Yes, TomTom still exists — I drove 300 miles to see if it could beat Google Maps

(Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

People today don’t realize how much of a premium was once attached to turn-by-turn navigation. Whether it’s Waze keeping you up-to-date about speed traps, Google Maps offering an alternative route due to traffic, or the luscious 3D buildings of Apple Maps, today’s best navigation apps make it practically impossible to get lost — and they’re all available for free. But then there’s TomTom.

The legacy handheld GPS maker has gone through changes to adapt to the ongoing competition, ditching its model of selling physical GPS devices and pivoting to creating map and location technology. Today, its TomTom app is available as a free download for Android and iOS devices.

I was one of the many who bought a TomTom GPS device to get around, but the game has changed tremendously since then. Can the TomTom app live up to my expectations? I put it to the test for a week to see what this navigation app has to offer. Here’s what I found.

What you need to know

Since TomTom can be accessed in many ways, I decided to test it out by using it both with Android and iOS — with their corresponding Android Auto and CarPlay versions. I drove for a week using TomTom in my car to get me to and from work, as well for a weekend getaway.

In order to really get a feel of how it performs, I also kept Google Maps running on another device. That way, I could gauge how well it worked when it comes to selecting the best routes and changing traffic conditions.

You should also know that the TomTom app for Android and iOS is completely free. The company also has another app called GO Expert App, but it’s tailored specifically for commercial truck routing — and costs $29.99 for a yearly subscription.

It’s as basic as they come

TomTom app for Android screen shots. — (Image credit: Future)

Compared to its competitors, TomTom is as basic of a navigation app as they get. After punching in a destination, I’m given a couple of routing options, which then proceeds to show an overhead view. While driving, I do like that it shows me the current speed limit of the road, my actual speed, and also the distance and time left until my arrival.

Even though there’s an option to search for points of interest, I can’t add them to my existing route. On top of that, it lacks the detailed information I’m accustomed to seeing with other apps. One of the few modern features it does manage to include are the 3D maps for most major cities. It’s just as good as Google Maps, but nowhere as elaborate as Apple Maps.

Route suggestions are accurate

One of the biggest things I was skeptical about with TomTom was how well its route suggestions would be. During my week’s worth of testing, it recommended nearly the same routes that Google Maps suggested — but there were a couple of times when the advice was questionable.

For example, I normally take a specific exit with my commute to work, but TomTom suggested passing my usual turn and choosing instead to take the next exit. I was surprised by this because initially I thought it would add more time, but it basically turned out to be a jug handle road that saved me more time.

In another instance, I was eager to see which route it would suggest with rush hour traffic heading back home. Sometimes the New Jersey Turnpike cars-only lane runs much slower than the cars and truck one, so I was pleasantly surprised that it suggested taking the latter.

Speed trap alerts are great

TomTom app screen shots showing alerts. — (Image credit: Future)

A feature that I’ve come to rely on heavily with Waze and Google Maps is the notifications for different hazards on the road. TomTom offers the same set, including speed traps that are aggregated by user reports. TomTom alerted me on two occasions that are typically hideout spots, so I was able to drive cautiously ahead of time.

However, there were other instances when Google Maps alerted me about police reports but TomTom didn’t. They weren’t in the typical areas, which could be the reason why TomTom didn’t notify me. Or perhaps, it shows the disparity between how there are more people using Google Maps who are making those reports.

You have Android Auto and CarPlay support

TomTom for CarPlay. — (Image credit: Tom's Guide / John Velasco)

Since I get to test out the best electric cars, I often lean on Android Auto and CarPlay while driving. TomTom does support both platforms and offers the same experience as the mobile apps — but there are some minor differences between them.

With CarPlay, it doesn’t keep TomTom active in the dashboard view, defaulting instead to either Google Maps or Apple Maps. You can see this in the photo above. The reason why I mention this is because I like the split-view of the dashboard, which usually consists of my navigation and music apps.

TomTom is supported by Android Auto’s dashboard, so it gives me the layout I want while driving. Additionally, it seems that TomTom for Android Auto also supports the head-up display in my car — making it more intuitive to follow directions since I get to keep my eyes on the road as opposed to looking down on the dashboard display.

Strangely, one gripe I have with TomTom in the car is that neither Android Auto or CarPlay will show the exit numbers in the interface. Google Maps does and lets me anticipate them with ample time, but TomTom will only announce the exit numbers as I approach them. Speaking of voice guidance, it’s not as detailed with its instructions. Google Maps is pretty explicit, including any mentions about landmarks and stop signs.

Bottom Line

I understand it doesn’t cost anything and confidently gets me around, but the times have changed — and TomTom is playing catch up. Despite locking down the basics of what I expect from any modern navigation app, I can get everything that the TomTom app offers in its current iteration and way more with rival Google Maps.

Yet, there’s promise with TomTom’s venture around its Automotive Navigation Application, which is its dedicated in-vehicle experience. It’s partnered with major auto makers such as Audi, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Subaru, Toyota, and more, for intelligent navigation that’s better suited for deeper vehicle integration. For example, it offers battery management to know an EV’s charge status — such as pre-conditioning the battery on your way to an EV charger.

As far as the TomTom app goes, I’m not inclined to ditch Google Maps any time soon. Hopefully more features continue to roll out to make it more versatile.

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John’s a senior editor covering phones for Tom’s Guide. He’s no stranger in this area having covered mobile phones and gadgets since 2008 when he started his career. On top of his editor duties, he’s a seasoned videographer being in front and behind the camera producing YouTube videos. Previously, he held editor roles with PhoneArena, Android Authority, Digital Trends, and SPY. Outside of tech, he enjoys producing mini documentaries and fun social clips for small businesses, enjoying the beach life at the Jersey Shore, and recently becoming a first time homeowner.

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