Mio Moov 300

The Moov 300 is Mio's entry-level GPS unit. Ideal for users on a budget, it manages to perform competently as a navigational device, without offering the extra features of the Moov 360 and Moov 370.

The unit is quite similar in design to units in Mio's previous DigiWalker line. Mio has managed to trim the Moov 300 down to a respectable size despite its 4.3in widescreen display, and it is relatively light and feels sturdy. The display has a reasonable viewing angle and is usable in direct sunlight, which is important in a country with a climate like Australia's. The window mount is a little bulky in comparison to TomTom’s EasyPort mount, although it is functional. We aren't fans of the power switch; we prefer the single button used on DigiWalker units.

The Moov series uses NAVTEQ maps, promising 100 per cent coverage of Australian roads. Mio has also redesigned the map layout and slightly altered the user interface from previous models. Most of the changes are positive. We wish that the split-screen technology introduced on the DigiWalker C520 was present, however. The map and menu interface have been fixed, making them less confusing. Menus are now clearly labelled and straightforward and the map display is no longer cluttered with icons.

Searching for an address or POI is easy, although it also reveals the Moov 300’s biggest flaw: its speed. It eventually will eventually recognise your presses on the touch screen, but there is significant keystroke delay when typing.

The unit uses a SiRF Star III receiver, and the Moov 300 usually manages to lock onto a GPS signal within a minute of being powered on.

The MioMap 2008 interface uses standard 2-D and 3-D views, in addition to a traffic overview with congestion areas highlighted on the map. The maps have a reasonable level of detail. Street names are easily readable and the current location is clearly marked. Mio’s automatic zoom feature activates every time you make a turn to give you the clearest possible route.

We were impressed with the Australian text-to-speech voice: it announces street names loudly and clearly and doesn’t have much trouble with pronunciation. There is a comprehensive package of safety alerts included: red light cameras, speed cameras, school zones, speed zones, accident black spots and railway crossings.

Mio has partnered with SUNA to bring live traffic updates to the Moov range, but the required TMC antenna is an optional extra on the Moov 300. However, the NavPix feature is included. This lets you navigate using the coordinates attached to a geotagged image. There is no camera to take new NavPix photos, but there are a number of photos installed on the unit, including Uluru (Ayers Rock), Parliament House and the Sydney Opera House.

Two features absent on the Moov 300 but present on the Moov 360 and Moov 370 are 3-D landmarks and live POI search. The absence of these features isn't a deal-breaker, however. On the other hand, the omission of Bluetooth may turn some users away. However it’s best to keep in mind that this is a budget unit and comes at a reasonable price.