May 2008
TomTom Go 730: First Look
Easy-to-use navigator impresses with useful and entertaining features
In time for summer road-tripping, TomTom has released new portable GPS navigation devices that build on their current, well-rated
models: the Go 730, Go 930, One 130, and XL 330 lines. For this report, we are presenting our first impressions of the Go
730.
The TomTom 730 is the newest model in the Go 700 line, with marked improvements over the previously tested Go 700 and Go 720. Sleek in design like the Go 720, the Go 730 has significant differences inside, where it adds features that aid in navigating and heightening driving pleasure. The added sophistication in this unit comes at the same retail price as the 720 before it: $450.
Features that count include:
Initial impressions. TomTom has produced another top competitor with the Go 730, combining many of the latest features found in competing models
released earlier this year.
Common to all TomTom models is an intuitive, easy-to-use interface that makes this sophisticated device inviting to use, even for a first-time GPS owner. Beyond the friendly graphical presentation is a well-equipped, road-trip-ready device with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, MP3 player, FM transmitter, iPod interface, photo viewer, and voice recognition for address entry.
The navigational abilities are again true to TomTom form, providing very good verbal directions and clearly displayed information. Our initial take on the “IQ routing” is positive. This routing feature uses historical traffic data to calculate the best directions for a given time using average speeds, rather than just base the guidance on posted speed limits. This is hoped to give the Go 730 local knowledge for contending with typical commuting congestion, rather than simply plot based on best-case-scenarios from reading the map database. In our experience, it does react like a local driver, recommending different routes based on time of day. This feature would be particular useful for a frequent business traveler who would need to keep appointments in unfamiliar cities. Best of all, this effective approach to traffic congestion does not require a traditional fee-based traffic service.
To receive traffic information with the Go 730, the purchase of an additional receiver is needed for traffic alerts via the FM Radio Data System, often referred to as RDS-TMC for the Traffic Message Channel. Otherwise, a compatible Bluetooth phone is required for traffic data supplied by TomTom Plus Services. Both methods necessitate subscriptions. The Go 730 can be bought as the 730T for about $50 more, which includes an RDS-TMC receiver.
Another new feature is “Advanced Lane Guidance,” which displays a realistic three-dimensional view of major highway junctions, indicating the correct lane for the car to be in. This feature is similar to that included with current Navigon and the newly tested Sony models. The extra guidance this provides can be quite helpful, though it does not show up as often as you might like.
Aside from core navigation features, TomTom products have niceties that are not scored in our ratings. The most common example of that is being able to customize voices with the likes of a celebrity or character actor. TomTom Plus Services provides weather info, scenic routes, safety camera locations (aka speed cameras), and now gas prices. The downside of Plus Services is that it requires a compatible Bluetooth phone (usually with Cingular or T-Mobile service). A data plan for this cell phone is recommended.
The Map Share feature allows users to make corrections to maps, and likewise benefit from updates made by others, as well as customize maps for personal use.
The mount is the weakest link on the Go 730. It does not have a clamping mechanism for the suction cup like most mounts provide; the clamping lever would allow the mount to be drawn tight to the windshield. Consequently, the seal is less tight and the unit falls from the windshield more frequently than most units.
CR's take. The TomTom Go 730 is a good choice for a consumer looking for a full-featured GPS navigation device, particularly for urban commuters, business travelers, and long-distance road trippers. It has particular appeal to tech enthusiasts interested in customizing their device—provided they are willing to negotiate the many menu options.
If you are drawn to the Go 730, also consider a top-rated Garmin Nuvi. We have found the Nuvis have the edge in ease of use, but the TomTom provides more customization and for now, more features.
For more information on portable GPS navigation systems see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS with other shoppers and owners in the forums.
The TomTom 730 is the newest model in the Go 700 line, with marked improvements over the previously tested Go 700 and Go 720. Sleek in design like the Go 720, the Go 730 has significant differences inside, where it adds features that aid in navigating and heightening driving pleasure. The added sophistication in this unit comes at the same retail price as the 720 before it: $450.
Features that count include:
- 4.4-inch screen
- Traffic capable
- Spoken street names
- Bluetooth hands-free calling
- FM transmitter
- Historical traffic trend data
- Realistic view for major intersections
- Voice recognition for address entry
- Preloaded maps of the United States and Canada
Common to all TomTom models is an intuitive, easy-to-use interface that makes this sophisticated device inviting to use, even for a first-time GPS owner. Beyond the friendly graphical presentation is a well-equipped, road-trip-ready device with Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, MP3 player, FM transmitter, iPod interface, photo viewer, and voice recognition for address entry.
The navigational abilities are again true to TomTom form, providing very good verbal directions and clearly displayed information. Our initial take on the “IQ routing” is positive. This routing feature uses historical traffic data to calculate the best directions for a given time using average speeds, rather than just base the guidance on posted speed limits. This is hoped to give the Go 730 local knowledge for contending with typical commuting congestion, rather than simply plot based on best-case-scenarios from reading the map database. In our experience, it does react like a local driver, recommending different routes based on time of day. This feature would be particular useful for a frequent business traveler who would need to keep appointments in unfamiliar cities. Best of all, this effective approach to traffic congestion does not require a traditional fee-based traffic service.
To receive traffic information with the Go 730, the purchase of an additional receiver is needed for traffic alerts via the FM Radio Data System, often referred to as RDS-TMC for the Traffic Message Channel. Otherwise, a compatible Bluetooth phone is required for traffic data supplied by TomTom Plus Services. Both methods necessitate subscriptions. The Go 730 can be bought as the 730T for about $50 more, which includes an RDS-TMC receiver.
Another new feature is “Advanced Lane Guidance,” which displays a realistic three-dimensional view of major highway junctions, indicating the correct lane for the car to be in. This feature is similar to that included with current Navigon and the newly tested Sony models. The extra guidance this provides can be quite helpful, though it does not show up as often as you might like.
Aside from core navigation features, TomTom products have niceties that are not scored in our ratings. The most common example of that is being able to customize voices with the likes of a celebrity or character actor. TomTom Plus Services provides weather info, scenic routes, safety camera locations (aka speed cameras), and now gas prices. The downside of Plus Services is that it requires a compatible Bluetooth phone (usually with Cingular or T-Mobile service). A data plan for this cell phone is recommended.
The Map Share feature allows users to make corrections to maps, and likewise benefit from updates made by others, as well as customize maps for personal use.
The mount is the weakest link on the Go 730. It does not have a clamping mechanism for the suction cup like most mounts provide; the clamping lever would allow the mount to be drawn tight to the windshield. Consequently, the seal is less tight and the unit falls from the windshield more frequently than most units.
CR's take. The TomTom Go 730 is a good choice for a consumer looking for a full-featured GPS navigation device, particularly for urban commuters, business travelers, and long-distance road trippers. It has particular appeal to tech enthusiasts interested in customizing their device—provided they are willing to negotiate the many menu options.
If you are drawn to the Go 730, also consider a top-rated Garmin Nuvi. We have found the Nuvis have the edge in ease of use, but the TomTom provides more customization and for now, more features.
For more information on portable GPS navigation systems see our Ratings and buying advice and watch our video guide. Discuss GPS with other shoppers and owners in the forums.
