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Sat Nav Questions & Answers

Sat Nav Questions & Answers

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I'm interested in purchasing the refurbished TomTom ONE IQ EU - Is it possible to plug in an earpiece to replace the speaker? Or attach a bluetooth earpiece? Can it store several itinineraries, possibly totalling 2000 miles?

Hi, Unfortunately the TomTom One IQ has no audio out socket, and doesn't have bluetooth, so you wouldn't be able to re-route the sound in any way. It does however support itinerary planning.

What are the TomTom Start and TomTom Start2?

The TomTom Start is essentially a TomTom One, specifically designed for occasional drivers who don't need all the bells & whistles of the TomTom Go range. The TomTom Start has a simplified menu with a 2 button interface - "Plan route" and "Browse map". It's compact, lightweight, and includes the easyport mount that folds into the back of the unit. The TomTom Start 2 was released back in April 2010. It's basically the old TomTom Start with the addition of Advanced Lane Guidance and text-to-speech, normally only found on the TomTom Go range. Depending on price, the Start2 could therefore be considered a better buy than the TomTom One.

Is it possible to get a Cyprus map for my TomTom XL?

Unfortunately, no.

Has the TomTom start got speed camera detection?

It doesn't 'detect' speed cameras, but it comes with a pre-installed database of their locations, yes.

Hi there, First, thank you for your excellent site. I am close to choosing a model and your comparison chart is just what I needed to do that. The only problem I have is understanding what services come with the price of the basic unit. For example, I would like to take advantage of 12 months free live subscription. But I don't know if I have to pay extra for services like speed cameras, safety alerts, and traffic reports/alternative routes. Are these services part of the basic price for the first year and then you start paying the sub after that? Or do I need to add the updates for those services to the basic price?

A basic TomTom comes with a pre-installed database of safety camera locations and the latest maps.
Over time, new cameras may appear and roads may change, so you can optionally pay for an update if & when required.
Anything related to 'live' traffic updates will incur an extra cost, although as you say, most models come with 12 months free live services now.
So buy any live unit and you'll be 'all-inclusive' for 12 months, then you'll be left with the same unit but without the live services.

Is 2GB memory enough on the TomTom Go 750?

2GB is a fair amount of storage, but it depends on what you're planning to install. To give you an idea, it's enough to store a map of the entire USA (that's a lot of data!), but not enough say, to install USA PLUS Australia PLUS Africa. Because the unit has an SD card slot, it's easy to expand the memory - you could double the memory with a 2GB SD card for example, which is less than £10.

Your website is very useful but I still can't decide which unit is best for me. I just need basic functionality ( not voice controlled, Live traffic updates etc) but with North America (USA). I've tried looking for units which have UK and Europe built in and then an add on card for USA but can't find anything. Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

Hi, I'd certainly recommend the Garmin Nuvi 1370 which comes with maps of the USA pre-installed. It's slim & light and easy to use.
If you wanted a TomTom, then you'll need to go for a fairly high range model just to get enough memeory and/or an SD card slot to install extra maps. If you'd consider a refurb unit, then the TomTom 530 would be a good buy, then you can buy USA maps separately.

Please could you advice me which TomTom to get. I will need the GPS in South Africa and will need sufficient memory to download the South Africa map.

I'd suggest that you'd be best off getting a TomTom Go opposed to a Start/One/XL, as this has expandable memory and full menu options that you need.

What's the difference between all the Garmin Nuvi models?

The main differences between all the Garmin Nuvi sat nav models are the maps they comes with (either UK only, UK & European, or UK, European & USA), whether it comes with bluetooth (for mobile phone handsfree calling), the screen size (normal or XL), and whether it comes with traffic info or not. Click our Garmin Nuvi Comparison Table link at the top of this page for a quick overview of the main features of the latest models.

What is the difference between a Garmin Nuvi with Traffic and a Garmin Nuvi with nuLink Traffic?

Much like the TomTom RDS Traffic service, the standard traffic service with Garmin uses information broadcast over the radiowaves. A more accurate service is now available using Garmin nuLink functionality (this is equivalent to the TomTom Live service).

What is Garmin nuLink?

Garmin nuLink is live, location-based travel information includes instant traffic updates, fuel prices and Google™ Local search for 15 countries. 12 months of the nuLink service is included free with nuLink models, then it costs around £45 a year to keep it going. All functions of your satnav other than the live services will continue to work even if you choose not to renew the subscription

Which Garmin Nuvi models come with traffic updates?

Any model number which ends with T, (e.g. the 1210T, the 1390T) comes with RDS (radio frequency) traffic updates. More recently, this service has been called LT (Lifetime Traffic updates). The 1690, and 3700 series come with nuLink, a premium traffic service.

Who is the TomTom Start and TomTom Start2 suitable for?

The TomTom Start models would most suit the occasional driver who wants quick, simple navigation, but isn't bothered about having a wide screen, bluetooth connectivty with their mobile phone or live traffic updates.

