Magellan Maestro 3220 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
by Magellan
Our Price: $999.99
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Category: GPS or Navigation System
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: MagellanBrand: Magellan
Edition: Electronics
Release Date: 2009-11-30
Model: Maestro 3220
Publisher: Magellan
Studio: Magellan
Music Label: Magellan
Product features:
- Ultra Thin Auto Navigator
- 3.5 in QVGA Color Touch Screen
- Pre Loaded North American Maps w/6 Million Points of Interest
- SiRFstarIII / Fastest GPS Position Acquisition in the Industry
- 1.7 Lbs (WxLxH) 0.7" x 3.65" x 3.25"
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Magellan Maestro 3220 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
Customer Review: Superior Product @ $95
Summary: 5 Stars
A little background--I had resisted getting a GPS unit for different reasons in the past, but after hours of researching specs and feedback of myriad units, I decided I would buy.
My decision was based a lot on price-to-value and the addition of MEXICO MAPS as a STANDARD feature, not a $40 or $60+ option for only some selected units such as Garmins. I chose over TomTom available models mostly due to the fact that Magellan has a SD slot for map upgrades and for backup/restore ability vs. TomTom not having any media card slot at all. Other less popular models offering some sort of Mexico maps, e.g., Mio, Pioneer, etc. were not seriously considered.
Not only that, but also the 30 day Magellan free map upgrade (2009 Spring) offer which cost only $10 dollars for shipping/handling of the 2GB SD media card.
Right after the purchase, I made trip plans to see relatives in north central Mexico. Let me emphasize that limitations on Mexico map coverage are explained ahead of time and I only was going to see how it operated more out of curiosity and fun, since I already knew how to get to our location. Also, the unit was as is--that is, the latest software upgrade was not done nor had I received the SD map upgrade yet.
The 1600 mile one-way trip had us going through MS, LA and TX going down; TX, AR on the way back.
Observations:
Magellan Maestro 3220 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator with Text-to-Speech
-Fast satellite(s) acquisition--investigative DIY work explains why the hardware in this unit is top-level.
-Highest volume setting more than loud enough.
-Exit POIs feature did not operate correctly--selected POIs did not show but instead Gas Stations/Auto Repair/Restaurants would always come up. This to be fixed with a software update which I have done but I have not traveled on interstates yet to see the updated results.
-Map view is enhanced and improved at least on local streets that I have driven after the software update.
-Brightness adjustments not good enough--night time levels too bright for my liking and during night time levels, accessing menu or other screens is blinding, since they are not likewise dimmed but instead remain bright at all times.
-Loved the text-to-speech and split-view screen features.
-Loved the current gps position screen that includes a real-time readout of altitude--this especially enjoyable as we experienced sea level all the way to 3770 meters (yes it has feet but I used metric while in Mexico).
-Would "feel better" if I knew the USB/power port connection was robust as I have my doubts. I am wondering if it is a "weak link" as I have experienced with my previous Blackberry port failure.
-Extremely surprised and pleased with the level of maps in Mexico, even in rural and small town areas.
-Contrary to what I anticipated, I do not miss having a wider (4+ inch) screen to view. This 3.5 inch unit will be perfect for traveling when I go to Puerto Rico. Understand that as opposed to units that might have only US or US and Hawaii, or US and Puerto Rico or US and Canada, this has US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Hawaii AND Mexico maps.
-I have dealt with Magellan sales and service twice, speaking with native English speaking reps and have had only excellent experience--no problems as mentioned by other reviewers.
Finally, I am so happy with the product as I have a superior--price-to-value, added value, call it what you will--product that is uniquely capable. Would I change things/design/ergonomics if given the opportunity? Absolutely, as with anything, but real-world experience is outstanding.
I plan to update once I get more experience traveling after the software update, the 2009 map update and a business trip to Puerto Rico.
Description of Magellan Maestro 3220 3.5-Inch Portable GPS Navigator
MAGELLAN Maestro 3220 3.5 Inch Auto Navigation. The Magellan Maestro 3220 delivers a feature rich navigation experience at a highly affordable price. Its new industrial design is ultra thin and elegant, while its intuitive user interface guides drivers to their destination via voice and on screen prompts. Essential features include 6 million searchable points of interest, pre loaded maps of North America, Puerto Rico, and Mexico, multiple look up options, and more.Digital Cameras and Photo Categories