Let’s Dive into Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount promises to be a simple, yet effective solution for securing your Garmin GLO or GLO for Aviation GPS receiver. At a price point of $33.99, it offers a convenient alternative to more permanent mounting options. The key feature is its portability and nonskid base, allowing for easy transfer between vehicles or temporary placement on any dashboard.
I needed a way to reliably secure my GLO receiver in rental cars when traveling for remote mapping projects. Suction cups can fail, and adhesive mounts are too permanent. I was looking for something that would stay put, wouldn’t damage the dashboard, and could be easily moved between vehicles.
Upon unboxing, the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount felt surprisingly lightweight. The silicon case, while pliable as advertised, also seemed a little thin. The nonskid bottom had a decent grip, but I was curious how well it would perform on different dashboard materials and angles.
Alternatives considered were a beanbag-style mount and a weighted dashboard pad. I chose the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount because it was specifically designed for the GLO receiver, promising a secure fit and a lower profile on the dashboard. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity was appealing, but I questioned the long-term durability and stickiness of the nonskid material.
Real-World Testing: Putting Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount during a week-long field survey in the Arizona desert. The conditions ranged from smooth highway driving to bumpy dirt roads. The mount was placed on the dashboard of a rented Jeep Cherokee.
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount performed adequately on paved roads. However, on rough terrain, the receiver wobbled and occasionally slid slightly, especially on steep inclines. It was relatively easy to position and remove, but the silicon case attracted dust.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including trips to the Pacific Northwest and the Appalachian Mountains, the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount shows some wear. The silicon case has become slightly discolored from sun exposure and cleaning. The nonskid bottom has lost some of its initial tackiness, requiring more careful placement on slick dashboards.
Durability-wise, the mount has held up without any tears or breaks. Cleaning is straightforward, typically involving a damp cloth to remove dust and grime. Compared to using no mount at all, the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount provided a noticeable improvement in stability, but it didn’t fully meet my expectations for rough terrain performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount
Specifications
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount is designed to fit the Garmin GLO and Garmin GLO for Aviation GPS receivers. It features a pliable silicon case and a nonskid bottom. There are no official specifications listed for weight or dimensions, highlighting its simple design.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the mount’s compatibility, stability, and overall ease of use. The fit needs to be snug enough to hold the receiver securely, and the nonskid material needs to provide sufficient friction to prevent sliding.
Performance & Functionality
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount performs best on relatively flat and smooth dashboards in vehicles with moderate suspension. Its primary function is to provide a stable platform for the GLO receiver, improving GPS signal reception by keeping it in a consistent location. The mount’s main strength is its portability and ease of installation.
The key weakness is its limited grip on uneven or angled surfaces, particularly during aggressive driving. It meets basic expectations for occasional use in standard vehicles, but it falls short for professional applications requiring robust and reliable mounting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount features a minimalist design, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The silicon case is flexible and conforms to the GLO receiver’s shape, but it can feel a little flimsy. The nonskid bottom is effective initially, but its grip diminishes with use.
It’s user-friendly with no learning curve; simply place the GLO receiver in the case and set it on the dashboard. The ease of repositioning is a major benefit, but this also contributes to its potential for sliding under extreme conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount is expected to last for several years with proper care, primarily consisting of gentle cleaning. The silicon material is prone to discoloration and minor scratches, but it’s resistant to cracking or breaking under normal use. Repair is not typically an option; replacement is more likely.
The long-term durability relies on the quality of the silicon and the longevity of the nonskid properties of the base. Regular cleaning can help maintain its grip, but the material will eventually degrade.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount comes with no additional accessories. Customization options are limited, although aftermarket nonskid pads could potentially be applied to enhance grip. It’s designed specifically for the Garmin GLO and GLO for Aviation receivers, so compatibility with other devices is unlikely.
Third-party accessories, like dashboard mats, could improve the performance of the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount, providing a more stable surface. However, the lack of integrated customization options is a drawback for users who require a more tailored solution.
Pros and Cons of Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount
Pros
- Specifically designed for Garmin GLO and GLO for Aviation receivers, ensuring a secure fit.
- Extremely easy to install and remove, allowing for quick transfer between vehicles.
- Portable and lightweight, ideal for travel and temporary use.
- Affordable price point compared to more complex mounting solutions.
- Simple and unobtrusive design minimizes dashboard clutter.
Cons
- Limited grip on uneven or angled dashboards, leading to potential slippage.
- Silicon material can attract dust and discolor over time.
- Nonskid properties of the base may degrade with extended use.
Who Should Buy Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount?
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount is perfect for casual users who need a simple and affordable way to secure their GLO receiver in a vehicle with a relatively flat dashboard. It’s well-suited for infrequent travelers, rental car users, and individuals who don’t require a robust mounting solution. This mount would be ideal for someone using their GLO for basic navigation and logging while driving a car.
Those who should skip this product include off-road enthusiasts, professional surveyors, and anyone who frequently drives on rough terrain. It is also not suitable for aircraft use, despite the compatibility with the GLO for Aviation. Anyone needing a truly secure and reliable mount should look at more robust and potentially permanent solutions.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality dashboard cleaning wipe to prep the surface before placing the mount. Additionally, considering an aftermarket nonskid pad might enhance the grip on particularly slick dashboards.
Conclusion on Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount
The Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount offers a convenient and affordable solution for basic GLO receiver mounting needs. Its portability and ease of use are significant advantages. However, its limited grip on uneven surfaces and potential durability issues are drawbacks to consider.
The price is justified for its intended purpose, but users requiring a more robust and reliable mount should invest in a higher-end alternative. I would recommend it to casual users who understand its limitations, but not to professionals who need a secure mounting solution in challenging environments.
If you’re looking for a simple and inexpensive way to keep your Garmin GLO receiver from sliding around your dashboard, the Garmin GLO Portable Friction Mount is a decent option. Just be aware of its limitations and consider your specific needs before making a purchase.