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TomTom is a company that is best known for its TomTom GO models that have progressed through the years at offering the most up to date technology for useful and inexpensive appliances. Although there haven’t been any updated TomTom GO devices during 2009, people perservere in purchasing the previously made products on account of they do not disappoint with regards to performance and usability. The only issue that a few consumers face is the cost. Another model to consider is the Garmin 7200 StreetPilot GPS.

The TomTom ONE GPS gives you the response to this conundrum. The TomTom ONE is a different lineup for people who would like to conserve money but like the TomTom’s options. TomTom ONE actually provides several models, like XL models which are widescreen. However, only the original TomTom ONE is being offered in the US. The TomTom ONE has been known for its very low price, in addition to its paucity of features and mediocre quality. Then, the 2nd edition appeared with significant design and software upgrades, rescuing us from the old model. This review will be concerned with the updated 2nd edition.

Look and Design

Looks can be everything, so just in case, TomTom ONE manages to attract your attention with its diminutive and streamlined look with a attractively curved top. The TomTom ONE GPS is trim enough to be carried one-handed and is able to slip into a shirt pocket. Just by glancing at it, most people won’t recognize that the TomTom ONE GPS is an inexpensive model.

Setup Process

The installation procedure is rather straightforward with its plug and play functionality, and therefore you should be able to use the GPS unit right after you unwrap it. You’ll encounter a phase when you need to enable the service online, which isn’t covered adequately in the manual. The good news is; you should  be able to find everything you should have in terms of activation by accessing the comprehensive manual found just on the CD. As soon as you activate the device, you will be set to go.

Navigational Features

The TomTom ONE is especially accurate when it comes to positioning and recalculating as you drive around. Occasionally you may notice it a bit confused by 25 to 50 meters, yet it still works better than most other inexpensive handheld models available. The TomTom ONE’s routing capabilities are remarkable too, and you won’t get much if any of those frustrating instructions to double back every now and then. This device won’t locate the quickest route every time, but it still does the job. The maps that TomTom provides include a wide array of POIs, yet a small part of the signs won’t be included in the map, so be sure to keep the maps up to date.

Other Features

The sound quality is good even at high volume, during times that other devices lose clarity. The display and improved user interface are an agreeable change and should likely induce more people into giving the TomTom ONE a spin. The battery life is less than ideal, lasting a little over 2 hours, and it is provided with just a USB and car charger. Another solid car GPS unit is the Garmin 7200 StreetPilot GPS.

The TomTom ONE comes at an agreeable price and the most vital functions perform quite nicely. Consider the TomTom ONE as your selection if you really prefer to save money.