Key Difference: The Maestro and the RoadMate are two different brands GPS devices and are prouduced by Magellan Navigation Inc. Both the brands boast various different models that offer a variety of features. Maestro is believed to be a better option for off-road settings, while RoadMate is more suited for road navigation.

Magellan Navigation is a popular GPS (Global Positioning System) device maker in the United States. It is best known for two of its GPS navigation devices, the Maestro and the RoadMate. Both the devices use the Nokia’s Navteq navigational maps. As all brands, these two are also different from each other.

Although additional features change from model to model in both, Maestro and Roadmate, they still retain the same basic features. The most common difference between the two is that Maestro is believed to be a better option for off-road settings, while RoadMate is more suited for road navigation. This is why it is believed to be named as such.

Magellan Maestro is the multipurpose GPS that is beneficial for almost all types of terrain navigations. Maestro can also generate 3D maps and offer pedestrian modes. In pedestrian mode, Maestro is helpful in navigating all types of terrain routes such as hills, mountains, and other trails. On the other hand, RoadMate was primarily developed for road navigation. 

The main benefit of having RoadMate is the turn by turn directions it’s offer, enabling the user to not have to stop on the road and navigate or try and figure out various different roads.

When compared in cost, Maestro is a tad bit cheaper compared to RoadMate. RoadMate systems usually range between $100 and $300, while many of the Maestro brands cost less than $100. However, one must keep in mind that price can change depending on the models and features that it offers. Both devices feature a touch screen and are for your car, but Maestro can also be used while walking and does not have to be limited to being used in vehicles. Both the devices offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing to unit to make hands-free calls. This feature is only available with certain models of both the brands. Both, Maestro and RoadMate devices are believed to be accurate within 10 to 16 feet and offer a microSD card slot. The units come with built-in antennas to pick up satellite signals. And, they include maps for the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.

RoadMate also offers an AAA TourBook, making AAA information on select locations easily accessible for the user. The RoadMate also has two modes, night and day modes, which make your screen lighter and darker depending upon need. Meanwhile, Maestro offers 2D and 3D map perspectives, making it easier to pin point your exact location and giving you greater detail about your destination. Both units offer speak commands and voice command recognition.

The units are available with a Lithium ion battery and feature a 4.7 inch LCD screen, though the screen size can change depending on the models. The Maestro has a better battery performance, compared to RoadMate, as the RoadMate can usually be connected to the car’s power supply. The Maestro also offers additional features such as FM Radio and MP3 player integration. However, when purchasing GPS devices, users should always purchase according to what they need. The best way to decide which one to buy, the user can compare the different features that the models offer and which of those features are beneficial to the user.

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