 |
Magellan RoadMate 700 Portable GPS Navigator
By: Magellan Average Rating: 3.5 Total Reviews: 197
More Information
 On: 2008-06-29
I have had this unit for over 2 years now. I works pretty well once it acquires the satellite signal. It takes about 1-4 minutes to lock on satellites.
I have had trouble with the power cradle as DC in pin somehow got bend and is now broken. It costs $70 for a new cradle, so I decided to get a DC jack and solder it. It seems I am not the only one with this problem, search google.
Would I buy this specific model again? No. Simply because their are newer, better and cheaper gps sets available now.
 On: 2008-06-21
We bought this 2 1/2 years ago for $800 because it was on Oprahs favorite things thinking it would be an investment and a quality product and we would have it a long time. Not even a year into owning it a couple of the tongs on the cradle got bent and we had to buy a replacement for $30 (since theyve jacked it up to $70) because it would lose connection constantly. Well, after a year it kept asking us to update the map and we live in SA and didnt see a need since we werent traveling outside of the city and we knew it well so we didnt. Then it starting stalling, freezing and basically malfunctioning. We were told to buy a map update by customer service for $99 and that would solve the problem. We bought the update and it seemed to work after that. Now since the cradle tongs are incredibly delicate (and we are careful with it) another tong has bent one the new one. The update map signal came on a couple of weeks ago and what do you know-the gps is malfunctioning again. It seems like Magellan has found a way to make a lot of cash by selling a unreliable product. First you have to pay $99 a year to keep the maps updated or else it will malfuction and if you bend the tongs on the cradle (and you will) you will have to sell out $70 for a new one. Also, it takes FOREVER to find you and sometimes you will pass right by the road youre supposed to take while its deciding where you should go only to have to turn around a mile down the road. That has happened MANY times. I am extremely upset with Magellan since they dont offer to repair it-only map updates and a trade in where Im sure they make money off you again since you already paid $800 for this one in the first place. And whos to say the second one they replace it with will be any better. Save your money and dont get ripped off by this scam they have going. Its a money pit and youre the loser.
 On: 2007-11-16
Only good thing about this unit is it is a lot better than nothing.
Here is a partial list of problems.
1 When you want a low numbered street ie 3rd, you have to scroll back from all the higher numbered streets in the hundreds to get to it.
2 There is a scroll bar on the right of the "touch" screen which should scroll but when it is untouched the display goes back to the beginning.
3 The corners of the touch screen are hard to get to respond when you have fat fingers or cold dry fingers.
4 If the map is outdated the unit will dump you at the last known address on the street instead of telling you it does not know.
5. When not using or needing to exit it tells you to keep to the left on a freeway instead of saying nothing. Why would I exit?
6. On the same point as 5 but in reverse it will sometimes not say anything when it should at forks etc.
7. When it says keep to the left sometimes there are more than one lanes on the left so at the next junction you will be too far to the left to take the right.
8. There is sometimes a delay in units response so you push it again and again but then it all of a sudden will catch up but way beyond.
9. On number 8 this will happen with the touch screen and the direct navigation buttons.
10. Only way I found to pre-program is to tell it you are going then cancel so it will be in previous destinations. Has no more than one stop. No way points.
11. Company non responsive for support or unable to help by upgrading.
12 Updates for map are currently late. No firmware updates to help these issues in foreseeable future.
On: 2007-10-10
I have owned this unit for 2 1/2 years. Thought it was great. The unit receives its power from a cradle that it snaps into. It seems that these cradles have a tendency to fail and then the unit is useless until you buy a new cradle for $50.00. The failure rate is so high that Magellan was out of cradles for three months. This is a definate defect in the cradle and Magellan should replace all of the Roadmate 700 and 760s with a free unit of comperable features. I paid over $700 for my unit in May, 2005 and another $100 to upgrade it with new maps and firmware one year later. This is my biggest regret to date.
On: 2007-09-30
You never know if the magellan will find the satellite when you turn it on. It can take up to 15 minutes. I turn it off & on trying to cycle it. Ive used a Garmin 330, Works perfectly. Youll be throwing your money out the window with mine if you buy a Magellan!
On: 2007-08-31
The Magellan 700 Series worked wonderfully for 19 months then it stopped working completely.It stopped working a few months after I decided not to upgrade the system.
I contacted Customer Service located in India and was told there was nothing they could do for me and refused to give me an address to where I could send my GPS to be repaired.
I would never recommend anyone to purchase a product from them.
On: 2007-07-23
It worked for the first 15 months. It stopped acquiring the satellites after 3 months past the warrenty. I called the tech support, which is India, and was told to try a few things. They did not work. I paid 155 dollars plus shipping to have it repaired. It came back, without an explanation of what was wrong. It worked for 3 weeks and the same problem happened again. One thing that I should mention is that there was no problems until I upgraded the software (another 100 dollars). Could it be that they have a bug in the upgrade????
I would never buy anything from that company again.
 On: 2007-07-13
The unit is a good value and well designed. If you need to call Magellan for anything, watch out. Youll spend a long time on the phone with someone who knows nothing about your unit. I wish the website had all the questions and steps that they were going to ask you to take. Even their sales department is clueless.
On: 2007-05-28
I have been an owner of the Magellan 700 for two years. Most of the time I am thrilled with this unit. Unfortunatley the unit frequently losses th satalite and leaves me "Lost". I believe they have a problem with the swivel antenna because when I wiggle it it "usually" reaquires the satalite. Recently my unit started shutting off for no reason. I have ordered an replacement cradle, but it has been on backorder now for two weeks and they dont expect replacement parts until early July. This thing makes a great paperweight.
On: 2007-02-21
What can I say? I purchased the Roadmate 700 in Dec of 05. It is a nice unit, When it WORKS. That is the problems. My problems started simple. The unit kept loosing power. Call the customer service which is in India of course. They sent me a new DC power cord. Month later the problem is still there. Called again. This time they sent me a new power base to mount to. A month later, still the same problem. This time they informed me that there were software issues. Sold me an update for $99. They ensured me that it would make my unit 100% and would upgrade it to be just like a 760. I still have a little bit of faith in the company so I bought it. 2 to 3 months go by and the unit works great, then one day we go to turn it on and nothing. Not even a blink. Sent it in to the repair facility (had to pay to ship the unit to them even though it was under warranty). When I got it back it seemed to work fine but it kept loosing the Satellite Signal. They suggested that it was a weak antenna and that I needed to purchase an external antenna. Even with that the signal was going in and out. Last week the unit failed to receive a signal. When I called Tech support I was informed that they no longer make the unit and that they were no longer repairing the unit. 14 months old. Around $180 worth of upgrades. I was told that I might as well throw the unit in the trash. Then they offered to sell me a new unit as a trade in. After a long conversation I found out that they were offering to trade me in on a refurbished unit with only a 3 month warranty. I think not. I plan to never spend money with Magellan again in life. I also plan to steer as many people as I can from this company. Buyer Beware!!!
On: 2007-02-19
PROS: Nice user interface, intuitive to use, and well designed. It takes a little getting used to - but very useful and functional. When it works - it works GREAT. Great color touchscreen!
CONS:
HORRIBLY unresponsive customer service. After MONTHS of phone calls and emails, I FINALLY got an RMA number to have a hardware problem fixed (where the unit simply froze - it completely stopped working)
After using it for a year, with a window mount, (1) the screws become very loose, and (2) the mount will unstick and fall once in a while. (mine falls off once every few months, and is irritating)
When it falls, the detachable (!!) antenna pops off sometimes. After a couple times popping off, the antenna connection gets loose, and you have to push it back on to get a good connection (of course a good antenna connection is required to make the thing work). (happens once every 60 days, and is irritating)
It can take 5-10 minutes to acquire the GPS sattellites. If it turns on to acquire in the same place that it got turned off, then it acquires much more quickly. So, if you dont mind leaving it on ALL THE TIME, then you should acquire more quickly. However if you, like me, turn the unit on only when you need it, then you will likely have this problem too. (I HATE this problem.)
CONCLUSION:
Given the price I paid ($700), I expected a LOT better performance and fewer bugs. While Im happy with the product when it works, Im very unhappy with Magellan, mechanical design, customer service, and acquisition performance. I originally bought Magellan because I liked the Hertz Neverlost. After my experience, the next time I buy GPS (as gifts), I will buy Garmin.
 On: 2007-01-20
I bought one after Christmas. No problem with upgrades as others found in earlier purchases. The only downside is that the unit does take some time to get oriented (30 seconds or more). I bought this brand because of the similarity to the Hertz rental car system. Works well, seems accurate.
On: 2007-01-19
I bought one after Christmas. No problem with upgrades as others found in earlier purchases. The only downside is that the unit does take some time to get oriented (30 seconds or more). I bought this brand because of the similarity to the Hertz rental car system. Works well, seems accurate.
On: 2007-01-19
The magellan roadmate has proved valuable when I am driving alone in unknown territory. The helpful prompts let me know in plenty of time when to change lanes or get ready for a turn. I dont use the windshield mount because it is big and ugly. One downside is that the plug-in for the 12v was very hard to get into the receptacle and impossible to get out again. I skinned up my hand trying to get it out of the center console.
On: 2007-01-18
The magellan roadmate has proved valuable when I am driving alone in unknown territory. The helpful prompts let me know in plenty of time when to change lanes or get ready for a turn. I dont use the windshield mount because it is big and ugly. One downside is that the plug-in for the 12v was very hard to get into the receptacle and impossible to get out again. I skinned up my hand trying to get it out of the center console.
On: 2007-01-17
I bought the Magellan RoadMate 700 last September. I am very happy with it with one exception -- it already required a $99 software upgrade as soon as I opened the box. One of the main reasons I purchased this item was because the product information screen states under "Whats in the Box: Unit always ships with most current firmware." Apparently firmware is not software, but I think this is misleading to the general public.
I contacted Magellan customer service, but never received a reply. (I found out about the firmware vs. software from Amazon customer service.)
