Mio DigiWalker C230 Portable GPS Unit - Performance

I researched some of the C230's performance numbers, and they turned out to be pretty good for a budget GPS device. The device can take anywhere from 30 seconds to a few minutes to power up and get a satellite fix, which isn't too bad at all. Of course, these figures will vary depending on whether you are in the middle of a city with tall buildings, in the mountains, or inside a building.

The C230 also does a good job of holding a satellite signal. When the signal is lost for any reason (driving through a tunnel, mountains, etc.), the C230 typically reacquires the signal very quickly. The device also recalculates routes in a timely manner when you accidentally take a wrong turn. This feature can be turned off in the settings menu, but I don't recommend that.

The C230 has a built-in rechargeable battery for times when you don't have any access to a car adapter plug-in. The battery will last about 3-5 hours (depending on use) on a single charge, which is great for short trips when you are too lazy to plug it in to your car. This also makes it usable outside of the car as well. The C230 comes equipped with a car charger straight from the box.

Final Thought

The Mio DigiWalker C230 is quite a nice little GPS device. You get more for your money with this device than you would with most other GPS devices. Mio did a great job of improving the C220, and it's already getting me excited about the successor to the C230! I recommend this device for first-time GPS owners or anyone on a tight budget. The C230 is a great entry-level GPS unit.

Sources:

GPS Lodge: http://www.gpslodge.com/archives/013991.php

GPS Track Log: http://gpstracklog.typepad.com/gps_tracklog/2007/10/mio-c230-review.html

CNET Reviews: http://reviews.cnet.com/car-gps-navigation/mio-digiwalker-
c230/4505-3430_7-32627128.html