What's this? This score mainly reflects how easy a navigation system is to use, combined with factors such as information given, portability, and routing options. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Price range:
$99.80 - $179.99
We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Magellan Roadmate 5045 although it may differ in price and features.
The Magellan Roadmate 5045 MU is a GPS available from
Magellan.
The Roadmate 5045 MU typically costs
between $99.80 - $179.99.
Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's
our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on GPS
models like the Roadmate 5045 MU.
Screen size (in.):
The diagonal length of the display screen measured in inches and rounded to the nearest tenth on an inch.
Weight (oz.):
Measured weight of just the unit (excluding mount) in ounces rounded to the nearest tenth.
Spoken street names:
Commonly referred to as "Text-to-Speech," this helpful feature is the ability to pronounce proper street names. For example, a system with this feature would say, "Turn right on Truman Avenue" rather than, "Turn right in 500 feet." Spoken street names allows the driver to confirm directions with street signs without looking at the screen.
Tested Model
The Ratings of Magellan Roadmate 5045 were applied to untested model Magellan Roadmate 5045 MU, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Magellan lays claim to developing the first commercially available handheld GPS receiver, the NAV 1000, introduced in 1989. The California company makes portable navigation systems for hikers in addition to automobiles, and it is the supplier of the NeverLost system used in Hertz rental cars. Magellan units have scored well in our testing, and we've been impressed with some of Magellan's newest models. The company is credited with introducing the first portable nav system that can respond to voice commands. But like other portables with that feature, we have seen mixed results in our testing.
Features & Specs - Magellan Roadmate 5045 MU
Screen size (in.) The diagonal length of the display screen measured in inches and rounded to the nearest tenth on an inch.
Screen size (in.)
5.0
Weight (oz.) Measured weight of just the unit (excluding mount) in ounces rounded to the nearest tenth.
Weight (oz.)
6.4
Bluetooth hands-free calling Allows user to make and receive hands-free telephone calls using the unit's internal speaker, microphone, and screen. Automatically quiets directions while call is being made. Can display user's telephone book, and shows caller ID on the screen. Can also dial phone numbers of point of interest locations. Requires a Bluetooth-compatible telephone.
Bluetooth hands-free calling
No
Spoken street names Commonly referred to as "Text-to-Speech," this helpful feature is the ability to pronounce proper street names. For example, a system with this feature would say, "Turn right on Truman Avenue" rather than, "Turn right in 500 feet." Spoken street names allows the driver to confirm directions with street signs without looking at the screen.
I am returning mine for two reasons. <br /><br />It will not update maps. I have a Mac and they require downloading the software to the Magellan via a MicroSD card to then install it on my Mac. It will not download their software to the unit. The maps and included AAA POIs are very outdated. The AAA data is a joke. Without being able to update the free lifetime maps, I don't know if new maps are any better.<br /><br />Also, Magellan does not allow adding POIs from outside sources. We have added multiple POI databases for our traveling, as we travel a lot and have relied on an older Garmin for 5 years, but it is small and lacks lane assist, etc.<br /><br />I will be returning mine tomorrow and buying another Garmin.
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By
Fahja
from
Howell, Mi
3.0
Mediocre- ok for the money
2/19/2011
Pros
Large Screen
Cons
Difficult Menus
Inaccurate
Best Uses
Planning Trips
Comment:
I'm taking it back! Almost all addresses were off by .1 or.2 miles. Great for road info but I route my sales calls and because it NEVER led me to the exact address it didn't think I was there. So after every stop I had to go in and delete the address I was at or it would keep trying to get me to a location a 1/4 mile away! plus no speed limit info. I'm going back to get a Garmin.
3 people have reviewed this model.
Screen size (in.)