On: 2007-01-16
This is a wonderful product and has saved me time and again since purchasing it.
On: 2007-01-16
Bought this item for my husband for Christmas. He had a heart attack. I found myself going to New York City to a hospital I wasnt familiar with. The Magellen roadmate got me there every time, It was easy to understand and simple to use. It also reminded me if I made the wrong turn and helped me get back on track. It was a great buy and Im happy with it. Bonus is my husband is recovering at home and well both be able to use it in the future for trips.
On: 2007-01-15
This is a wonderful product and has saved me time and again since purchasing it.
On: 2007-01-15
Bought this item for my husband for Christmas. He had a heart attack. I found myself going to New York City to a hospital I wasnt familiar with. The Magellen roadmate got me there every time, It was easy to understand and simple to use. It also reminded me if I made the wrong turn and helped me get back on track. It was a great buy and Im happy with it. Bonus is my husband is recovering at home and well both be able to use it in the future for trips.
On: 2007-01-15
The Magellan 700 itself works just fine and is a good product. However, the Magellan customer service is awful. Our brand new product came without the mounting plate. It took many calls to Magellan and unfortunatley they lied numerous times on when the plate would be here. I told them we were leaving on a trip and needed it right away and they said it would be there no problem. I even called back to make sure. The day we were leaving -- NO mounting plate. I called that day and they promised they would overnight it to where I was going. The next day, NO plate. I called again and really complained about their customer service and how they had lied to me twice. The next day I finally received the piece. I will not buy a Magellan product again.
On: 2007-01-12
Although the Magellan 700 does not have all the bells and whistles as the newer models, it is an outstanding value. Im verry pleased.
On: 2007-01-11
I think this GPS is pretty good. So far its been very accurate on finding exactly where I am and as well, where I am going.
There are a few things on it that arent too clear (can be confusing), but its nothing big enough that you wouldnt want it.
Its worth having in your car, especially for road trips.
On: 2007-01-11
Good unit to upgrade cars that dont have this feature - amazingly accurate. Screen has good contrast and is easy to read. Like the way it recalculates the route automatically if you dont follow its direction, and ability to choose route by shortest, fastest, etc. Found the instruction manual frustrating and difficult to use - tells you to do something, but not how to get to the screen necessary to do it. Learning unit by trial and error. Overall happy with it.
On: 2007-01-10
I think this GPS is pretty good. So far its been very accurate on finding exactly where I am and as well, where I am going.
There are a few things on it that arent too clear (can be confusing), but its nothing big enough that you wouldnt want it.
Its worth having in your car, especially for road trips.
On: 2007-01-10
I got a e-mail today from Amazon to write a review on this produt I just bought. So here goes. I bought the Magellan RoadMate 700 NEW. It was shipped from Car Toys. When I plugged it in it was not ready to go as advertised. A error message came up stating it did not have the software installed. I called Magellan customer service told them the story & they shipped me a new Magellan RoadMate 700 in exchange for the broken one. I plugged it in & it was ready to go. I used it for a day. Next day when I fired it up, it never got past the user prompt. It frooze. I called customer service again told them the story & they exchanged yet another Magellan RoadMate 700. It has been a month since the last exchange, the Roadmate operates as advertised. This is a good product, you need to be lucky to get one that works on the first shot.
On: 2007-01-10
I am disapointed in the discription given for the magelan 700. No where did it discribe the need to up grage the unit. I was under the impression that the unit came with the latest soft wear. I like the unit and its performance it does everything advertised. I was thinking about sending it back but reconcidered. In the feature if there is a need to up grade soft wear please advise the customer.
On: 2007-01-10
As far as Amazon.com is concerned the product arrived to address in a timely manner. It arrived before Christmas, which was fine it was to be a gift for my husband. He has not been able to use it due to the fact that when he has it plugged into the outlet in his car it shuts off and wont work. It works fine plugged into the outlet in the house. We have been in touch with Magellan now twice and they promise to send a new cord, but to the present date, we have not heard anything or received anything.
On: 2007-01-09
I got a e-mail today from Amazon to write a review on this produt I just bought. So here goes. I bought the Magellan RoadMate 700 NEW. It was shipped from Car Toys. When I plugged it in it was not ready to go as advertised. A error message came up stating it did not have the software installed. I called Magellan customer service told them the story & they shipped me a new Magellan RoadMate 700 in exchange for the broken one. I plugged it in & it was ready to go. I used it for a day. Next day when I fired it up, it never got past the user prompt. It frooze. I called customer service again told them the story & they exchanged yet another Magellan RoadMate 700. It has been a month since the last exchange, the Roadmate operates as advertised. This is a good product, you need to be lucky to get one that works on the first shot.
On: 2007-01-09
I am disapointed in the discription given for the magelan 700. No where did it discribe the need to up grage the unit. I was under the impression that the unit came with the latest soft wear. I like the unit and its performance it does everything advertised. I was thinking about sending it back but reconcidered. In the feature if there is a need to up grade soft wear please advise the customer.
On: 2007-01-09
The system is flawless, fast recalculations and easy to understand.
Drawback to system: To update your maps they want an additional $100, this is insane, I can see $50 at most because most other companies do this map update as a courtesy.
I would buy this product again for this price $300, but not more because I have to purchase upgrades
On: 2007-01-07
Nice idea, but HUGE holes in their database (doesnt recognize streets or addresses that have been in California, Illinois, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Alabama for as long as 70 years!). Doesnt have a large, not very new mall listed in their shopping POI for our home town. Gas stations are presented in the wrong place on the map. Magellans plan to update the database only annually is far too infrequent for a world that can use Mapquest for free instead of paying $700+ for a talking toy. On the plus side, the unit is simple to use and easy to interpret the information presented at a glance...or let the GPS talk you thru the turns to where youre going. Magellan needs to add the capability to input waypoints by lat/long or MGRS also. That would help with the problem of not having new housing tracts listed in the database. In short, not worth $400...maybe $100-150.
UPDATE: after using this for 2 years, its locked up with annoying regularity (about 2x a week) where you have to pull the power cord and plug it back in to get it to respond. Also, the map display is accurate but the voice commands arent always...so always double-check what the voice is telling you with a quick glance at the display (which kind of defeats the purpose of the voice promts, eh?). I updated the version and map data, which changed some of the capabilities of the unit. Some of these changes are not ones I would have chosen, and with the huge hard drive the thing has its not as if its short of storage space.
Next time, Im going with a Garman.
On: 2006-12-31
This is a terrible product. Bought my first one from Amazon at $700. It started to have clicking sounds and searches would take 10 minutes; this was after 3 months of use. Then it stopped working, sent it back to Magellan for RMA and after 2 months received a new one. The new one after 6 months would not boot up most of the time. I would have to turn-it on and off at least 5 times (which takes about 5 to 10 minutes) for it to boot-up. Then yesterday it just stopped working completely. When it works, its great. But otherwise its junk. Stay away, I will not buy a Magellan product again.
On: 2006-12-30
This is a terrible product. Bought my first one from Amazon at $700. It started to have clicking sounds and searches would take 10 minutes; this was after 3 months of use. Then it stopped working, sent it back to Magellan for RMA and after 2 months received a new one. The new one after 6 months would not boot up most of the time. I would have to turn-it on and off at least 5 times (which takes about 5 to 10 minutes) for it to boot-up. Then yesterday it just stopped working completely. When it works, its great. But otherwise its junk. Stay away, I will not buy a Magellan product again.
On: 2006-12-30
Ive had the 700 Roadmate now for over a year and it has really helped when seeing family. Is it always accurate? Like with all maps--NO, things are always changing. From my experience, this device has always got me in the right direction or at least on the right street even when it did not put in the exact spot. Remember, this is a tool, not the personal driver.
Ive been using Hertzs NeverLost systems since 2003. Never has let me down, and has helped get me in the right direction even when I make the wrong one. It recalculates the route to get one back on track. Ive used this in several parts of the country and it has been great. I love it when it says, "When it is legal, make a U turn."
Ive brought the upgrade and it increased my POI (Points of Interest) from 2 million to 7 million. Its great to type in the hotel youre looking for and it directs you--even gives you the phone number.
I say this is an excellent buy!!!
On: 2006-11-21
Cons:
-Annoying repeatingly "countinue on current road" which is not neccessary
-Lack of map! Some of intersections for old roads not listed in GPS! None of the newly developed area in the listed! such as Temecula or Winchester cities
-Acquired signal from satellite is very slowwwwwww
-The windshield holder to hold the unit sucks! The screw gets loose easily
Pros:
-If your destination is in the GPS, its accurately lead you to your destination
-The customer service is good, helpful. They responded quickly regarding replacement my windshield holder
On: 2006-11-15
This really is very simple to use..my only complaint is sometimes it takes me routes when I know there are faster/easier routes available
On: 2006-11-14
This really is very simple to use..my only complaint is sometimes it takes me routes when I know there are faster/easier routes available
On: 2006-11-10
Learning to us it was a snap (once I read the user guide). It has helped be get out of and around freeway closures. With the home feature, I can get back home no matter where I am. Every person Ive told about it has purchased it too and they love it, and you will love it.
On: 2006-11-09
Learning to us it was a snap (once I read the user guide). It has helped be get out of and around freeway closures. With the home feature, I can get back home no matter where I am. Every person Ive told about it has purchased it too and they love it, and you will love it.
On: 2006-11-06
I bought Magellan RoadMate 700 Vehicle GPS 2 months back and its not working as expected. its very poor in locating the the place and sometimes dont even work. Many times this sytem got hung and power off and on again is the solution to get it work again.
Might this product is very good in market, but I got the bad piece.
On: 2006-11-06
The Magellan 700 is an excellent device; very accurate and if you purchase the software upgrade which includes many more points of interest and almost perfect pronunciation of the streets that youre taking, it becomes even better. The windshield mount is very strong; Im using it in a Porsche Cayman where every big bump is transmitted into the car and the mount holds tight on the windshield and the mount arm does not move. The touch screen works very well and the GPS connects everywhere, even in downtown L.A. where there are alot of tall buildings. Highly recommend this unit; it is great and the price is great.
