mount.

[@conservovirtus5796]

@@Robert08010. I keep a bottle of water in my car just for this purpose (my GPS water). The GPS will literally come off the mount before the suction cup comes off the window if you pull on it. And that's even with an old suction cup (years) with little abrasions and grime and stuff on it.

[@conservovirtus5796]

So, just an fyi. Was in a pretty significant car accident since last I posted. T-boned by a tractor trailer. My GPS was still on my windshield afterward.

[@erinsable]

got one today, $330 bing lee, sydney, australia.

[@warrenkawamoto8660]

For me the best advantage of using GPS over phone is when driving in remote areas where cell phone coverage isn't available.

[@CarlosVasquez]

So so true! Happen to me many times going to the beach here in MD.

[@clayguinard3651]

How do you attached to the dashboard?? Where did get that pad for your dash

[@davidsapir3764]

Great review video, thank you. Just picked up the Garmin Drive 61 EX to replace my 10 year old 5" Garmin. GoogleMaps is great, but like you I hated not being able to use my phone while using it as a GPS. This new Garmin is an absolutely fantastic product from top to bottom. So worth it. Also, the suction cup windshield holder sticks like glue if you just moisten it a little with some water or a dab of spit, never had a problem with it.

[@49imprint]

thanks for a great review on the Garmin 61.I agree with you 100% the Garmin would be safer than just my cell phone with screen changes too often.so I will look for one that has voice command. And Wi-Fi.thank you

[@hugolafhugolaf]

The size matters thumbnail was perfect.

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thanks!!

[@Realitygetreal]

Hunk of SHIT, limited language capability with no obvious way to extend it, the older Nuvi' models allowed all kinds of customizations

[@TheProboy101]

Not going to lie he sounds like Jeff Goldblum

[@CarlosVasquez]

Yeah, I do sound like him a bit. I wonder if Jeff has any catch phrases?

[@DOCWHOK9]

I have the very similar 51, and I feel the software is very stagnant and slow. It used to change volume & brightness without the laborious voice menu system consisting of 4 voice commands. I'd love to see this software progress, but it hasnt. Atleast it almost never crashes, unlike their handheld GPSs !

[@mshapirouk1]

Fantastic review! And your presentation was informative, very professional and frankly one of the very best I've seen regarding GPS systems! Thank you so much. I'm going to purchase this unit thanks to your review!

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thank you!! So glad I was able to help. Were there any other gps systems in the running? Just wondering.

[@sirraymondluxuryyacht8131]

where does it get it's traffic info? That's important because I've always found Google Maps traffic info very accurate due to the #people using android phones. I doubt Garmin, if they get it from just their own GPS device reports, are as accurate...due to the lower #devices

[@CarlosVasquez]

Garmin uses there own system, I have compared having google maps vs garmin. I actually prefer the garmin maps. I have had issue with google maps not avoiding traffic on highways. The garmin seems to make adjustment better to traffic accidents. Garmin has time an time again taken me the longer way, which keeps me moving and the Google maps will go the shorter distance in bumper to bumper traffic. Prefer to keep moving than sit in traffic. I actually stopped using google maps an switched over to Sygic, a paid service to supplement the garmin. I own three garmin's.

[@MsPlaygirl223]

Is there a back up camera compatible with this navigation? Also, with the Garmin drive 61

[@Rockinthehill]

Brand new around 162 on Amazon right now

[@michaelhatzis8305]

Does this unit have voice speed alert ..eg speed voice alert or just a beep on overspend let me no please

[@irbo33ten]

Hello and thanksfor the explanations, I will like to know if the devive have a way to use it like a GPS car tracking, for exemple, if i am downtown can I send a waypoint to de garmin and look my cell smartlink to get back to my car? best regard

[@theminibarista831]

GPS tech increases, the mount still comes from early years of GPS.

[@TeeFat]

Can you connect it to your car's Bluetooth to take advantage of the sound system?

[@regenesys4329]

Hi, how can change type vehicle? Car to Truck?

[@anthony2558]

Find Subway. Navigating to Starbucks.

[@davivify]

So I assume your phone has to have mobile data enabled. Does it also have to be running a special app, in order to know how to supply the Garmin with the traffic/weather/construction info needed via Bluetooth?

[@CarlosVasquez]

Yes , you need to use the Garmin app so it can get the data from your phone. Works well.

