TomTom ONE XL-S
TomTom is soon going to be offering a small bump to the existing ONE XL with the ONE XL-S. So what does the “s” mean? The only difference between the ONE XL and the ONE XL-S we have been able to identify is that the XL-S will come with text-to-speech. It will also come with NavCore version 7 installed with MapShare, however the ONE XL can be upgraded to version 7 with MapShare as well. Another nice bonus is that the XL-S will come with 64 Mb of RAM instead of 32Mb found on the older XL which should give this interface some speed improvements.
Expect the ONE XLS to hit store shelves in the next couple of weeks, at a price about $50 over the price of the ONE XL.
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It has been reported elsewhere that the XL-S will have the new maps (version 6.75), NavCore 7 (full version rather than just the Lite), and MapShare.
This will allow Advanced Planning with multiple itineraries as well as the text to speach.
Can you recommend a handheld GPS that can be used for both auto routes and sea kayaking?
No, but I could recommend one for each task. Handheld devices function poor for auto use because they don’t have voice prompts, large screens, nor touch screen interfaces. Auto devices can’t be used well for sea kayaking because they are not water-proof.
I am looking to buy an XL-S. I get mixed reviews on the TomTom’s. I’ve read that people take their devices out of the box and 1-3 days later, it doesn’t work anymore. Since there are so many devices’ out there, I don’t know which one to pick that I can afford. I don’t want to spend 150 bucks and have a P.O.S. I also have a professor who bought a $600 device and it throws him off track. He told me that he was going on lets say rt.80 then it took him off the route 80 and down a road and back onto route 80 a few mins later. I get so many mixed reviews about portable GPS devices. I want a TomTom XL-S, would that be a good choice?
Every manufacturer seems to have DOA devices from time to time. I haven’t seen TomTom have any higher rate of defective devices versus other top GPS companies.
Any device will give weird routing from time to time. The type of weird route you describe has been mentioned to me (and I’ve seen myself) in just about every GPS on the market.
Thanks Tim, I will eventually buy the XL-S then. I like the slim desgin and the Text-to-Speech options on that. I heard TomTom’s were pretty good as well. It was just a very hard choice to make since there are so many other brands out there with different options. It is a hard choice but since you say about “every” GPS on the market does that, there is no getting around it! Thanks again Tim!
Thinking about a Tom Tom XL-s as well. After using a Garmin Nuvi 350 for a week, I was sold on text to speech. I found this very helpful when driving and listening to the device. If the tom tom one had test to speech I’d buy that based on your reviews. The xl-s seems like it will be an improvement over the one.
My husband has a job that requires a lot of driving threw the eastern seaboard. I would like to buy one as a gift for him. I think the one that talks is the best but I prefer your consul. Which do you think would be the best.
I’m thinking of buying a GPS as a gift and have it narrowed down between ONE XLS and Nuvi 650. It will be used in Pittsburgh mostly and is needed for day to day one-stop car trips around the city. Price is not an issue and bluetooth, traffic, etc. is not needed, all that really matters is the text to speech option, wide screen, and street names, which both have. Do other people have any opinion on which is the better way to go? I recently tried a Nuvi 650 in the city and it took 15+ minutes to acquire a signal, which is what has made me consider the TomTom in the first place. Thanks!
Andy - Either would likely be a good match. It shouldn’t take the 650 that long to get a signal provided it recently had a signal in that same area and had a clear sky view. Most of the time it should only take a few seconds to get a signal.
Thanks for the quick reply Tim. When the 650 took 15 minutes to find a signal, it had been after I shut it off following a 2+ hour car trip from out of town, maybe that’s what it was. All other things being relatively equal, I think I’ll go with the Nuvi 650.
Hey Tim,
How are the POI on the XL-S? A friend had the XL and wasn’t too happy eith the POI on it.
The POIs on the ONE XL and ONE XL-S will be nearly the same. Most GPS devices (from any manufacturer) have about 1-6 million POIs which is a fraction of all known POIs. Unlike the road database, they don’t try to offer 100% coverage… 5-20% coverage is more typical.
Hi Tim,
In Aug’07, I purchased two TomToms (Rider & ONE-XL for my wife). Love the product, but 2 things missing, which I find is a major oversight:
1- Record options, POI or travelled routes;
2- Plan trips & share routes with your riding buddies. Plan trips on your computer before you start. Search for food and fuel stops and local attractions. Then, transfer your route to your TomTom and go.
Having said that, reading the reviews, MapShare will be available for the XL (Ver 7). Would this be similar to what the product is missing?
Leroy, regarding number 1, there is third party software out there called ‘TripMaster’ that will record tracklogs on many TomTom devices. You might want to check that out. You can record your own POIs into the device through the Manage POI menu option.
Regarding number 2, you can do that as well. You can create an Itinerary on your device or though the TomTom HOME software. Then once you have saved your Itinerary you can copy that file to your computer, either manually or through TomTom HOME. Then you can send that file to other people for them to install manually, or through TomTom HOME. Or you could connect their GPS to your computer and transfer the Itinerary.
MapShare is simply a way to mark and make corrections to mapping errors you might find on the device, and share those corrections with other TomTom users.
Tim — with respect, “The only difference between the ONE XL and the ONE XL-S we have been able to identify is that the XL-S will come with text-to-speech.”
To me, at least, that is a major, nor a minor improvement. When I am driving I try to glance at the screen, mainly to see the big “next turn” arrow direction and distance to it, but I also count on the “voice” to tell me what to do next. For me, now that the market is sophisticated to offer so many features, this is the difference between “buy” and “don’t buy.”
Thanks for your comments, CocoaNuts!
Is there any considerable difference in the map software between Tom Tom and Magellan? Is one more accuate than another?
I’m deciding between TT1 XL-S & Nuvi 350. I like the Nuvi 350’s 8-hr battery life and portibility for pedestrian. Since these are not my primary criteria, I don’t want to miss any new improvements that may be in TT1 XL-S since it is a newer device. I tried to look for a head-to-head comparision, but found none. Can you comment please?
Dennis, you can read about that here.
Jack, you can compare those two here.