On: 2006-11-05
I purchased my first Roadmate in August 2004. Since then I have taken it to various places in North America. Its gotten me out of some tight spaces. Ive never gotten lost while using it.
I purchased the second one when the voice interface on the first failed. I sent it in for repair. (The extended warranty had just run out about 2 weeks earlier) The new RoadMate arrived in two days and has worked fine ever since. The old Roadmate was returned to me repaired in about a week.
I gave the first one to my wife and she has used it with success ever since.
Pros: Easy to use. Amazing detail.
Cons: Sometimes takes a long time to acquire satellites
Original mount is useless after about a month. I got aftermarket
tripod for each unit and they seem to work fine. Software updates
are expensive.
On: 2006-11-05
This unit is a excellent one, especially for the price. It has a good size screen that you can easily view. Also its very easy to control while driving. Definatly one of the best units out there. You wont be disappointed.
On: 2006-11-05
The Magellan 700 is an excellent device; very accurate and if you purchase the software upgrade which includes many more points of interest and almost perfect pronunciation of the streets that youre taking, it becomes even better. The windshield mount is very strong; Im using it in a Porsche Cayman where every big bump is transmitted into the car and the mount holds tight on the windshield and the mount arm does not move. The touch screen works very well and the GPS connects everywhere, even in downtown L.A. where there are alot of tall buildings. Highly recommend this unit; it is great and the price is great.
On: 2006-11-05
I have been a magellan Roadmate 700 owner for over 2 years now. Customer service is lousy, and thats being generous. Map upgrades cost $100 and still didnt have my home street. This was after contacting NavTeq to have it added. (My home street shows up in mapquest.) Thales/magellan customer support assured me the updated maps (April 2006) would have my street. They didnt. On top of that, i had to purchase the AC adapter separately to install the update. The AC adapater should be included and maps should be more reasonably priced. Starting today, the auto power cord is on the fritz. The new software doenst remember my previous address if I turn my car off/restart. I have go through the cumbersome menus to reselect it. This is a DOWNGRADE from the original function. For $1,000, I expected a LOT more than this. I will be buying something from garmin for christmas to replace this piece of junk.
I would give this thing 0 stars if it were a choice.
On: 2006-11-04
We first used our Magellan to take our son to college, Berkeley to be exact. Anyone who has traveled to the San Francisco-Oakland area knows what a nightmare driving out of that complex is, especially when you want to go the the coast, say Nipomo. With Magellan, we sailed out of the sprawl of freeways and toll bridges without a hitch. It is a wonderful guide. We like the fact that it works fine in the space between the front seats.
On: 2006-11-04
This unit is a excellent one, especially for the price. It has a good size screen that you can easily view. Also its very easy to control while driving. Definatly one of the best units out there. You wont be disappointed.
On: 2006-11-04
I have been a magellan Roadmate 700 owner for over 2 years now. Customer service is lousy, and thats being generous. Map upgrades cost $100 and still didnt have my home street. This was after contacting NavTeq to have it added. (My home street shows up in mapquest.) Thales/magellan customer support assured me the updated maps (April 2006) would have my street. They didnt. On top of that, i had to purchase the AC adapter separately to install the update. The AC adapater should be included and maps should be more reasonably priced. Starting today, the auto power cord is on the fritz. The new software doenst remember my previous address if I turn my car off/restart. I have go through the cumbersome menus to reselect it. This is a DOWNGRADE from the original function. For $1,000, I expected a LOT more than this. I will be buying something from garmin for christmas to replace this piece of junk.
I would give this thing 0 stars if it were a choice.
On: 2006-10-26
I bought this just under two years ago for $1,000 and was quite happy with it until a couple of months ago. It now regularly "freezes up" and often cant get a GPS signal for 2 or 3 miles when I start out on a journey. Yesterday, the sound stopped functioning. 6 months after I purchased it, a screen appearted which stated that the maps in its system were "more than 12 months old" and invited me to purchase new ones.
The price of this product is much more reasonable than when I originally purchased it, so as long as youll be happy to buy a new one after a couple of years, it will probably work for you.
On: 2006-10-16
We were happy with our Magellan and purchased the software upgrade on their website. UPS lost it and I have placed no less than 25 calls to Magellan to try and get them to start a search (something I cant do apparently). No one calls back. I have emailed. No one emails back. They actually emailed me asking me to do a survey on their customer service following my email but the link didnt work. I finally got a person once who told me I had the wrong part of the company and then hung up on me - didnt bother to tell me the right number!
On: 2006-09-20
I bought my Magellan for $1,000 about 2 years ago. In the last two years, it has frozen up on me twice! The first time I sent it in for repair, it was free, as I had not yet had the unit for a year. I had to call customer service again today (yes, in India), and found out it would be $150 to repair! My boyfriend has the same Magellan, and his sound recently stopped working (also had it for about 2 years). Rather than having to pay repair fees for what seems like every 8 months, I just bought a Garmin today for $250 more! The Magellan 700 was a COMPLETE WAIST of $1,000.
On: 2006-09-19
I bought my Magellan for $1,000 about 2 years ago. In the last two years, it has frozen up on me twice! The first time I sent it in for repair, it was free, as I had not yet had the unit for a year. I had to call customer service again today (yes, in India), and found out it would be $150 to repair! My boyfriend has the same Magellan, and his sound recently stopped working (also had it for about 2 years). Rather than having to pay repair fees for what seems like every 8 months, I just bought a Garmin today for $250 more! The Magellan 700 was a COMPLETE WAIST of $1,000.
On: 2006-09-17
THe unit was running fine for a year, excellent with directions and voice prompts. It was running fine and all of a sudden the sound died in the middle of a voice prompt. It came back for a few seconds at another prompt and that was it. Seems to be some hardware soldering problem. DOnt know how much will it cost but about 100 bucks or more. I wish I had the extended warranty. Do not buy the Magellan Product without extended warranty. I have researched on quality of cusomter service of magellan and found a lot of ppl complaining about this product. I would go out and buy a sony with 4 year warranty for $499.99 + $59.99 from sonystyle.
If anyone had it fixed for the same problem please advice me.
On: 2006-09-11
From the start, this unit got "lost" in San Francisco and the Berkeley Hills. If I took it on a plane and plugged it in, it took 30 minutes to find itself in a new city. Then, after 18 months-- it just stopped working. Gone, dead, done. No responses after multiple requests to Thales support.
Dont bother.
On: 2006-09-01
THis brand is great for a navigation system, but the one here is out of date. The software loaded on this is over a year old! When i bought mine, it didnt even have my house on the map! Youre better off spending a little bit more money and getting a newer version. Software updates are about $150 dollar... I would not recommend unless you want an out of date map!
On: 2006-09-01
This is the second magellen I have had the first was smashed and this was my fault.I took the first to europe and it was great. the second I bought I just returned to amazon. I had this a month.it brought me to two wrong locations then one day the screen just froze and faded away ,could not get it back.not great
On: 2006-08-09
Wow am I pleased with my Magellan Roadmate. I live near the big dig in Boston MA and am amazed that the Roadmate can get me through the re routed traffic.
When I need to go somewhere all I need is an address and Magellan gets me there.
On: 2006-08-08
Wow am I pleased with my Magellan Roadmate. I live near the big dig in Boston MA and am amazed that the Roadmate can get me through the re routed traffic.
When I need to go somewhere all I need is an address and Magellan gets me there.
On: 2006-08-06
I previously used the Magellan system on Hertz NeverLost car rentals and was impressed.
The Magellan 700 GPS system is one step beyond with its touch screen.
Works well.
On: 2006-07-28
Ive used my Magellan for about two years now. Works great, and almost always gets me where Im going without error.
However, after the first year it started telling me I must buy the $100 map update (plus the required cable and power supply to apply the update). Well, I dont want the update. Im happy with my maps as they are. Too bad for me! There is NO WAY to turn off this abysmal warning. It has been popping up randomly (and often) for the last year, and will surely continue doing so until I retire the unit. Its dangerous sometimes, too. Say Im coming up on a turn, and then the "BUY THE UPDATE" screen pops up. This happens at some random time durning the course of most routes. Then I have to look down at the screen (while driving) and hit the stupid CANCEL button (while driving) quickly before I miss the next turn. Awful system.
Even if a Garmin system isnt as functional overall (I have no idea if it is or not, as Ive never used one), Ill still be buying Garmin next time to hopefully avoid this annoying flaw.
On: 2006-07-21
I read some of the complaints and cant believe it! I have owned my Magellan 700 Roadmate for about 1.5 years.
I am a regional sales manager that travels throughout the west (Alaska to San Diego). I take my trusty Magellan on every trip bouncing around in my briefcase on the plane and plug it into every rental car I drive and presto it works every time! This unit has been on literally 100s of road trips without a single problem. It has navigated me to (probably) 1000s of customers (and quite a few Starbucks). THe windshield suction cup has never failed, the electrical connections have never failed - it is just as reliable as can be!
On: 2006-06-17
Ive had mine for about a year and 8 months, and have had no serious problems. I love it! My only complaints are:
* There have been some occasions when it took a long time (10 - 20 minutes) to locate the satellite, but that has happened maybe 15 times out of the hundreds and hundreds of times I have used it.
* It can sometimes be strange when trying to enter an address (like, if you search by city, it will insist there is no street by the name youre looking for, but if you search by state, it will suddenly be able to locate the street in the very city it just told you didnt exist)
* It is missing a lot of points of interest. I feel like you only have a 50/50 chance of actually locating a gas station using it.
But overall, I have been VERY happy and satisfied with it! Not perfect, but it certainly hasnt gotten me lost... which is the whole point, yes? :-)
On: 2006-06-12
I received this as a gift 2 months ago. The first time I used it, it took about 30 minutes to acquire a satellite lock. The next time, it locked in a couple of minutes and worked fine for the first few weeks. It was great. I even found new shortcuts for routes I had been traveling for years. Unfortunately, the maps on this brand new unit are very out-of-date and many Points of Interest are missing. For instance, I was told the nearest Wal-Mart was 3 states away despite there being 10 within a 30 minute drive, all of which have been there for more than 5 years.
