TomTom XXL 540TM (Lifetime Traffic & Maps Edition) 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator Review

I am a long time user of Garmin GPs systems. I had a Street Pilot C330 for several years and also have a nuvi 765T, so I will draw some comparisons between the TomTom and the Garmin below.
What’s in the box?
* TomTom XXL 540TM portable GPS
* Windshield suction mount
* Adhesive mount disk
* AC Adapter
* USB connector
* Instruction guide
Setup of this device is pretty simple. The instruction guide walks you through connecting it to a PC, downloading updates, etc.
On a high level, the TomTom gets me where I want to go and both visual and audio instructions were clear and timely. The “lane guidance” system , which points out which lane you should be in on multi-lane highways, works very well, It can automatically switch the display to a “blacktop” view, showing the lanes, dividing islands, and highway signs so that the display looks similar to what you are seeing on the road. If you have an older GPS, the lane guidance features alone should be enough reason to upgrade. My Garmin 765 has this same feature and it is similar on both products.
The TomTom controls are simple and intuitive. The TomTom does not seem to provide as much Points Of Interest information as I have become accustomed to with Garmin. The Garmin tell you the POI’s address, city, etc. of each point (store, etc.) rather than just the distance and direction provided by the TomTom. Signal strength seems about the same on my TomTom 540TM and the Garmin 765.
The maps on the TomTom seem current/accurate. The big difference compared to the Garmin is that TomTom includes FREE map updates four times annually for the useable life of the device. Some critics have observed that only TomTom knows what they consider “usable life.” However, I can tell you that Garmin makes you buy most map updates, “usable life” or not. It seems silly to pay for a one time map update on a 0 GPS. To buy the same 4 updates per year that TomTom offers for free costs 9.99 at Garmin.
At 5″ diagonally, the TomTom has a larger display than the Garmin. While certainly very portable, the TomTom does not have much “pocketability”, outside of maybe a large pocket in cargo shorts, etc. I prefer the TomTom’s larger screen, and at 4.3″ the Garmin won’t fit in many pockets either. Most of the GPS products in this size class will fit in a small carrying case, pocketbook, under your car seat, or in your glovebox.
Sound quality: Hearing directions is key when diving with a GPS. The TomTom pronounces words clearly enough to be understood, yet I would say pronunciation is slightly better on my Garmin. However, and it’s a big however, the TomTom has far better volume. With the Garmin 765, if you are on battery power, the maximum volume is fairly low, especially when there is conversation in the car, radio, or road noises. The Garmin volume becomes decent only when you plug in the power adaptor. The TomTom’s volume is fine, regardless of the power source.
Traffic updates on the TomTom come via RDS updates, so you have to connect the device to an FM radio system to receive the RDS data. This means unless you plug in the car power adaptor, the GPS will not get the signal through your car radio, and you won’t get the traffic updates. This is true of the Garmin 765 I own as well.
TomTom also includes their IQ Routes feature, which makes use of historical traffic volume based on the time of day of your trip. Route selections are made with this data factored in, which is a pretty nice feature.
When it comes to mounting the device on the windshield itself, the suction feature on the TomTom is better than the Garmin. The TomTom has a knob integrated with the suction cup so you apply the mount and turn the knob to create a firm adhesion to the windshield. With the Garmin you just push the suction cup on in a standard manner. The Garmin is a little more prone to fall off than the TomTom.
The TomTom uses a very small stand, which is very portable, and much less bulky than on the Garmin products. It does tend to limit you to mounting on the windshield, unless you prefer to use the mounting disk, which to me is a general no-no, putting an adhesive disk on your auto interior. That is a personal choice though, and obviously many people will be fine using the disk. The larger stand on a Garmin allows you to place the device in a cup holder or other front console/dash compartment. Personally, I find the bean bag type accessories an excellent alternative. I would recommend one from Garmin or TomTom, depending of course on which product you own.
I found the mount itself on the TomTom to be very annoying, coming off more than half the time when I adjust it or remove the device from the windshield. The mount reattaches easily to the back of the GPS though.
