• On CBS MoneyWatch: 6 things NOT to do on Twitter, Facebook
November 11, 2009 10:54 AM PST

Magellan RoadMate 1470 is bigger, but is it better?

by Antuan Goodwin
  • Font size
  • Print
  • Post a comment

Magellan RoadMate 1470 (Credit: Josh P. Miller/CNET)

When most shoppers think of "GPS" their minds immediately rush to TomTom and Garmin Nuvi, but there are other brands and models that also deserve a closer look, for example Magellan's RoadMate 1470.

Despite having a larger-than-average 4.7-inch color touch screen, the RoadMate 1470's slim profile makes it quite easy to fit into a pocket. After powering the unit on, we were pleased to find that the 1470 offers snappy performance and a well-designed interface that gives users a good deal of flexibility over their routing when they need it, yet still remains simple when they don't. Also, the RoadMate's capability to calculate multiple routes simultaneously makes it a great PND for map geeks and driving enthusiasts looking for the road less traveled.

However, our experiences with the RoadMate 1470 weren't all sunshine and lollipops; we ran into a few snags with both the onscreen keyboard and the poorly thought-out car cradle.

So how does the Magellan RoadMate stack up against the competition? Check out our full review to find out.

The following product mentioned is available.

On Sale Now: $169.95 - $249.99
View the latest prices for Magellan RoadMate 1470

Recent posts from The Car Tech blog
Ford radically reinterprets cabin tech interface
Ford brings smartphone Web apps to cars
Sony announces XAV-70BT, XAV-60 in-dash A/V centers
Could this be the world's heaviest drag race?
Garmin's Voice Studio will get me into trouble
Garmin debuts Zumo 665 motorcyle GPS
Pioneer offers AVIC-U220 nav upgrade for DVD receivers
Ease into navigation with TomTom's new entry-level GPS

Search Car Tech

advertisement

About The Car Tech blog

CNET's Car Tech blog covers the latest developments in the automotive industry, with commentary on car stereos, hybrid and concept cars, GPS, and much more. The Car Tech blog offers the latest news and reviews from CNET's Car Tech reviews channel.

Add this feed to your online news reader

The Car Tech blog topics