Thursday, September 27, 2012

TomTom START 55M 5-Inch GPS Navigator with Lifetime Maps and Roadside Assistance(TomTom 1EF0.017.03)


Product Features

Style Name: Lifetime Maps
  • 5-Inch Touchscreen
  • Lifetime Maps in US and Canada - Outsmart road changes
  • Fuel Prices - Find the lowest gas by location and price
  • TomTom Roadside Assistance - Reliable roadside assistance you can trust 24/7
  • Advanced Lane Guidance - highlights the correct lane


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Product Description

Style Name: Lifetime Maps

From the Manufacturer

Your journey…Easy.

Introducing the new easy-to-use TomTom Start - basic navigation at its best. Find the best daily fuel deals and drive with complete confidence thanks to TomTom Roadside Assistance - free, reliable cover whenever you need it. Trust TomTom to make navigation nice and easy. The START 55M includes the following:

TomTom Roadside Assistance
  • Reliable roadside assistance you can trust, 24/7.
  • TomTom Roadside Assistance Basic* (an additional $29.95) maintains a nationwide database of thousands of repair facilities and dealerships that are qualified to repair most any vehicle.
  • Virtually every type of emergency roadside assistance, including 24-hour, toll-free assistance, towing, jumpstarts, automobile lockout, flat tire assistance, winching, and fuel delivery.
  • One phone call to 1-800-708-1080 connects you to Cross Country Automotive Services, award winning response teams.
  • For more information please visit www.tomtom.com/roadsideassistance


* Basic Member includes a refund of 20% off the cost of your first tow event that is serviced in the United States for up to a $25 refund.

Fuel Prices
  • Find the lowest gas prices daily wherever you go.
  • TomTom's Fuel Prices feature helps you find and rank gas stations by price and location.
  • Find by distance to station, name of station, price, cheapest on route, cheapest nearby or cheapest in area.
  • Travelers can also choose which type of gas they would like tracked: regular, mid-grade, premium or diesel.
  • Simply touch the name of the station you wish to travel to, and TomTom will give you its standard turn-by-turn directions to get there.
Free Daily Map Changes
  • Free Daily Map Changes from the TomTom Map Share community.
  • Become part of a community of 21 million drivers and always drive with the latest map corrections.
  • Plug in to tomtom.com/getstarted and receive Free map changes every day.
Free Daily Map Changes
  • Outsmart road changes. Free Lifetime Map Updates guarantee you receive four new editions of your TomTom map each year to ensure that you are always navigating with the industry’s most up-to-date map.
  • Start fresh every few months by downloading TomTom's latest full map edition.

Product Description

TomTom START 55M 5-Inch GPS Navigator with Lifetime Maps and Roadside Assistance


Most Helpful Customer Reviews
49 of 53 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 starsSolid GPS Navigation DeviceMay 2, 2012
Style Name:Lifetime Maps|Amazon Vine™ Review(What's this?)
GPS navigation devices have come a long way. What used to be exclusive gadgets that only a few could afford has become nearly as ubiquitous as the car stereo. In recent years this trend has only accelerated with the introduction of GPS navigation capabilities to the smartphones. Some of these smartphone GPS solutions are really impressive and give the standalone GPS devices run for their money. However, there is something to be said for having a dedicated device that will do one thing and do it well. That's why I have continued to use the standalone GPS devices, and will likely do so for foreseeable future.

Over the years I've owned several different GPS navigators. Garmin continues to be my preferred brand, but I've also tested several Magellan devices. This is the first TomTom device that I've come across, and although I will probably continue using my Garmin Nuvi, in terms of most essential features TomTom gives it a run for its money.

The TomTom Start that I got comes with the lifetime map updates for US and Canada, so I naturally wanted to make sure that my maps are up to date before I start using it. It turns out that I needed to download the Mac desktop app since my unit did not come with one. Getting the app from the TomTom's website was not the smoothest process shall we say. They really need to make the connectivity and user experience more Mac friendly.

I like the large 5" screen. In my opinion that is an optimal size for a small vehicle GPS navigation unit. Anything larger would obstruct too much of the view through the windshield. The screen is fairly well illuminated even in the bright sunlight.

The screen uses the resistive touch technology, instead of the more expensive capacitive technology that is found in most today's tablets and smartphones. This means that the touch sensitivity is very low, and you have to press fairly firmly before the screen detects the contact. The touch response time is also not very good, nor is the precision. All of these things become very annoying when you are starting your trip and want to get going as fast as possible. If you've never used a GPS navigation unit and are familiar with smartphones, you may be very frustrated when you first start using it.

The device comes with a windshield mount, which is overall OK. I prefer mounting my GPS units to the dashboard instead of the windshield, but this mount will be useful in either case.

Unlike most other GPS navigators that I've tested TomTom only includes one standard voice for the turn-by-turn navigation. You can purchase additional voices online, but these are kind of expensive (about $13 per voice), and they don't include the street name annunciations. This is definitely a shortcoming in my book.

