TomTom GO 300

#2

in Advanced GPS Systems

Score: 8.9/10 , Based on analysis of reviews and performance evaluations.

The TomTom GO 300's features and design are universally easy to master for basic navigation. But other models are unanimously seen as stronger navigators with more innovative features.

List Price: $536
  • Overall
Key Features
  • 3.5-inch display
  • Multi-destination routing
  • Bluetooth
Pros
  • Anti-glare screen improves image quality
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Discontinued
  • Still being sold for a high price
  • Occasional long waits from a cold start

TomTom GO 300 Overall - 8.9 (Very Good)

Most of the tech reviews for the TomTom GO 300 have to be taken with a grain of salt. The majority appreciates the features offered with the device, and praise this TomTom's easy interface and uber-transportable packaging. But the fact is that three years following its release, the GO 300 is not the strongest value of its class, and newer, cheaper models offer more functionality. If you find a TomTom GO 300, you could still pay more than $500 for it.

The TomTom GO 300 was first introduced when Bluetooth was still a novelty in GPS integration, but since then there have been more moderately priced devices with a longer features list. Consider the TomTom GO 920T with FM transmission or the TomTom GO 730 with a media player. 

What the Experts Say:

  •  "The TomTom GO 300 delivers lightening-fast route calculations, colorful maps, and concise audible driving directions. We only wish the screen were easier to view in bright sunlight." -- CNET
  • "TomTom's maps are cleanly designed, the menu systems is easy to use, and the unit is replete with extras such as the ability to tie speaker volume to your car's speed. Other pluses are a robust, flexible mounting bracket and a built-in help system." -- PC World
  • "The TomTom GO 300 GPS is a solid GPS for the car that offers a full array of vehicle-navigation features." -- GPS Lodge
  • "We are pleased to discover that the core features of the GO 300 have not changed substantially from those of the GO. It retains the extraordinarily intuitive interface, has a very appealing shape and unparalleled voice quality, and remains quite adept at international travel (especially in Europe) -- PC Magazine

 

TomTom GO 300 Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)

PC World explains best that the GO 300 "is capable but not perfect" as a navigator. In fact, most reviewers found both good and bad components to the system's accuracy and responsiveness. "The first time we initialized the TomTom GO 300, it took more than 10 minutes to acquire a 3D fix," CNET finds. "Subsequent start-up times varied from 20 seconds to an excruciating 15 minutes, but long wait times were the exception rather than the rule." GPSInformation says, "The guidance was good. I found the autorouter reasonably fast and it did a pretty good job most of the time." 

TomTom GO 300 Ease of Use - 8.6 (Very Good)

According to most of the reviewers, the TomTom GO 300 is one of the easier models to use. GPSInformation reports the model "provides an easy to use navigation system with good attention to user interface features." 

TomTom GO 300 Design - 8.5 (Very Good)

The majority describe this TomTom GO GPS as appropriately compact and easy to transport, but do not highlight the device's design and dimensions over others in its class. The TomTom GO 300 has a 320x240 resolution screen that's 3.5 inches on the diagonal. A suction cup and mounting bracket are provided. 

TomTom GO 300 Features - 9.5 (Excellent)

The TomTom GO 300 might not be one of the most cutting edge devices anymore, but it does have some nice features. PC Magazine appreciates that you can customize your POIs. "The GO 300 is one of the few units we've reviewed that lets users define their own categories (several Garmin models, including the 2720 and the i3, let you define custom POIs, but you have to use Garmin's categories)."

Other GPS Devices to Consider

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The TeleNav Shotgun is only the second GPS-dedicated device to offer Internet connectivity. But its appeal lies more in its innovation than in its functionality.

MSRP: $170 Garmin nuvi 205

One of the newest entry-level PNDs, the Garmin nuvi 205 delivers Garmin's trademark simple design and easy operation.

MSRP: $150 Magellan Maestro 4200

Grandfather to the popular Maestro 4250, the Magellan Maestro 4200 offers many of the well-liked navigation extras that have distinguished the series but for a more agreeable price tag.

MSRP: $100 Magellan Maestro 3100

The Magellan Maestro 3100 is an entry-level GPS that aims to provide bare-bones navigation at an attractive price. While not loaded with extras, it will get you to where you're going -- and it won't break the bank in the process.