TomTom XL 335TM | TomTom 335TM

TomTom undoubtedly makes some impressive GPS devices through the years and their latest successful XL lineup even proves that highly efficient GPS devices can finally be sold for under $200. However, some people are concerned about how long the device actually lasts in usability. TomTom normally releases new models every year and owners of the predecessors will always be tempted to shell out more money to upgrade. One of the reasons behind this is latest maps they offer. Some competitors may offer map updates, but have a fee attached to them. The TomTom XL 335TM aims to change that because of some small, but very nice additions to the original TomTom XL 335 so drivers can hold on to their devices longer without need of upgrading.

Design

The TomTom XL 335TM falls in the category of 4.3-inch devices and has nice 480 x 272 resolution for clearer maps and text than the older TomTom ONE models that had the 3.5-inch display. A noticeable curve is found on top of the device which looks quite stylish and nicely matches other TomTom XL devices.

Interface

New GPS users can quickly learn the XL 335TM because the device works out of the box. After just an easy activation process, the main menu is displayed right away and it presents a set of labeled icons that point to the most frequently used features. Routes and destinations can quickly be planned after a few touches. It basically has the same interface as the higher end TomTom GO devices, but is tweaked for new users since it has lesser navigational.

Navigation Features

Although TomTom categorizes this model as an entry-level device, the 335TM sports an impressive array of features for its price. The 3-D map view is ideal for first-time users that want to get a perspective on which direction they are heading and what their surroundings are. While driving, the "Advanced Lane Guidance" feature activates whenever a critical turn needs to be made. Without this feature, there is a possibility that a turn can be missed just because the driver is in the wrong lane. This feature can save both gasoline and travel time. It also makes complicated junctions and intersections easier to comprehend.

Another time saving feature is the IQ Routes technology where its effectiveness is limited to the data of other TomTom users. The feature obtains the speed data and route path to help generate more optimized routes based on other people's performances.

Because of the "T" in the suffix, this TomTom XL has both Lifetime Traffic Updates to further expand the functionality of the IQ Routes because it considers the current traffic conditions before finalizing the optimized route.

Although the TomTom XL 335TM uses a 266 MHz processor, the display still updates at reasonable rates when calculating positions. This should be enough power for the 335TM to be accurate enough to avoid the instances of U-turning.

It is important to note that Mexico maps are not included in this model, but there are still 7 million other points of interest available in the US and Canada areas. Using the Map Share technology, additional POIs can be acquired or shared with other TomTom users. The feature that really makes it valuable in terms of maps is the Lifetime Map Updates which explains the "M" suffix as well. This makes this budget device a very good choice because maps can be updated without subscription fees and there is no longer a need to buy a newer device just to be updated

Actual user review:
• "The Tomtom 335TM has just about everything I want in a PND. The lifetime maps and traffic were big selling points. I like the fact that there are quarterly map updates and the FM traffic doesn not have pop up ads like Garmin. Garmin does have a brighter screen. The IQ routes works great. It seems to pick roads that I would pick if I did not have a GPS. The magellan would somtimes pick wierd ways which I guess it thought was "fastest". The tomttom just seems more intelligent picking a route although it is a tad slower than garmin/magellan. The map graphics are not as nice as Garmin or Magellan but are functional and informative. I love the lower dashboard showing distance to next turn in BIG numbers for easy viewing. I like the distance-to-go, arrival time and speed display there as well." - Mike S (NC,USA); Amazon Verified Purchase

Extras

In addition to the standard Text-to-Speech feature which guides drivers through the route without visual distraction, the TomTom XL 335TM also supports multiple languages for added convenience. As an extra fun bonus, other voices including celebrity voices may be used too.

It is quite easy to install the XL 335TM on the windshield thanks to the Fold & Go EasyPort Mount. It separates itself from other mounts in terms of portability since it folds for travel usage.

It also comes with software like the TomTom HOME application which assists in transferring the latest maps. This really helps to keep your TomTom GPS future-proof by staying up to date with the latest map updates, personalize your TomTom with free content, download free daily map corrections with Map Share™ and even manages data backups of your device.

Conclusion

The TomTom XL 335TM is perfect if you are looking for your first GPS device and only want the most basic navigation features. You will also enjoy some savings because of the lifetime updates.

Summary of Product Features

More user reviews:

• "I got my TomTom XL335TM as soon as they were available. The traffic update feature is fantastic. On a trip to Philadelphia it warned me of a traffic jam and asked me if I would like to routed around it, I pressed yes and it took me on a road I never knew about saving me time. I was very impressed. You do have to be plugged into your power outlet for the traffic receiver to work, since the receiver is part of the power cord that is shipped with the unit. I also hooked my XL335TM up to my laptop and used the activation key to download the latest map. It takes a while to download and install so leave yourself enough time before you start. This is my second TomTom, I bought an early edition of the One in 2006. If this unit is as rugged and reliable as my last TomTom that I still use on my motorcycle, the lifetime map update will be very handy to have years down the road. I see that a few reviewers here have had difficulty using theirs but I can recommend this unit without reservation. I paid $169 w/free 2 day shipping with Amazon Prime. Good deal on a great GPS! " - JR Yuhas (USA);

• "As an online shopper, I rarely make impulse buys and this was no exception. I did my research, read every review and finally pulled the trigger on the XL335TM. What a great purchase it is! I used to just use Sprint telenav from my Blackberry and it was a joke. The frustration of losing signal in downtown Chicago became too much. I'm yet to lose signal on my TomTom.

I prepared myself for a few hours worth of download time with the software and it was as expected. It works fine on Windows 7 and is so simple to install.

Once that was done, I took the AC cable that included live traffic updates and hit the road. The product is easy to mount, easy to use and the traffic updates actually work. The GPS is easy to remove from the mount if you want to hide it and it provides everything in an easy way.

For the price and reliability, this product can't be beat." - R.Hittel (IN,USA); Amazon Verified Purchase

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