After a few weeks, I had another instance where it wouldnt lock onto a satellite. I waited 45 minutes, unplugged and reconnected the unit, and still nothing. Gave up, next day it worked fine. Other times, it will fail to lock, Ill unplug it, and it will lock right away, frequently with green or blue (strong signal). Powering it off and on isnt good enough - I have to unplug it and plug it back in. Flaky, inconsistent, inexplicable behavior for a high end GPS unit.
I figured Id live with that, but the unit started to spontaneously reboot while I was traveling. I checked, and there is an area which when I drive through, the unit will spontaneously reboot consistently. Coincidentally, there are bad sectors on the disk, no doubt right around where this areas maps are. I decided it was time to call support and get my $700 unit to work properly. That was when the fun began.
I logged 2 detailed support requests, one for the reboot problem (complete with maps and exact details) and another for the failure to acquire locks. After 2 weeks of no response, I called. Thats when the fun really started.
Believe everything you hear about Magellan support. Its an embarrassment. Horrible. Useless. They dont speak English and read from scripts. They will not deviate from the scripts. They didnt carefully listen to my problem description and started reading an obviously irrelevant script. He had my e-mails in front of him, but wouldnt read them beyond the first sentence. I could not make him stop. Finally, after about 10 minutes of pleading with him to listen to my problem description again and try to understand, he offered to allow me to return the unit. I did not want to return the unit. I wanted to troubleshoot the problems before going without it for 4 weeks. I gave up, because obviously I was unable to be understood and this tech was not going to do anything but read his script. He promised to e-mail me instructions for the return. They never arrived. It has been two weeks, and 3 phone calls.
There are some great support folks in India. Magellan has not hired any of them.
Update after a year: The unit is still hanging in there. Luckily. Because after at least 10 phone calls to RMA the unit, the warranty expired without them ever getting me the RMA details, and now they tell me my warranty has expired, and oddly enough, have no records of my having ever called before. So it continues to reboot randomly and frequently just fails to get a lock. And after a year, it now continues to taunt me about having to buy new maps, which of course Ill NEVER do because Im never going to give these clowns another penny of my money.
On: 2006-06-10
I bought a European model with level 4 software and it works ok in Europe. Forget about upgrading. Forget about expanding to be able to use it in North America. You will spend as much as you would for a new one.
Tech support is terrible. The rep did not understand the product, did not speak english very well, and did not even understand my question.
Next time, no Magellan.
On: 2006-06-09
I bought a European model with level 4 software and it works ok in Europe. Forget about upgrading. Forget about expanding to be able to use it in North America. You will spend as much as you would for a new one.
Tech support is terrible. The rep did not understand the product, did not speak english very well, and did not even understand my question.
Next time, no Magellan.
On: 2006-06-02
I bought this unit 2 years ago. Since then it has been back for repair ro fix a broken antenna lead, and to fix a freezing problem after a (free) software upgrade. Last year I purchased, for $300 additional, the European map database. Exactly 12 months on I was offered the version 5 software update. This brings the unit into line with newer models - "Saywhere", Smart detour etc etc, for a reasonable $99. EXCEPT, if you have the European maps as well, the upgrade is $299. AND, if you dont pay the $200 additional, you lose the European maps altogether. I wrote to Magellan complaining about this, and never got an answer. I propose to wait until this unit dies, and then go to another maker.
On: 2006-06-01
The unit worked well for approximately 12 months and then it could not locate its position.
I placed many calls to customer service and they could not solve the problem. The wait times were unreasonable and the representitives were not knowledgeable. I finally got an RA (Return Authorization). Customer service quoted a repair price and then changed the amount which voided a temporary charge card number.
I checked on the unit after 6 weeks and they could not locate the unit within the repair center. I called over several days and technical support said they located the unit and that it would be fixed and returned to me within another 2 weeks. The unit arrived at my door while I was on the phone with this customer service representative.
The unit still could not find its location. After several more calls to customer service I received another RA. Megellan could not or would not repair the unit. I had all my correspondence and my original receipt and I was able to return the unit to the wharehouse club that I purchased the unit from. What a relief! I believe that Megellan is aware of problems with the unit but their customer service is terrible. Consider this if you purchase this unit.
On: 2006-05-29
This is my second unit. First one broke, now my replacment shuts off everytime I touch it. Meaning I have to wiggle the power connector, hope it comes on, reprogram...often in traffic...and hope it works long enough to get me where I need to go.
When it works, terrific, but obviously shoddy workmanship.
On: 2006-05-28
This is my second unit. First one broke, now my replacment shuts off everytime I touch it. Meaning I have to wiggle the power connector, hope it comes on, reprogram...often in traffic...and hope it works long enough to get me where I need to go.
When it works, terrific, but obviously shoddy workmanship.
On: 2006-05-14
Magellan is a company that thinks it can do no wrong.It is a french company.(No Wonder).They tried to get me to pay for a software update,only days after I got the thing.They are telling me that it will upgrade my unit to a 760.I told them I did not want the 760,bought the 700.They told me no update without a hundred dollars.My problem is I just got the thing out of the package and it needs software update already.What are you selling obsolete items.they say no,but you need the update anyway.but I just bought it.So,they dont care.They are trying to sell the units that they have sitting in backstock as new items.And adjust the price as they go.This company really is terrible.I am going to use this thing as much as I can until it breaks.I will never buy another thing from these french Fu%&$ again.I told them that.they dont care.they need to be taught a lesson.Remember WWII.Dont buy this product.Youll be sorry if you do.Shame on you if you buy this thing.If you do,dont say you werent warned. Also shame on Amazon for carrying their products.There were plenty of reviews that told of this.Dont they read their own customers reviews??
On: 2006-05-09
I am old. I am not good with gadgets. I live in a rural community and had to take a trip that would put me in a large city by plane and then travel 1,000 miles with stops in other large cities. I read the reviews and bought the 700 in a refurb so that I didnt have a lot invested. It was plug and play and in 3,000 miles I never once looked at a map. It took me right to the locations I needed to be at. It found restraunts and motels and was a good companion. This is the best travel device I have ever purchased. I love it.
On: 2006-04-29
finally rcvd my replacement unit from amazon(1st one was NOT working!).i agree with everyone here. this is a horrible unit! work OK if you can get this unit to power up. then you have to make sure that the unit stays power up. dont hit any bumps on the road.....and little movement will turn this unit off!then u have to wrestle again on powering this unit up---ahem--if u can get this thing to power up(repeat).worst mapping ever---and they wanted to charge u to update the maps?why am i paying $$ for a unit with OLD maps? i checked with a few "big" retailers, and the salepeople there confirmed that this unit is the most returned unit!mostly---DAMAGED AS IN NOT WORKING! i am returning my unit andwill get one from a better company with a better product and support.magellan--- waste of my time!
On: 2006-04-06
The windshield mount does not stick to the windshield.
This is poor construction and design by Magellan.
Having a lot of trouble with a brand new piece that I purchased.
Looking at the dashboard mount now. But that dosent seem to have much favourable reviews either.
I may just return the GPS.Too much trouble to get started.
Cannot really comment about the accuracy of the roadmaps since I cannot attach the GPS. But tried entering a new road that was constructed about a year ago and the maps on the GPS could not find it, so they are at least a year old.
Giving it 3 stars because my friend has an older version that attaches with a clip and it does a decent job. So maybe it works well when you can attach it securely.
On: 2006-04-05
The windshield mount does not stick to the windshield.
This is poor construction and design by Magellan.
Having a lot of trouble with a brand new piece that I purchased.
Looking at the dashboard mount now. But that dosent seem to have much favourable reviews either.
I may just return the GPS.Too much trouble to get started.
Cannot really comment about the accuracy of the roadmaps since I cannot attach the GPS. But tried entering a new road that was constructed about a year ago and the maps on the GPS could not find it, so they are at least a year old.
Giving it 3 stars because my friend has an older version that attaches with a clip and it does a decent job. So maybe it works well when you can attach it securely.
On: 2006-04-01
Bought this due to its price. I immediately encountered outdated maps. No problem - just download the update from the website right? Right - for $99!! They sell me an outdated semi useless device and want me to pay $99 to update to what it should have been when I bought it? I dont think so. Called the useless customer service people. "Nothing we can do, sorry." Wrote email. No response. Called customer service again. "Sorry, nothing we can do." The routes this thing picked were also ridiculous. Returned the unit. End of story. Good luck if you choose to ignore this.
On: 2006-03-31
Let me share with you my experiences with the Magellan 700.
I have used the Magellan 700 to get from point A to point B. When it works (actually powers on), it will do the job. However, so will just about every other NAV unit on the market.
The problem is, when your unit fails (and ours did three times withing the first year), you will deal with the worst customer service on the planet!
Our unit broke within 30 days of purchase. The units power would simply shut off while driving down the road (and right when you need it the most!). Sometimes, the unit would not even power up from the start. It also would search for the satellite and often lose our location. We tried changing car power adapters, etc. but no go. Fortunately, the first time this happened, we were still within 30 days of purchase, so Amazon was nice enough to send us a replacement unit. However, when the unit would not power on for the second and third time (a few months later), we had to send it back to Magellan.
When you call Magellan, you speak with a customer service rep in India! Every sigle phone number that you dial is routed to India! Unfortunately, they have no clue how to help you. To send your unit back for repair, you need to wait for an email with shipping instructions. The problem is, that never comes! In my case, I called them 7 times over the course of 10 days trying to get my shipping instructions and RMA. I begged them for an address and RMA number via phone so I could send it back (and I offered to pay for the shipping), but they will not give it to me. Each time I called, I was told that I would receive the email within 24 hrs.....but nothing ever shows up. I even gave them alternative emails to send to...but nothing.
Amazingly, you cannot even speak to a supervisor to resolve your problems or anyone in the US for that matter. You are simply stuck in an endless loop!
