You are currently viewing 12 Best Marine GPS Chartplotters: 2024 Roundup

12 Best Marine GPS Chartplotters: 2024 Roundup

If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our product reviews.

Last Updated: Jan 2, 2024

Are you looking for the best marine GPS chartplotters on the market today? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve comprehensively reviewed the best systems available today, comparing features, prices, pros and cons, and customer feedback to help you make the best decision for your needs.

No matter what type of boating you participate in, we have reviewed the perfect system for you. So what are you waiting for? Check out our reviews of 12 of the best combo marine GPS chartplotter systems below!

In a rush? Here’s a quick look at our top picks:

Top Marine GPS Devices & Chartplotter Systems

Product NameReviewPriceRating
Simrad GO9 XSE
best gps chartplotter Simrad GO9 XSE
Jump to ReviewAround $1,000

Buy Now
4.2 stars (88 Ratings)
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv
Jump to ReviewAround $860

Buy Now
4.7 stars (501 Ratings)
Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv
Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv
Jump to ReviewAround $220

Buy Now
4.6 stars (126 Ratings)
Simrad Cruise 7
Simrad Cruise 7
Jump to ReviewAround $410

Buy Now
4.4 stars (230 Ratings)
Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv
Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv
Jump to ReviewAround $400

Buy Now
4.7 stars (1,817 Ratings)
Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv
Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv
Jump to ReviewAround $1,500

Buy Now
4.9 stars (39 Ratings)
Simrad NSS9 evo3S
Simrad NSS9 evo3S
Jump to ReviewAround $2,290

Buy Now
4.8 stars (5 Ratings)
Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv
Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv
Jump to ReviewAround $1,410

Buy Now
5 stars (11 Ratings)
Humminbird HELIX 8
Humminbird HELIX 8 GPS chartplotter
Jump to ReviewAround $584

Buy Now
5 stars (4 Ratings)
Hummingbird Helix 12
Hummingbird Helix 12
Jump to ReviewAround $1,740

Buy Now
4 stars (6 Ratings)
Si-tex SVS-460C
Si-tex SVS-460C
Jump to ReviewAround $486

Buy Now
3 stars (7 Ratings)
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv
garmin echomap uhd 94sv
Jump to ReviewAround $1300

Buy Now
4 stars (24 Ratings)

Let the Experts Guide You

Hi there! I’m Dale, a charter boat captain, and an expert when it comes to saltwater fishing. I’ve been fishing off the coast of Maine for over 20 years and have seen the evolution of modern chartplotters.

I know what makes a GPS chartplotter and how important they are for any good boater or anyone who wants to locate schools and land big fish. That’s why I’m here to help you buy a marine chartplotter and inform you of the specifics of each device I’m recommending.


How We Reviewed These Marine GPS Chartplotters

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to finding the best marine GPS devices and chartplotter systems.

What works well for a fishing boat may not be the best option for a sailboat and vice versa. That’s why we take a comprehensive approach to our reviews, comparing marine GPS unit features, prices, pros and cons, and customer feedback from real users.

This allows us to provide you with all the information you need to decide which system is suitable for your needs.

We also provide hands-on reviews and detailed overviews of each product.

So let’s look at how to choose the right GPS chartplotter for you!

best marine gps chartplotters

How to Choose a GPS Chartplotter

Choosing a marine GPS chartplotter doesn’t have to be a hassle. There are a few key factors you should consider when choosing your system, such as:

Mounting Method – Most marine GPS chartplotters are flush or non-flush in your boat’s dash. Some come with bail mounts, some with suction cups, and others have permanent mounting hardware.

Screen Size – The overall size of the unit and display will determine your viewing area. Generally, larger screens provide more detailed images and a better overall user experience.

Advanced Features – Many GPS chartplotters, including handheld marine GPS, now have advanced features such as fish finders, radar, barometric altimeter, and AIS (Automatic Identification System).

User Interface – Choosing a system with an intuitive, easy-to-use interface is essential. This will make it easier for you to use the system without learning complex commands or menus.

Navigation Accuracy – Make sure you choose a GPS chartplotter with the highest level of accuracy. A preferred GPS system should get you from point A to point B without glitches or errors and within a few feet of perfect.