[@bobmarshall3700]

Can never understand how you "refurbish" a solid state device apart from just cleaning it up.

[@CarlosVasquez]

My guess is they run a diagnostic test, compare it to the baseline of a new one. Then clean it up..thats it.

[@kenw8783]

Great video , But would like to know the name of the flat pad that you put on dash board for the garmin to sit on ? Name of it and where you got it from , And price ??? Thank you

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thanks!! Found it www.amazon.com/Bracketron-Universal-Nav-Mat-Dash-Mount/dp/B0031B7DCS thats the one I use. Do you have a garmin now?

[@rabbycacker]

Very good review. Will definitely check this one out. Getting tired of my old Nuvi. Thanks for the tip about the refurbished units. Have had good success with refurb phones in the past, hope same with these.

[@CarlosVasquez]

Yeah, def ebay item or a refurb to save $$$. Its really awesome! such a great screen!

[@michaelmoore6247]

Whose watching 👀 in 2021. I'm not apart of the club. But will This garmin change my life?

[@CarlosVasquez]

Its great! You will love it!

[@rudly]

does this Garmin find an address in other states?

[@SandeepSingh-bp1xr]

It’s can use for truck

[@paulcrocker4157]

I have this model it's great, Plus i use a Garmin Dashcam.

[@erinsable]

can u give a link for the mount that keeps the satnav up>

[@CarlosVasquez]

Hi, oh I dont have that link. I found it on ebay, take a look there.

[@marinevet7273]

Can you post an Amazon link for your dash pad, thanks

[@CarlosVasquez]

Ronald, I bought it on Ebay. Sorry but I don't have a link.

[@clintpeterson9028]

I’ve got same one like it but need speed limit sign to b bigger can I make bigger in sett

[@josecoronel7810]

Don’t choose Garmin when I activated it it ask me if I wanted to pay a $5 membership for faster route I say no . So now what it does it takes me the longer way instead of the short way I’ve have compared it with my phone and Garmin is alway 3 or more mile longer and 5 to 10 min longer maybe the new Garmin won’t ask you I bought mine in 2015

[@katinabotten]

I just purchased a NEW one and its charging up now, I haven’t used it, but I cannot wait to next week. Great tutorial!

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thanks Katina! It's really great. Have you connected it to your WiFi for updates?

[@katinabotten]

@@CarlosVasquez No, I'm not sure I know who to, I have WiFi for my ipad

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@katinabotten ah, hmmm ok. Your ipad is connected to your home network? or is your ipad have a cell connection for internet?

[@jjames5475]

Do I have to have a Cell Phone ON ALL THE TIME for TRAFFIC . I HAVE A TRACFONE . Thanks

[@GMARK1914]

Carlos, I work in 3 different states and I want to record ahead of time all my destinations, can I do that?

[@CarlosVasquez]

I'm not really sure if you can get the information ahead of time. Are you looking to get the information on each trip?

[@kayakcoder]

Yes. YES - I have saved all my Friends, Business etc. in categories that are automatically added and I also us the built-in Garmin Trip Planner. There are also other features you will appreciate. The Weather display is great, very useful and very frugal for data use. It uses an app you add to your smartphone to get weather and traffic. NOTE: You might also want to look into Roadtrippers for some more trip planning

[@ronblack45]

You said something early on in the vid about the traffic info having to pay a service for this ... is that right? I am curious about that. Does this also give you an alt route to get around bad traffic problems? Thanks for your vid sir.

[@lynnturner4793]

Helpful. Will upgrade from current Garmin to drivesmart 61

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thank you! It's really a great GPS. So what Garmin are you currently using?

[@lynnturner4793]

@@CarlosVasquez It"s a nuvi 2797

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@lynnturner4793 Very similar to the 61 size wise. Think you will be quite happy with the 61. Make sure you hook it up to your WiFi to get the new updates. I just love that feature, so easy to update.

[@lynnturner4793]

@@CarlosVasquez will do, thanks

[@clayguinard3651]

You just sold me this GPS system I had one and somebody stole it from me and I need to get another one cuz I'm a volunteer driver Joe this is going to be perfect I will look this up on eBay I think it's where you said you got it you got a refurbished one? And please answer my other questions and that other message that I sent you thank you

[@tomsign3]

you nailed it, explained perfectly Great job Bud

[@CarlosVasquez]

Thanks! Do you use a Garmin?