I am a Realtor and I’m looking at the TomTom XL-s versus the Garming C340 Street pilot. I want to input multiple destinations on my PC and transfer to GPS. I want to be able to delete one of the destinations while on the road. (Buyer’s change their minds and omits homes)And not get lost. Also, does any of them suggest a route like mapquest? Can you edit it? Avoid tolls etc? I would greatly appreciate input on this.
Leila, the c340 doesn’t have multi destination routing. You can only have your destination and one via point in the route. So the ONE XL-S is much more suited to your task for entering multiple destinations, eliminating individual destinations later, etc. It can avoid toll roads.
Thanks Tim,
How about the Nuvi 600 that my husband is pushing for? I know it’s more expensive.
You would have to move up to the Nuvi 700 series before you get multi destination routing.
Thanks, Tim for the comparison. I noticed that the TT XL-s did not specify what chipset it has. Is that info anywhere?
Jack, like many manufacturers TomTom doesn’t often confirm chipsets anymore.
Thanks for the input Tim !!
Good to hear about the 3rd party s/w. I have viewed the site already, but I’ll play around with it.
Question: I want to ride where I choose, not where TomTom tells me. Does Itin’s do that? Can I tell TT where I want to go, exactly ?
Being a RoadCaptain, I need to prep some routes for group-riding and I need that versatility. I also need TT to tell me where to go/turn. Waypoints are useless on TT, since they won’t announce any approaching WayPts. Any feedback on this ?? Thanks Tim !
Yes, creating an Itinerary will allow you to force a route wherever you want to go provided that route is on roads and that it takes no more than 48 points to force that route.
I am looking for a GPS for my wife. I definately need text-to-speech, the larger screen and would like one that allows you to override the routes to eliminate highways. She rarely leaves a 20mi radius around our home and does not use highways. Any recommendations?
Mike, if you are considering this ONE XL-S, it would accomplish those tasks for you.
Thanks for your continued assistance Tim !
For my other question, is there anyway to get TT to announce programmed ‘waypoints’? Thanks!
Mike
I have a TT Rider and I purchased an ONE-XL for my wife. She took a trip to MAINE in October and she swears she’ll never leave home without it.
The ONE-XL, like other TomToms, will allow your wife to checkmark ‘Avoid Highways’. She can even program her routes into ‘Favorites’. Awesome product. We both love our TomTom. Good Luck with your decision.
Does the XL-S have bluetooth phone abilities. Which Tom Tom has hands fre calling?
Leroy - Not unless they are setup in the Itinerary as destinations rather than waypoints.
Mark - the ONE XL-S doesn’t have Bluetooth hands free calling. You would want to move up to the TomTom 720.
Can you tell me TT XL-S will display Icon like fuel, Park, School etc. on the map. I know Nuvi-250w is not showing, it only show on POI database.
Tony - Yes it will. You can select which POI categories you want included on the primary navigation display.
I have a co-worker who will be working in the middle east for different oil companies. She will be based out of Florida and will be traveling throughout the middle east region. What do you recommend as a general all around GPS that is portable, she will have different vehicles, and easy to download foreign maps into. A company that has a good selection of maps.
I am looking at buying a GPS, but don’t know what I want. My wife has one in her Lincoln Navigator and the maps seem to be quite a bit out of date.
I livei n a big city and think the traffic and bluetooth phone would be a plus. I am looking to spend $250 or less . . . any recommendations?
James - You would really need to check for each country and see which GPS companies offer detailed maps in those areas.
Matthew - If you are considering the ONE XL-S, it does not offer Bluetooth hands free calling. You might want to consider one of these.
My brother in law acquired a 2006 Dodge RAM fully equipped with factory GPS navigation. Unfortunately, the Eastern part of Canada (East of Quebec city) is entirely missing from the included maps. Chrysler seems to update their maps on a yearly basis and wants a hefty sum for it. He asked me to inquire on a GPS navigation unit for him since I’ve done some inquiries for myself although I have yet to purchase one. How do they compare for map update policy? I’ve not yet found info on this subject. When one reads maps are for North America or USA and Canada and one finds many large populated areas missing it can be a bummer especially with many stores not accepting retrurns… BTW, the brother in law owns a house in St-Alexis-de-Matapedia, Gaspesia peninsula, Quebec, Canada that has been in the family for over 100 years and the city is not on the map nor is the area! That place exists since the early 1860s.
TIA
Gilbert, most of the GPS companies offer map updates about once per year. I just looked on my ONE XL and St-Alexis-de-Matapedia is on the map with street coverage.
I am having a difficult time choosing between the TT One XL-S and the Garmin Nuvi 200W. I will mainly be using it to get around the Portland Or. Vancouver Wa. area. I am just looking for a simple one that will be easy to use and reliable. If you had to choose between the two which one would you recommend. Thank you very much.
Jason, if you haven’t already you can compare those over here. I added the XL to the list too since it is a more direct comparison to the 200W. The ONE XL-S will give you more features than the 200W such as text to speech, multi destination routing, Canadian map coverage, and custom detour lengths.
Thank you very much. You made my decision very simple now.
Thanks for confirming the map info on St-Alexis-de-Matapedia!
As to the map update information, let me rephrase it. Chrysler asks 385$ (retail) for the latest map update which is why I mentioned hefty price for yearly map update and can be had on ebay for a measly 155$!… (About 200$ on navteq site.) I have yet to know how the different GPS mfgrs handle map updates pricewise or if a new map comes out 3 months after the GPS purchase? Is it a situation similar to inkjet printers where a new printer can be had for 75$ and the inkjet cartridges cost nearly as much if not more than a cheap brand new printer?
Gilbert - Map updates from most manufacturers are released about once per year and typically cost about $75. Those are averages.
Tim: after reading many reviews and paricularly this web site I ordered the XL-S from Amazon & it’s on its way. After ordering I read the GPS Magazine review (only on the XL) and read the XL manual on the TomTom site (no XL-S manual!)
I sent TT a note asking why no XL-S manual and a few questions, but some comments on the GPS Mags review are disturbing. (1) Is it true turn distances are in yards not feet? (2) That the TT does not indicate what side of street destination is on and (3) might direct you to a spot necessitating a turn-around? The GPSMags comparative tests on (4) itinerary put TT in last place? Etc. Any comment or opinion?