Connectivity – The ability to connect your chart plotter to other devices and systems is essential, such as your smartphone or tablet, a VHF radio, autopilot and engine data, fuel management systems, and more.

Weighing all these factors will help you find the best GPS chartplotter. Now let’s dive into the 12 BEST GPS chartplotter systems on the market today!

Best Marine GPS Chartplotters Reviewed

Overall Best Marine GPS Chartplotter: Simrad GO9 XSE

Overall Best Marine GPS Chartplotter: Simrad GO9 XSE

Cartography: C-Map, MAX-N, Navionics
Display: 9 inches
Data Connection: cellular
Mounting Type: Bracket, Panel
Preloaded MAPS: Yes, Nautical North America
Dimensions: 14.2 x 10.9 x 10.3 inches


Setup & Install Experience:
The Simrad GO9 comes with a high-performance marine GPS receiver, a bright sunlight-viewable 9-inch display, and a dual-channel CHIRP/Broadband sounder.

You can see what’s below the surface in incredible detail with active imaging 3-in-1 sonar, including SideScan, DownScan, and StructureScan.

This unit comes with a mounting bracket and 3-in-1 transducer along with its power cable, built-in 50-channel global positioning system receiver, and integrated Navionics data cover.

The unit is easy to install, although you will need to purchase additional mounting hardware depending on your vessel type.

The GO9 XSE also includes C-MAP by Jeppesen navigation charts for areas in Nautical North America. You can get free chart updates for the life of your unit.

Pros

  • 9″ bright display
  • Active imaging 3-in-1 sonar
  • C-MAP by Jeppesen navigation charts preloaded
  • Free lifetime chart updates
  • Easy to install and use
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • You may require additional mounting hardware

Performance & Overall Experience:
The Simrad GO9 XSE is one of the best consumer marine electronics on the market today. The integrated dual-channel CHIRP/Broadband sounder provides incredible detail on what’s below the surface.

Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar lets you see under your boat in astonishing detail. The bright 9-inch display is easy to read and navigate, even in direct sunlight.

C-MAP by Jeppesen navigation charts are preloaded for areas of Nautical North America, with free chart updates for life. Finally, the unit is easy to install and use, making this an excellent choice for the casual boater or serious fishermen.

Overall, we highly recommend the Simrad GO9 XSE as the best marine GPS Chartplotter for the money on the market today. Its feature-rich design makes it an excellent navigational companion.

Tested Features: 

  • Active imaging 3-in-1 sonar
  • Dual channel CHIRP/Broadband sounder
  • Pre-loaded C-MAP
  • Built-In Connectivity with phone

Best Garmin Marine GPS Chartplotter: Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv

Best Garmin Marine GPS Chartplotter: Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv

Cartography: BlueChart g3, U.S. LakeVü HD Ultra
Display: 9 inches
Mounting Type: Bail mount
Preloaded Maps: Yes (U.S. LakeVü HD Ultra)
Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 8 inches
Weight: 8 pounds


Setup & Install Experience:
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv fishfinder/chartplotter combo comes with an easy-to-install bail mount, power cable, and a transom-mount transducer.

The unit is quick and straightforward to install, and the included transducer is compatible with traditional 50/77 kHz and CHIRP frequencies.

The device has a 9-inch ultra-bright, sunlight-viewable display, making it easy to read even on bright days. Preloaded U.S. LakeVü HD Ultra maps make navigation more manageable, and these can be updated throughout the unit’s lifetime.

Pros

  • 9″ ultra-bright sunlit-viewable display
  • Compatible with CHIRP frequencies
  • Preloaded U.S. LakeVü HD Ultra maps
  • Free lifetime map updates
  • Simple to install and use
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • You may require additional accessories

Performance & Overall Experience:
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv is an excellent choice for marine GPS devices. The preloaded maps make navigation easier, and the CHIRP-compatible transducer ensures crystal-clear visuals of what’s below the surface.

The ultra-bright 9-inch display is easy to read in direct sunlight, and free lifetime map updates ensure you’ll always have the most up-to-date navigational data.

Finally, the unit is easy to install and use, making this an excellent choice for casual boaters and professional anglers.