[@RetJetdawg]

I have found that if you wipe the part of your windshield where you want to mount it with an alcohol wipe and then the rubber part on the mount, that it stays put fa few months at a time. I have been doing this for many years and it works with all 3 of my vehicles!

[@rokketron]

Clean the suction mount with a wet wipe, it will seal the rubber suction cup, so it won't fall off! ...simple

[@CarlosVasquez]

Great , I will give it a try, thanks!

[@specialized29er86]

12.02.22 - Bought mine yesterday after viewing your recommendation, brand new and $228.00 Aud.

[@CarlosVasquez]

Congratulations, it's nice!

[@Audrey-fu7bi]

What I would pay for 7”

[@oooppiikkk]

All the features you keep mentioning "with the phone" if your phone doesn't have data can the GPS still get live traffic reports? Thanks and great review!

[@CarlosVasquez]

Unfortunately no. You need to have the Garmin app connected to the gps. Then the app will give the data to the gps. Their is another way with a special antenna that Garmin sells. I don't think it's as accurate though.

[@AlwonDomz]

Waze’s police alert is such a god send, but I do hate getting into a rural area and having no signal. Wish I could get both on one device.

[@CarlosVasquez]

So true! I'm sure garmin will someday add this feature to the newer gps's. We will have to wait an see.

[@Mr00destruct0]

Doesn't your garmin and vehicle Bluetooth fight for control of your phone?

[@CarlosVasquez]

No, the Garmin app does the magic. I would have my stereo,headset and Garmin all connected...no issues 👍

[@latinmaleaz]

thanks for the voice command explanation...i was hoping it had it...thx

[@CarlosVasquez]

Your welcome Salvaruso

[@staffan144]

Bought it for 50 dollars! (LMT-D) 😊

[@CarlosVasquez]

Sweet!! Great price! Ebay?

[@staffan144]

@@CarlosVasquez shpock (2nd hand but like new)

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@staffan144 Whats that? shpock?

[@staffan144]

@@CarlosVasquez it's like eBay I guess, but only private people. It is an app. Or website. In Europe anyway

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@staffan144 ah, ok..cool Europe.

[@joseegarcia28]

Does it have the Map to Mexico?

[@CompetentSalesUSA]

Google maps does give you red light cameras.

[@CarlosVasquez]

Yeah they do too 👍 I was incorrect.

[@mela.1060]

does it work without wifi?

[@CarlosVasquez]

Yes, wifi is to get the maps updated.

[@mela.1060]

@@CarlosVasquez Thank you, Carlos! And thanks, for the informative video.

[@Zman63]

Not much of a review, just alota bla bla bla ......didnt show half of the features but i do like Garmin product better than Tom Tom

[@vangjelfrroku9895]

Thanks

[@tominftlthomasp3559]

I like that it downloads updates automatically via wifi

[@CarlosVasquez]

Is a great feature!

[@DC-jb7oz]

Can one download maps for Europe via the wifi and use it in Europe as well as the USA and Canada? I often travel to Britain and would like to use a GPS I am already familiar with versus having to learn a new one in the car. It seems every car manufacturer has their own GPS quirks.

[@CarlosVasquez]

That is a good question, I do not know. Best you check with Garmin on maps for Europe. For the U.S. you just join your wifi and the maps download automatically.

[@Zman63]

go to Amazon and buy the Garmin City Navigator Europe NT for about 70 bucks, it has most of Europe, a mini SD card that fits in back of the Garmin unit

[@djjammindave]

NO! find other way as suggested here...

[@anonymouspost9144]

Can I use it if I don't have a smart phone?

[@CarlosVasquez]

Oh yes! Only need a phone if you want traffic/weather info.

[@anonymouspost9144]

Thanks! but, if you have a smart phone, why would you need this gps?

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@anonymouspost9144 Lots of places do not have cell phone coverage. It seems strange in 2020 but it happens. Also getting a call when you need the maps running..that's a pain too.

[@isaacthompson2343]

Great video!

[@CarlosVasquez]

Glad you liked it. Are you looking to get one? I still use it almost every day :)

[@isaacthompson2343]

@@CarlosVasquez I bought one.

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@isaacthompson2343 OH yah! that's great! Did you hook it up with your bluetooth to get the traffic info? So cool

[@isaacthompson2343]

@@CarlosVasquez Sure did and works great!