Stan - I’ve numbered your questions for easier reference. The manual typically comes on the device itself. (1) That depends on the version of the software you have installed, the units you have selected, and the voice you have selected. (2) That isn’t true. When you approach your destination and the side is known a graphic arrow will show which side of the street the destination is on. (3) I’ve never seen that happen. (4) I can show you terrible routes created by any GPS. You might find this related article interesting.
I have purchased the this product as well as the Garmin Street Pilot c580 for my 70 year old father. He and my mother travel often, especailly to Alaska (we live in Texas). Which one is better? I know the Garmin apparently comes with the Micosoft something that will tell you gas prices, weather etc. Will that work everywhere or just in major cities?
I know absolutely nothing about these things. I just want a quality roduct that is not too complicated and is user friendly.
Thanks for your help!
Erin - The Microsoft (MSN Direct) service you are referring to can only be received in larger cities. One advantage the ONE XL-S would have over the c580 is that it has a widescreen, which makes the buttons on the screen bigger and easier to tap.
Tim … which would you purchase
Tom Tom One XL-S or Garmin Nuvi 260? It will be a Christmas present for my wife. I believe I have narrowed it down to one of these two units unless you have another recommendation. I would like to stay in the $300 range. Thanks very much.
Joel - The ONE XL-S has more features than the 260 such as a widescreen, and multi destination routing. It also allows for an optional traffic receiver. The 260 is more compact, as a result of the smaller screen.
Thank you Tim!!
Does Tom Tom charge for the map updates? I’ve been told no and then I’ve also been told yes. Several have claimed FREE map upgrades forever.
Barbara - Map updates are not free. TomTom did once run a promotion for free map upgrades, but that was awhile ago and for a short period of time. MapShare is free for user submitted corrections, but if you choose to get a periodic map update there is a charge.
Hi, I am torn between the TomTom One XL S and the Garmin StreetPilot c340. I like the bigger screen size with the TomTom and 20 channels versus 12 with the Garmin. I will primarily use the unit in the US, however it will be used in Canada so I’m not sure if one of the unit’s is better for both countries? Do both units have a detour option to avoid traffic and an option for avoiding highways, tolls, etc? I understand that maps can be updated on both units, however is this free to do or is there a charge? Both units are very similar in price so I am trying to determine the best one for me. Thanks for the help!
Kevin - Both units have a detour function, but the one on the TomTom is better. Both have options for avoiding highways, tolls, etc. Both require payment for map updates, however TomTom also offers MapShare (free) which allows you to submit corrections to share and download corrections from other users.
Tim, one more question, I have been seeing a technology called WAAS in some of the GPS units. I know the Garmin has WAAS, but I am uncertain whether the TomTom has this technology. If it doesn’t, is this a major tradeoff? Thanks again in advance.
Kevin - The short answer is that you will never know you don’t have it. It isn’t necessary in auto devices
Tom Tom One XL-S vs Garmin Nuvi 260: I live in Minnesota and can’t legally hang anything from windshield. Which one is better for a non-windshield mount (e.g., on dashboard)?
Tim, What is the difference, if any, between text-to-voice and voice prompt?
I just purchased a TOMTOM xl-s GPS. It does a great job and I am happy with it. The TOMTOM website offes maps of other countries on an SD card. Does this mean that If I purchase one of these I will be able to use the XL-S in Europe (for example) after inserting the card?
Jack - They both offer alternative mount types. The Garmin might have slightly better flexibility in this regard since the cables don’t come out of the bottom, but they both can work.
Mike - See our article on Text to Speech.
Marty - Yes. Or you can purchase/download the maps directly to your device if you have enough free space. (Or make free space by backing up the existing maps.)
Has anyone figured out how to put a password on the XL-s yet? I checked their web site and the unit is not shown in the supported devices yet? The manual shows how to do it via TOM TOM HOME but the function to do it is not there???
I’m new to gps. I’m thinking of a Garmin Nuvi 360 or a TT XL-S. Which do you like?
I am considering a Nuvi 260 or TT XLS. Have read comments elsewhere that TT software for Mac is buggy -what are your comments. Which has better Mac support - TT or Garmin? Also after reading your Text to speech - do either of these units give operator choice of reverting from text to speech to just voice prompts if desired?
Al - TomTom and Garmin offer the best Mac support, although both are far from perfect. You can operate TTS models in a “voice prompt” mode without the TTS function. Many people do that.
Hi,
I have heard that map updates are now free with the current Tom Tom Ones. Is this true? Are they free as a standard across brands now?
Pam, that isn’t totally true. It is true that you can download MapShare updates created by other TomTom users for free provided you have application version 7 and a fairly recent map. However the official map updates are not free.
Is there anyway to calibrate the TT1 XL-S? Mine seems to be about 5 km/h slow on the speed display (even when cruising) and about 100-150meters long when approaching a turn.
Joe, there isn’t any way to “calibrate” it. Speed calculations won’t always be accurate based on the methods used, and being “long” sounds more like a mapping error.
Hello,
I’ve been reading over all the ratings and reviews and have decided to go with a TomTom. I’m having trouble deciding on three: The TT 720, the ONE XL-S, and the GO 510 which I just found refurbished (from a major retailer here in Canada). I am a realtor and I don’t really care too much about bells and whistles (i.e. bluetooth), but I want one that will last. The price on the GO 510 is right, but I’m really nervous about buying it and then regretting it after reading what people have to say about it. Sounds like a lot of problems with the mount. The TT720 sounds great, but it’s the most expensive of the three I’m considering. Your thoughts on the best choice?
David - I’d lean towards the XL-S or the 720 because they are based on a newer generation of hardware/software. A refurbished 510 is also likely to come with much older maps.
Tomtom XLS..does anyone know the “trick” to getting the TT One XLS text-to-speech to work? I can’t seem to get it to turn on.
Two steps. (which might vary a little bit based on your application version.)
Menu -> Change Preferences -> Voice preferences -> Change voice. Select a voice that says “Female Computer” or “Male Computer” towards the top right. I think “Susan” is the TTS voice that comes installed. After selecting the voice, click ‘Select’.
