TomTom GO 720 Review

The TomTom GO 720 resides between the top-of-the-line GO 920 and 920T, and the more basic ONE XLS. The ONE XLS is a fine choice, but if you want higher end features such as a customizable status bar (six variables, such as remaining time, remaining distance, etc.), an optional remote control, a document viewer for guidebooks and language dictionaries, an MP3 player, picture viewer, and more, you can step up to the 720.

The TomTom GO 720 has the features you expect in a higher-end in-car GPS, including a wide screen (4.3" diagonal), text-to-speech directions, top-quality pre-loaded maps of all of North America and Canada (or all of Europe for the European version), Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone calling, a robust points-of-interest database, and available traffic tracking and avoidance. An adjustable auto-night dimmer is another nice touch.

Like other TomTom models, the 720 allows you to keep your maps and other features up to date via included (on a CD) TomTom HOME software for your personal computer (PC or Mac). HOME is your link to TomTom's Map Share technology, which lets you make small edits (such as noting a closed road) on your own device and share them with other TomTom users. In turn, your device will download and install others' TomTom-verified map updates.

Beyond the basics, the GO 720 has a "music and media" menu including an iPod compatible iPod controller. You will need the TomTom iPod connect cable ($29.95) in order to connect your iPod. With an iPod connection, you may play your music over your car's sound system via the TomTom's local FM transmitter capability. Unused FM channels are scarce in urban areas, so determine if you can locate a free channel (you'll only hear steady static) before you buy.

The GO 720 will also accept an optional remote control, a feature I found surprisingly useful and addictive in my GO 920 review.

The ability to record your own navigation instructions is another neat item in the GO 720 toy box. You (or a friend with a great voice) simply select the "record your own instructions" menu item and then read and record 50 commonly used words and phrases. These are stored and used by the unit. Finally, I like the optional compass display that puts a small live compass icon in the lower left corner.