TomTom XL 350M Review

TomTom is often the choice for people that want to get a large GPS device with all of the important features for a low price. These affordable devices are identified by their "XL" label and cater to vehicle owners that want to drive safer and reach their destination at an earlier time. Recently, TomTom added a couple of devices to their lineup including the TomTom XL 350M.

TomTom XL 350M GPS Navigator

Design

The TomTom XL 350M does not look too different than the older TomTom models. The 4.3-inch display is accompanied with a sleek bezel that curves on the top and has a distinguishable white border line. The bezel isn't very thick making it still small enough to fit in the pocket.

Interface

TomTom XL devices were known for their good utilization of screen real estate. Both the icons and the text are large enough to make new users comfortable and the setup process only involves a simple activation procedure before the device is fully ready to go.

One of the unique interface features is the EasyMenu which makes all of the main features of the XL 350M more accessible by presenting a simpler two-button menu. All it takes is a single tap to bring up a set of icons that represent familiar commands.

Navigation

The TomTom XL 350M does not have as many features as their TomTom GO counterparts, but when compared to older models, the XL 350M is improving in navigation features. Since this is a new model, it starts out strong with the latest US, Canada, and Mexico maps. It is very accurate when it comes to roads with over a million more miles of road than other devices and the lifetime map updates ensure that the device stays fresh even if there are newer TomTom models released in the future. New map updates are released four times a year.  The maps are also accompanied with more points of interest than other GPS models exceeding 7 million POIs. These POIs span over 60 categories to make it easy for tourists and drivers alike to search exactly what they need.

All TomTom XL 350M users have a comfortable and safe navigational experience because it announces the street names and other places using text-to-speech technology. Now drivers can focus more on driving and let the GPS model "talk" to the driver. TomTom adds some extra fun by allowing special voice packs to be transferred to the device.

People in the US and Canada areas can take advantage of another feature called IQ Routes which goes beyond its accuracy by analyzing the traffic in real-time to better generate the best route possible. Since the traffic conditions vary depending on the time of day, the TomTom XL 350M may generate a different routes for the same source and destination. US users benefit even more with the Advanced Lane Guidance feature which helps navigate drivers through difficult junctions. It represents these lanes using 3-D graphics and green indicators to point drivers to the correct lane. If the optional traffic receiver accessory is used, traffic conditions can be obtained at any time..

Extras

Fold & Go EasyPort Mount

The TomTom XL 350M comes with a number of extras including the ability for people to customize their map manually adding new points of interest. With the exclusive Map Share On-Demand feature, these custom maps can be shared with other TomTom XL users online. Other TomTom users that have their own maps may share them too giving access to tons of customized maps if TomTom does not have any official updates available.

It also includes some safety features with the "Help Me!" menu. This menu gives access to any police and fire stations as well as hospitals that are located nearby. Combined with the "Where am I?" feature, the exact location can be displayed so it can be relayed to these emergency resources.

It comes with a Fold & Go EasyPort Mount as well. Unlike other mounts, it is highly portable since it folds into a compact size that easily fits in a pocket or bag.

The TomTom XL 350M is packed with more neat features than expected for a sub-$200 device. It is also very user-friendly and accurate especially optional traffic update service is utilized.

Conclusion

The TomTom XL 350M stands out as a well engineered product. It definitely should be on your shortlist if you are looking for a budget GPS unit.

Summary of Product Features

• Preloaded with maps of the US, Canada, and Mexico, with Lifetime Map Updates (new editions four times a year)
• Preloaded with more than 7 million points of interest in over 60 destination categories - gas stations, restaurants, hotels, ATMs and more
• IQ Routes Technology calculates the fastest route possible based on time of day, saving you time, fuel and money
• Advanced Lane Guidance indicates exactly which lane to use
• Announces turn-by-turn directions aloud, including street and place names

List Price : $199.95

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