[@sunflowerenvy11]

Do u have 2 paid for map update your life time maps?

[@CarlosVasquez]

Map updates are free. Lifetime :) So easy too, just link up to your WiFi and update.

[@latinmaleaz]

i read in some garmin ...you can send/receive text? is true?

[@CarlosVasquez]

yes, you can receive/send text. You need the garmin app, then select you want the garmin to accept texts in the app. It uses bluetooth for the data from your phone.

[@latinmaleaz]

@@CarlosVasquez i have unlimited data. Which Garmin can you plug in a camera?

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@latinmaleaz I do not know, going to have to check with Garmin.

[@latinmaleaz]

@@CarlosVasquez there are so many gps out there...thx again...

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@latinmaleaz Sure thing! If you get one let me know, want to know your thoughts about the gps.

[@TexasADV]

will this unit allow a use to upload custom routes?

[@CarlosVasquez]

I do not know. I'll give it a try tomorrow and see what happens.

[@djjammindave]

@@CarlosVasquez NO!

[@gengtv5341]

do you have the GTM 60 HD traffic receiver?

[@CarlosVasquez]

No, the Garmin 61 connects with my cell phone and uses the cell phone data to get traffic info. The app Garmin app is installed on my cell to connect the two together. Have you bought the Garmin 61 yet?

[@gengtv5341]

@@CarlosVasquez yep.. i bought garmin 61 LMTS drivesmart

[@staffan144]

LMT-D And If the charger has label TA60 (or similar) it has TMC radio antenna built into the device itself, as an alternative when not connecting to your phone via Bluetooth and data traffic from garmin, so it has both but uses only one method at a time (the radio receiver only when mobile Data is not used, but always get some traffic information, where the mobile data is higher quality and preferred).

[@jensborrisholt5555]

We need more videos with your cat

[@CarlosVasquez]

Sounds like a good idea! Ok I'll work on it 👍👍

[@Gracian40]

Carlos, I just order the same exact GPS from HSN. My question to you is, where can I purchase the car mount from?

[@CarlosVasquez]

I ordered it from ebay. Found it cheaper there than Amazon. May I ask how much did you get it for? Was it new or refurbished ?

[@Gracian40]

@@CarlosVasquez $129 + $30 for two years insurance= $150.. 4 monthly payments in the amount of $35.95

[@CarlosVasquez]

@@Gracian40 Sweet!! When you first get it, make sure you get it updated. Just connect to your Wifi, and the Garmin will do the rest.

[@Gracian40]

@@CarlosVasquez Will Do! Thanks

[@Gracian40]

@@CarlosVasquez I also purchased the cord that I can plug the device into my car cigarette lighter.

[@SunsTo7]

Good explain.Can I enter my destination in the form of Latitude and Longitude as in map reading and compass navigation ?

[@jadamane]

It’s called so not disturb feature

[@jonnjonez5059]

It would have been great if we could see how well the unit understand an address entered via voice command. Also lets say you have 4 stops to complete the days errands. Can all 4 addresses be entered to have the unit find the best route?

[@BryanzHAn03]

You can use the unit's "Trip Planner" feature which allows you to enter multiple stops or destination and the unit will optimize the route for you. Of course you need to do this before you drive off.

[@michaelstraughn3465]

Man, If I wanted my phone to navigate my way, I would use it, Not needing to buy a Garmin... Point is, to keep my phone free, as the Garmin defines the directions...

[@kennywonderley5883]

I just got mine. I don't think it will show you emails, like you said it does, but it does show texts and you can voice dial your contacts. You left off a lot of features, but one I liked that you left out is that it works with the phone app showing you where you are now with your phone and where you are parked by showing you where the GPS lost power.

[@CarlosVasquez]

Hi Kenny, yah I did not go into a lot of the features. Think I need to make a video of my top 5 features that I like. The emails can be show, actually any app can send a notification. You just need to go into setting and under smart notifications you can choose what app is allowed to send you a notification. Really easy to pick the app you want, so customize-able :) I have never used the feature of lost power to find the gps, wow cool! Is there a setting to turn it on?

[@kennywonderley5883]

@@CarlosVasquez I just found it by accident. No need to do anything on the GPS. The unit does it thing. In the app, press the "Last Mile" icon. By default, the center icon on the top is selected. It's using the phone GPS to show you as an icon and the "P" icon is where the GPS lost power because you parked and turned the car off.