Will the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator replace my Garmin Nuvi 660?

I've been using a free 30 day trial of the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator application on my Env2 mobile phone for a few weeks now. That's enough time for me to form an opinion although my opinion fluctuated over the course of the 30 days.

My first impression of the VZ Navigator was that it was too small. Keep in mind I'm used to (read that "spoiled by") the 4.5" display on my standalone Garmin Nuvi 660. The display size on my Env2 weighs in at only 2.5". Screen limitations aside, the VZ Navigator functionality is actually quite impressive. It does a good job of showing you where you are, what turn you need to make next and how far away that turn is. On the flip side, it does a poor job of giving you your estimated time of arrival, something I again have become accustomed to on my Garmin.

But the real nail in the coffin for me with VZ Navigator is the fact that it runs on a mobile phone. I know that sounds strange but several times during my use of the VZ Navigator application, someone called me on my cell phone. And although it sounds like a plus that my mobile phone can still take a call while navigating, it definitely is not. This is because while you are talking on the phone, the navigation is nowhere to be found. And when you complete your call, you have to manually fire up the VZ Navigator application again and click through a couple of menu options to get it to pick back up on your current route.

So what it comes down to for me is the VZ Navigator is a more than acceptable GPS navigation solution as long as no one calls you while you are using it. Especially if you are about to make a turn.

I think for now I'll stick with my Garmin Nuvi 660.