As I sit here today, I am holding my broken Magellan.....waiting for an email that probably will never come. My warrantee is quickly running out and I am blindly finding my way around town.
Please....I beg you to consider a Garmin or a different brand NAV....dont buy anything from Magellan!!! When this thing works, its fine. But if it breaks (and it likely will), then good luck getting it fixed!
You have been warned!!
On: 2006-03-30
Let me share with you my experiences with the Magellan 700.
I have used the Magellan 700 to get from point A to point B. When it works (actually powers on), it will do the job. However, so will just about every other NAV unit on the market.
The problem is, when your unit fails (and ours did three times withing the first year), you will deal with the worst customer service on the planet!
Our unit broke within 30 days of purchase. The units power would simply shut off while driving down the road (and right when you need it the most!). Sometimes, the unit would not even power up from the start. It also would search for the satellite and often lose our location. We tried changing car power adapters, etc. but no go. Fortunately, the first time this happened, we were still within 30 days of purchase, so Amazon was nice enough to send us a replacement unit. However, when the unit would not power on for the second and third time (a few months later), we had to send it back to Magellan.
When you call Magellan, you speak with a customer service rep in India! Every sigle phone number that you dial is routed to India! Unfortunately, they have no clue how to help you. To send your unit back for repair, you need to wait for an email with shipping instructions. The problem is, that never comes! In my case, I called them 7 times over the course of 10 days trying to get my shipping instructions and RMA. I begged them for an address and RMA number via phone so I could send it back (and I offered to pay for the shipping), but they will not give it to me. Each time I called, I was told that I would receive the email within 24 hrs.....but nothing ever shows up. I even gave them alternative emails to send to...but nothing.
Amazingly, you cannot even speak to a supervisor to resolve your problems or anyone in the US for that matter. You are simply stuck in an endless loop!
As I sit here today, I am holding my broken Magellan.....waiting for an email that probably will never come. My warrantee is quickly running out and I am blindly finding my way around town.
Please....I beg you to consider a Garmin or a different brand NAV....dont buy anything from Magellan!!! When this thing works, its fine. But if it breaks (and it likely will), then good luck getting it fixed!
You have been warned!!
On: 2006-03-29
This product is great, easy to read direction, even tells you when you should make turns. It pretty accurate, but its a little dated. The 700 doesnt give u a zip code option which is very handing. I say get the 760, or the 800 for an extra 100-200, its worth it, because it newer cooler and more options. But if youre saving up or not willing to spend that much, the 700 is a great option for you.
On: 2006-03-28
I got this unit about 20 days ago and I found the map was pretty outdated with many mistakes.
The new magellan update is out and it will charge for 100 bucks.
It really sucks to pay another 100 bucks for an update just after using the unit for 20 days.
Besides this, this unit some times give wrong directions which does not make sense. YOU SHOULD NEVERN TRUST THIS UNIT 100%.
Update 3/31:
Customer service sucks.
I called the customer service and they ask me to send them information about my unit and they will discuss if they can work out anything for me.
The outcome is nothing they can do for me, as I expected.
I was told that 700 will be discontinued. I believe this is why they combine the map update and firmware update (700 - "760") so that they can FORCE they customer to update to 760. You 700 will die if you do not pay to update. Thank you Magellan. I like the freedom.
They have not plan, as for now, to take care of customers like us who bought this unit with a very outdated map. I am not asking for a free update, but at least we should get some compensation since we got the "NEW unit" with 13 months old map. Thank you again Magellan.
Fortunately, Magellan is not the only choice. Hope Garmin will be better for my next GPS.
update 4/4: Terrible customer service.
After waiting for weeks, finally comes the call from Magellan customer support. Yesterday, 2 minutes after the the unit gave me a wrong direction on I-35 and 6th street(which has been there for more than 10 years), the Magellan guy called me. I told him I am trying on the highway and ask him to call me back in 15 minutes. I took all the trouble pull off the highway and waited for the call. He did not call again yesterday.
Finnally the guy called me today, but he kept on reapeating that why it is paid update without answering my question directly.
Following part is really funny.
When I ask why Magellan force customer to update map and firmware together, they guys reply implies that the I am only paying for the map update and the "760 feature" comes for free. So generous. If this is true, why 760 is 200 bucks more expensive than 700? You cant fool me on that.
by: marcandsusan2 On: 2006-03-28
This is a great GPS. In a year you will be prompted every time you turn on the machine to update it. So after a month you will get so sick of seeing this screen you will do it. Well if your like me and the update messes up your unit dont bother contacting support. They just send you a generic response a week later. If your considering this product send them a test email to support to see what I mean. magellantech@thalesnavigation.com
I will try another company in hopes it has better support next gps.
On: 2006-03-28
This product is great, easy to read direction, even tells you when you should make turns. It pretty accurate, but its a little dated. The 700 doesnt give u a zip code option which is very handing. I say get the 760, or the 800 for an extra 100-200, its worth it, because it newer cooler and more options. But if youre saving up or not willing to spend that much, the 700 is a great option for you.
On: 2006-03-24
Ive used my 700 for a couple of years now. It works great and I pity those who dont use navigation. The software is easy to use and the unit provides lots of verbal cues.
Note that the first two units I bought had problems and had to be returned under the extended warranty. Later manufactured units appeared to have been improved significantly. A car is a very tough environment for a computer. Id suggest a new unit, not a remanf. version.
On: 2006-03-23
This is a great unit. I have had one for over two years. However these new low prices seem to be for a one year old software version. Which means it will cost you over $130 to up-grade to the far better and current mapping data in version 5.0.
Wait until these say "Version 5.0" Or write the seller and make sure that they up-grade for free before shipping. Version 5.0 is well worth it. And no doubt, anyone will be extremely happy to use this unit, but get the current software not 13 month old software and maps!
On: 2006-03-22
This is a great unit. I have had one for over two years. However these new low prices seem to be for a one year old software version. Which means it will cost you over $130 to up-grade to the far better and current mapping data in version 5.0.
Wait until these say "Version 5.0" Or write the seller and make sure that they up-grade for free before shipping. Version 5.0 is well worth it. And no doubt, anyone will be extremely happy to use this unit, but get the current software not 13 month old software and maps!
On: 2006-03-20
I was trying to search Barnes and Noble bookstore from this GPS unit but it started giving me bookstores in NY when I was located in VA. There is no way to sort the search result by proximity. I tried many other place I generally go, but the GPS could not find them. This works best when you want to locate Restaurants, gas stations and ATMs. But it will not work if you want to find a specific type of restaurant like Thai/Indian etc. For getting directions, I find Google maps much better and accurate than this GPS. Google Locals (local.google.com) "find business" fuction is far superior and extensive. There are some good things in this GPS but definitely not worth this price. (Like you can locate where you are in any unknown places )I am going to return this and try Garmin GPS instead.
On: 2006-03-19
I was trying to search Barnes and Noble bookstore from this GPS unit but it started giving me bookstores in NY when I was located in VA. There is no way to sort the search result by proximity. I tried many other place I generally go, but the GPS could not find them. This works best when you want to locate Restaurants, gas stations and ATMs. But it will not work if you want to find a specific type of restaurant like Thai/Indian etc. For getting directions, I find Google maps much better and accurate than this GPS. Google Locals (local.google.com) "find business" fuction is far superior and extensive. There are some good things in this GPS but definitely not worth this price. (Like you can locate where you are in any unknown places )I am going to return this and try Garmin GPS instead.
On: 2006-03-18
The produc is everything that you would expect. I never went lost ever since purchasing this unit. The functions on this product are easy to use. The reception is good and the display is simple and easy to view under any situation. Reception can be some what slow at times (only at start up) but I never had to resort to using the external antenna that I bought (not even in Big Bear Mountains!). The only down fall of this product is the wind-shield mount. The mount tends to shake a lot so I leaned the GPS against the dash-mount and everything was fine. My parents have a in-dash GPS unit that they purchased with the car (for extra $1000). This unit matches and even out performs many of the functions of the GPS that comes with Honda Pilot.
On: 2006-03-11
I bought this device based (last month $569 now is $499)on the reviews here. I love it, however, there are some negatives I would like to add:
1. The Manual Instruction did not help much, youd better play around with it for the set up (configuration)such as AUTO RE-ROUTE, otherwise you maybe frustrated when getting lost on the road, and the device keeps ignoring you !
2. LOCATION: wont be able to save it on the address book
Say, when you travel from point A to point B, and you stop somewhere, and try to save this location. But NO, you can not!
3. POI: Point of Interest. After spending time puching the name to find the location, you can not save it either !
This is my first GPS, I dont have any experience with others, so it seems OK to me. At this price right now $499, it is a good buy
On: 2006-03-06
Im a Sheriffs Posse volunteer and am alone in the patrol car on most weekends. I was constantly pulling over, looking up streets and 100 block numbers trying to find addresses. I had hoped that as time went on I would get quicker at using the maps, but stopping to put on my reading glasses and so on really slowed me down. I primarily transport prisoners and help by performing routine duties, but I also back up the deputies on hot calls since Im also armed, so being able to find an address quickly is vitally important. The Roadmate 700 was really easy to learn to use, but I have found that not all streets are in its database and sometimes I need to use a paper map in addition to the Roadmate 700. The only other issue I have with it is; you need to know the city before inputting the street address and in out large county there are a lot of individual cities.
I originally acquired the Roadmate 700 for duty use, but Im finding it increasingly useful in my own vehicle for getting around. I hadnt needed to use Mapquest since.
I sometimes venture off road in my own vehicle and it would be just awesome if the Roadmate 700 could load topographic maps, but thats only a suggestion.
The screen is plenty big and easy to read but mostly, its really great to just look at the screen and know where I am. Another great thing is, being able to see where I am when the street signs arent visible or are missing.
Ive been driving for probably 35+ years and I cant imagine being without some type of navigation device and I would deffinately recommend this one to anybody who drives.
