TomTom GO 720 Review

Satellite Navigation Systems are the fastest growing accessory for car owners on the market today. Having been around for some twenty years now, the technology has evolved to make it a 'must have' for any driver.

GO 720, from the manufacturers of TomTom is one of the smallest and lightest GPS systems in the industry weighing in at only 220 grams. Slim and stylish, it fits easily in your pocket so you can carry it anywhere. The system comes ready to use from the box without the issues of software installation. Just Go! If you do need help with the operation, there is an extensive tour to guide you through all the features.

This package includes voice activation for a totally hands free experience on the road. If you do need to change something or access an alternative feature, touch screen technology means no tiny buttons to navigate. Real-time traffic updates and warnings about road conditions are relayed wirelessly from your mobile phone, and real-time weather reports and 5 day forecasts make for safe and enjoyable driving.

The 4.3 inch widescreen LCD format gives clear and colourful maps and directions, with the latest maps of Western Europe pre-installed. TomTom also advertise it as 'Future Proof' with free software upgrades and maps downloadable through their website. This will ensure the information you get is never out-of-date.

The TomTom GO 720 is so much more than just a GPS though. Listen to music as you GO - plays music wirelessly through your car stereo or add the optional cables to access all your iPod tunes. Store photos from your digital camera so that you can enjoy them on your travels. The system comes complete with a windscreen mount and car charger (12 and 24 V to be used in both cars and trucks), and a desk docking system that allows you to connect to your PC or Mac and recharge between travels in your home or hotel.

PCPro gave the GO 720 a 6 out of 6 score in their recent review and placed it on their A list of recommended products. They particularly liked the MapShare feature which allows you to make corrections to your own map and share corrections from other users via the TomTom network. Never be out of date as you drive. There is a failing in this system, however, as it is not always possible to enter a mapping error, such as a new one-way system, into the unit whilst en route. Once you have left the location you cannot backtrack to enter the mapping fault, hence the MapShare feature, while innovative is still practically flawed.

Negative customer reviews include complaints that the many fancy features do not work as well as promised and although when the network is up and running a fix is quick to get, there have been reports of system crashes on a regular basis.

At the end of the day however, it is not the most expensive on the market and the many features make it very good value for money. Ultimately, this is a best buy option.