The next screen has a list of “Speech Preferences”. Make sure “read aloud street names” is checked. (If you’ve already clicked out of that screen you can get back by going to Menu -> Change Preferences -> Voice Preferences -> Speech Preferences.
To supplement Tim’s explanation, only Susan (American English) is on your device. If you wish to add other computer voices, you need to use Tomtom Home with your XL-S connected to your computer. On the first screen will be add maps, traffic, voices and select that box, then, on the second screen, will be additional voices with voices being one choice and not the one you want to select, go to the second screen where you will see gaz prices and “computer voices” which is the one you wish. The other voice in the first screen are celebrety voices which cannot say street names but limited to preselected phrases such as “turn right in 300 feet”. You should do a backup of your current card before doing anything. You will need to delete Susan from the Loquendo folder of your internal memory. The reason is there is not enough space (1GB) left to put additional computer voices as they are quite large.
English is not my primary language so I will make some mistakes.
I just returned my second XL-S at the store because it was not working properly. In the first one, TomTom Home was buggy: the update didn’t work (doesn’t find the file, error message). After a week, the XL-S just stop working, when I tried to turn the power on, he was always loading and after a while, he was restarting. I exchanged it and had the same problem with the TomTom home ( no update, no download at all) so I just returned it because I just want a GPS that works properly without any trouble. I don’t know if it’s a bad luck or only a bad batch or GPS but I don’t take any chance, I’ll never buy TomTom again.
I am considering between the TT XL-S and the Garmin nuvi 350? Any suggestions as to what the best one whould be? also, I have been wondering, is there any units out there that displays a new route when you you take an alternate route, other than the one that the gps units suggests?
You can compare those two models here. I’m not sure I understand your question. If you miss a turn or take another route than what the GPS says it will recalculate a new route based on your (then) current position.
I purchased a XLS last week and very happy with it so far, I have been able to plan a iterary which was the main reason I bought this one. My disappointment is the phone numbers for motels are not listed. On the third edition they are, why whould they not include them in the XLS????
Barbara, it should. What version of the TomTom application are you running? (Click the satellite reception icon from the map view and look near the lower right of the resulting page.)
7.162
Menu -> Navigate to -> Point of Interest -> POI Near You -> Hotel/Motel -> (select one) -> (you should now see the number on the right side of the screen.)
compared diff. between the Garmin Nuvi 650 and the One XL-S. I like the +wayponts, and the Nav. system(alerts) seems more advanced. I had a SP550, and am upgrading. Any other suggestions one over the other?
I am looking at purchasing some GPS units for my delivery vehicles at work. My drivers know the city pretty well, but what I’m really looking for is a GPS that can route multiple addresses at once. Also, price is a big issue as well. Suggestions?
Also, forgot to mention that most of my employees are older, retired gentlemen so the less technical the GPS is, the better.
Travis, the XL-S can do multi-destination routing.
Just bought a Garmin 260W. I like it, but hate the way it stores Favorites. By Proximity. Who the heck thinks that’s a good way to look anything up?
I put in a list of clubs I need to travel to. I look them up by name, I don’t know which ones are closer to my current location! It’s not like I’m traveling from one the the next.
I can see having it as an option, but not as the Only option. Does TomTom offer a way to sort by Name?
Thanks!
Jimi - Favorites in the TomTom are ordered alphabetically by default.
Thanks Tim!
Hmmmm… Now I have to decide between the 260W Garmin and the TomTom One XL-S…. Any thoughts?
Pretty similar.
You can compare them here.
I want a gps that does streets & highways PLUS Lake Superior, particularly the Apostle Islands. How do I determine if it will read those islands by name? I want to use the gps for my boat in addition to in my car (but I don’t need all the fancy stuff for a marine use)
Regarding using the GPS on my boat: I want one that can be read in the sunlight, has an easy to read compass and will tell me the speed I am going. Thank you.
I picked up the TOMTOM XLS not long ago and loved it! Easy to use/ navigate menus/ gets me where I’m going even in thick fog & dark of early morning for fishing trips. Very accurate road to vehicle monitoring. The only trouble I have had was after the “latest map guarantee” update to v715.1712 North America_Canada, as I lost the opening TomTom sound and maybe others, but the TTS still works with Susan, as well as the alarm sounds I have set.
I should have left it well alone pre-loaded as is, because “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” TomTom updates seem to have broken it.
I just purchased a XL-S and so far I love it. My qusestion is what options do I have if an home address is not available? I wanted to make a favorite of my friend who lives in Reno NV and his street name is not a choice to pick?
If the address isn’t there you can try the nearest intersection or the coordinates (if known).
Tim,
Is there a reason I have not received an answer to my # 92 & 93 above? Thank you. I appreciate your input.
I get several hundred questions per day and unfortunately can’t answer them all. In the case of your question about Lake Superior and specific islands, I didn’t answer it because I don’t know the answer.
I recently purchased the TomTom One XLS. It came with a “Latest map” code. I went through the download procedure and half way through the install it had an error. Now the only map installed is of Guam (I need USA). I am new to all this and didn’t know about the backup so I did not do that first. How can I get the USA map back? Thanks for your help.
Marci - if the download completed then you should still be able to install it through HOME. Click ‘Add Maps’ -> Maps. If you don’t have any maps ‘on your computer’ available for install, the next thing you should do is call TomTom support at 866-486-6866. They can help you add the maps to your account again (if it doesn’t automatically appear when using the ‘Latest Map Guarantee’ menu item). After you would download and go through the installation process again.
You can also find some good help in our tomtom forums. For example here are some related threads.
Problem with 720 and Latest Map Guarantee
Problems downloading North American Map 710 from TT
Archive of Downloaded Map Files?
Thanks Tim. I tried to re-install, but I got another error message stating it could not read the cline.dat file. I will give them a call this morning. Thanks again for your help!
I’ve seen that error before, you should call support and give them that error message. They will likely let you download the map again.
I want to buy a Tomtom xl s and I am a macintosh user. I read in the Amazon reviews of this product that if I update the software via a Mac the tomtom HOME for the Mac install Faulty OS update. After the install the computer generated voice will no longer work. Thus street names and warnings will not be spoken. Has this been corrected. I don’t want to buy one if I can not update it and loose the voice feature I want.
