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This WAAS enabled GPS is superb for showing weather and other hazards along any intended route of flight for aviation use. The crisp display shows all the usual important data such as ground speed, course, and distance. A useful synthetic steam gauge and HSI display option is available. It provides very adequate guidance for approaches but is not really meant for this application. It is also useful as an automotive and marine gps although not as capable as more modern devices made for these specific applications. There is an optional data card slot that can provide useful information for marine and land use but this is really a legacy utility. That said, for aviation, combined with XM weather, high fidelity stereo satellite radio (yes it's supported by the 496) there is nothing better in the sky for the price and likely for years to come.Read full review
Though now discontinued in favor of the 696 and 796, this is still an outstanding piece of avionics for many airplanes and helicopters. I moved up from using a 196 for 10+ years, so I am very comfortable with the buttons and the terrain, weather overlay, Taxiways and heliports are not just gimmicks but safety items in the cockpit. I am also a ship captain so the marine maps is nice, as was the 196. but with more dedicated electronics the car and marine not as necessary, but in helicopter its nice to be able to navigate to a street address. bulkier than newer models and smaller screen.
This GPS continues to uphold Garmin's fine name and product. The unit has invaluable information necessary for all pilots, VFR or IFR.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I have used the GPSMAP 496 for several years, this is the second one I have owned and feel it is the best of the portable GPS units that Garmin has produced. I particularly like the fact that it has automotive and marine nav built in and think the weather feature is the best thing since the engine for light airplanes.
Super dependable and user friendly
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned