Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71 – How to Choose?

For those looking to add navigation and other useful features to their vehicles, the Garmin DriveSmart 65 and 71 GPS navigators are two popular options. Both devices include a variety of features, such as real-time traffic updates, hands-free calling, and the ability to locate points of interest along your route.

In this comparison, we’ll look at the capabilities and features of the Garmin DriveSmart 65 and 71 GPS navigators to help you decide which one is right for you.

Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71

Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71 – Comparison Table:

FeaturesGarmin DriveSmart 65
Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71
Garmin DriveSmart 71
Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71
Display Size6.95-inch6.95-inch
Display Resolution1024 x 600 pixels1024 x 600 pixels
Display TypeWSVGA Colour, TFT with white backlight, and multi-touch glassWSVGA Colour, TFT with white backlight, and multi-touch glass
Wi-Fi ConnectivityYesYes
BluetoothYesYes
Maps UpdatesLifetime FreeLifetime Free
Maps CoverageU.S., Mexico, Canada, US Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Puerto RicoU.S., Mexico, Canada, US Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Puerto Rico
Pre-loaded Street MapsYesYes
Voice-Compatible NavigationYesYes
Includes Live TrafficYesYes
Weather UpdatesYesYes
Internal Storage16 G.B.16 G.B.
Micro SD Card SlotYesYes
Backup Cameras SupportYes (BC 30 or BC 40)Yes (BC 30 or BC 40)
Bluetooth CallingYesYes
Smart NotificationYes (via App)Yes (via App)
Battery LifeUp to 1 HourUp to 1 Hour
Dimensions6.8” W x 3.9” H x 0.7” D6.8” W x 3.9” H x 0.7” D
Weight8.45 Oz8.45 Oz
AccessoriesDriveSmart 65 GPS Navigator, Suction cup mount, Power cable, Traffic receiver, USB Cable, and User ManualDriveSmart 65 GPS Navigator, Suction cup mount, Power cable, Traffic receiver, USB Cable, and User Manual
Warranty1 Year1 Year
PriceView on Amazon View on Amazon

Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71 – Similarities

Map Functionality

The Garmin DriveSmart 65 and the DriveSmart 71 Ex GPS Navigator both have identical map functionalities. For instance, both the Garmin GPS Navigators are specially designed to be used in the North American region.

Both the Garmin GPS Navigator covers various North American regions like the U.S., Mexico, Canada, US Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, and Puerto Rico. Furthermore, both devices come with lifetime free map updates.

Apart from that, both the portable GPS Navigation devices by Garmin also come with pre-loaded street maps support, which lets you load the map and use it without a cell signal in any North American region.

On top of that, they both provide live traffic updates, so you know which turn will get you to your destination on time.

Battery

Both the Garmin GPS Navigation devices come with a lithium-ion battery. Even though Garmin doesn’t mention the battery capacity, they do mention the battery life, which is about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending upon the use case.

Warranty

In terms of warranty, Garmin offers a dissimilar warranty in different regions. In the United States, you get a one-year brand warranty from Garmin. In case of any defect or malfunction, you can ask Garmin support for a replacement.

Display

When it comes to display, both the Garmin devices come with a TFT 6.95-inch WSVGA panel. Furthermore, the display supports multi-touch gestures and also comes with sturdy glass that doesn’t easily break. Moreover, the display is bright enough to be viewed on a sunny day.

Travel & History

Regarding Travel & History, Garmin GPS Navigation devices support a dedicated application that lets you manage your travel and history. The app also offers various features like weather updates, smart notifications, and more.

Compatible Backup Cameras

When it comes to compatible backup cameras, both the Garmin DriveSmart GPS Navigators can be used with the BC 30 and BC 40 backup cameras. You have to buy the backup camera separately from the Garmin website in order to use these devices.

Wireless Connectivity

In terms of Wireless connectivity, both devices offer all identical options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB. Furthermore, you can connect these devices with the Garmin Smart app to receive notifications and handle hands-free calling.

Internal Storage

When it comes to internal storage, both the Garmin GPS navigator offers 16 G.B. of internal memory along with Micro SD card support.

Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71 – Differences

Availability

Availability and price are the only differences between the Garmin DriveSmart 65 and 71 GPS Navigators.

The Garmin DriveSmart 65 is easily available on amazon & other online stores at cheaper price. Whereas the Garmin DriveSmart 71 is not easily available & also little pricy.

Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71 – Pros and Cons

Garmin DriveSmart 65
Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71
Garmin DriveSmart 71
Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71
Pros
● Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible
● Available to buy on all platforms
● Widescreen
● Excellent battery life
Pros
● Voice Assistant
● Free lifetime map updates
● North American map coverage
● Live traffic updates
Cons
● No cons so far
Cons
● Sometime unavailable on online store
 View on Amazon View on Amazon

Garmin DriveSmart 65 vs 71 – Which One is Better?

The Garmin DriveSmart 65 and the Garmin DriveSmart 71 GPS Navigator comes with all the same specifications. The difference is in price and availability. The DriveSmart 71 is little pricy than the DriveSmart 65 and sometimes the DriveSmart 71 don’t available online store. So, you can choose anyone you want.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How to Update Maps in Garmin GPS Navigator?

To update your Garmin GPS Navigator to the latest maps version, either you can connect the device to a computer or connect to WiFi to install updates.

How to Wake Up Garmin GPS Navigator Using Voice Command?

You can say, “Okay, Garmin,” to wake up the GPS Navigator and control it with voice commands.

Does Garmin DriveSmart 65 and 71 Ex Come with PhotoViewer?

No, the Garmin DriveSmart 65 and 71 Ex don’t come with a photo viewer.

Conclusion

In short, the Garmin DriveSmart 65 and 71 GPS navigators are both excellent choices for anyone in need of a reliable, feature-packed navigation device for their vehicle.

The specifications of both Garmin SmartDrive GPS Navigators are nearly identical. Whichever device you get for a lower price is a better deal for you.

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