What is the TomTom XL IQ Routes Edition2?

The TomTom XL IQ Routes Edition2 was released last year (April 2010). It's basically the old TomTom XL IQ Routes with the addition of text-to-speech.

What is the difference between the TomTom Start/ONE and the TomTom GO series?

The TomTom Start and the TomTom ONE range are the entry-level GPS systems. Howver, all TomTom models have safety camera positions pre-installed, the latest maps, touchscreen and read out your directions. The TomTom GO models have extra features such "text to speech" (reads out street names), bluetooth connectivity to your mobile phone for hands-free calling, ipod / MP3 connectivity, FM transmitter (for connecting to your car stereo) and more memory for extra maps, pictures, music etc

After going to commit to buy TomTom Go 950 I want to know why is this better than the lesser versions? Also does it have in-car charger and play MP3’s?

The 950 comes with maps of the USA, and has bluetooth hands-free calling. It comes with an in-car charger and can play MP3's, yes.

I am a little hard of hearing. Are there sat navs that have louder voice messages than others?

Not that I'm aware of, but you could always add a small external speaker to any unit which has a headphone jack, such as the TomTom x50 range.

What is the difference between the TomTom ONE IQ Routes and the TomTom ONE Start?

The new TomTom Start models offer similar functionality to the IQ Routes models with a slightly different styling and interchangable coloured covers (sold seperately)

What is the difference between the TomTom ONE and the TomTom ONE IQ Routes?

The TomTom ONE IQ Routes models were new for April 2009. The IQ Routes models have a new-look glossy black surround, and contain the IQ Routes and Advanced Lane Guidance functions that have previously only been found on the more expensive TomTom GO range

Where are the TomTom Traffic models?

The 'TomTom ONE + Traffic' range were simply the same TomTom ONE model packaged with the RDS TMC Traffic Receiver, and these packs have now been discontinued by TomTom. If you want to get the equivalent of an old "T" model then you can buy the standard model plus the Traffic Receiver separately.

Which version is the latest, and what's new, and what's the TomTom "Classic"?

The TomTom 'Classic' models have now been phased out. The latest TomTom range (April 2011) consists of the TomTom Start2, TomTom XL IQ Routes Edition2, and the TomTom GO 1000 & 1005.

I am shortly starting voluntary driving for the WRVS i.e. taking patients for hospital appointments, etc. Going to patients homes to collect them will require the use of a sat nav and it seems that the Tom Tom Start2 would do the job. However, I have a Ford Fiesta with a heated front screen and I believe that this may give problems for receiving satellite transmissions? How can I test a unit without purchasing? Though I appreciate that you may not be able to recommend retailers but it would seem that Argos seem to offer keen prices for factory refurbished units. What is their after sales service like? Does the Tom Tom Start2 require regular updates and does this cost on a regular basis? Bearing in mind that this is voluntary work and therefore I wish to keep costs as low as possible.

You're right in thinking there may be issues with a heated front screen, but you may well be okay. So as you suggest, the best thing to do is to give it a try.
I believe that satnav units are exempt from the usual Argos 16 day returns policy, so you would be better off buying from somewhere like Amazon or John Lewis, who are known to have a good returns policy.
The TomTom Start2 doesn't require any mandatory updates. At a later date you can choose to get an updated map or download new safety camera locations, but in reality it's most likely to meet your needs for a few years just as it is.

What's the difference between the TomTom GB, UK & ROI, EU, WE, "Regional" and "TomTom 22" models?

Mostly just terminology! The basic TomTom ONE is often referred to as the "TomTom GB", "TomTom UK & ROI" (Republic of Ireland), or the "TomTom Regional". These are all the same and basically mean that it comes with maps of Great Britain. The EU (Europe) or WE (Western Europe) mean that the TomTom comes with maps of Great Britain plus European countries (E.g. France, Spain, Germany, Italy etc). A TomTom with European maps is sometimes referred to as "TomTom 31" or "TomTom 42" which indicates whether it comes with maps of 31 or 42 European countries.

What are the TomTom 530, 730 and 930?

These models are now discontinued by TomTom, but you may see them on our refurb page. The 530 & the 730 are the same apart from the fact that the 730 has European maps as well as UK. The TomTom 930 is the same again, plus it comes with USA & Canadian maps & a remote control. It also has "assisted navigation" which helps continuous navigation when in tunnels. The same models with a "T" on the end come with the TMC Traffic Receiver.

What is the difference between the TomTom ONE IQ Routes and the TomTom ONE White Pearl?

Nothing, other than the colour!

What's different between the TomTom x30, x40 and x50 range?

A slightly different styling, and the x30 range is not compatible with 'TomTom Live' services

What's different between the TomTom RDS TMC Traffic & TomTom HD Traffic?

TomTom RDS TMC Traffic gives free traffic updates for life via an external antenna that you need to have inside your car. TomTom HD Traffic requires a subscription and is more accurate, with no antenna required.

Will TomTom Live be available as an add-on for my existing TomTom Go?

