Magellan Maestro 3250 Review

The Magellan Maestro 3250 is one of the most popular GPS systems around. Not only is it part of the highly touted Magellan lineup, it is also more advanced than many of the machines out there. One of the best things is that even though it is very advanced it is still easy to use. That is an important quality for those who are not used to using electronics or don't want to have to deal with any hassles.

Many people wonder what the differences between the Maestro 3200 GPS units and 4200 units are. The main difference is that the screen is smaller on this model. You'll find a 3.5 inch screen, which is more than adequate for most uses.

Magellan 3250 Car GPS
Magellan Maestro 3250 GPS Navigator

GPS Reception

When you're on the hunt for the best GPS system you're probably very concerned about the reception. After all, there is no good in a GPS if it can't maintain a signal to help you get to where you want to go. Thankfully, this Magellan Maestro 3250 has a SirfStar III chipset that provides for an incredibly fast satellite lock. This is reception you can really count on.

Travel and Entertainment

Travel is easy with the intuitive interface. There are large icons on the screen that make it easy for you to find the directions you need. You can even choose to find your locations by using the address or even identifying nearby intersections.

One thing that really makes the Maestro stand out is that there are 6 million points of interest programmed in. That means it's easy to find helpful things like gas stations, hotels, restaurants, and other places that are necessary when one is out and about.

The Maestro 3250 also takes care of a common concern many people have when they are traveling. When you're driving a car it's important to keep focused at all times. The Maestro includes voice command technology that makes it easy to just speak to get directions.

Actual user review:
• "I'm very happy with this Magellan. I like the compact size, you can put it in your pocket or bag easily.The voice activation is very nice. I use it to "Go Home". You don't have to take your eyes off the road. Easy to operate and is very good at tricky intersections with A B C turn directions. "Stay in right lane then stay in left lane" verbally along with screen moves.It's nice to have confidence in these multiple turn scenarios at high speed. I would buy it again. The 3.5 screen is perfect for me." - R.Testa (LV, USA)

Another great addition to this GPS device is connectivity to AAA listings. Members even have access to special features that can help a traveler feel safer on the road. There is also roadside assistance information and capability to connect to a cell phone via Bluetooth.

One of the biggest concerns people have while traveling is running into a lot of traffic. The Maestro includes technology that gives traffic reports as they happen. Keep in mind that this is a subscription service. There is a three-month membership included in the purchase, and a nominal fee to keep the service going beyond that.

Yet another helpful feature is the QuickSpell. This is a perfect addition since not everyone is a perfect speller and mistakes do happen. It checks spelling to make sure the user finds the correct address every time.

Routing Engine

One thing that many people rave about with the 3250 is that it includes such a large routing engine for the price. It's possible to select up to 20 different destinations to find the best route to get to where one wants to go. A feature called SmartDetour helps the user get around high traffic areas.

It is also possible to set the routes to avoid things like toll roads and freeways. Routes can also be chosen according to fastest time and shortest distance. These options make it easier than ever to travel.

This is a very popular GPS model to purchase. It is less expensive than its big brother, the 4250, yet it has many of the same features. It seems that people enjoy the fact that it's connected to AAA and has top features like Bluetooth and voice command.

There are a few complaints that seem to pop up, however. Some people claim that there are minor issues like the power button sticking or not turning on properly. Still, these issues seem few and far between compared to those who are very happy with their Magellan Maestro 3250.

Average User Rating :

• "I did a lot of pre-purchase research and had settled on Magellan partly due to the AAA integration, but then chose the Maestro **50 series because of the integrated live traffic updates which I think is a GREAT feature - especially since I work in a high-traffic part of the Northeast which I think has some of the most infamous and even nightmare-inducing roads."

• "I will begin with stating that I purchased this brand new from one of Amazons vendors and it was a great deal at $149.99 brand new. I received the GPS in 4 days with no shipping charges. Additionally I am receiving a free map upgrade to 2008/09 because the item is new. You should be able to take advantage of all of this by purchasing this items (don't go refurbished, no free updates)." - M.Sturgill (MN,USA)