Garmin dezl OTR720 GPS Navigator: Review

The Garmin dezl OTR720 is a highly specialized GPS navigator designed with the specific needs of truck drivers in mind. In this review, we will cover the key features and specifications of the device, evaluate its performance, and outline the pros and cons to help you decide whether this GPS navigator is a worthwhile investment.

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Key Features and Specifications

The Garmin dezl OTR720 comes packed with a wide array of features that cater specifically to the unique needs of truckers. From the large touchscreen to the custom truck routing based on vehicle size, every aspect of the dezl OTR720 is designed with the professional driver in mind. Let’s take a closer look at the key features and specifications.

Screen Size and Display

Screen Size: 7 inches (6.95 inches to be exact)
Display Type: High-resolution, bright, and crisp touchscreen display
Features: The large screen makes it easier to view maps, routes, and other vital information while driving, ensuring that truckers can easily navigate the device even in the confines of a truck cab.

Custom Truck Routing

Custom Routing: One of the standout features of the dezl OTR720 is its ability to provide custom truck routing. This routing takes into account the size and weight of the truck (although it is not available in all areas), which is critical for avoiding low bridges, weight-restricted roads, or other road conditions that could cause delays or damage to the vehicle.

Satellite Imagery and Arrival Planning

BirdsEye Direct Satellite Imagery: The dezl OTR720 features high-resolution satellite imagery for easy arrival planning. Drivers can approach loading docks, truck entrances, and security gates with ease by viewing the destination from above.
BirdsEye Imagery for Arrival Planning: The ability to see an overhead view of the destination is incredibly valuable for truck drivers, particularly when navigating unfamiliar areas.

Truck-Friendly Parking and Loading Docks

Truck Parking Availability: As part of the dezl community, truck drivers can access and contribute information about available parking spots. By pairing the device with the dezl app on a compatible smartphone, drivers can rate and locate the best parking spots along their route.
Community-Sharing Features: The GPS also allows drivers to search for nearby community-shared loading docks, security gates, and truck entrances.

Wind Speed Overlay and Weather Alerts

Wind Speed Overlay: The dezl OTR720 provides a wind speed overlay that shows potentially hazardous weather conditions on the map. This feature is crucial for truckers, as high winds can be dangerous for large vehicles.
Weather Alerts: The device also offers weather alerts that inform drivers of any adverse weather conditions detected along their route.

PrePass Notifications and Truck & Trailer Services Directory

PrePass Notifications: The dezl OTR720 supports built-in PrePass notifications. This helps drivers save time by providing on-screen weigh station and bypass notifications (requires an active PrePass account and Bluetooth-enabled smartphone).
Truck & Trailer Services Directory: The device includes a directory of truck and trailer services, making it easier for drivers to find essential amenities like fuel stations, showers, and maintenance services.

Nearby CAT Scales and Legal Weight Verification

CAT Scale Locations: Truckers can quickly find nearby CAT scale locations in the U.S. and Canada, allowing them to verify that their truck is within legal weight limits before hitting the road.

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Performance

The Garmin dezl OTR720 is designed to offer excellent performance for professional truck drivers. With a host of customizable features and user-friendly interfaces, it enhances the overall driving experience. However, as with any device, its performance can vary depending on individual user experiences and specific needs.

Routing Accuracy and Customization

The custom truck routing feature of the Garmin dezl OTR720 is one of its most praised aspects. Truckers can input the size and weight of their vehicle to receive specific routes that accommodate the truck’s dimensions, which is essential for avoiding low bridges or other obstacles. While this feature is incredibly useful, it’s important to note that it’s not available in all areas. Truckers should always defer to posted road signs and road conditions to ensure they are on the safest route.

The device’s route planning and GPS accuracy are generally reliable. However, some users have reported occasional issues with address recognition and traffic data. While the dezl OTR720 provides up-to-date traffic information, it’s always a good idea to double-check for any sudden route changes, especially in heavily congested areas.

Usability and Interface

The 7-inch touchscreen is one of the highlights of this GPS navigator. The display is large, clear, and highly responsive to touch, making it easy to interact with the device while on the road. Drivers can zoom in and out on maps, input destinations, and switch between different views without hassle. The touchscreen is especially useful in direct sunlight, where many smaller screens can become unreadable.

The interface is intuitive and designed with truck drivers in mind. The layout is simple, with essential navigation tools easily accessible. The device’s voice guidance is clear, and the spoken directions are helpful, allowing drivers to keep their attention on the road.

Community Features and Connectivity

The integration of community-shared features adds immense value to the Garmin dezl OTR720. Truckers can rely on real-time data from fellow drivers to find the best parking spots and loading docks along their routes. This community-based sharing helps truckers avoid frustration by providing updated information that can save valuable time.

Additionally, the device is Bluetooth-enabled, allowing users to sync it with the dezl app on their smartphones. This feature enhances the functionality of the GPS navigator, enabling truckers to receive wind speed alerts, PrePass notifications, and more. However, to take full advantage of these features, users must have a compatible smartphone and an active account with PrePass.

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Pros and Cons

Pros

Large 7-Inch Display: The big, bright, high-resolution touchscreen makes it easy to read information while driving, even in direct sunlight.
Custom Truck Routing: Tailored routes based on vehicle size and weight help drivers avoid low bridges and other potential hazards.
BirdsEye Satellite Imagery: High-resolution overhead views of destinations help truckers navigate loading docks and truck entrances with ease.
Community Features: The ability to share parking information, find loading docks, and check weigh stations adds value to the device.
Weather Alerts: The wind speed overlay and weather alerts help truckers stay safe in adverse weather conditions.
PrePass Integration: On-screen weigh station bypass notifications save time and streamline operations.

Cons

Limited Availability of Some Features: Custom truck routing is not available in all areas, and truckers should always follow posted signs.
Mixed Reviews on Functionality: Some users have reported the device stops working unexpectedly or has issues with address recognition.

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FAQ About Garmin dezl OTR720

1. How accurate is the truck routing feature?

The truck routing is generally accurate, taking into account the truck’s size and weight. However, it is not available in all areas, and drivers should still refer to posted road signs for final confirmation.

2. Can I use the Garmin dezl OTR720 for personal cars?

While the Garmin dezl OTR720 is primarily designed for trucks, it can be used in personal cars. However, the custom truck routing features and truck-related amenities won’t be relevant for personal vehicle use.

3. Is the Garmin dezl OTR720 easy to install?

Yes, the installation is straightforward. The device comes with a suction cup mount that easily attaches to the windshield, and the power cable connects to the vehicle’s power outlet.

4. Does the Garmin dezl OTR720 offer real-time traffic updates?

Yes, the device provides real-time traffic information, which is updated regularly to help truckers avoid traffic congestion and delays.

5. Can I use the dezl app with the Garmin dezl OTR720?

Yes, the Garmin dezl OTR720 is compatible with the dezl app on a smartphone, which unlocks additional features like wind speed alerts and community-shared parking information.

Conclusion

The Garmin dezl OTR720 is a powerful GPS navigator that provides a suite of features tailored specifically for truck drivers. Its large touchscreen, custom truck routing, satellite imagery, and community-shared features make it an invaluable tool for long-haul truckers. While there are some drawbacks, such as mixed reviews on functionality and the need for a compatible smartphone, the overall performance and features make the Garmin dezl OTR720 a great investment for professional drivers seeking reliability, accuracy, and convenience on the road.

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