There are no plans to release TomTom Live as an add-on for earlier models that we're aware of.

What's different between the TomTom Live models (x30, x40 and x50)?

All models have slightly different styling, and the x30 range is not compatible with 'TomTom Live' services. All these models have now been discontinued, so you should maybe take a look at the TomTom Go 1000 Live and the TomTom Go 1005 Live models instead.

What's different between the TomTom VIA and the TomTom VIA Live?

The TomTom VIA Live models are compatible with TomTom Live services, and come with 12 months free live services included.

What's the difference between the TomTom VIA 110 and the TomTom VIA 120 Live?

TomTom Live services include HD traffic, weather reports etc. The TomTom VIA Live comes with 12 months free live services, after which it costs around £47.50 a year. The non-live version of the TomTom VIA is not compatible with live services. The TomTom VIA 110 appears to be exclusive to the DSGi group within the UK at the moment (Dixons, PC World, Currys).

What's different between the TomTom XL Live and TomTom VIA Live?

As well as the usual interface tweaks and slightly new look, the TomTom VIA adds to the XL Live by offering voice control and bluetooth hands-free calling via your mobile phone. Note that the VIA range have the usual capacitive touchscreen rather than the top-of-the-range resistive touchscreen found on the TomTom Go 1000 Live.

I'm thinking of getting a Garmin Nuvi and want it to have European maps on it. How do I know if the maps that it comes preloaded with are this years?

If you buy a new Garmin, you're always guaranteed a free update to the latest maps if they are not already installed - see https://my.garmin.com/maps/nuMaps.htm
If you buy a refurbished Garmin then it's a bit more of a grey area, you'd probably need to ask the retailer when you buy it

If I buy the Tom Tom GB can I download maps for Europe?

Yes you can. It will cost around £60 though, so you're probably better off buying a model with EU mapping as a first purchase.

When I bought my Tomtom XXL I was told it had a lane indicator, subsequently I have used it a few times and I have not seen the lane indicator on it. Is this an additional item which has to be added on the machine, or do I have to download this programme?

The lane indicator will be shown automatically when it's available. At the moment, you'll only really see it on dual carriageways & motorway junctions.

How do I select a destination on the Tom Tom if I don't have the postcode?

You can enter a street name and town/village, or type of destination (e.g. airport, city centre, hospital etc).

Please can you advise if I can plug an SD card with North American maps into the SD card slot on the Tom Tom 1000?

Unfortunately, no, new maps can not be added to the TomTom Go 1000 series at the moment. The SD card maps can't be used as the TomTom 1000 and TomTom 1005 don't have an SD card slot.

Please tell me the difference between the Go 1000 EU and the Go 1005 EU besides the price

The 1005 EU is the same as the 1000 EU but has a larger XXL screen.

Can you recommend a good quality reliable sat nav that has a good coverage of Cyprus (Paphos side) ?
TomTom don't do Cyprus coverage, but I believe that Garmin (Navteq maps) do.
Therefore you'd be fine with any Garmin Nuvi model with EU maps such as the Nuvi 1490T or Nuvi 1695.
I'm looking for a easy and simple sat nav that has speed camera pick ups on and has maps for france please advise which are the models to look at?
You can't go wrong with a TomTom Start if you're after easy & simple.
The TomTom Start EU comes with maps of France and pre-installed speed camera locations.
I am looking to buy my first sat nav. What does ROI mean?

ROI is 'Republic of Ireland'. As far as I'm aware, all sat navs that offer UK/GB maps also include maps for ROI, it's just that some places choose to include it in their descriptions!

I have a Tom Tom but will be moving to ireland from England. It has an SD card - Will I be able to download and change to use the Tom Tom in Ireland?
I would suspect that as your TomTom already has England maps it will also have maps of Ireland pre-installed, so it should work fine anyway.
If not, you should be be able to download Ireland maps to it, yes.
Downloading a map installs it straight on to the internal memory of the TomTom, so the SD card slot won't be required.
I have never used or owned a sat nav system and don't really want one that has to be stuck on a windscreen or mounted permanently on my dash as i just want it for occasional use - do they always need to be mounted somewhere or could a sat nav work on a temporary mount?

A sat nav generally needs to be able to 'see the sky' in order to get a GPS signal, which means it needs to be in the vicinity of your windscreen. If you don't want a standard mount, then I'd recommend 'beanbag' mounts, available from TomTom or Amazon. These just sit neatly on your dashboard without the need to suction cups etc.

I have been reading your very helpful info pages and see that TomToms have safety camera alerts but garmin don't seem to - is that correct?

Both TomTom and Garmin sat navs come with safety camera alerts.

Are Tom Toms and Garmins the best systems as I notice RAC do them also?

I don't know much about RAC sat nav systems to be honest. The market leaders are TomTom and Garmin, but that's not to say there aren't some decent units out there from other manufacturers. As a first purchase though, I'd recommend a well known brand such as TomTom as they are so user-friendly.