When it comes to navigation TomTom Start's performance was definitely comparable to the one that I've experienced from my Garmin Nuvi. There are a few subtle differences (I think that TomTom acquires satellites a bit faster than Garmin), but nothing in my experience thus far that would make either one of the units a clear winner. I liked all the speed limit indicators, traffic updates, and the exact lane navigation that this TomTom navigator offers, but most of those are only really useful if you drive a lot around bigger cities. If you use GPS navigation predominantly for long road trips, then all of these extra features are a nice add-on but not something that is all that crucial.

Overall I have been very pleased with this TomTom Start navigator. It has all the features that I'd expect from an up-to-date stand-alone GPS device, and it will probably be a solid choice for anyone looking to invest into one of these for a longish period of time. There are a few shortcomings that prevent me from giving it a five-star review, but overall it is as good of a GPS device as you'll come across.

TomTom XL 325 4.3-inch Portable GPS Navigator(TomTom 1EG0.017.05)


Product Features

  • 30 Day Latest Map Guarantee: if a new map is released within 30 days of purchase, download it for free from TomTom HOME
  • TomTom Map Share: Instantly modify street names, street direction, road speeds, turn restrictions and POIs on your own device
  • Help Me! Emergency Menu: easily access local emergency providers such as police, fire stations and hospitals
  • TomTom HOME: ensure that your TomTom is always up-to-date and access additional features with this free software application

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Frequently Bought Together

TomTom XL 325 4.3-inch Portable GPS Navigator + TomTom GPS Dashboard Mount for TomTom GPS Navigators
Price For Both: $163.89

These items are shipped from and sold by different sellers.

Buy the selected items together


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Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

The TomTom XL 325 is an easy to use widescreen navigator. TomTom’s award-winning software means effortless navigation from A to B. Switch your XL 325 on and go right out of the box. Just enter the address on the touchscreen and start driving anywhere in the US. TomTom guides you door-to-door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions. 3D graphics help guide you to your destination. An extra-wide touchscreen helps you find your way, worry-free. The XL 325 is preloaded with millions of points of interest to enhance your traveling experience – easily find your favorite gas stations, hotels, restaurants, and more.

TomTom has the most accurate maps and with TomTom Map Share technology you can instantly modify street names, street direction, points of interest, and more on your own device. And with the “Help Me!” menu, there are added safety features so you can easily access local emergency providers such as police, fire stations and hospitals.

The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device, making it easy to take it with you from car to car.

Go confidently.


XL 325 Features

Maps of US with TomTom Map Share
Fold & Go EasyPort Mount
Spoken Instructions
4.3-inch touchscreen


All TomToms Feature

Preloaded Points of Interest--Easily find millions of gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more on your route.
30-Day Latest Map Guarantee--Up to date, off the shelf.
Help Me! Emergency Menu--Easily access local emergency providers, such as police, fire stations, and hospitals.
TomTom HOME--Always up to date.
Traffic Ready--Optional RDS-TMC traffic receiver accessory keeps you up-to-date on traffic events to minimize potential delays.
Fuel Price Service (optional)--Know more, pay less.

Product Description

The TomTom XL 325 is an easy to use widescreen navigator. TomTom's award-winning software means effortless navigation from A to B. Switch your XL 325 on and go right out of the box. Just enter the address on the touchscreen and start driving anywhere in the US. TomTom guides you door-to-door with turn-by-turn spoken instructions. 3D graphics help guide you to your destination. An extra-wide touchscreen helps you find your way, worry-free. The XL 325 is preloaded with millions of points of interest to enhance your traveling experience �?" easily find your favorite gas stations, hotels, restaurants, and more.


Most Helpful Customer Reviews
55 of 60 people found the following review helpful
Amazon Vine™ Review(What's this?)
This is my first ever GPS navigator (I've used them before, but this is the first one I've owned): I've been meaning to get one for awhile now, and this is exactly the sort of one I would have picked out!!

It's relatively inexpensive, comes pre-charged and is supremely easy to use, STRAIGHT OUT of the box, (which is impressive!): you just follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the device for the first time, as well as to find local points of interest (restaurants, gas stations) or plug in directions of where you are going, and off you go! I particularly found it awesome that in the initial setup, you can choose not only the language, but also what language/voice to have it speak to you in: (I also believe you can download additional celebrity voices for a fee I think)...I set mine to the British woman, as I love British accents, and I find it hilarious & awesome: love it!!

My only and biggest complaint about this GPS device is that the spoken directions ONLY say things like 'turn left in 700 feet', 'turn left'...and I would like it to tell me 'turn left on main street'...while it speaks 'turn left' across the bottom of the screen is the street you are supposed to turn onto, but for the sake of safety in driving, I don't think it's smart to look away too much while driving, so I would MUCH prefer it would speak that out loud!

Other than my comment above, I absolutely love this GPS device! It is easy-to-use, easy to carry with (and not leave in the car), the satellite seems to work well everywhere I go (finding my location quickly): with full spoken aloud directions it would receive 5 stars, without it, only 4 stars, but I must say, I really love it!!