On: 2006-03-05
I have Magellan almost one year. It picks a satelite signal not always right away when starting. Sometimes it can be up to 5 min. Like tree month ago it started a power problem. Do not turn on,and when it finally turns on it can by itself turns off in tree min after work. I send email to magellan.com asking how can I repire this issue. For price $800 what I paid for it it is not worth for the money. I prefered if it can work at least for 3 years without a problem. They have a new product RoadMate 360 and it cost on Amazon.com $430. I woul better buy that one, if you need a GPS. I hope that should be better and has everything that has 700 and more like Puerto Rica map pre-loaded.
On: 2006-03-05
Im a Sheriffs Posse volunteer and am alone in the patrol car on most weekends. I was constantly pulling over, looking up streets and 100 block numbers trying to find addresses. I had hoped that as time went on I would get quicker at using the maps, but stopping to put on my reading glasses and so on really slowed me down. I primarily transport prisoners and help by performing routine duties, but I also back up the deputies on hot calls since Im also armed, so being able to find an address quickly is vitally important. The Roadmate 700 was really easy to learn to use, but I have found that not all streets are in its database and sometimes I need to use a paper map in addition to the Roadmate 700. The only other issue I have with it is; you need to know the city before inputting the street address and in out large county there are a lot of individual cities.
I originally acquired the Roadmate 700 for duty use, but Im finding it increasingly useful in my own vehicle for getting around. I hadnt needed to use Mapquest since.
I sometimes venture off road in my own vehicle and it would be just awesome if the Roadmate 700 could load topographic maps, but thats only a suggestion.
The screen is plenty big and easy to read but mostly, its really great to just look at the screen and know where I am. Another great thing is, being able to see where I am when the street signs arent visible or are missing.
Ive been driving for probably 35+ years and I cant imagine being without some type of navigation device and I would deffinately recommend this one to anybody who drives.
On: 2006-03-04
I have to say the map and directions are pretty accurate - I do use it everyday. even I know how to get to the destination, I still use it as a reference for distance measure.
The downside is, sometime it decides to stop speaking. I dont know what causes the problem, but it just simply keeps silent suddenly until it starts to talk again. the silent time may last several minutes to several days.
As other reviews said, Magellan picks signal quite slow - about 10 minutes. and I did experience once that the suction cup window mount got loose and the GPS dropped on the car floor while I was driving on the highway. the lucky thing is, it kept speaking on the floor that time, so I did not get lost.
If I have to buy a second GPS, I wont consider Magellan again.
On: 2006-03-04
I have Magellan almost one year. It picks a satelite signal not always right away when starting. Sometimes it can be up to 5 min. Like tree month ago it started a power problem. Do not turn on,and when it finally turns on it can by itself turns off in tree min after work. I send email to magellan.com asking how can I repire this issue. For price $800 what I paid for it it is not worth for the money. I prefered if it can work at least for 3 years without a problem. They have a new product RoadMate 360 and it cost on Amazon.com $430. I woul better buy that one, if you need a GPS. I hope that should be better and has everything that has 700 and more like Puerto Rica map pre-loaded.
On: 2006-02-28
I have owned my Magellan RoadMate 700 for about a year. The unit is great! Overall, I have a very positive view of the unit. The two negatives are:
1) There are many POIs that are not in the unit.
2) Update to Version 5 is $100. However, this may help with problem #1. Garmin updates are free.
On: 2006-02-27
I have owned my Magellan RoadMate 700 for about a year. The unit is great! Overall, I have a very positive view of the unit. The two negatives are:
1) There are many POIs that are not in the unit.
2) Update to Version 5 is $100. However, this may help with problem #1. Garmin updates are free.
On: 2006-02-24
Im very upset with Thales Navigation. I bought my Roadmate 700 in April 2005. After 4 months, it started to show power issues . it was not turning on. Only blinking . but not turning on. And that happened when I was travelling !!!
So I decided to send to the Repair Center. After 2 weeks, I receveid the product back ...
After 4 months again ... It is showing the same power issues! It is not turning on! Im sending the product back to the REPAIR Center, thanks god It is still covered by 1-year warranty. But I definitely feel like NEVER doing business with this company again.
If you can NOT trust the reliability of a GPS ... you should not buy it! It happened twice with me ! I hope its not bad luck ...
On: 2006-02-23
Im very upset with Thales Navigation. I bought my Roadmate 700 in April 2005. After 4 months, it started to show power issues . it was not turning on. Only blinking . but not turning on. And that happened when I was travelling !!!
So I decided to send to the Repair Center. After 2 weeks, I receveid the product back ...
After 4 months again ... It is showing the same power issues! It is not turning on! Im sending the product back to the REPAIR Center, thanks god It is still covered by 1-year warranty. But I definitely feel like NEVER doing business with this company again.
If you can NOT trust the reliability of a GPS ... you should not buy it! It happened twice with me ! I hope its not bad luck ...
On: 2006-02-22
Havnt found a problem with this unit yet! It has taken me to the doorstep of restaraunts, hotels, golf courses and home addresses I would have never found so easily.
Very pleased with this GPS.
On: 2006-02-21
Havnt found a problem with this unit yet! It has taken me to the doorstep of restaraunts, hotels, golf courses and home addresses I would have never found so easily.
Very pleased with this GPS.
On: 2006-01-29
We purchased the Roadmate 700 from Amazon (refurbished), because we were moving to Seattle, WA. We previously used a Hertz System, which was developed by Magellan and it work without a problem in downtown Seattle and Eastern Washington State. The Roadmate 700 could not find a satellite in downtown Seattle, and often has trouble when we are near tall trees. (I assume the $60.00 external antenna would help. If you have two cars, you will need to spend $120.00) There are also glitches in the computer map, as there is one turn that it NEVER tells us to take, but always expects us to take. The unit has been repaired by Magellan in August, 2005, because it was changing routing directions several times during trip. (Pretty annoying after you exited from a crowded freeway.) Now in January the sound failed. I am now in the process of sending it back to Magellan for repair. Also, unless you have a speaker phone and plenty of time forget using the 800 number of help. E-mail process was a lot better, but fairly slow.
On: 2006-01-29
Ive owned this unit for almost a year. And I can say it will get you to your destination, its easier to use than its competitor, and the voice is soothing, but thats all the positives. Now for the negatives. The windshield mount is a joke. Every now and then the mount will come off and the unit will fall either on your lap or the floor of your car. Imagine this when youre on a highway. Its happened to me at least a half dozen times on the highway. For a week or so everything would be fine, and Id start thinking I didnt apply it properly, then BAM! On my lap it fell. I tried everything short of gluing the mount; I pressed it with enough force to send my fist through the windshield and still it would happen. Well I called the company for a refund even though it was nearly a year since I purchased, and they were kind enough to arrange a refund. I turned around and bought the competitor unit, the Garmin StreetPilot 2720. Its not as simple to program as the Magellan, and youll have to spend at least an hour before you have a full understanding of the unit, but once thats over, the unit is a dream.
There were times when the Magellan would take up to 10 minutes to kick in with the satellites, so Im sitting in my car like an idiot waiting for it. The Garmin is instantaneous. Also, the Magellan has this little antennae that came off when the unit fell off, lo those many times. Garmins antenna is built in; one less thing to worry about. And no windshield mount! It comes with this small beanbag mount that really works. I was worried that it wouldnt be able to hold in a turn, but it firmly holds.
The driving directions are easier to view and the unit voice prompts you before you make a turn, and it tells you what street youll be making the turn on; as opposed to the Magellans "Get ready to turn." The only thing I do miss on the Magellan is the voice sounded more human, as opposed to the robotic voice on the Garmin, but then again, its minor.
Oh, one very important thing. I read one of the reviews stating the "voice guidance is all you need." Well if you follow that, be prepared to be lost. I foolishly relied on the voice guidance when I first bought it and sure enough it would occasionally pass exits and changes. Its supposed to ping you right before you make a turn, and after I unknowingly missed my exit, Id drive for a few more minutes before Id be told to get ready to take the next exit or make a u-turn.
If you do purchase the Garmin, download the PDF version of the user guide so you can easily search for a feature you need to understand. Although the manual is less than 30 small pages, it was faster for me to do a search on a PDF to find out how to change driving routes from fastest time to shortest distance. Also, check the Garmin site for any firmware updates, which is very simple to do, especially when they supply you with the USB cable
Would I buy the Magellan if they eventually had real engineers who had enough brains to figure out you dont attach a $1,000 unit to a flimsy suction cup? Absolutely not. Garmins quicker satellite hookup, better map view and clearer driving instructions make it a no brainer.
On: 2006-01-28
We purchased the Roadmate 700 from Amazon (refurbished), because we were moving to Seattle, WA. We previously used a Hertz System, which was developed by Magellan and it work without a problem in downtown Seattle and Eastern Washington State. The Roadmate 700 could not find a satellite in downtown Seattle, and often has trouble when we are near tall trees. (I assume the $60.00 external antenna would help. If you have two cars, you will need to spend $120.00) There are also glitches in the computer map, as there is one turn that it NEVER tells us to take, but always expects us to take. The unit has been repaired by Magellan in August, 2005, because it was changing routing directions several times during trip. (Pretty annoying after you exited from a crowded freeway.) Now in January the sound failed. I am now in the process of sending it back to Magellan for repair. Also, unless you have a speaker phone and plenty of time forget using the 800 number of help. E-mail process was a lot better, but fairly slow.
On: 2006-01-28
Ive owned this unit for almost a year. And I can say it will get you to your destination, its easier to use than its competitor, and the voice is soothing, but thats all the positives. Now for the negatives. The windshield mount is a joke. Every now and then the mount will come off and the unit will fall either on your lap or the floor of your car. Imagine this when youre on a highway. Its happened to me at least a half dozen times on the highway. For a week or so everything would be fine, and Id start thinking I didnt apply it properly, then BAM! On my lap it fell. I tried everything short of gluing the mount; I pressed it with enough force to send my fist through the windshield and still it would happen. Well I called the company for a refund even though it was nearly a year since I purchased, and they were kind enough to arrange a refund. I turned around and bought the competitor unit, the Garmin StreetPilot 2720. Its not as simple to program as the Magellan, and youll have to spend at least an hour before you have a full understanding of the unit, but once thats over, the unit is a dream.