What is text to speech?

Text to speech means that the sat nav reads out street names. All sat navs will say 'turn left' and 'turn right', but ones with text to speech will also read road names, e.g. 'turn right onto Carnaby Street'.

Do they all sat navs work exactly the same way regarding the maps and instructions?

Maps and instructions are the basic fundamentals of a sat nav unit, and they all work the same, yes.

Which Garmin Nuvi models come with nuLink?

Garmin nuLink Live services are available on the Garmin Nuvi 1690, Garmin Nuvi 1695, Garmin Nuvi 2340 and Garmin Nuvi 2390.

What is a TomTom 'Fluid Touchscreen'?

The fluid touchscreen is found on the high-end TomTom models, and uses capacitive rather than resistive technology.

Capacitive touchscreens are those that respond to the electrical properties of the human body. This means that they can be controlled by a light touch, and don't require the user to exert heavy pressure on the screen.

They are also able to respond to more than one touch at a time, so multitouch functionality is allowed, such as the TomTom 'pinch to zoom' feature.

 

How much does a Garmin nuLink 12 month subscription cost?

The first year comes free when you buy a new Garmin sat nav, then it costs £44.99 a year after that. Note that there's no commitment to subscribe if you choose not to.

How much does a 12 month TomTom Live subscription cost?

The first year comes free when you buy a new TomTom sat nav, then it costs £47.50 a year after that. Note that there's no commitment to subscribe if you choose not to.

If you shop around you're likely to find a 12 month subscription card for less than £47.50 though. Amazon often sell the cards for around £35.

 

What is TomTom Park Assist? (AKA TomTom Parking Assist)

The TomTom Park Assist function alerts the user to the nearest car parking space. It can also be used in conjunction with itinerary planning, e.g. to find a parking space at your final destination.

Can the Garmin Approach S1 Watch accept programmed golf courses?

Unfortunately not, no.

Hi, Can the TomTom Start use GPS coordinates as input?
No, the TomTom Start doesn't allow coordinate entry.
You would need to go for an older model (e.g. refurbished TomTom One) or the TomTom XXL, or any TomTom Go.
I would like to buy a tom tom with lane direction and street speech notification. I would order a tom tom start two but it has no view route by text - this is important to me as i need to see which way it wants to take me. I have a tom tom one version two with USA maps (I would like to give to my dad when i upgrade) but I now have no idea which one to choose. I was going to but referb from tom tom through your site but i dont know which one, so is there one with view route by text, streets spoken, lane direction and possible USA upgrade? (though the usa upgrade not that important)

As you've deduced, the older refurb mdels don't tend to have text-to-speech (spoken street names) or advanced lane guidance, but the newer mid-range models don't offer 'view route by text'. I think to get all these features together you'll need to go for a TomTom Go model, such as the TomTom Go 530 refurb. The Go 530 is able to be upgraded to USA maps too.

Are there any reasons why a bluetooth phone won't pair with a tom tom? Their web site is a bit spare on the compatibility scene and I'm not sure why.
As you're probably aware, you'd normally find a list of compatible mobile phones on the TomTom website at http://www.tomtom.com/phones/compatibility/, but the page seems to have been down the past few days.
As a general rule, any phone with bluetooth will be able to connect to any TomTom with bluetooth for hands-free calling.
Some phones will also allow some extra features such as reading SMS text messages, but with the TomTom website page down I can't confirm which models those are!
As an example, I know that the Apple iphone will work for handsfree calling, but not SMS text message reading.
Sorry I can't help more. I'll keep an eye on the TomTom compatibility page and when it's back up I'll look at adding some more info to my site.
Does the TomTom XXL have an SD card slot?

No.

Does the TomTom Start Edition 2 have an SD card slot?

No.

Does the TomTom Go 1000 Live have an SD card slot?

No.

Does the TomTom Go Live 1005 have an SD card slot?

No.

What's the difference between the Garmin Nuvi 1690 and the Garmin Nuvi 1695? Do both come with nulink?

Both models come with Garmin nulink live services. The 1690 has a 4.3" XL screen and the 1695 has a 5" XXL screen.

Do you know if the Tom Tom ONE version 5 has view route by text? I think I really need this feature as my Tom Tom ONE version two will tell me which route it's taking.

It appears as though the TomTom One V5 will do routing by text, yes. See the manual download from TomTom at http://download.tomtom.com/open/manuals/one40/refman/TomTom-ONEv5-XLv2-en-GB.pdf

Which sat navs allow postcode entry?

All TomTom, Garmin and Navman in-car sat navs allow you to enter your destination by supplying a postcode.

I just arrived in the UK and I need to buy a tomtom today for my use. I need any affordably recommended model with all these features: - Ability to notify you of mobile and stationary speed cameras - Ability to get you all street names and numbers as well as all postcodes within the UK - Ability to show or notify you of specific speed limits for all streets/roads - Ability to notify you of road/street closure due to accidents, repair works or traffic controls on your route. - Ability to connect your mobile phone to it as a hands free feature. - Big/wide screen for easy view. I am looking at @tomtom go 1000 please let me know if its just what I need or there can be a cheaper one with same features.

