TomTom XL 330S

The TomTom XL 330S is a basic GPS unit, but it includes two things that are missing from other entry-level TomToms: a widescreen and spoken street names (e.g. "Turn left on Elm Street in 100 feet" rather than just "Turn left in 100 feet.") Experts say these two features make it much easier to navigate. The XL 330S provides accurate, easy-to-hear directions in professional tests, although some users find the opposite. One expert particularly likes the XL 330S's lane suggestions, but the unit is slow to recalculate its route after a missed turn in that test. Overall, reviews prefer a budget model from Garmin, the nuvi 265T (*Est. $185) and widescreen Garmin nuvi 265WT (*Est. $230), which include Bluetooth hands-free calling and free traffic information for the life of the unit.

Experts at CNET and GPSLodge.com have both tested the TomTom XL 330S; their reviews give clear pros, cons and buying advice. ConsumerReports.org has tested the XL 330S just as thoroughly, even ranking it among dozens of its rivals, but only subscribers can read the reports. GPSMagazine.com is a very reliable expert source, but its recommendation in this case is not based on actual testing. User reviews at Amazon.com are very helpful, as they find some faults with the XL 330S that other reviews don't.