Larry, I’m a Mac user with an XL-S and never ran into that issue myself. I have heard of it and I think it was corrected a couple of months ago.
Tim, Thank you. I am planning to order XL-S today.
i bought my TT xl-s a few months ago. its not perfect, but between a little common sense and my TT i have never been lost and i can always find where i am needing to go. i am in the pest control business so i drive from house to house all day.
I just bought the XL-s. I am finding the routing a little strange. It likes to take side streets and avoids left turns. I have gone to 2 places that would require a left turn. It has basically taken side streets to go past my dest. Then has me taking 2 right turns to arrive. In 1 case, I took a wrong turn and went to the large road I was going to. I was about 300 feet north of my destination. All it needed was a left turn. Instead it had me turn right, and basically go around the block with 3 rights. Then when I was South of the destination, it had me turn right again. It had me go about a mile out of the way to avoid a left turn. Is there some setting for that? It also doesn’t like my street. Even though I am only 3 houses from a main street. It will not turn on my street. It will actually go past my street, have me turn on the next street, then take a side street to my house. It does the same thing when I leave my house. If I have to go North. It will route me to go South 1 block, then turn right,then right. Then go past my street as it goes North. Strange. It has done this several times already. Instead of having me turn left, it will take me past the destination on a side street, then turn right to my destinations. At $4 a gallon, I can’t afford it taking me out of the way.
allen, if you are worried about 4$/gallon gas then you should not be buying toys like a gps. and if you knew where you were going why use the gps? no one said it was perfect. but between a little common sense and the gps, i have been able to find everything i needed.
Jeff, there are a lot of people being effected by the $4 a gallon gas. In my case I estimate I would be spending almost $2000 a year extra in gas at $4 as opposed to $2. One of the reasons for a GPS is to hopefully show you the most direct route to somewere. How do I know if I can trust the GPS to give me valid directions if I don’t try it on routes I know? I had a Magellan 4250. It gave me bogus directions. If I hadn’t known better, it would have taken me 70 miles and an hour out of way.
Allen - Statistically speaking left turns take more time than right turns (in countries where people drive on the right) so with routes that are otherwise close in time, one that has more right turns will tend to be faster. Just like people debate the best route, you won’t always agree with the GPS.
Also keep in mind for the “expensive gas” debate that GPS devices are typically programmed, or have settings for, the fastest or shortest routes… not the most economical. For example I just got back from a long trip. Using the “fastest” routing method took me on a route that was 4:05 and 242 miles. I took a different route that was 4:10 (five minutes longer in time) but only 214 miles (almost 30 miles shorter). Although it was slightly longer in time, it was over much “slower” roads thus saving me about one gallon in fuel over the other route. So most GPS devices will tell you the fastest or shortest routes, but those routs are not very often the most economical.
Tim, I understand what you are saying about left turns. I think it is UPS that tries to avoid left turns now. That doesn’t explain the Tom Tom driving past a left turn on my street and making a left turn on the next street, then coming back. That is a little strange.
You are correct in the fastest and shortest routes. I once took a route that was “Shortest distance”. But it ended up taking me to every stop sign between my starting point and my destination. Not very efficient. Some common sense is involved.
Yes, that is strange, it likely thinks (incorrectly) that there is a turn restriction at that intersection preventing a turn in that direction.
It also thinks there is right turn restriction. If I am coming from the other way and I don’t turn on the street it tells me, the next right turn is my street. It skips that and has me go to the next one. Then basically go around the block to a totally different street.
Allen / Tim
If I may, I’ve been following your case and it sounds like your map is corrupted.
I would call TT support and request a new MAP download or at least Technical support.
I wouldn’t put up with that quirk any longer.
My two cents worth…
FWIW, it doesn’t sound like a corrupt map to me. If you have a corrupt map the system will typically reboot itself every few minutes (or worse). It just sounds like a mapping error. Allen, send me the route’s starting address and ending address as well as your map version and I can verify if it is a mapping error.
OK Tim, maybe I exaggerated a wee bit.
Your right though and I was close, it certainly sounds like a mapping problem.
I just feel sorry for Allen, he wasn’t getting anywhere with his problem.
Poor guy, he can’t turn left anywhere !?!
I forgot mention in my e-mail. I have version 720 of USA and Canada. I upgraded from 710 for free.
Hi, I’m trying to decide between the magellan maestro 3250 and the tomtom xls. Can you give me some direction? Also, does the tomtom xls have a colored routing display? It appears to be in shades of black and gray.
Heide- The major difference is that the XL-S includes a widescreen, and the 3250 includes Bluetooth.
Allen - I’m checking into that mapping issue right now, stay tuned.
Thanks,Tim. What about the display screen? color like garmin and magellan or black and grey shades?
Allen, I checked out the route you emailed me. (Note that what you gave me for a starting location… there are more than one nearby so I wasn’t 100% sure I got the right one, but I picked the closest one.)
In any case, I was half right… It is due to a mapping error, but not a turn restriction. Rather the initial segment of the left turn you want it to take to the destination, from that turn to the next intersection, is marked as not available for vehicle traffic. You can however correct that through MapShare. You would just unblock that street in both directions (if appropriate). I made that change (but didn’t share it since I can’t verify it) and it changed the routing to something that makes more sense.
Sorry, yes. The XL-S does have a color display.
Thanks Tim. I reference to the display screen, is it in shades of greay and black or color like a garmin or magellan?
I recently purchased a TomTom XLS. I’ve found that I MUST know exactly what city a street is listed under in order for it to find it. For example, a street in a rural area between 3 nearby cities is only listed under one of them, so I must keep searching multiple cities until I find it. Are all the GPS units like this?
No, not all are like that. However he ones that are more flexible are sometimes too flexible… scrolling through a list of a couple hundred “main st” or “elm st” entries can be difficult as well.
I am afraid I don’t understand. I have tried to fix this. I have tried carrington Dr in both north and south to wessex and it is not showing as blocked. When the directions show up, they show blue. Carrington between route 72 and wessex has been clear for over 2 years now. When I select Carrington Dr. and click on Done, Northbound and Southbound show up with blue arrows. They do not appear to be blocked. If I click on Northbound it changes to the blocked symbol. In other words it does not appear to be blocked on my maps.