When it comes to overall features, the Garmin is more loaded at a price of – more – Bluetooth/phone compatibility, redirection of audio through car radio, MP3 capability playable through your car audio system, and photo features. The TomTom sticks more to GPS mainstream, lacking most of these features.
If you want celebrity voices on your GPS, TomTom provides the ability to download these. The Garmin does not. Keep in mind celebrity voices will NOT read you street names, just general instructions.
All in all, I really like the TomTom and in general, would choose this item again over a Garmin. Garmin’s map pricing policy makes me lean toward the tomTom even more.
TomTom XXL 540TM (Lifetime Traffic & Maps Edition) 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator Feature
- Preloaded with maps of the US, Canada and Mexico with Lifetime Map Updates
- Lifetime Traffic Updates included–outsmart traffic and avoid delays for life with real-time information via your TomTom
- Preloaded with more than 7 million points of interest in over 60 destination categories–gas stations, restaurants, hotels, ATMs and more
- IQ Routes Technology calculates the fastest route possible based on time of day, saving you time, fuel and money
- Advanced Lane Guidance indicates exactly which lane to use, so you can go confidently
TomTom XXL 540TM (Lifetime Traffic & Maps Edition) 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator Overview
TomTom’s XXL540TM 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator does more then just point arrows. TomTom’s award-winning Software means effortless navigation from A to B. Switch on and go right out of the box. Just enter the address on the TouchScreen and start driving anywhere in the US or Canada or Mexico. The spacious 5″ screen long with advanced lane guidance will get you to your destination smoothly as possible, without unnecessary delays, like taking a wrong turn. It also features 24/7 IQ Routes Technology, so your not wasting gas by seating in traffic all day. With the spoken instructions and street names feature, you not only have visualization representation of where you are heading, but also aural representation as well. EasyPort mount – Your EasyPort mount folds neatly onto the back of your device, making the whole navigation package fit into your pocket, bag or glove compartment Help Me! menu – Find local emergency service information at your fingertips, from hospitals to roadside assistance; useful information wherever you are Points of Interest – Your pre-installed maps have Points of Interest from gas stations to hotels, so you are sure to find what you want; you can also download additional POI sets from TomTom HOME. Maps – Pre-Loaded Maps of United States, Canada And Mexico In the box – EasyPort mount USB Car Charger and USB cable Documentation Adhesive Disk Unit Dimensions – 5.3 x 0.9 x 3.5 inches ; Weight – 7 ounces
TomTom XXL 540TM (Lifetime Traffic & Maps Edition) 5-Inch Widescreen Portable GPS Navigator Specifications
Get street smart with the TomTom XXL 540·T–complete, 5.0 inch widescreen navigation featuring Lifetime Traffic and Map Updates. Outsmart traffic and minimize delays with Lifetime Traffic Updates. Based on incoming traffic events, your device will suggest alternate routes. And, with Lifetime Map Updates you’ll always drive with the latest and most accurate maps. On average, 15% of the road network changes each year, so it is important to have the most up-to-date maps. With the XXL 540·T you’ll always stay current.
Five-inch widescreen navigation plus Lifetime Traffic and Map Updates. |
Expand your horizons with a five-inch, extra-wide touchscreen. |
The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds into the back of the device for maximum portability. |
Switch on and go right out of the box. Spoken turn-by-turn instructions including street names will guide you to any address in the US, Canada, and Mexico–including more than 7 million preloaded points of interest. The TomTom XXL 540·TM is complete, widescreen navigation.
Only TomTom has IQ Routes Technology* which shaves time off even the shortest trips by calculating the fastest route based on time of day you are traveling. You’ll always drive the smartest, most efficient route and save time, fuel and money. Advanced Lane Guidance** uses photorealistic images to bring even more clarity to complex multi-lane exits so you can be more confident on the road.
TomTom has the most accurate maps and with TomTom Map Share technology you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, road speeds and turn restrictions on your own device.
