TomTom Start

I had it as a Christmas present, and so it was my first TomTom, needless to say, my expectations were high, as previously, our only Sat Nav was a Nav Man, which wasn't too bad, but TomTom had a good reputation. I know the prices can range quite alot depending on where you buy from. TomToms own website is the most expensive i have seen from my research.

The Start 2 says it features lane guidance, as of yet, i haven't seen how it is helpful, i assume it is probably only for use on motorways.

In terms of appearance, it has a simple design, with a plastic outer shell, with a rubbery texture, which helps with gripping the device. The sucker pad that attaches the device to the glass of the car pulls out of the back of the TomTom, and is fully moveable, allowing it to be put at any angle.

When navigating through areas that i had never been through before, the directions sometimes came too late and werent always clear, it would say to "bear right" when all it meant was to actually just follow the road around a slight bend. There are a number of voice options, with more than can be downloaded from online, Different accents and languages.

A good feature with this was that it had speed camera alerts, but only on occasion. However, you could add them yourself, you just simply clicked a button on the map and you could place an alert for future reference, this could be done in seconds and wasnt distracting.

It had a very clear display, day and night colour modes were a good idea, as well as the opportunity to plug into the computer, and suggest map changes online with TomTom and other users. If any places were missed, you can alert TomTom easily. The sucker on the back of the TomTom twisted it, so it can stick securely to your screen, without leaving a big sucker mark. This was good, as even when removing the TomTom, if the sucker mark is there, it's obvious you have a sat nav in the car. It is a nice compact slim device, even with how small it is, the screen is big enough to use easily.
Some other good options,the touch screen for it was very easy to use and clear and responds well.

Mine came with a traffic reciever that plugged into it instead of the in car charger, and would plan routes to avoid traffic or accident hot spots, to avoid delays. This never seemed to work, and didnt charge the battery of the TomTom like it should so my Sat Nat would die on my half way through a journey.

The option of having European maps on it is useful, even if not driving, use it in your hand walking, it still works, and in the UK using on the pathway still works, as the Sat Nav will follow you off road and tell you roughly where you are near to.

I would suggest having a go in an area you know a little bit, just to get used to how the TomTom works, and the way in which it directs you.
After having mine for a few months, i am pleased, and i know that if i take it out with me, i will not be getting lost.