February 26, 2007

TomTom: Compare the TomTom ONE vs. GO 510 vs. GO 910

A lot of people have been writing in asking about what TomTom they should buy, and asking about the comparison between the TomTom ONE versus the TomTom GO 510 vs the GO 910. The TomTom ONE that was recently released pretty much in time for the holidays last year, is a strong GPS system and is a flat, pocketable device. Overall, I think that it's a very good choice. (You can read my review of the TomTom ONE). The TomTom GO 510 and the Go 910 are not flat, but offer some features you can't find in the TomTom ONE. All come with the SiRF star III chipset for higher accuracy in tough conditions.

The Tradeshow CeBit 2007 is coming up in Germany, and if s go as I expect, TomTom will be announcing some new GPS units there, making these very capable units drop in price as we approach the launch of the new GPS units at CeBit 2007.

TomTom has been knocked (by me also) for the map data inaccuracies, and I think that we're at the point where things have changed. TeleAtlas has gone through a merger over the last several years, and they have finally released the updated, merged data set that is reportedly better at mopping up the missing roads. So, if you are buying these units, either the new mapset is already on there, or you can get a free upgrade (free + $6 shipping).

TomTom ONE - Pocketable GPS system, with a normal ratio screen size. Internal battery keeps it going when away from a plug, and comes preloaded with Maps and Points of Interest (POI) or the US and Canada. The TomTom ONE has Bluetooth connectivity to have access to the TomTom PLUS services.

TomTom GO 510 - This unit moves up to a widescreen format, very big and very nice. The GO 510 is not a flat form factor, but offers Bluetooth connectivity to your phone for optional TomTom PLUS services and handsfree mobile phone calling. Maps and POI's come on an SD card. The unit can also control your iPod (3rd generation or better) with an optional control cable. It too has a battery.

TomTom GO 910 - This unit has a lot going for it, and it delivers. The unit has a 20GB hard drive with turn by turn directions in 36 languages and more than 50 voices. Maps for the US, Canada and Europe are pre-loaded. The text-to-speech capability tells you the name of the street that you are going to turn onto. It also has an MP3 player and a digital photo viewer. It has a battery.