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Navman S30

3D satnav, anyone?

POIs on satnavs are usually less than comprehensive as well as being woefully out-of-date, and the S30 3D’s pre-installed selection is no different. We were directed over a mile away to the ‘nearest cashpoint’, even though we were parked right next to one.

Navman points out you can use its Local Search feature within the NavDesk PC application to upload more accurate POIs, but since you have to search for them manually and then transfer them individually, it’s next to useless. It’s a different story with Navman’s slightly more expensive S50 3D, which uses its built-in Bluetooth to hook up with your mobile, grabbing new POIs on the fly.

Navman S30 3D satnav

Without the USB power adapter, it’ll keep going for around three hours

A one-year subscription to RoadPilot’s safety camera database is included, giving you prior warning of speed traps. It will also warn of cameras at traffic lights, so if you’re in a bit of a rush you’ll have a better idea which red lights you can skip. Or something like that.

According to the manual, an optional TMC traffic module is available for the S30 3D, but our search for it ended up being something of a wild-goose chase - the only TMC accessory on Navman’s UK store is listed as being incompatible with the S30 3D.

After getting in touch with Navman support, we were informed there is, in fact, no TMC adapter for the S30 3D, although one is in the pipeline. Not great, that, especially since even the S30 3D’s box shouts about its TMC support.

Verdict

Most of the big players have similarly priced entry-level satnavs - the £99 TomTom One and £85 Garmin’s Nüvi 310 being two examples – but, more importantly, dig just a little deeper into your pocket and you can sidestep the entry-level market altogether. Admittedly, you probably won’t make much use of the rather naff NavPix feature on the Navman S50 3D, but its 4.3in screen gives the map more room to breathe and the built-in Bluetooth adds extra functionality.

75%

Navman S30

It’ll get you from A-to-B, but raise your budget just a smidgeon and you’ll find alternatives with bigger screens and Bluetooth.
Price: £99 RRP

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