One of the most significant modern advancements that RV owners benefit from the most has to be today’s GPS systems. Years ago, when you planned to take a cross-country trip in your RV or camper van, you had to rely on paper maps to help you get from point A to point B.
That made it difficult for many people to travel to places they always dreamed of visiting. But now, thanks to GPS systems, we are free to travel to any location with simple and easy-to-follow directions provided by these powerful devices.
All RV owners understand how important it is to have your route planned out. It helps to ensure you are not faced with any surprises or make last-minute changes along the way.
GPS systems have helped us leave the printed maps behind with precise directions and up-to-the-minute notifications to ensure you get where you need to be with fewer complications.
Garmin has been an industry leader for GPS systems for many years and continues to make excellent products with features that make travelling easier for everyone. Two popular models made by Garmin include the RV 770 LMT-S and the 760 LMT.
Key Differences Between the Garmin RV 770 LMT-S vs. 760 LMT
If you consider upgrading your current GPS device or are purchasing one for the first time, these two models are excellent choices. To help you decide which Garmin GPS is the right one for you, we have put together this helpful buying guide comparing these two top-selling products.
Here are some of the key differences between the two models for you to consider.
Price
For many consumers, the price of a product is the deciding factor. For these products, there is a significant price difference, with the Model RV 770 priced at $299 and the RV 760 priced at $399.
Display Screen
The RV 770 has a display resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. It is 6.0” wide and 3.5” high. The multitouch glass display features WSVGA color TFT with a white backlit screen.
The RV 760 has a display resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. It is 6.1” wide and 3.4” high. It features color TFT with a white backlit screen.
The Battery and Weight
Both the Garmin RV 770 and the RV 760 have rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. However, the RV 760 battery lasts at least ½ hour longer than the RV 770. As far as weight goes, the 760 model is heavier at 12.4 ounces, while the 770 model weighs only 8.57 ounces.
Safety Concerns
One key factor the RV 770 has that the 760 does not is an innovative system that provides you with safety warnings and other alerts while you are on the road. If you are headed on a route with bridges that have weight limits or many descents and ascents, you can depend on the 770 GPS to keep you prepared with alerts before you reach an obstacle.
It ensures there are no surprises for you whenever there is an elevation change. Another helpful alert that the 770 model provides is an advisory for specific zones such as animal and railroad crossings. The RV 760 model only provides you with a warning for school zones.
Directories
Both the 760 and 770 models share the same characteristics for directories. Both feature a directory that contains more than 20,000 campsites throughout the U.S. and Canada, including public parks and private camping areas.
The directories allow you to filter your search to find the right camping area that suits your individual needs. If you need a campsite that allows pets or one that has Wi-Fi available, you can filter your search to find the closest campground or park with those amenities.
You can also use the directory to find other resources such as restaurants, retail stores, hospitals, auto repair shops, and more.
Website Review Option
Another great feature available with the RV 770 but not on the 760 models is navigation options based on results from websites such as Foursquare and TripAdvisor. These popular booking and review websites can be beneficial while you are travelling through unfamiliar areas.
You can read up on reviews for campsites and hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions, all from one convenient device. That is a great time-saving feature that can also help you save money by allowing you to compare rates as well.
Wi-Fi and Updates
Another convenient feature of the RV 770 model is the built-in Wi-Fi. That means you don’t have to worry about when you will be able to stop and download updates for your map.
And you don’t even need a computer to connect your GPS device to so you can update it successfully. The RV 760 model has a USB port, which can also be very convenient.
Hands-Free Options
Both models have hands-free options, and they can be very beneficial while you are on the read. It is essential always to pay attention to your surroundings and remain focused while you are behind the wheel. Getting distracted by using your GPS device can make it much easier for you to have an accident.
Fortunately, both of these Garmin GPS models have integrated hands-free features that allow you to make phone calls and text hands-free. You can also set reminders without using your hands. All you need to do is sync your smartphone to your GPS using Bluetooth, and you are all set.
Cameras
Both the Garmin 760 and 770 GPS models include the option of having a wireless backup camera installed. That makes it possible to see everything behind you while going in reverses, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, structures, or other objects.
While both GPS models allow you to use a camera, the type of camera is different for each one. The 770 model uses the BC™ 30 while the 760 uses the BC™ 20. Unfortunately, the BCTM 20 has recently been discontinued. Therefore, if this is an essential feature for you, it would be best to go with the 770 models.
What Owners Have to Say About the RV 760 and RV 770 Models
While it doesn’t have as many new and improved features as the 770, the Garmin RV 760 Portable GPS device still has excellent reviews from current owners.
They like how easy the GPS is to use, including the voice command, large screen, and access to Google maps. Most owners love that this model lists RV parks in the area and the convenient USB port, which allows it to be charged while on the go.
Reviews for the RV 770 model are excellent as well. Users are pleased with the large high-resolution screen and custom RV routing based on the size and weight of your vehicle or your towable trailer.
Reviewers say it is an excellent GPS to use for travelling long distances and that it is a step up from the RV 760 model as far as hardware design and the user interface is concerned.
Which is the Best GPS Option for You?
After comparing all the essential features available on the Garmin GPS 760 and 770 devices, both models indeed have plenty of modern features to offer today’s avid RV enthusiasts. However, the 770 model offers the most convenient benefits with its backup camera, built-in Wi-Fi, and innovative safety system.
Include the fact that the RV 770 model is also $100 less than the RV 760, and it is obvious which model is the best option on the market. But you should still check out reviews for both models and make a decision based on which GPS models suit your own unique needs.