There were times when the Magellan would take up to 10 minutes to kick in with the satellites, so Im sitting in my car like an idiot waiting for it. The Garmin is instantaneous. Also, the Magellan has this little antennae that came off when the unit fell off, lo those many times. Garmins antenna is built in; one less thing to worry about. And no windshield mount! It comes with this small beanbag mount that really works. I was worried that it wouldnt be able to hold in a turn, but it firmly holds.
The driving directions are easier to view and the unit voice prompts you before you make a turn, and it tells you what street youll be making the turn on; as opposed to the Magellans "Get ready to turn." The only thing I do miss on the Magellan is the voice sounded more human, as opposed to the robotic voice on the Garmin, but then again, its minor.
Oh, one very important thing. I read one of the reviews stating the "voice guidance is all you need." Well if you follow that, be prepared to be lost. I foolishly relied on the voice guidance when I first bought it and sure enough it would occasionally pass exits and changes. Its supposed to ping you right before you make a turn, and after I unknowingly missed my exit, Id drive for a few more minutes before Id be told to get ready to take the next exit or make a u-turn.
If you do purchase the Garmin, download the PDF version of the user guide so you can easily search for a feature you need to understand. Although the manual is less than 30 small pages, it was faster for me to do a search on a PDF to find out how to change driving routes from fastest time to shortest distance. Also, check the Garmin site for any firmware updates, which is very simple to do, especially when they supply you with the USB cable
Would I buy the Magellan if they eventually had real engineers who had enough brains to figure out you dont attach a $1,000 unit to a flimsy suction cup? Absolutely not. Garmins quicker satellite hookup, better map view and clearer driving instructions make it a no brainer.
On: 2006-01-22
This is my second GPS system the Magellin Roadmate 760, It is very user friendly and has a clear voice when giving directions, I think Magellin makes the BEST! I dont even have an external antenna and this one is very portable and light weight. My first one was a different brand, very slow and I bought it because it was cheaper than the magellan 760, I bought this one after seeing one at a car rental agency.
On: 2006-01-13
I recieved the Magellan 700 as a Christmas gift this year. And overall, I am very satisfied with it. After reading many reviews online, and making many visits to the stores trying to decide on which brand and model to get, the Magellan 700 seemed to be the best in its class for the money. This is my first GPS. The screen is a great size. I have no problem seeing it in the daytime. Touchscreen option and keypad option is great. The option to store up to 200 addresses in the address book is a great plus. The only real difference between the 700 and 760 models are 1.) The 760 has more Points of Interests and 2.) I believe the smart detour option is available with the 760.
If you go off route, the 700 will automatically re-route where you need to go in a few seconds which is very helpful with voice guided commands. I have read many reviews that the windshield mount is horrible, but I personally have had no problems with it. It is a bit bouncey when your on a bumpy bumpy road, but what isnt unless your driving a catty.
I have used this unit to trips to New York, New Hampshire Ski Resorts and many places here in Downtown Boston areas. I do only have 1 negative comment for this system. When I was in New York or even sometimes here in Boston, you loose signal when you have the tall buildings around or even if you go under a bridge, you will loose the signal for a second or two until you have nothing above you. An external antenna will hopefully solve this issue. Sometimes, signal didnt come back for a while, had to reboot the system. But in the subs, works without any issues what so ever.
Overall, I recommend this product to anyone.
On: 2005-12-27
I have used the product in Hertz rental vehicles for many trips. It is so accurate and easy that even in new towns and strange vehicles, I will venture out at night to resteraunts (rated high in Zagat) and to other remote locations with no apprehension about getting lost or having trouble getting back to a hotel. Hence, I asked for the product for Christmas and love it.
My only complaint with the product, as delivered, is that the ball joint at the end of the windshield mount is floppy and fails to hold the Magellan unit securely in a fixed configuation. I suspect there may be an adjustment for this, but have not found it.
I also liked the way that the screen was readable from both the driver and front passenger position so the passenger may act as a navigator when the driver is very busy watching the road, as on an unfamiliar freeway with many splits, exits, and on and off ramps. The touch screen is a dramatic improvement over the cursor selection deployed in the Hertz rental vehicles.
On: 2005-12-22
I have had the Magellan 700 for a year and I thought it was time for me to write a review...
I travel for my job and the one thing I love about this unit is that I can travel with it. I simply put everything in my carry on and when I get to Atlanta I put it on the windshield and I am ready to go.
Here are the top three reasons why I can not live without this gadget:
1. The Address Book
You can program addresses into the Magellan for places that you frequent. Since I stay at the same hotels in Atlanta and visit most of the same clients -- this is a super handy feature. You may wonder why I wouldnt know my way around Atlanta by now...well, with traffic, I sometimes have to take crazy routes and Magellan will recreate routes for you if you go a direction it doesnt suggest. It is brilliant! So, if the address is in there i just have to start heading that way and Magellan figures out the route.
2. Type of destination
You can scroll through categories to find local airports, gas stations, ATMs and even zoos to name a few. This is also very handy if you need gas while you are traveling and you dont know where the nearest station is.
3. The search for business name
As I mentioned, I travel ALOT - so sometimes I need a Starbucks fix or a Panera wifi hook up, so I can enter the name of the business I am looking for and it will tell me the closest ones. No kidding -- it is pretty unreal AND then it will tell you how to get there. The one caveat is that it isnt completely up to date with the most recent locations - so it isnt always super helpful, but it comes through in a pinch.
I love this gadget. My dad just bought one for my mom because he saw how handy this thing is. You dont have to pay for any service and this little Magellan figures out how you get from point A to point B lickity split. It is also great in the city or on a long road trip. It also keeps track of how long it should take you to get to your destination based on distance and mph.
I know it is expensive -- but once you get it, you will never want to use a map again.
On: 2005-12-20
As a Realtor, I have been able to show more homes without all the U-turns. All my clients just have to have one. It gets me to the location about 95% of the time. Theres not much you can do to find the brand new homes that dont have a address. Just log in the address and it gets me there.
I like the color features and the voice options. I dont like the window mount because it falls off some times. It actually broke after about 2 months of use. Little super glue worked fine.I think the price needs to come down a bit more.
On: 2005-12-13
Be advised that a software update (version 5) is due out at the end of December 2005 or in January 2006 (according to Magellan customer service). I was told that the software will convert the 700 essentially to a 760, but you will have to pay for the update even if you recently purchased the 700 unit. They could not tell me how much the update would cost.
On: 2005-12-09
I returned this GPS after one weeks use. The reason is that it doesnt have internal battery!!! Everytime you turn off the egine, this baby shut down also. It takes about 10 mins to restart.
On: 2005-12-08
I returned this GPS after one weeks use. The reason is that it doesnt have internal battery!!! Everytime you turn off the egine, this baby shut down also. It takes about 10 mins to restart.
On: 2005-11-29
I have been using the 700 for about 3 weeks now in Europe. I am in the AF and stationed in Germany. So far so good. We just got back from a trip down to the Alps and did some skiing, happy to report we were never in jeopardy of getting lost. This GPS tracked us right up the the front of the hotel. I really like the Voice navigation and the maps are right on with what I actually expereince on the road. I do agree with prvious posts that a function to use current position as a waypoint/address entry and to also track the current route would be most helpful. Other than that it was right on.
On: 2005-11-07
Very slow start-up (sometimes 5-10 minutes to acquire a signal.) This is incredibly annoying when you need to get somewhere and must pull over and wait several minutes for directions. Five minutes seems like an eternity when youre running late. Im no GPS engineer, but I believe the unit is slow because the antenna/hardware sucks, and no amount of software upgrades will fix this - especially in newer cars with heat reflective coatings in the windshield. (For existence my 05 Honda.) The upgrade from version 3 to version 4 costs $99, so make sure ver 4 is included. Ver 5 will release Dec 05, so wait and see if they really can fix the problem. Bottom line - Ill just buy a Garmin next time. I have not heard of similar problems with their equipment.
On: 2005-11-06
We purchased the Magellan 700 GPS but because of one attempted, and failed, delivery by UPS Amazon canceled our order. Amazon suggested we place another order but in the meantime Amazon jacked the price up $50. Go elsewhere on the web to purchase, dont use Amazon.
On: 2005-11-06
Very slow start-up (sometimes 5-10 minutes to acquire a signal.) This is incredibly annoying when you need to get somewhere and must pull over and wait several minutes for directions. Five minutes seems like an eternity when youre running late. Im no GPS engineer, but I believe the unit is slow because the antenna/hardware sucks, and no amount of software upgrades will fix this - especially in newer cars with heat reflective coatings in the windshield. (For existence my 05 Honda.) The upgrade from version 3 to version 4 costs $99, so make sure ver 4 is included. Ver 5 will release Dec 05, so wait and see if they really can fix the problem. Bottom line - Ill just buy a Garmin next time. I have not heard of similar problems with their equipment.
On: 2005-11-05
We purchased the Magellan 700 GPS but because of one attempted, and failed, delivery by UPS Amazon canceled our order. Amazon suggested we place another order but in the meantime Amazon jacked the price up $50. Go elsewhere on the web to purchase, dont use Amazon.
On: 2005-10-29
Ive had mine since June 2005 and its been wonderful. Started out with the 300 but only my home state of Georgia could be loaded so we returned it for the 700 since all of the US and Canada in addition to Europe was loaded. Weve used it to take a trip to Florida, the 700 took us to the front foor of my sons college dorm in August.
My husband travels extensively and took the 700 with him to Canada and it worked beautifully! I am notorious for getting lost and this unit has been great!
Our unit did come with the suction cup window mount, AC adapter and USB cable. Im surprised that the other reviewers didnt receive one.
Id buy another in a heartbeat. My husband now has a built in GPS system in his car so this one belongs to only me now!
