TomTom XL 335S Review

TomTom is one of the top GPS manufacturers with several TomTom units introduced in 2005. Since then, they have been evolving both internally and externally to meet consumer expectations for an easier, quicker, and safer GPS. Before GPS devices were popular, TomTom had to introduce the 'ONE' series to make GPS devices more affordable for the average consumer. Now that people have finally embraced and learned the importance and usefulness of GPS, people now want bigger screens and better features. They got that with the TomTom XL 340S released rearlier.

However, the competition has also responded with even more devices with some having reduced features with a smaller price tag. This has caused TomTom to apply the same marketing concept and release some models with reduced features of its own like the new TomTom XL 335S. It has all of the same features of the TomTom XL 340 minus the extra Mexico maps so consumers can now get a slightly cheaper version if Mexico maps aren't necessary.

TomTom XL 335S GPS Navigator

Design

Because the TomTom XL 335S GPS belongs in the XL series, the screen size measures 4.3 inches diagonally and boasts a 480x272 screen resolution so all the text and graphics will appear a bit larger than the smaller 3.5-inch displays of the ONE series. The external design is typical TomTom with the slight curve on top and smooth black frame with white outline.

Interface

The TomTom XL 335S like other XL devices is focused on consumers that have never used a GPS device before. It's extremely user friendly as all it takes is a simple activation process followed by the icon driven main menu that allows easy access to its core features.

Navigation Features

TomTom ONE is a very accurate device and is just as reliable as a standard GO even though the processor is just 266 MHz. The position still updates in real-time when you go from one place to the next. Sometimes the position may be a bit off, but when compared to other GPS devices in the price range, the TomTom XL 335S holds up pretty well and doesn't cause unnecessary U-turns.

There are a few advanced features to add to the value of the entry level device making it and excellent low-cost and feature-rich device. Beginner users can use the 3-D view to find their way through any areas in the US and Canada without stress and make use of the "Advanced Lane Guidance" feature to notify drivers in advance which lane the driver must be in to ensure that the planned route is followed for shortest travel. The visual directions can turn challenging areas like complicated highway junctions and intersections into simple pathways.

If the graphics is considered a distraction, the Text-to-Speech function comes in real handy since it can say the directions when needed and mention the street names so the driver's focus stays on the road. It is a safe feature with some fun elements as well allowing other voices to be used including some celebrity voices and foreign languages like Spanish and French.

Optimal Routing

The TomTom XXL 335S makes smart use of the driving experiences of millions of TomTom users worldwide. It taps into over 800 billion speed measurements on the map to plan the fastest route using its IQ Routes™ technology and allows users to make their own map changes and benefit from thousands of free map corrections made by TomTom users every day. As long as the driver is in US or Canada, custom points can be added to the already preinstalled 7 million points of interests or changes can be made to the map which can then be shared with other TomTom users. It is possible to download maps using the Map Share technology from other TomTom users for a fresher map.

Extras

The TomTom XL 335S comes with the Fold and Go EasyPort mount which can attach to the windshield like any mount, but can also fold to fit in a bag or pocket for easy travel. It also includes the TomTom HOME desktop application that helps update the device with new maps, software updates, and additional personalization options.

The TomTom XL335S is a nice affordable device that has the basics with some convenient features too and is a bit cheaper than the previously launched XL 340S. If you do not have any plans to use a GPS in Mexico, save some money and just get the XL 335S.

Features Summary

Complete maps of the US and Canada
4.3 inch touchscreen
Spoken instructions, including street and place names
7 million points of interest
TomTom Map Share™ technology, so users can instantly modify street names, street direction, points of interest and more on their devices and benefit from corrections made by others
TomTom Help Me! menu and extensive safety features, so users have direct access to safety and emergency services information
TomTom’s newest user menu with an elegant interface that features optimized icons for easy navigation
Fold and Go EasyPort® mount that easily folds to fit in any bag or shirt pocket
TomTom HOME, the free desktop application to keep users’ devices up-to-date at all times.

List Price : $239.95