CdG for a first time user is I agree a nightmare but having used it several times in recent years for both SH and LH flights I find it very easy to navigate.
As an example, going from Bilbao to Aberdeen via CdG:
Arrive 2G, board shuttle bus for 2E, no waiting as bus always there or arrives within one minute. Maximum 10 minutes to 2E where each gate or group of gates has it's own security.
2G catering with only one bar is limited to sandwiches and crisps etc. 2E being bigger has more choice and with a reasonable connection you can eat there before changing terminals.