Navigon 2100

#7

in Inexpensive GPS Systems

Score: 6.5/10 , Based on analysis of reviews and performance evaluations.

While most manufacturers are trying to impress with you flash and color, Navigon 2100 chooses to woo you with its simplicity.

List Price: $250
Key Features
  • 3.5-inch display
  • 3D Reality View
  • Text-to-speech capability
Pros
  • Slick, compact design
  • Built-in traffic receiver allows optional traffic updates
Cons
  • Performance could be faster
  • Interface can be perplexing

Navigon 2100 Overall - 6.5 (Acceptable)

Some find the Navigon 2100's pared-down approach dull, but the Navigon 2100 might be the system for you if you want to get to where you're going without the fireworks. In fact, it's the simplicity that reviewers like best about this model -- sleek and slender, the Navigon 2100 weighs only 5.6 ounces. However, some knock its performance and interface.

With a price that shouldn't exceed $250, the Navigon 2100 is intended as an entry-level device, and the features are few and far between. A notable feature is Reality View, which gives you a 3D image of the road. This can be useful if you're in a new part of town with complex intersections.

Also available is the Navigon 2100 Max, which offers a larger, 4.3-inch screen, and the Lane Assistant feature, which provides lane guidance. GPS shoppers should also be on the look out for the announced Navigon 2200T, which will feature complimentary real-time traffic updates.  

What the Experts Say:

  • "The entry-level Navigon 2100 features a sleek, compact design and has an affordable price tag that includes text-to-speech functionality." -- CNET
  • "It's clear that Navigon did their work when designing the GPS unit, getting a very high quality feel, fit and finish." -- GPSLodge
  • "Navigon is really speaking our language, and the language of our pocketbook." -- Engadget

 

Navigon 2100 Performance - 6.0 (Mediocre)

No one is blown away by the navigation abilities of the Navigon 2100. CNET says the "sluggish performance and roundabout route recalculations are a turnoff." However, GPS Lodge takes the pricing into account, saying, "There's a lot of capability in the navigation department for an entry-level device."  

Navigon 2100 Ease of Use - 5.5 (Mediocre)

The Navigon 2100 uses a lot of animation in its interface, a novel approach that gets a mixed response. CNET says, "The user interface can also be confusing and overly complicated." Meanwhile, GPS Lodge sees the Navigon 2100 as a potential trailblazer: "The interface is a slick, smooth design. The menus are animated so that menus flow out and expand when selected, which adds some definite coolness to the unit." However, they later add, "Almost any pioneering effort comes with some downsides, and the Navigon 2100 interface is no different." 

Navigon 2100 Design - 8.5 (Very Good)

Reviewers like the small size and minimalist styling of the Navigon 2100. CNET says, "It's compact enough that you could feasibly use it while navigating on foot or mounted to a bicycle." The unit weighs just 5.6 ounces and seems to have a solid build quality. GPS Lodge says, "It's clear that Navigon did their work when designing the GPS unit, getting a very high quality feel, fit and finish."  

Navigon 2100 Features - 9.0 (Excellent)

The Navigon 2100 is pretty bare in the features department, but reviewers are impressed with what's offered. One extra is Reality View, which gives you a 3D visual of the road ahead. GPS Lodge says, "I don't especially have a lot of use for the Reality View, although I can see how it can come in handy when navigating in unfamiliar areas where ramps can get crazy."

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MSRP: $299 TeleNav Shotgun

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