I guess we are not looking at the same place on the map then. I was using the street in your destination from your email.
Tim, I have another question. Does the XL-S have a thing against left turns? I can route from my house to a Quiznos close by. I go west on Schaumburg road for 1.5 miles. It is just west of Roselle on the South side of the street. The TOM TOM has me turning right on roselle (N). Then making 2 lefts to go South. Then I have to make another left to reach my destination. it basically has be going around in a circle to get to the same place.
Allen - I’m really confused because that is what I thought we have been discussing all of this time starting with my response in comment #110.
you are correct. That was just another way of discussing it. Right now I am trying to decide between the Magellan 4250 and the TT XLS. The TT has some nice features. Iternary planning and being able to create a route starting at some place besides your current location are 2. Also, the maps are newer than the Magellan. But these strange extra turns have me concerned. I guess as long as they get me to my destinations I shouldn’t be too concerned. Especially since the maps and POIs are newer.
I haven’t found a GPS yet that doesn’t produce some weird routes from time to time.
Tim, so have we determined that Tom Tom will not route to a left turn on a busy street. I called TT today. The tech had me reset the unit, then delete everything in the root directory of the XLS. Then reinstall the application. All these things were supposed to fix the routing thing. Of course none of them did. All I accomplished was killing an hour and deleting everything off my XLS.
Then I went to Best Buy in Schaumburg, il. I planned a trip to Bennigans in Schaumburg. I did fastest time. The route is about 2.5 miles. From BB it is 2 turns to Bennigans on the left. Instead it took me on 5 different streets to finally arive at Bennigans on the right. It is hard to calculate, but it is probably .5 miles out of way. Plus Bennigans is on an angle street and the shortest distance is a straight line. Instead it took me on all straight east or north or south streets. By the way, I did this on a new 930. Perhaps this is a British thing.
What is Mapshare all about? Is it just sharing info that is included in paid updates or is it like Wikipedia, a free database?
About TomTom MapShare.
NOW THAT THE PRICES ARE CLOSE-I WOULD LIKE TO COMPARE TT XLS TO TT 130-S. CAN YOU SET THIS UP?
The 130s has the nifty new EasyPort mount, a slightly longer battery life (3hrs vs 2), and a more compact total size. The XL-S offers multi-destination routing, and has a widescreen. So it is a more portable design and battery life versus widescreen and more routing control.
TIM-thanks. the xl-s has a 64mb ram while the 130-s has only 32mb ram. is this a big deal? can you do a side-by-side comparison of the 2 specs like you did for other models for me?
Compare. The RAM isn’t a big deal. Some of the menus are a little bit slower on the 130s than the XL-S, but it isn’t a big issue.
Does the XLS offer the ability to route to coordinates? as the Nuvi 260 does?
Rich, yes and no… It will so long as the coordinates are “close enough” to a road. I don’t know exactly what the threshold is. If it is more than a few hundred feet from a road (again, I’m not sure what the exact threshold is) it won’t create a route because it doesn’t want to assume it knows where your destination is.
You can however create a favorite based on GPS coordinates, center in on that favorite, then tap on a location on the map (on a road) and navigate to that location. Just takes a couple of more clicks to setup.
Tim,
Thanks… So. re: coordinates.. is this good or bad.. for driving to geocaching locations? Which model TT XLS or Nuvi 260 would be better?
Rich, read the first two pages of this thread. Not all of the questions, responses are relevant, but many of them on the second half of the first page and top half of the second page are, including one longer comment by me related to your question.
Tim–the magellan rm 1412 has now come down in price. how does this gps compare to the tt 130s?
Kip - I haven’t used the 1412 yet.
I tried the RM 1412. The maps are on the SD card. I found it very slow to recalulate or to find POIs. Plus it has the same recalculating problems that all the recent Magellans have. Too slow to recalculate the next street. It takes you to the one after that.
Tim,
Thanks for taking the time to answer so many questions. I see refurbished Tom Tom One XLS models offered. I am leery of buying anything that is refurbished. Should I be in this case.
Evan, that is a question that comes up frequently, so we wrote up our thoughts on it here: Refurbished GPS Devices.
Tim,
I have just stumbled across this site after returning from a purchase. Your knowledge is AWESOME! I went, expecting to buy a Garmin and left with the TomTom OneXLS. I called a friend who told me I made a big mistake…that Garmin is far superior to TomTom. Now, I am worried. Is the OneXLS a quality GPS or should I only be looking at Garmins? You know how opinions are, but I want to feel comfortable with my purchase (which I am now doubting.)THANKS!!!
Which is better…Maegellan Maestro or Tom Tom XLS?
Crystal - The XL-S is by no means a bad GPS. TomTom and Garmin are the top two GPS companies, so people tend to have passionate views about them, and personal preferences that might swing them on way or another. They each have their strengths and weaknesses, but I’m just as comfortable taking a TomTom or Garmin on a trip to an unfamiliar area. I’d feel comfortable with your purchase, the ONE series from TomTom is very popular and the user feedback is (overall) very good.
I went to buy a OneXLS, left with a Garmin 260, wonder the same thing. I like the idea of the way the TT displays more information than the Garmin.
Was going to exchange and ran out of time. We could always try a swap and see if you like the Garmin better!
I am about ready to pull the trigger on either the magellan 1412 or tt 130s. is the 1412 slower to update than the 130? does it “miss” some turns due to this slowness? how important is the 130 s ability to connect to a computer and get corrections to the maps? how about planning a trip–do they both do ok?
Kip, I have not used the 130. However, I would check the number of POIs in the 130. The 1412 has close to 6 million. In reference to the Tom Tom in general, please refer to #110, #111 and #132 pertaining to destinations on the left. Every destination I went to it made sure I approached it on the right side of the street. I I actually liked the Tom Tom Xl-s in Florida until I got back home. That is when I realized that it was constantly having me go out of the way in order to avoid approaching destinations on the left side of the street. I also don’t like the fact that Tom Tom POIs do not have the address included.
