TomTom Start

The basics

The TomTom Start satnav is an entry-level GPS that aims to ease you into the world of satellite navigation, with a pared-down, easy to use UI, so users won't get lost before they even start.
But that doesn't mean it's skimped on the hardware – the TomTom Start is a rock-solid satnav with a bright, crisp 3.5-inch screen and a solid suite of information we'd expect from TomTom.

The good

The menus, mapping and screens have been streamlined to make even the most technophobic of motorists feel at ease. Fire the TomTom Start up and you'll be presented with just two big buttons, Plan Route and Browse Map, with essential toggles like sound, day or night view, help and options viewed underneath.
Setting your destination and following it is simple as, and with IQ Routes on board for routing based on statistical journey times at certain times of day, you'll be matching any other TomTom for journey time, except those with realtime traffic info via a pricey LIVE subscription.

The bad

One grumble we have with the TomTom Start's layout is that advanced lane guidance is a goner. It's a genuine help on the massive junctions and gyratories and a feature all motorists could do with, not just the gadget-friendly drivers.
The TomTom Start's neon cases also had us baffled – a more visible lime green satnav doesn't let you show your personality, it's just more likely to get stolen. Unless you're a moth, don't bother with the extra cases at £15.

The bottom line

The TomTom Start is a great little gadget if you're a bit tech-shy, but anyone with the patience to read a manual and look beyond the neon shades, should opt for the TomTom One instead.