Magellan RoadMate 3030-LM Review

The Magellan RoadMate 3000 series is all about larger screen sizes to see better views of the map and interface. This also means that interested customers are expected to pay a bit more than the average 4.3" model. If the model is actually cheaper, chances are that the smaller model has more features. The Magellan RoadMate 3030 is one example of an affordable model despite the large display. It is one of the more affordable 4.7-inch devices while providing more functions and improved accuracy compared to the RoadMate 1470. However, the RoadMate 3030 lacks lifetime features which are what the 3030-LM fills in for.

Design

The Magellan RoadMate 3030-LM is a relative of the 2055 as it sports the same black bezel. These devices look different than most of the other Magellan units so owners of older models that want a screen and style bump could find the 3030-LM interesting. The added screen space makes the interface more accessible.

User Interface

GPS devices with basic features are essential to keep the interface minimal and the Magellan RoadMate 3030-LM is a perfect example of that. The home screen only features three large icons that can get even the newest users to plan out their first route. While the map represents the basic functionality of a GPS device, other features like QuickSpell and OneTouch allow routes to be set very quickly.

QuickSpell is the older of the two main interface features which serves as a typing assistant that highlights the letters that need to be entered to complete a certain destination. Once enough keys are entered, the SmartCity search feature triggers showing a list of possible matches based on the letters entered.

The exclusive OneTouch Favorites Menu lets users add any destinations, POIs, or custom POIs to an intuitive grid menu. Reaching to these favorite destinations is as simple as touching the icon on the screen and the route gets instantly calculated relative of the driver's position.

Navigation

Any of the 6 million points of interest may be added to this favorites menu or can simply stay put because these POIs are categorized for easy searching. Users can search for a point of interest by name or just browse through the different iconized categories. These points are presented in a detailed 2D map and it makes good use of the screen real estate.

Several of these POIs are AAA-approved and come complete with descriptions and ratings to help drivers save money in dining and spending the night. The AAA TourBook guide can only be found in Magellan models giving more value to the device. AAA also provides a feature called AAA Member Roadside Assistance which is used on an emergency basis. The AAA phone number is presented on the screen along with details regarding the current position so they can be forwarded to the number in order to get proper assistance.

In additional to general POI searching, it is also possible to search areas surrounding highway exits for places to eat, places to stay, withdraw from ATM, or get gasoline. This Highway Exit POI search feature presents these points in an accessible list complete with icons and distance required to reach the point. But some drivers miss these exits if they are on the wrong lane. This is where the Highway Lane Assist feature helps as it switches the map to 3D view so the driver can get a good perspective. The lane is then highlighted when an incoming exit in the route approaches.

Those who are into longer trips can customize their travel experience by setting multiple destinations with the multi-destination routing feature. It comes with an optimize button which should be used when all the destinations are added so the best possible route is calculated.

Spoken Street Name Guidance is nicely integrated to the device so both the street name and direction are voiced out whenever there is an incoming turn. This reduces the need for drivers to glance at the screen to make sure the street name is correct. Users can still rely on their GPS device at night because the auto night view optimizes the display's contrast for suitable viewing.

Actual user review:
• "The whole point of the Magellan 3030LM is idiot-proof simplicity. You take it out of its attractive box (which is very nice and makes a great gift presentation), turn it on and wait a few moments. In a matter of seconds, the device knows where you are. All that remains is to choose a few personal preferences (audio volume, brightness, etc.) and you are ready for anxiety free road trips. Of course, you are going to have to enter a destination in order to watch the 3030 do its thing. The input protocol is simplicity itself. Answer a few obvious questions via the touch screen and that's it. The touch screen itself is flawless in its "fingernail tip" entry. This is a true pressure sensitive screen. You have to actually tap the screen for data entry. It is quick and accurate. Another great feature of this Magellan is its system speed. There is no "progress bar" needed. All directions take place seamlessly and without delay." - L. Solomon (NY, USA); Amazon Verified Purchase

Summary of Key Features

Bottom Line

The Magellan RoadMate 3030 is a great investment not only because of the larger display but also because of the free lifetime map updates to keep the device fresh. Many people replace their GPS devices to get the latest points of interest since updates can cost money. The Magellan RoadMate 3030 is ideal for those that are contented with the highway features and good overall accuracy of the device.

More user reviews:

• "I just purchased the Magellan Roadmate 3030LM 4.7" screen, after using a different brand for several years and have been extremely happy from the time I turned it on. I used it the first time on my trip to Atlanta on Jan. 3rd and, for the most part, found it very easy to understand and operate. I am not one of these younger folks who know how to maneuver through the hi-tech electronics/technology of today, and welcomed the ease of operating and understanding what to do without wanting to throw it out the window. Some confusion was my own fault as I had not totally read some of the directions thoroughly before moving forward. I was very pleased that it worked as soon as I turned it on, I could easily adjust the volume to my level of comfort, did not have to listen to "route re-calculation" repeatedly when I changed course for a gas/restroom break and was surprised when it automatically suggested an alternate detour when the whole interstate was stopped and re-routed due to a major accident. It gave you options of how far you would like to re-route for the detour which was very helpful and much appreciated. This definitely alleviated my "helpless" feeling of vulnerability when traveling alone. I would most definitely recommend this GPS.....due to simplicity, easy to read screen and easy to understand directions." - BHS (USA); Amazon Verified Purchase

• "I have owned several Garmin products in the past and decided to purchase this model based on the price and the fact that it came with lifetime map updates. The unit starts up quick and usually acquires satellites within a minute. The menus are easy to navigate and entering an address is straightforward. When it comes to navigating, Magellan definitely wins hands down as I have yet to be steered down a strange backstreet or road that doesn't exist like I have been with some Garmin units. Overall I am very happy with this GPS." - Robert G. (USA); Amazon Verified Purchase

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