As far as the 1412. I found it very slow. I have a Magellan 760 from 2005. It has a 20gb hard drive as opposed to the internal memory that the new ones have. The 760 recalulates faster then either the 4250 or the 1412. I found that on the Magellans in general. If you miss a turn and the next move is less than a 1/4 mile. It will not recalulate in time to tell you that move. I hope this helps. It gives you something to check out.
Tim,
Still haven’t opened my XLS just yet. I read the comments on screen brightness and am wondering if the screen washes out any sooner with the XLS than the Nuvi. I realize you can change map colors on the XLS, but I have to imagine that will only carry you so far.
Michael - The screen on any GPS will wash-out in direct sunlight… no getting around it. Certainly some will wash out sooner than others, but not by much. Keep in mind there are some 30 different Nuvi models which use different quality screens, so some might be a little bit better (like the 700 series) while others might be a little bit worse (like the 300 series).
I just bought a Tom Tom XL-S, and it was working fine. But, the GPS system won’t start! It goes to the starting image, then restarts, goes to a loading image, then the starting image, and again and again! I’ve only had this GPS system for about 3 days now. What’s happening, Tim?
Jerry, I’d either remove and reinstall the application through HOME, call support, or give a holler and see if someone in the tomtom forums can help.
Just some comments! I got the TT XLs for Christmas and used it to travel to TX this last winter. The only problem I had was the instructions when getting off I35 at Waco. Too many instructions (confused me) and the exit is a kind of nightmare anyway. Other than that, I used the TT to find stores/restaurants etc in numerous cities and plot trips and I was very happy with the directions. It took me on a roundabout a couple of times but as has been said “Don’t turn off your brain when using a GPS”.
Bought a tom tom xl. Located in Ontario, Canada by the way. I backed up all my files. Than did the 30 day guarantee thing. Came up as Canada/USA map package for free. After it installed, my mappack was now Guam. No Canada/USA. Cant even restore.. great.
Wondering what i can do now
Daniel, sounds like you’ve downloaded the new map and deleted the old, but haven’t installed the new map yet.
nvm figured it out. It updated me to 715.1712 which included two maps. Guam was one. Just wondering if that is even the lastest map?
You can typically find the latest map version available here:
http://www.tomtom.com/products/maps/select.php
Just bought a TT One XL S and love it! I can’t find the “Susan” voice in my list to enable the TTS feature. Any thoughts?
Scott - The text to speech voice that came with your device might not be Susan. It could be called something else. You might want to follow these tips to see if there is another TTS voice already on your device. If a TTS voice isn’t already installed, you can add it through the TomTom HOME application.
I have copied below a comment about creating your own custom routes for your GPS and sharing with others. This is apparently an option with the Tom Tom, but can you do this with a Garmin (260 or 350).
Thanks Jack
Leroy, regarding number 1, there is third party software out there called ‘TripMaster’ that will record tracklogs on many TomTom devices. You might want to check that out. You can record your own POIs into the device through the Manage POI menu option.
Regarding number 2, you can do that as well. You can create an Itinerary on your device or though the TomTom HOME software. Then once you have saved your Itinerary you can copy that file to your computer, either manually or through TomTom HOME. Then you can send that file to other people for them to install manually, or through TomTom HOME. Or you could connect their GPS to your computer and transfer the Itinerary.
MapShare is simply a way to mark and make corrections to mapping errors you might find on the device, and share those corrections with other TomTom users.
Tim - November 11th, 2007
Jack - No, the 350 and 260 do not support route planning in that manner.
I am trying to decide between a XL-S and the new XL 330-S. It looks like the review of the 130 had some steps backwards compared to the One 3rd edition (slower processor, less memory, no SD card slot, etc). Does the 330 have the same drawbacks? Which would be your pick of the two? Thanks.
I would go for the XL-330s over the XL-S at this point unless there was a large price gap ($50 or more).
You kind of hit my problem on the head. I can get a refurb XLS for $178 online (a site that has been good to me) or a new 330S for $250 (at another good location). It seems like I am paying an extra $70 just for a new mounting method. Is there more to the new model (or less)?
The XL 330s also has a better speaker, slightly redesigned interface that seems more logical, speed limit visible on the status bar with warnings for many major roads, and maybe a couple of other small tweaks– nothing earth shattering, but a few nice features. That is a tough call at those prices. I really like the new mount and (personally) would spend the extra $$ for it.
Those are pretty much my thoughts, I will buy the XL 330S.
Thanks for all of your reviews, comments, and answers. Great site.
I’m thinking of buying a GPS and have it narrowed down between Tomtom ONE XLS and Garmin Nuvi 650.
Which is better?
The 650 has a longer battery life, is slightly lighter, and has an MP3 player and photo viewer. The XL-S offers multi-destination routing, more route controls, and is typically about $15-$75 cheaper.
I have recently bought an XL-S and a weak ago I had bought Nuvi-200, both very nice deals so could’nt resist. I fell like the XL-s is a little bit slower than the NUVi-200, it took a logn time to connect to satlite, (10 mins), how wood you compare the chipset and software of the NUVI-200 and TOMTOM XL-S, THANKS.
Jan - 10 minutes seems way out of line for the XL-S. Mine is often connected just as soon as it boots up. I’d check out our Acquiring Satellites Tips page and see if any of that helps speed up acquisition times for you.
I just purchased a TT 130S - I’ve done the set up and tested the voice - I almost can’t hear it. Does the TT One XLS have more volume than the 130S? I did set the volume to max on the set up.
Thanks,
Mike
Mike, the TomTom ONE 130s has one of the loudest speakers in the industry. There is, however a known issue with the volume in at least one batch of the 130’s. I’d exchange it with another 130s where you purchased it from, or if they hassle you– contact TomTom support and they will replace it.
Wow - thanks for the quick response - is there any ‘identifying’ feature of the defective units, i.e. serial number or some such?
Thanks again - great site.
Mike
Not that I know of– and it is certainly possible you could try to exchange it and the one you exchange it with is also defective. It is hard to say just how many bad ones there are out there– but there is quite a difference between the ones working as designed and the ones that are not. Unfortunately it is also difficult for many stores to understand the argument that there is something wrong since the speaker technically “works”. But if you can get one that works as designed (which are out there) I think you will agree that the speaker is fantastic.