The TomTom VIA Live 120 will also give you all those features, but doesn't have the really nice 'fluid touchscreen' found on the TomTom Go Live 1000. Perhaps consider the TomTom Go Live 1005 too, which is the same as the TomTom Go Live 1000 but has an extra large 5" screen.

Can you tell me how up to date the maps are in the Tom Tom XL IQ Edition 2 model?

If you're buying new then you're covered by the 'latest map guarantee', so will be able to download the latest maps for free anyway.

If you're buying a refurb then they're likely to be very recent, (i.e. reinstalled as part of the refurb process), but may possibly as old as when the unit was first released (around April 2010).
Can you please tell me what current TOM TOM model is the equivalent of the G 720?

The equivalent of the old TomTom Go 720 is now the TomTom Go 750.

Although the 750 has been discontinued too (but still available), and has been replaced by the TomTom Go Live 1000 EU.
Which sat navs have USA (North America) & Canada maps preinstalled?

There's the TomTom Go 950 (now discontinued) and the Garmin Nuvi 1370.

Hi I need some help! I currently have a Tom Tom GO 520 which I use all over UK with my work, I currently also have an SD card (4GB) with the latest Florida map as I go there often on holiday. In addition, I subscribe to the camera safety alert. I want to upgrade to a 5 inch screen with lane recognition and add Los Angeles map as I am going there shortly on holiday. I have looked in Halfords and I don't really seem to be getting the expert help I really need before parting with quite a lot of money. I do go to Europe often with work also so I am hoping you will be able to assist with the best choice to suit me and direction on where I will get a good offer.
Unfortunately the latest TomTom models seem to be missing the ability to add maps, either by download or by SD card. TomTom have said that this functionality will be available soon, but a number of models have been out for a few months now and no news as of yet (June 2011).
As no 5 inch screen TomTom models are shipped with USA maps, if you're set on a 5 inch model with USA maps you'll currently need to go for something other than TomTom.
The Garmin Nuvi 1490T or the latest Garmin Nuvi 2300LT would seem to be a good choice - you would have to add USA maps as an extra.
If you were happy to manage without a 5" screen and just have a standard 4.3" XL screen, a TomTom Go 750 would work with your existing map and give you lane guidance. Alternatively, the TomTom Go 950 would give you Florida and LA maps pre-installed.
I have a tomtom one v2 satnav and would like to install a euro map with sd card, any advice on which card and method etc would be greatly appreciated.
Well an SD card with EU maps costs around £55 from TomTom (http://www.tomtom.com/en_gb/products/accessories/maps-sd-cards/), but you could buy a brand new TomTom with EU maps for £88 (or refurbished for £76).
You might be able to find an SD card with EU maps on ebay for a bit less.
You could also download the maps directly into the V2 internal memory from TomTom.com, but that's £50 for Western Europe or £60 for Western & Eastern Europe.
So unfortunately, due to the costs involved and unless you're very attached to your old V2, I'd probably recommend you just buy a new TomTom with EU maps pre-installed on it. That way, you get the latest maps and latest features as well.
I want to buy a Garmin sat nav. However the range is baffling. I want a wide screen, easy to use, where am I, POI, UK and W/Europe. I don't want/need instant traffic updates. Hope you can recommend one.
Based on your requirements, you can't go far wrong with the latest Garmin Nuvi 2340. It gives you everything you've listed and is a fairly reasonable price.
If you wanted an XXL screen rather than an XL screen (5 inches rather than 4.3 inches) then you could go for the Nuvi 2440.
Could you please help me? I would like to buy a sat nav for my husband’s birthday but I am a little confused as to which one I should buy. We live in Spain so would definitely want UK and European Maps but we occasionally go to the USA as we have family there. It looks as though there are not many models that include maps for the USA – are the maps available at a later date if required or is it advisable to include them at the time of purchase? Also is it necessary to pay a subscription to update the maps on all models? He would not want to hook up his mobile phone via bluetooth, and wouldn’t want to stream music or upload pictures etc. I don’t mind how much it is but I don’t want to pay for features he won’t use. We have borrowed a TomTom in the past and have hired a Garmin in the USA – he like both makes. Would you please be able to offer me a recommendation.
From a cost point of view, it would make sense to purchase a unit with USA maps pre-installed rather than add them at a later date, yes.
I would recommend the Garmin Nuvi 1370. It has maps of the UK, Europe & North America pre-installed. It's recently had a substantial price drop (it's now £150 but was £180).
You don't need to pay a subscription to update any maps. You can choose to pay a one-off fee if you want to update the maps in due course (e.g. after a year or two), but that's entirely optional. You will always be able to download the latest map for free when buying a new unit, so you don't need to worry about that.
You can find the Garmin Nuvi 1370 on our page here:
Hi! Can you please tell me if I buy a Start 2 EU or an XL IQ Europe is there enough space to download the Australia maps if I move there?
I don't have a Start2 to test, but I've been trying to find out for you. I'm afraid the information is harder to come by than it should be!
Basically, the Start2 and XL2 have 2GB of internal memory (2000MB), and the Australian maps are 135MB, so I'm 99% sure that you would have no problems installing the map.
Sorry I can't be more definite, if I find out a definitive answer I'll get back to you!
Can you tell me perhaps, if I buy an RDS TMC receiver, does that mean I don’t need Live srvices? Ie, will an RDS TMC receiver guide me around traffic jams in real time without live services?
Yes it will, but it won't be as good.
The RDS traffic receiver relies upon traffic updates sent over FM radiowaves, which aren't as frequent or as detailed as the Live traffic services which are updated every 3 minutes or so via a GPRS connection.
So as a free service it's worth having, but if traffic updates are important to you then I'd suggest Live traffic instead.
What are the differences between the TomTom ONE V2 and V3?

