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TomTom XXL 550-TM

TomTom and GPS have both become synonymous with each other when it comes to precision products designed to get you from point A to points B,C, etc. The 550-TM is representative of a the continuing trend of impressive products n GPS technology from this Amsterdam-based company. This offering from TomTom also incorporates another trend which is indicative of well-engineered and manufactured GPS products that have “lifetime” value. The “T” and “M” in the model number illustrate this extended value thinking.

The “T” in 550-TM signifies the purchaser is entitled to Lifetime Traffic updates. These updates are intended to “outthink” and “outsmart” traffic patterns. Realtime information to your TomTom ensures you avoid delays and get to your destination faster and more safely.

Lifetime Maps is the “M” in the model number. It is your assurance of receiving 4 major updates to your maps yearly. TomTom maps are regarded by many as the best available in terms of accuracy and reliability. Over one million more miles than other competing programs are included with the TomTom.

Nearly twenty percent of roadways change – some significantly. Lifetime Maps makes sure you are taking the surest route to your destination.

Superior XXL 550TM Features Include:

Preloaded Maps
Preloaded maps of the US, Canada, and Mexico with more than 7 million points of interest in over 60 categories including: gas stations, restaurants, hotels, ATMs and more

IQ Routes Technology
Traffic at 8 a.m. moves at a different rate than it does at 2 p.m. Speed are affected by rush hour, traffic lights, pedestrian traffic, day of the week, and more. This TomTom technology offers you the best routes based on real traffic speeds, rather than the speed limits. It will recommend the fastest route for the time you are traveling. This makes for a real savings in time, fuel and money

Advanced Lane Guidance
This unique feature informs you exactly which lane is optimal, so you can to use, so you can confidently avoid dangerous conditions or miss your turns. A green arrow and photo-like images make using this feature a breeze.

Help Me! Menu
Peace of mind doesn’t really have a price, and this feature makes sure you have easy access to emergency personnel like police, fire and hospitals. When incorporated with the Where Am I? Technology, your precise location can be relayed to emergency responders.

Many Pros & Few Cons
The TomTom XXL 550-TM has already established an enviable record for customer satisfaction. A few of the many pros and just a couple of minor cons are:

Pros:
Simple menu and clever interface
Large, east to read screen
Easy to program trips
Street names read aloud
“Safety” camera warnings

Cons:
No Bluetooth
Lack of a manual (does include user’s guide)
High speed internet required for updates
Tricky software installation

Conclusion:
All in all, the TomTom XXL 550-TM represents an excellent choice in a 5-inch wide screen GPS. It is competent and accurate. Combine all of the features with lifetime upgrading and real-time data options, and this GPS has few competitors. At its current pricing of $142, it is $24 less than the Garmin nuvi 1450 LMT ($166), but has better features and support.