May 2008
TomTom One 130 GPS – First look
Popular, entry-level navigation device evolves with welcomed updates
TomTom has competed in the entry-level portable GPS navigation device market with its popular One series, offered in 3.5-
and 4.4-inch screens. These basic navigators have performed well in our tests, excelling at ease of use and earning Best Buy
accolades. As summer approaches, the European company is rolling out its next-generation One series products, the One 130
and One 130S, plus the upcoming XL 330 and XL 330S. In TomTom-speak, the "S" denotes spoken street names ability and the "XL"
indicates a larger, wide screen. The models supplant the current One 3rd Edition and One XL.
These new devices feature a completely redesigned body,
a new folding mount, and larger speaker. The software has the familiar TomTom interface, similar to that used on the One 3rd
Edition.
To evaluate this updated line, we purchased a One 130 ($200) and One 130S ($250).
Initial impressions. TomTom has improved its popular One series, though the changes are essentially physical. The revised, sleeker case makes possible the use of a clever, fold-out mount that makes the unit easy to travel with or hide for security. Unlike those for the previous One models, this new mount includes a mechanical clamp to tighten the suction cup’s grip.
The new mount fixes securely to the windshield and allows easy tilting and rotation. But its short extension could be a concern for drivers with deep dashboards because it might require that the device be positioned farther away from the usual location or mounted higher in a location that might block the rider’s vision. When collapsed, the GPS unit and mount are a compact, pocket-friendly package.
The larger speaker, combined with speed-adjusting volume, makes it easier to hear instructions from the 130 than from the One 3rd Edition we last tested, though we considered that unit’s performance to be adequate.
The navigational abilities are again true to the TomTom form, providing very good verbal directions and displayed information. The added convenience of spoken street names with the 130S may be worth the extra cost for drivers who spend time in busy, unfamiliar areas, especially large cities. In such situations, having the exact street name read aloud can help in selecting the proper lanes and making the right turns.
These devices offer the TomTom hallmark customization, with the ability to install novelty and celebrity voices, for example. Menus can be arranged to suit your needs. Map Share allows you to make corrections to the map, noting changes in street names, speed limits, turn restrictions, and Points of Interest. And users can download and integrate changes made by other users free.
A Help Me feature provides quick access to emergency and safety services information, with phone numbers and directions.
Traffic service will be available with an optional FM receiver; but that accessory was not available for this review.
CR's take. The TomTom One 130 and 130S are good choices for consumers seeking an entry-level device. They deliver the core features that matter most in navigators, with some added ability to personalize the presentation and features. The new models improve on the well-rated previous generation, though our impression so far is that the benefits are incremental.
We’re seeing the outgoing models discounted, and they might be appealing to shoppers looking for a good device at a great price. The alternative in this category is the Garmin Nuvi 200 series and the coming Nuvi 205.
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.
These new devices feature a completely redesigned body,
To evaluate this updated line, we purchased a One 130 ($200) and One 130S ($250).
Key features include:
- 3.5-inch screen
- EasyPort fold-out mount
- Speed limit warnings
- Preloaded maps for the United States and Canada
- Spoken street names (One 130S only)
Initial impressions. TomTom has improved its popular One series, though the changes are essentially physical. The revised, sleeker case makes possible the use of a clever, fold-out mount that makes the unit easy to travel with or hide for security. Unlike those for the previous One models, this new mount includes a mechanical clamp to tighten the suction cup’s grip.
The new mount fixes securely to the windshield and allows easy tilting and rotation. But its short extension could be a concern for drivers with deep dashboards because it might require that the device be positioned farther away from the usual location or mounted higher in a location that might block the rider’s vision. When collapsed, the GPS unit and mount are a compact, pocket-friendly package.
The larger speaker, combined with speed-adjusting volume, makes it easier to hear instructions from the 130 than from the One 3rd Edition we last tested, though we considered that unit’s performance to be adequate.
The navigational abilities are again true to the TomTom form, providing very good verbal directions and displayed information. The added convenience of spoken street names with the 130S may be worth the extra cost for drivers who spend time in busy, unfamiliar areas, especially large cities. In such situations, having the exact street name read aloud can help in selecting the proper lanes and making the right turns.
These devices offer the TomTom hallmark customization, with the ability to install novelty and celebrity voices, for example. Menus can be arranged to suit your needs. Map Share allows you to make corrections to the map, noting changes in street names, speed limits, turn restrictions, and Points of Interest. And users can download and integrate changes made by other users free.
A Help Me feature provides quick access to emergency and safety services information, with phone numbers and directions.
Traffic service will be available with an optional FM receiver; but that accessory was not available for this review.
CR's take. The TomTom One 130 and 130S are good choices for consumers seeking an entry-level device. They deliver the core features that matter most in navigators, with some added ability to personalize the presentation and features. The new models improve on the well-rated previous generation, though our impression so far is that the benefits are incremental.
We’re seeing the outgoing models discounted, and they might be appealing to shoppers looking for a good device at a great price. The alternative in this category is the Garmin Nuvi 200 series and the coming Nuvi 205.
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.