Dimensions & weight are the same on both models. The only aesthetic difference is a silver band round the screen on the V3, opposed to a black band on the V2.

The V2 has an SD card slot with the maps on, the V3 stores maps in internal memory and has no SD card slot.

The V3 has an RDS traffic receiver jack on the rear. The V2 can not be used with the RDS traffic receiver (sold seperately).

The V3 uses a different chipset than the V2. There is little difference to the user. It's been suggested that the V2 is very slightly faster at calculating complex routes.

The V2 has Bluetooth 2.0 for data download. The V3 does not have Bluetooth.

Battery life is reportedly the same on both models.

Thanks for your very interesting site – but I’m still totally confused – far too much choice!! I’m going to the states for a holiday in August. All I need is a simple GPS – no Bluetooth wifi etc., etc. The question is, I think, simple. Am I better buying the cheapest model here – but then I think I need expensive USA maps, or do I buy a cheap model over there – but then can I use it back here and are the maps just as expensive??
To be honest, I don't think there's going to be too much difference in it.
A cheap sat nav in the UK will cost around £70 + £45 for the USA maps, or buying a sat nav in the USA is likely to cost around $80 + $60 for a UK map.
Wherever you bought the sat nav, it will happily work in both countries using the same car charger for power.
If you chose to buy in UK then you'd get more value for your money by buying a sat nav with USA maps preinstalled, such as the TomTom Go 950 (£190) or Garmin Nuvi 1370T (£168).
Can USA and Canada maps be installed and used on the Go 1000 series of Tom toms?

At present, no they can't.

I am so confused with the no of models available – I need a Sat nav for use for holidays only (I travel 2 times a year to UK & Europe) and occasionally USA. I live in HK and wouldn’t mind using this with a HK map (optional) Which has better mapping facilities – Garmin or Tom Tom? With Tom Tom – I was looking at Start 25 – but their website shows the SD card facility and also the option of downloading a HK map is not available unless I buy a XXL or Xl model. If I buy a Start 25 (new better maps) – can I upload a HK map on that in future? Will the SD card slot enable me to add on US maps or HK maps later? Otherwise Garmin 1490T – they don’t seem to have a choice of only a HK map – I have to buy whole of SE Asia (which I don’t really need at an exorbitant cost of over 150 US$) Does the Garmin 1490 have decent mapping abilities to enable me to drive the country roads in Italy & France or is the Tom Tom better? Lastly – is it worth buying a older discontinued model like the TomTom 950 which has Europe/US & Canada (assuming the maps are updated) and then adding HK by download later? Is this the best solution as there is one available for about 190GBP in Amazon? In comparison the Start 25 is 163GBP and the Garmin is 135GBP.
To answer your questions -
Regarding mapping facilities, both TomTom and Garmin are maps are pretty equal at the moment. Garmin seem more flexible in adding new maps.
TomTom have been promising the ability to add maps to the latest series of models for a while now, but it's still restricted and isn't possible. It seems a very strange decision so I'm not sure what their plan is. One would presume the SD card slot would eventually allow map upgrades, but it might be a dangerous assumption to base a purchase on.
The 1490 would serve you fine for country roads in Italy and France. I would not consider it to be any better or worse than TomTom mapping.
Regarding your last point, yes I would recommend a slightly older TomTom Go such as the Go Live 950. The map upgrades are straightforward and it has a full set of features that you won't find on the newer more basic models (such as the Start 25).
If you weren't bothered about USA maps you could go for a refurbished TomTom Go 750 and add the HK maps.
If it came down to either garmin 1490T or tomTom 950 Live – what would you recommend between the 2?

Hi, I'd personally go for the TomTom 950 Live.