On: 2005-10-28
Ive had mine since June 2005 and its been wonderful. Started out with the 300 but only my home state of Georgia could be loaded so we returned it for the 700 since all of the US and Canada in addition to Europe was loaded. Weve used it to take a trip to Florida, the 700 took us to the front foor of my sons college dorm in August.
My husband travels extensively and took the 700 with him to Canada and it worked beautifully! I am notorious for getting lost and this unit has been great!
Our unit did come with the suction cup window mount, AC adapter and USB cable. Im surprised that the other reviewers didnt receive one.
Id buy another in a heartbeat. My husband now has a built in GPS system in his car so this one belongs to only me now!
On: 2005-10-20
If Amazon is unwilling to put the price on the informtion page, one must wonder why!
On: 2005-10-19
Hey look! No price! They MUST be free!!!
Wooooo-hoooo!
On: 2005-10-17
Excellent, This device is so easy to use!! I had no trouble mounting the Gps on my windsheild and it worked perfectly fine.
I recommend buying this megellan model because I wanted I better and bigger view lcd screen. The Garmin 2600 series didn;t offer that to me. As far as use goes its quick and easy and keeps finding new routes all along the way when you get lost on the road. This is an A+++ device.
On: 2005-10-14
Ready to use right out of the box. With a straight forward built-in onboard tutorial. Took a trip from Eastport, Maine to Westport Conn. never missed a turn or exit. Provided excellent voice directions. It knows its way around Canada as well. This is a wonderful tool that will relieve you of concern about getting lost in unfamiliar locations. I wont leave home without it. Also it is portable so it cam be moved from one car to another.
On: 2005-10-04
I am on my fourth Megellan RoadMate 700. The first three all malfunctioned after a few months of daily use. I treat my electronics well, and the climate in San Diego is about as benign as it comes, so I honestly dont know why they are so prone to failure. Thank goodness I bought it at Best Buy and got the extended warranty for $50. Each of the replacements has been free, except it is necessary to re-purchase a new warranty for $50. The bottom line, I love GPS for street navigating, but an extended warranty for the Magellan Roadmate 700 is a must.
On: 2005-10-03
I have had this for two years. My husband and kids bought it for me because I was always lost. Now that I have the Magellan, I alway find my destinations. Totally worth the money.
On: 2005-10-02
I have had this for two years. My husband and kids bought it for me because I was always lost. Now that I have the Magellan, I alway find my destinations. Totally worth the money.
On: 2005-09-21
It is a very useful instrument for driving in unfamilier cities in the U.S. However, it cannot be adopted to be used in many other countries.
On: 2005-09-15
I looked at many different products before getting the Magellan. I am glad I did my homework as I couldnt make my way around without it. I just moved to a new city and didnt know any of the roads which is tough as I am in sales. The Magellan has helped to keep me on time and in the right place. It is also great for trips. This is a must have product!
On: 2005-09-10
Researched several navigation systems and were very pleased to say that the Magellan Roadmate 700 did the job. Previously had factory installed systems and did not get one with new car that was on the lot. Thought it wouldnt be missed but realized that even when used infrequently it made some situations a lot more comfortable.
The system gives several advance warnings for turns, exits, etc.
Offers information on places in an area such as hotels, restaurants,etc.
Allows quick choice of destination.
Sets up on window easily and removes quickly.
Would definitely recommend.
On: 2005-09-09
This unit is great in all respects. It is reliable and easy to use. I would gladly recommend it to others.
On: 2005-09-05
Although a little pricey, this unit is very helpful on trips. Ample warning is given when route changes are approaching, and if you follow the directions it will get you to your destination.
On: 2005-08-28
Bought the Magellan RoadMate 700 3 days before taking a trip with my 9 year old son to Orlando, Florida. This unit is plug and play... within 2 minutes it located us and never lost our location while in the rental vehicle. The interface is so easy (and fun) my 9 year old was able to run it. Easily located all of Disney and Universal Studio locations, along with all restaurants & gas stations in the area.
If you happen to miss a turn, the Magellan RoadMate 700 will even re-route you within 30 seconds, so you make it to your selected destination without having to touch a button.
I have the factory navigation on my 2004 Escalade ESV and I prefer the Magellan RoadMate 700!
On: 2005-08-27
I acquired my RoadMate 700 Vehicle GPS about six months ago and Im still learning my ways with it.
The device works well in most locations but in cities the external antenna is a most, since the reception is quite poor.
Other issues experienced are frequent freezes, some requiring to restart the device (Is it running on Windows?) and about a week ago the cradle tab broke. Believe me, Im not the kind of guy who treats a $1,000 gadget roughly: so be aware... is fragile, quite fragile.
In summary Im not impressed by this device. When I purchased it I was thinking about the Never-Loss system that Hertz cars have, but this device falls far below the one you find in rental cars.
On: 2005-08-26
I acquired my RoadMate 700 Vehicle GPS about six months ago and Im still learning my ways with it.
The device works well in most locations but in cities the external antenna is a most, since the reception is quite poor.
Other issues experienced are frequent freezes, some requiring to restart the device (Is it running on Windows?) and about a week ago the cradle tab broke. Believe me, Im not the kind of guy who treats a $1,000 gadget roughly: so be aware... is fragile, quite fragile.
In summary Im not impressed by this device. When I purchased it I was thinking about the Never-Loss system that Hertz cars have, but this device falls far below the one you find in rental cars.
On: 2005-08-22
Roadmate 700 is an excellent unit. It is fully functional out of the box. Biggest problem was putting on the windshield mount. Its menu driven input makes it extremely easy to put in destinations. The accuracy of the unit is very good as is the rapidity with which it picks up GPS signals. The previous destination list is excellent for returning to previous destinations without putting them in your address book. I recommend this unit very highly
On: 2005-08-22
I didnt even know that I needed a GPS until I took a cross-country trip in a Hertz rental car equipped with the Magellan Never Lost GPS. We used it constantly and we were, truly, never lost. I was sold on it, and I decided, before I got home, that I was going to buy a GPS.
I spent a lot of time researching this, and I was attracted to the models that had the entire U.S. stored in internal memory. The decision came down to the Garmin 2620 and the Magellan 700. The Garmin has some nice features, but in the end I chose the Magellan because of the simplicity of use. I was persuaded by other reviewers, and I am happy with my decision.
The real test was with my wife. She often becomes impatient with technology, and will not use it at all if she cant figure it out quickly. She doesnt do manuals. Anyway, the day the GPS arrived from Amazon, I stuck it to my windshield, and took my wife for a short ride across town. She was amazed at what this could do. I gave her a 5-minute lesson on how to enter new destinations, and how to use the GPS. She "got it" right away, and the following day, she took the Magellan on an out-of-town trip. She didnt bring a stack of MapQuest directions, and she didnt touch her paper map. She made her way mostly with the voice directions.
We have nicknamed the GPS voice "Molly". Molly now goes with us whenever we are travelling out of town or in unfamiliar territory.
On: 2005-08-21
Roadmate 700 is an excellent unit. It is fully functional out of the box. Biggest problem was putting on the windshield mount. Its menu driven input makes it extremely easy to put in destinations. The accuracy of the unit is very good as is the rapidity with which it picks up GPS signals. The previous destination list is excellent for returning to previous destinations without putting them in your address book. I recommend this unit very highly
On: 2005-08-21
we recently moved to a state we have never been to, so i decided to buy the gps. not only does it allow you to input addresses...it also stores all the others you put in. you can even look up a place by entering the name of the place! when you dont know where you are going, it gives you directions...and if you accidently get off course...it lets you know. highly recommend this item!
On: 2005-08-20
we recently moved to a state we have never been to, so i decided to buy the gps. not only does it allow you to input addresses...it also stores all the others you put in. you can even look up a place by entering the name of the place! when you dont know where you are going, it gives you directions...and if you accidently get off course...it lets you know. highly recommend this item!
On: 2005-08-18
The Magellan RoadMate 700 is all that it is made out to be, plus. Accurate within feet and holds satellite signals very well. I have not yet used all of the options but I believe its presence on my dash board has already helped sell this product to many of my friends. The address capacity is more than anyone would need but it could use additional points of interest and, ironically in these days of secularism, perhaps church locations.
On: 2005-08-10
Talk about working right out of the box, this does just that. I did find that it was a little slow in finding me. For more than 10 minutes, I was located in downtown San Francisco. I live in New Hampshire. Once it located me, I was off. One other problem I noted, which was minor, it always seems to be about 500 to 700 feet off its destination. Ive yet to see it get me to the exact location. Im on the correct street, very close to my destination, but not the exact location. If this is all I have to complain about for this product, thats not a bad thing. Ive let several member of my family use this and have got rave reviews. It is a product to buy.
On: 2005-08-10
I bought this after using a Hertz Neverlost system. I have to say, it is an improvement on that system. The interface is better, more managable, quicker to boot. My only gripe (and its a small one) is the lack of real-time traffic info and navigation workarounds. Otherwise, a good product at a good price (at least on Amazon, i wouldnt pay the "retail" on it)
On: 2005-08-09
Takes time to activate and sometimes leaves you in a lurch by getting disconnected. Often has to be reset.
On: 2005-08-05
I have never owned a GPS before and I based the purchase of the roadmate on reviews I searched for on the internet. Since the Garmin & Magellan product seemed to be amongst the most popular manufacturers, I narrowed it down to two units Magellan 700 and Garmin 2620. I ultimately decided that the roadmate 700 product was preferred slightly by reviewers, so I bought it. I live in the DC-MD-VA area and anyone who is unfamiliar with this area and plans to drive especially in the District will find the roadmate 700 indispensable. Installation took 30 seconds, and satellite acquisition took about 3 minutes initially. The voice prompts on the unit are outstanding, recalculation of route 3 seconds at most, and accuracy is amazing. I have yet to crack the instruction guide as this unit is so intuitive! I have read that the Garmin 2620 has traffic advisory feeds...Im not sure why that would be advantageous in bottleneck traffic areas like DC or other urban areas with RushHour nightmare traffic, but that seemed to be the only touted difference | | |