Thanks again - can my 130-s be used on my motorcycle, not considering mounts but considering durability, i.e. vibration.
Mike
It isn’t water-resistant, and thus I’d perhaps worry a little bit about dust getting inside– however the 130 has fewer open ports and holes (no SD card slot, no traffic receiver port, etc) so out of the auto GPS devices not designed for outdoor use it is probably better than average.
I just got off the phone with Tom Tom - they had me delete the application files and reinstall them - it did nothing to increase the volume - they are sending me a packing slip and return authorization - they won’t send the new unit until about 7 days after they receive mine back. Doesn’t do me much good in that I need the unit next week.
Thanks again for the help.
Mike
thanks
for your advise on acquiring signal, I exchanged the unit and its a lot better now. One thing I want to know, My Nuvi-200 has a lot more better graphics and color compared to the XL-S, I updated the software and maps today, is there a setting in 3D view that I need to chage, please advise, thanks
Jan - It depends what you mean by “better”. It might just be preference. Many people prefer the TomTom map view.
I’ve chatted with you about the TT 130-S volume problem. I’m thinking about returning that and purchasing either a Nuvi 760, which is on sale or a Nuvi 660, which is about $50 cheaper than the 760.
Can you comment on this as far as the quality of the units. Thanks again,
Mike
I prefer the 760 over the 660.
I just picked up the 760 - it does everything but fix dinner.
You have a great site - thanks for all the help.
Mike
well by graphics I mean, on Garmin the map roads are shown nice straight lines with rich 3D colors, on TOMTOM THE road edges are not straight lines but wavey crapy type and the curves are not smooth but connection of small sraight lines, I mean the roads are not smooth as garmin, its just a visual thing but looks very nice when u compare. thanks for your input, but I am thinking I may be missing something in the setting or is it because, Nuvi has the maps on 1.3 gb only for USA and TOMTOM has both US AND CANADA on just 850 mb, may be that’s why its not a better resolution on TOMTOM as compared to NUVI. thanks your input will be very appreciated.
The file size of the application, maps, and other files doesn’t indicate the completeness of the maps as they each use different compression rates and have different applications for different tasks which take up varying amounts of space. You can change the color scheme on the TomTom, but it won’t get rid of the “jagged” edges.
What is recommended for security when you leave the car?
Take the mount off the windshield?
It is recommended to remove any trace of the GPS from the vehicle… GPS, power cord, mount, and any “ring” residue left on the windshield from the mount.
It is funny because I noticed “ring” residue on a truck in the parking lot (everything else was gone).
Should the actual GPS or accessories be left in the car?
If they are in the car and someone breaks in– they could take them. If they are not in the car, then they just break in but don’t get them.
I recently was give the TomTom XL-S as a gift.. and it’s been absolutely amazing minus a few things.. I wasn’t sure if anyone had any ideas that could maybe help me!! First- it’s not coming up with my address on the maps, or my parents address.. it can’t even find the highways in the town.. is there a more broke down map or something that I could maybe download somewhere… it’s not like either of the are way small.. probably about 1000 population on mine and my parents..
Also, I have the Razr V3xx or it’s also called the Izar.. but it is not in my list of phone options.. it will hook up to my find but my phone through bluetooth says it can not use it’s wireless capabilities or something like that like it can’t connect to the internet yet I have internet on my phone.. any help anybody??
We’d really need to know a specific address (just pick something you can’t find other than your home address) to be able to check it out.
As to the phone, which PLUS service are you trying to activate? There might be alternative means to get the data.
Well, any of the PLUS services, when I go to manage phones it will find it using bluetooth but will not connect at all…. I am unable to access all of them. I just feel like if the PLUS services is not accessible with my phone, then that is a big chunk of the product I am uncabable of using and the gift was a waste of money, as they could have gone with one cheaper without the PLUS services
As far as another address… I am supposed to be visiting someone in Clarksburg, Missouri on Hwy E, yet it wont even show a highway E in his town when I look it up, yet if I write him, it goes directly to him.
The PLUS serivces are optional subscription based services. So unless you were planning on paying for one of those services, you are not missing out on anything.
GPS doesn’t use US Postal Service addresses, it uses physical street addresses. So you need something more like what someone would use for an address when they call 911. But I can find that road by using “State Rte E”.
It is the address they would use, I have already asked them. It is a physical street/highway address that has been there for years. Itis the address that would be given if called to 911. I am beginning to think the money has been wasted on this product and will be seeing what I can do to get a different brand. Thank you for your tried assistance though.
Ashley, the street is there– I can find it on my XL. You just need a street number or something to pinpoint it to more than just a street. But I see the street there– it is labeled “State Rte E”.
I notice on the compare page that the XL-S has bluetooth data. I don’t understand what that feature is. I don’t need bluetooth for my bb, I have a headset that works fine, and am not interested in that feature, but am curious about the data thing.
I am still vacillating between the XL-S and 330S and other than the bt data, there seems to be no difference. I am not thinking about a bean bag dash mount rather than using the suction cup, so easy-mount is less of an issue for me at the moment.
Bluetooth data means the GPS can take advantage of an internet connection from a compatible phone to download things like weather and traffic over the internet to the phone and then down into the GPS.
Thanks Tim - looks like an interesting feature.
I noticed on a compare site that the XL-S has software mapping and the 330-S doesn’t. Can anyone tell me what the advantages of that are?
All I’m looking for is a GPS that has Widescreen, TTS, good mounting method, good sound, clear voice and $300ish or less. Suggestions? Tim, you do a great job!
Jim - I have no idea what they could be talking about. There are very few differences between those two.
Mike - The XL-S would be a good pick for that as well as the XL 330s.
I may have missed it but is there truck specific routing available for the xl?
No, there is not.
I have noticed a very large amount of “Factory Refurbished” GPS units for sale through many different vendors. It encompasses many different models and manufacturers, Garmin and Tom Tom mostly. The prices asked for these units are very attractive, are they worth it, or a bad deal? Why are there so many of these on the market?
Walt, you can read our page on Refurbished GPS Devices for our thoughts on the subject.