I am visiting Australia and New Zealand later in the year, could you tell me if maps are available and how much they are? I’m not sure whether to purchase a sat nav there or here in the uk and try to download maps.
The maps are available but are rather expensive! You can download the Australia map from TomTom for £49.95, as well as the New Zealand map for the same price (so £100 in total).
Garmin sell an Australia & New Zealand map for £149.95.
So to be honest I'd recommend you buy a sat nav once over there, then when you return to the UK you could sell it or install UK maps.
I’ve been looking at the TomTom Go Live 1000 Europe but as I’m going to Canada in September I would like to add the North America maps to it. Been reading some disturbing posts on various forums that the maps aren’t available for it yet. Most of these posts were made some time ago and I was just wondering whether you knew if they could be bought for it now. Can’t see anything anywhere confirming it either way. If not then I feel my only option is to buy the TomTom Live 950. The sat-nav must come with live services as I’m on the road a lot with work and find the traffic updates invaluable.
Unfortunately, for whatever reason, it's still not possible to install additional maps on to the TomTom 1000 series, so you're right in thinking a TomTom Live 950 would be a good choice.
However, if you'd be happy buying a refurbished unit and don't need EU maps then my advice would be to buy a TomTom Live 550 for £79.99, (using our current £50 discount voucher code), and installing North America maps onto that (via tomtom.com for £39.95).
I just bought a TomTom VIA 1535 in the US. I want to bring this thing to the UK at the end of July 2011 and use it there. I am trying to find a UK map but I am not having any luck. This unit has a micro-SD port. I know that TomTom has maps of the UK. Is there some reason why I can't buy a map of the UK for this unit?
For some reason, known only to TomTom, it's still not possible to add additional maps to the latest models.
So unfortunately it would seem your only choice is to return it, yes.
Is it possible to buy Tom Tom which is compatible France and South Africa?
No UK TomToms are supplied with the South Africa map, so you will need to download this from TomTom.com for approx £55.
You could then buy a TomTom with UK maps and install the France map separately (£35), or buy a TomTom with EU maps already installed.
The latest TomTom models don't currently allow additional maps to be installed, so you'd need to look at a slightly older model such a TomTom Go Live 550 or 750.
I have previously had the TomTom Go Live 930 with maps of the USA included with the maps of Western & Central Europe. I would very much like to change it and replace the Go 930 Live with the Go 825 EU, so I have a few questions. I have already looked at the features comparison on your website (http://www.satnav-discounts.co.uk/tomtom-go/tomtom-comparison-chart.htm) but I have a few more questions. 1. I travel to the US very often and drive there. The GO 930 has been very useful because it has the US maps. If I buy the GO 825 EU, is it possible to buy the USA maps for that device? I also bought the Australia and Southern Africa maps separately, does that mean that I lose all those maps when I buy the GO 825 EU? I paid a lot for those extra maps and would not like to lose them. 2. Does the GO 825 EU have an inbuilt FM transmitter just like the GO 930 Live with a jukebox (MP3 player) feature that can play audio files like MP3 files? These are features that were not include on your comparison chart.
To answer your questions:
1) For a reason known only to TomTom, no it's not currently possible to install additional maps onto the latest TomToms. Regarding pre-purchased maps, I believe that these stay with the unit and not the owner so there's no easy way of transferring them over. I've heard that it can be done by TomTom support staff, (e.g. in the event a unit is stolen), but in general, maps are not transferable.
2) I believe that the FM transmitter is no longer included in the latest TomTom models. You would need to look at alternative methods of getting the sound onto your car stereo, such as using bluetooth or aux out.
Sorry these probably aren't the answers you were hoping for!
I am looking for a sat nav that covers eastern Europe incl Bulgaria, Rumania & turkey, can you advise which have them installed as standard ?
Note that TomTom maps only partially cover Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey (i.e. main roads only). You will need a model that comes with full Europe (Central & Eastern Europe) maps.
See our TomTom comparison chart to see which models come with these installed as standard:
I have a couple of questions before I buy myself a satnav. I bought Garmin for my daughters a couple of years ago. I live in France and when they came across we used them on routes known to me so that I could see how they worked. I hated them – the took us the longest routes on the smallest almost dirt tracks and they were not programmed to do this. However, I am not confident driving to unfamiliar places, especially big cities and navigating motorways etc. I am driving back to the UK in September alone and want something other than a google print out which I know is dangerous. I have been looking at TomTom Start 25 Europe but before I buy anything I wonder if you could advise me as to whether or not this is user friendly or if there is anything around that is better/easier. Using the Garmin I did have trouble when it said take the next turning right but it didn’t actually mean that – you had to look at the map and to me that is no safer than looking at a piece of paper. I hope you can shed some light as there are so many around, so many reviews and I am just confused!
It sounds like your experiences are fairly typical of most sat nav users! I'd love to say that the TomTom Start 25 would route you 100% perfectly all the time, but the technology isn't perfect and occasionally all sat navs may choose a route that appears a bit odd to say the least.
However, the good news is that the technology is improving all the time, and it's very likely that a new TomTom will be more accurate than a 2 year old Garmin. It has advanced lane guidance and the menu system is very staightforward. In fact, to answer your question, if you're after user-friendliness then I think you're making the right decision with the Start 25.
Looking for a sat nav that I can use in the EU and USA and Australia, obviously with interchangeable SD cards or similar. Can you advise which sat navs have this facility?
These days you'd normally download all the maps onto the device. E.g. Buy a TomTom Go 950 which has EU & USA maps installed, then download Australia maps onto it.
The latest TomToms currently don't allow new maps to be added, so you'd need to look at slightly older TomTom models such as the Go 550, 750 or 950.
The lower end TomToms (Start, XL) don't have enough memory to store these maps, and don't have an SD card slot either.
Most Garmins have an SD card slot (look at models like the Nuvi 1340), so you could download maps onto one card, or buy the individual cards separately.
I find your site an excellent source of information and this has helped me on a number of occasions. Perhaps you can clarify something for me. It concerns the 2011 Garmin 2300 models wth a PhotoLive feature. At first glance it appears that (perhaps for a limited period) one years subscription to NuLink Services is included in the purchase price and the inference is that PhotLive is part of this one year subscription. However, looking on the Garmin Web Site, the page with a Nuvi 2390 picture, it states that PhotLive is a 30 Day Free Trial with a monthly Subscription thereafter! I tried to clarify this with a phone call to Garmin a few weeks ago but the Customer Service Representative could not help, even after I described the page on the official web site.
It appears that the PhotoLive feature isn't part of the nuLink live services, so is separate to the 12 month nuLink subscription.
i.e. It's a 30 day free trial, followed by a £3.95 subscription if you choose to keep it.
I must admit I wasn't aware of this - I'd presumed it was part of the live services too. I'll look at making this a bit clearer on the site.
If I go down the Go Live 750 route I assume that I will get 12 months free and then have to pay a subscription ? Is this correct ? How much ? and what happens if I don't subscribe after 12 months . I am a " novice" with mobile GPS as you will have guessed. Do Tom Tom have a system that does not need live updates and will still accept France and South African maps ?
Yes you get 12 months free, then if you choose to continue it's around £45 for another 12 months (you would need to buy a scratchcard which is widely available from TomTom, Amazon, Halfords, Argos etc).
If you don't subscribe then the sat nav will continue as normal but you won't have access to the live features (HD Traffic, local fuel prices etc).
All TomTom Go models now have live connectivity, but it's purely optional. You don't even have to activate the 12 months free if you didn't want to(!)
How much do tom tom and garmin charge for updating maps.

