If you look at the package alone, this is one device that appears to have it all. Not only does the Magellan RoadMate 6000T offer the standard functions one would expect from a GPS navigational device it also offers a few of the bells and whistles that many of us consider a bonus. It promises all of these things, and delivers to a certain extent. The problem is that everything the RoadMate 6000T delivers, another does better and quite often for less money in the bargain.
Let’s begin with some of the great things about the RoadMate 6000T. First of all, to my knowledge it is the only RoadMate model GPS navigation device that offers Bluetooth®. This is actually pretty big and almost manages to make up for some of the things this model lacks. Almost. The ability to go hands free with your phone anytime you are in your vehicle is a huge plus as it makes driving safer for your family as well as other drivers on the road.
Unfortunately, this is pretty much where the good news ends. Even though the RoadMate 6000T offers MP3 playback and picture viewing it offers very little internal storage. For some this is no problem at all while for others it is a constant source of ire. Either way, it’s definitely something that should be pointed out.
For navigational properties, the Magellan RoadMate 6000T leaves a little bit to be desired. The system is slower than its close competitors and we want instant access to information at the speed of thought. This is not a good match for our fast food world that has become spoiled by other, quicker devices. It would be different if the payoff for the slower speeds were stellar graphics or something new and improved in technology but this is not the case. In fact, the graphics are rather Pac Man in nature when compared to other models, even those within the same price range.
As for the design, it is awkward at best and very poor in general. Despite the fact that the RoadMate 6000T offers touch screen navigation, it also has several buttons along the edge of the device. These buttons need an instruction manual to themselves and do little more than distract the user from the purpose of the machine and the touch screen. In other words, the buttons create ten steps where one would have worked much more proficiently. This wastes time, which I believe I’ve mentioned before is a bad thing in this particular business. They are also a distraction that can lead to going off course or astray completely by accident. It is best to leave the buttons alone unless you either know where you are going and are simply testing the system out or you know exactly what the various buttons do.
Pocket Lint wrote, “Because of that you end up feeling you've been cheated. You might have the best idea in the world but if you can't present it properly then its as about as useful as a chocolate teapot” about the Magellan RoadMate 6000T and I tend to agree with their assessment. It’s like opening up the prettiest package on Christmas morning to find out that it was only the wrapping that was nice about it.
Bottom line, when it comes to GPS navigational devices there are bigger and better items on the market for the same price you would pay for a new Magellan RoadMate 6000T. If you can find this device for an exceptional bargain it isn’t a completely bad device, it is just disappointing.
