Which TomTom is right for me?

[John_Corey]

Hi all,

While I am an expert navigator who gets never lost, I have finally decided to purchase one of those newfangled GPS devices.

I am pretty much set on the TomTom brand, but the plethora of models is befuddling, and I have no idea which model is the right one for me.

I do want a large screen, large as far as portable devices go, and I am considering the XXL 540S, because it offers a largish 5" screen and text-to-speech.

Does anybody have advice regarding this or any other TomTom model?

Thanks in advance!

Cheers,
-J

 

[Scotty1981]

I've never used a TomTom, I picked a Garmin myself and the 4.3" screen always seemed big enough, not sure if you need to go with and XXL model, the XL model I think would be enough. I liked the Garmin because it plays .mp3s off of an SD card that I can plug into my aux input on my radio. My cars do not have the USB input the newer 2009 and up models offer. I do like the XXL 540 and 550 serries lifetime free map updates though, with Garmin that service is a onetime fee of 150 bucks. I have used a friends TomTom to try it out and I didn't like the address input methond on the UI but that is probably just because I am not used to it.

 

[Scotty1981]

I did find this article which may change your mind about the TomTom, not sure why you settled on it but all of the research I have seen has pointed me away from that brand. In the end it is your choice though.

http://gpsmagazine.com/2007/06/garmin_vs...utes.php?page=1

This article is from 2007 so things may have changed since then as well that I am unaware of, I have not found a newer article as of this moment.

 

[JustinH]

Get a GPS that offers lifetime maps included in the price of the unit.

TOMTOM wants too much money for their maps, they are forcing people to put hacked maps on their TOMTOM..

 

[daman]

Garmin with lifetime updates........

 

[scurvy]

We picked up a cheap (<$80) refurbished Tomtom One for use in rental cars and whatnot as we both have in-dash units and love the convenience of a GPS. I gotta say, the maps may not be the most accurate but it's a fantastic secondary GPS, works great.

 

[docsteveg]

Hi

I recently bought the XLL540TM off ebay for $219 and love it. It has lifetime map updates. I did alot of research before buying and decided on the tomtom. I do not regret it. Many people on the internet complained the garmin would lose signal for up to 15 minutes. This complaint was repeated on several forums and retail sites. I did not hear that about the tomtom. Staples also has the same model on sale this week for the same price.

 

[bubbatime]

I recently bought a TomTom with lifetime map updates (for free), large screen, and free live traffic updates. It BLOWS away the Magellan that it replaced. I highly recommend TomTom.

 

[John_Corey]

Hi all,

I thank everyone for their effort. Alas, I am still unsure which device will be best for me. Maybe I will simply write down the top five contenders, then roll a dice.

Cheers,
-J

 

[StevieC]

I know it's not a Tom-Tom but I have 7 Garmin's in the family and they have all been superb. My dad and I have figured out how to crack the lifetime updates from one and get them on the others for free so we can all update...

 

[John_Corey]

Hi Stevie,

I am not sure whether to congratulate or to report you.

Cheers,
-J

Originally Posted By: StevieC
I know it's not a Tom-Tom but I have 7 Garmin's in the family and they have all been superb. My dad and I have figured out how to crack the lifetime updates from one and get them on the others for free so we can all update...

 

[StevieC]

 

[Scotty1981]

I would be interested in knowing how to do this

 

[StevieC]

I don't want John reporting me...

 

[John_Corey]

Hi Stevie,

Obviously I was joking about reporting you. Your hacking offense is something between you and your conscience alone.

I sincerely hope your hacked GPS contains a moral compass for guidance.

Cheers,
-J


Originally Posted By: StevieC
I don't want John reporting me...

 

[StevieC]

I know you were and I was joking back...

I can update your Garmin if you need, but you will have to check your conscience at the door!

 

[Cory]

Which GPS is right for you? Right from the TomTom website.
http://www.tomtom.com/page/ProductAdvisor&Lid=4

 

[John_Corey]

Hi Cory,

Thank you for the suggestion, usually whenever a salesman's first question is, "What are you looking to spend?" I leave. I did try the TomTom guide and it pointed me to the XXL 550M.

Cheers,
-J

Originally Posted By: Cory
Which GPS is right for you? Right from the TomTom website.
http://www.tomtom.com/page/ProductAdvisor&Lid=4