The “Help Me!” menu provides added safety features so you can easily access local emergency providers. The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount folds flat against the device, making it easy to take it with you from car to car.
Maps of US, Canada & Mexico
Preloaded with maps of the US, Canada and Mexico. TomTom has the most accurate maps and with TomTom Map Share technology you can instantly modify street names, street direction, POIs, and more on your own device and receive daily verified updates from TomTom. Spoken turn-by-turn instructions and 3D graphics will guide you to any address in the US, Canada and Mexico, worry free.
Lifetime Traffic & Map Updates
Enjoy a lifetime of easy driving with two great features from TomTom. LIFETIME Maps guarantees you receive four new editions of your TomTom map each year to ensure that you are always navigating with the industry’s most up-to-date map. And, LIFETIME Traffic sends updates to your TomTom every three minutes, so you can always steer clear of traffic delays and take the fastest route possible to your destination.
7 Million POIs
Preloaded with more than 7 million points of interest in over 60 destination categories. Easily find millions of gas stations, restaurants, hotels, ATMs and more on your route. Or, seek out a new tourist attraction, nightlife spot, or shopping center and navigate directly to it. Customize by adding your own points of interest.
IQ Routes Technology
TomTom IQ Routes Technology puts the driving experience of millions of TomTom users into your maps to shave time off even the shortest trips. Calculates the fastest route possible based on time of day. With TomTom IQ Routes you’ll always drive the smartest, most efficient route. IQ Routes saves you time, fuel and money.
Traffic isn’t the same during Monday morning rush hour as it is on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Heavy traffic, rotaries, traffic lights, and even pedestrians can slow you down. The route you need changes depending on the day and time, so the shortest route isn’t necessarily going to be the fastest. With TomTom IQ Routes you’ll always drive the fastest route.
Advanced Lane Guidance*
TomTom Advanced Lane Guidance gives you extra clarity when navigating difficult junctions by showing you which lane to take, so you won’t miss your turn or have to make sudden, dangerous lane crossings. Photorealistic images and a pulsing green arrow indicate exactly which lane to use, so you can go confidently.
Spoken Street Names
Announces turn-by-turn directions aloud, including street and place names.
Five-Inch Touchscreen
Expand your horizons with a five-inch, extra-wide touchscreen. A wide screen allows an expanded driving view and easier menu operation.
Fold & Go EasyPort Mount
The award-winning Fold & Go EasyPort mount provides maximum portability. The EasyPort mount folds neatly onto the back of the device, so both are small enough to fit into your pocket or bag. The EasyPort mount makes your device even more portable so you can take it with you wherever you travel.
*Feature only available in the US and Canada
**Feature available in the US only
All TomToms Feature
Plug & Go–Works right out of the box.
30 Day Latest Map Guarantee–Up to date, off the shelf.
TomTom Map Share–Modify your own map and benefit from others’ verified changes with TomTom Map Share.
Help Me! Emergency Menu–Easily access local emergency providers such as police, fire stations and hospitals.
TomTom HOME–Always up to date.
Fuel Price Service (optional)–Know more, pay less.
About TomTom
Founded in Amsterdam in 1991, TomTom has established itself as a global leader in navigation by being an innovative company with a strong brand, clear customer focus, and high quality products and services.
TomTom is the world’s leading navigation solutions provider with navigation products sold in 30 countries and in over 20 languages. To further our commitment to car navigation, TomTom acquired Tele Atlas maps in 2008 so we can continually provide the most up-to-date maps and intelligent routing.
We have our own mapping company!
Did you know that every year roads change by up to 40% in high-growth areas? Tele Atlas manages this by using the world’s most comprehensive systems to identify and incorporate these changes into our maps with unprecedented levels of speed and accuracy. All TomTom devices benefit from the Tele Atlas advantage–more coverage, more points of interest, and more freshness and accuracy.
Why TomTom?
At TomTom, we believe that personal navigation should be as easy and safe as possible. We develop smart technology that gives you straightforward solutions, innovations to make life easy.
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