The TomTom GO 710 Goes Well in Any Application

Category: Review on TomTom GO 710 GPS

Posted by: 15-May-2007

Strengths: MP3 playback, 4” wide screen

Weaknesses: Instability in cradle, fragile

The TomTom GO 710 GPS navigation device has greatly improved upon its ancestors, the 510 and 910, with a larger screen, greater navigation ability, and the option for additional amenities, such as MP3 playback. With little to complain about, this unit is a great product for anyone who needs the extra help in navigating in unknown territory as well as locally.
The new GO 710 unit incorporates a SirfStar III receiver, as well as the ability to playback MP3 files and audiobook availability for “Plus” members. Use the unit to pinpoint “Points if Interest” and create an itinerary to follow on vacation.
Unfortunately, the improvements made to the technology of the older TomTom GO units are reflected in the price, which is a bit out of range for units with the capabilities offered through the TomTom. The LCD screen is larger, but the stability of the unit while driving is less than satisfactory. The cradle is the same one used for previous versions; however, it is easily knocked out of the cradle and can fall if you have to make any sudden car movements. Even if it doesn’t fall, the connection between the cradle and the unit is easily broken, meaning that you lose the screen and power.
On the upside, the unit is user friendly, and the technology is easy to follow, even for individuals who are not in the least bit technical or computer savvy. The TomTom 710 works with basic user interfaces and touch screen capability so there is no confusion for the user. The mapping ability of the unit is noticeably accurate, and as with previous models, the ability to download updates makes this unit entirely capable of configuring your route based on the latest available information.
Overall, there are places where the new TomTom GO 710 GPS unit clearly beats out the competition, including previous versions of the same model. However, for the price, you would expect the unit to be more durable and less “touchy”, especially since portability is a major issue for GPS navigation.