Garmin charge £49 for a one off update or £95 for lifetime updates.

TomTom charge £20 a year, offering 4 updates per year (maps are updated every quarter).
Need to buy a Tomtom Rider Pro for a trip to France at the end of the month. Do you know if it comes with everything to charge the satnav off of the battery or do I need to buy a separate charging unit? Do you ever get any refurbed Riders?? Sorry for all the questions. Is the only difference between the Urban Rider and the Pro the headset??
The TomTom Rider Pro only comes with a home charger, so you'll need the separate charging unit to charge form the bike, yes.
I'm not sure if there's any reason for it, but I've never seen any refurbished Riders around. There's always eBay though of course.
The only difference with the Pro version is the headset, yes.
Please tell me if all Tom Toms need to have PC Docks for updating maps etc or do you have to buy these separately.

Hi, only the older TomTom Go x50 range come with a PC dock.

However, all models come with a USB lead which connects to the computer, so a dock isn't required.
Can you tell me, please: How does the “live” function on TomToms work? Does it depend on a connection to my mobile phone or does it have something inbuilt?
The Live TomToms use an inbuilt sim card, much like a mobile phone, and use GPRS data over the mobile phone networks (I believe they use the Vodafone network in the UK).
They don't require a connection to your mobile.
My old Tomtom One has given up the ghost. I'd like to buy a replacement which has all the old features especially the ability to view the route before I leave the house as text, replace part of the route ie like replacing A2 with A20 on way to Dartford etc. I also like the new features like lane directions and spoken road names and text to speech. My last one recently kept dropping off the windscreen. (which is perhaps why it can't be fixed) What do you recommend?
The simplified menu of the TomTom Start and TomTom XL means that some of the features you have been used to may be missing in these models. Therefore I'd suggest that you go for a step up on these, and if you're not bothered about Live services then a good idea would be the TomTom VIA.
I'd suggest you have a quick look at our comparison table and the manual of the TomTom VIA to make sure it's got all the features you want:
The mount has been redesigned in the new models too, so hopefully it will stick on your windscreen a bit better!
Hi, please can you tell me of any Sat Nav which offers a ' free' or included in the price, map update for product life. If so maker and model?
Garmin sell a lifetime map upgrade voucher for around £75, which can be used with any of the recent Garmin models. See http://www.garmin.com/uk/maps/numaps/numaps-lifetime/
The Garmin Nuvi 1340T, 1390T and 1490T have packs available that include this card. These packs often feature LMT in their description (e.g. the 1490LMT is the same as the 1490T with lifetime map updates).
TomTom offer a map update service for around £20 a year.

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