Friday, September 21, 2012

Magellan RoadMate 1445T 4.3-Inch Widescreen GPS Navigator with Traffic Link Receiver(Magellan 1445T)


Product Features

  • Personalize OneTouch search icons with your favorite places
  • Announces street names and directions at each turn
  • Access AAA TourBook guide and Roadside Assistance menu
  • The Traffic Link component (located within the AC Power unit) delivers free, real-time traffic alerts for life
  • NOTE: The model number on the box is 1445T because the traffic receiver is included; however, the model number on the device and manual is 1440. The "T" refers to the Traffic link program.

Frequently Bought Together

Magellan RoadMate 1445T 4.3-Inch Widescreen GPS Navigator with Traffic Link Receiver + Bracketron UFM-100BL Nav-Mat GPS Friction Dash Pad
Price For Both: $233.74

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Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description

The premium 4.3-inch Magellan RoadMate 1445T GPS navigator boasts free, live traffic alerts and the exclusive OneTouch favorites menu. The included Traffic Link service provides free lifetime traffic alerts. Preloaded premium maps and six million points of interest for the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico make the Magellan RoadMate 1445T GPS product ideal for both business trips and vacations. Easy-to-use premium features give you confidence on the road and deliver an exceptional navigation experience.

FEATURES

Exclusive OneTouch Favorites Menu
Easily bookmark favorite destinations and searches with personalized bookmarks so you can find them anywhere you travel. Find your favorite café or restaurant in any city with a single touch. The Magellan RoadMate 1445T device definitely delivers "Your favorites at your fingertips."

Exclusive AAA TourBook Guide
No membership required... Invaluable to anyone who travels, the AAA TourBook guide information on all 50 states and Canada is built into your Magellan RoadMate 1445T and provides ratings and descriptions on AAA approved places to stay, play, dine, and save.

4.3-inch Touch Screen
The wide, ultraslim 4.3-inch color touch screen is perfect for everyday travel. Click to view full-size image.

6 Million Points of Interest (POI)
Easily find whatever service you need. Gas stations, restaurants, hotels, ATMs, and hundreds of other businesses are intuitively categorized and searchable from the built-in POI database.

Highway Lane Assist
Realistic highway signs point you in the right direction when approaching interchanges and exits, and ensure that you'll choose the correct lane well before your next turn.

Highway Exit POI Search
Search for gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more near upcoming highway exits.

QuickSpell with SmartCity Search
Enter destinations with only a few touches. QuickSpell with SmartCity search helps you quickly enter addresses and narrow location searches, making destination entry easy.

Multi-destination Routing
Plan a trip with multiple stops in the order you want or optimize it for the most efficient route. Easily reorganize, add, or remove destinations.

Spoken Street Names
Hear street names and directions for a clear understanding of when to make the next turn while you keep your eyes on the road.

 
 

Premium Maps
Travel the entire United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada with all the maps you need, pre-loaded on your device.

*Lifetime Maps entitles you to receive up to four (4) map data updates per year, for the life of the GPS receiver or until Magellan no longer receives relevant map data. Visit MagellanGPS.com for complete details.

What's in the Box
Magellan RoadMate 1445T GPS Receiver; Pre-Loaded Maps of United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico; Windshield Mount; Adhesive Disc for Dash Mounting; Vehicle Power Adapter; USB Cable; User Handbook; User Manual on CD-ROM

Product Description

The new Magellan RoadMate 1445T GPS device boasts a large 4.3-Inch color touch screen and ultra-thin design, delivering powerful navigation in a compact package. This easy-to-use device gives you confidence while on the road with premium features including: AAA TourBook, highway lane assist, spoken street names, multi-destination routing, and preloaded maps of North America. The Magellan RoadMate 1445T also comes complete with Traffic Link, helping you avoid upcoming road delays and save time by delivering real-time, subscription-free traffic alerts. The exclusive Magellan OneTouch personalized search icons let you easily bookmark favorite destinations so you can find themanywhere you travel. Find your favorite café or restaurant in any city with a single touch. The RoadMate 1445T device delivers your favorites at your fingertips.


Most Helpful Customer Reviews
33 of 33 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 starsMagellan 1445T GPSJanuary 26, 2010
Amazon Verified Purchase
I recently purchased one of these units and this past weekend tried it out on a trip from the Pomona, CA area to Fresno, CA and back. All the features worked perfectly. I was really impressed with the "lane assist" feature. It not only alerted me of the proper lane to be in in the LA area, but also in Fresno. Although the integrated "traffic alert" didn't advise me of any traffic issues, (there weren't any on this trip) I did see the "advertisement" displayed on the screen. It is so small and well positioned, it is not a problem at all.

All in all, I think this is a fantastic GPS with a lot of great features for the money.

I also have a Garmin Nuvi 260W that works great also, for a few more dollars, you get a lot more features with the Magellan 1445T.