What’s the difference between aTomTom One v2 and a TomTom One v3 ? It would appear that there isn’t one as the casings of these GPS receivers look identical. However, if we look a little closer, we note several differences underneath the body. While the v2 had a SIRF III logo next to the SD Card’s place occupied by the memory card, the v3 has nothing and the logo disappears. Actually, these two differences are indicative of more profound modifications.  We now have a 1 GB internal memory for the TomTom One v3. The SD Card connection has not been eliminated and can now take additional memory to increase storage capacity. This explains the absence of the memory card in the slot.

 

 

The disappearance of the SIRF III logo is indicative of TomTom having abandoned this type of GPS receiver. We remind you that we find SIRF IIIs in most navigational aides at this moment and actually, it has proven its worth with reduced satellite communication times, and a very sensitive reception. So, it goes without saying that we were a little worried by this change. Was the goal to simply reduce manufacturing costs? It turns out, the new Hammerhead from Globallocate performs very well. In practice, it shows better stability and considerably limit’s the occasional disturbance where you see the car symbol jump in zones bordering your location. In the end, the driver benefits from this change.

 

 

Anything else? Nothing at all and unfortunately, still no TMC on this entry level version, not even a connection for an optional module. We just have to be happy with the GPRS option, which is rather expensive and rarely used. This is too bad. Otherwise, you will have to opt for the TomTom One XL which does finally offer TMC as an option.

For the rest, this new version of the TomTom One has the same characteristics as its predecessor, which you can find in our previous article on this model, TomTom One v2 . Amongst other things, there is Bluetooth, TomTom navigation software in version 6 that is still clear and simple to use, and Navteq maps for Europe. Note that in the "Regional" version (for France, etc.) there are Tele Atlas maps.