I have a Tom-Tom. It was the cheapest of the John Lewis offerings a few years ago. It does not update itself automatically (you have to do it via a computer or smartphone) and nor does it show current traffic.
This means I love it when I go abroad (having updated the maps before I leave) as I’m generally not in a rush. If there’s a jam somewhere it’s not really an issue for me when on holiday but find it pretty irritating in the UK when it doesn’t know (for example) that there’s been an accident on the route I’m on.
Some models have a “live” connection so they do know this, but they are much more expensive.
The sat nav itself is super easy to use. It has a clear screen and a “night mode” too. I do update it maybe three times a year which is generally enough for me. I expect the cheaper Garmins are much the same. The newer ones of either brand are probably better than mine!
I’ve used it in Europe, the USA and Canada and it’s helped me navigate thousands of miles. I have a weighted stand for it so it sits on the dashboard. All in all it does what it says but is never going to be as up to date as a smartphone or a more expensive model.
Hope this helps.
