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Major highways that have been open for over 1 1/2 years are still not on it. I recently purchased the navigon 2100 max for my son for graduation not knowing that I would be the first to use it. I was very disappointed that it had not been updated. If not for yahoo maps I would still be lost. One free update should be included with it.
For that reason alone I would have given this GPS a 3 out of 5 rating. You don't need to know how to program in C++ or anything like that, you just need to edit a couple scripts according to instructions on other websites (Google it). The 4.3" screen looks BIG.- I think I prefer the 3.5" model as I feel the 4.3" obscures my windshield more.My comments on Navigon 2100 in general (applies to both 3.5" and 4.3"): - The suction cup mount does not suction very well, it takes some effort to make it stick without falling off in the long run.- Mounting and unmounting the GPS device requires two hands and it takes some effort, but it's not so bad (not enough to affect my rating).- The factory Navigon software is laggy and has dumb routing. I have the 3.5" regular Navigon 2120 (it's identical to the 3.5" 2100 besides having more maps) and I bought a 4.3" Navigon 2100 MAX on sale for $85 at newegg.com. I've compared it to my relative's $500 Garmin unit. - Installing iGO 8 requires decent computer skills as iGO 8 was not designed for Navigon devices, but other PDAs.
Map updates are better as well.
However this is rectified by installing iGO 8 software.- Works great with iGO 8 GPS navigation software (Google it).
It took me 7 solid hours to get iGO 8 running exactly the way I wanted on my Navigon 2100.- I bought 2 more Navigon 2100 MAX 4.3" units for my friends, installed iGO 8 software on them (it took me 10 minutes each to set up after learning the first time), and they're very happy with it.- No, I don't work for iGO 8.
I decided to retire the 3.5" version to my motorcycle and use the 4.3" for my car.First I will compare the 3.5" and 4.3" models:- The 3.5" model may be found for roughly $30 less than the 4.3".- The 3.5" screen is small, but easy enough to read.
If you're not comfortable with a little hacking or tinkering, this is not for you.
Once you install an aftermarket GPS software, all that's left of Navigon is a touch screen with a GPS receiver and speakers, but it's a well-priced and finely built one.
The iGO 8 software allows instantaneous key input response, more features, and faster/smarter routing.
I'm just happy that a Navigon 2100 paired with iGO 8 makes it superior to the expensive Garmin and TomTom devices.
This is the best bang for the buck I've ever had.
it is very slow and sometimes stop, then i have to shut down the power and start over
When I pressed harder, the screen cracked in the upper right corner. when I pull into my driveway, it's still directing me over 2 miles to a factory as 'home'. An exercise in frustration. On the contrary, my Garmin Nuvi is easy to use and located satellites where the Navigon reported out of range.If you live in a snowy area, the Navigon would be best utilized for helping to gain traction by throwing it under your rear tires. The Navigon is all 'sizzle' and no steak. Tiny touch screen alpha-numeric input buttons are not designed for guys, as I kept pressing a key and getting the adjacent letter, or multiple letters. As Mr. T might say: "I pity the fool" who buys this.
I bought my Navigon GPS (7200T) because it had the most features for the lowest price. Beware of this major change, and buy accordingly. So, I emailed Navigon support for assistance.
Very nice unit- attractive and works well, too. Accessories, map material and content are not available in North America through NAVIGON. That still holds true.
They sent the following: 'Thank you for your inquiry. Recently, I wanted to update the maps, but there was no Freshmaps Activation card in the box from Amazon. You need the code on that card to get updates.
Unfortunately we don't have information concerning the availability of these products at other major retail shops.' As has been noted in the posted comments, and which I discovered too late, Navigon is pulling out of the North America market. They should now be called NaviGONE.
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