Overall, we highly recommend the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv as one of the best Garmin marine GPS chartplotters on the market today. Its feature-rich design makes it an excellent navigational companion.

Tested Features: 

  • Track plotting test
  • CHIRP-compatible transducer mounting
  • Preloaded map selection
  • Ultra bright 9-inch display on a sunny day
  • GPS functionality

Best Marine GPS Chartplotter For The Money: Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv

Best Marine GPS Chartplotter For The Money: Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv

Screen Size: 4.3 inches
Mounting type: Bail mount
Preloaded Maps: Yes (BlueChart g2 HD)
DGPS: No
Dimensions: 11.69 x 8.5 x 5.47 inches
Weight: 3.5 pounds


Setup & Install Experience: 
The Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv fishfinder/GPS/chartplotter combo has an easy-to-install bail mount, power, and transducer cables. The unit is quick and simple to install, and the included transducer is easily mounted to the transom.

The device has a 4.3-inch ultra-bright, sunlight-viewable display, making it easy to read even on sunny days. Preloaded BlueChart g2 HD maps make navigation more straightforward, and these can be updated throughout the unit’s lifetime.

Pros

  • 4.3″ ultra-bright sunlit-viewable display
  • Great price point
  • Preloaded BlueChart g2 HD maps
  • Quick and simple to install

Cons

  • Smaller display than larger units
  • No DGPS functionality

Performance & Overall Experience:
Sporting a 4.3-inch ultra-bright display, the Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv is an easy-to-use fishfinder/chartplotter combo that won’t break the bank.

My experience with the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv fishfinder/chartplotter combo has been overwhelmingly positive. This device is easy and intuitive from initial setup to use in the field.

The included transducer was simple to mount on the transom, and the 9-inch ultra-bright display was easy to read even in direct sunlight.

The Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 44cv is an excellent fishfinder/chartplotter combo for anglers and boaters on a budget.

Tested Features: 

  • Sensitivity test
  • CHIRP-compatible transducer mounting
  • Preloaded map selection
  • Ultra-bright 4.3-inch display on a sunny day

Simrad Cruise 7: 7-inch GPS Chartplotter

Simrad Cruise 7" Marine GPS Chartplotter

Screen Size: 7 inches
Mounting type: Bracket/Mount
Preloaded Maps: Yes, US Coast Map
Dimensions: 13.03 x 12.36 x 9.57 inches
Weight: 4.6 pounds
Model number: 000-14996-001


Setup & Install Experience: 
The Simrad Cruise 7-inch marine GPS chartplotter has a quick, simple bracket/mount installation. The included power, 83/200 skimmer transducer, and network cables are easy to attach, making the unit ready for use in no time.

The 7″ ultra-bright display is easy to read even in direct sunlight. The included US Coastal Maps can be updated as needed, and supports charts from C-MAP and Navionics.

Pros

  • Easy Setup;
  • 7″ ultra-bright sunlight-viewable display
  • Quick and simple to install
  • Preloaded US Coastal Maps

Cons

  • Expensive compared to similar models

Performance & Overall Experience: 
The Simrad Cruise 7-inch marine GPS chartplotter is an excellent choice for anglers and boaters who want a reliable, feature-rich navigational system. The included US Coastal Map can be updated as needed, making it easy to stay updated with the most current navigational data. The 7″ ultra-bright display is easy to read even on sunny days, making navigation easier.

Overall, my experience with the Simrad Cruise 7-inch GPS chartplotter has been overwhelmingly positive. The unit is easy to install and use, and I have had no issues navigating on open water or narrow channels. This device provides all the necessary features for a reliable navigational system without breaking the bank.

Tested Features: 

  • GPS navigation
  • TrackPlotting
  • 83/200 kHz Skimmer transducer mounting
  • Preloaded map selection
  • 7-inch ultra-bright display on a sunny day

Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv w/ Chirp Sonar Transducer

Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv with Chirp Sonar Transducer

Cartography: C-Map
Display: 9 inches
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Mounting Type: Tilt/Swivel mount
Preloaded MAPS: No, Connect with smartphone
Dimensions: 11.4 x 8.9 x 8.2 inches


Setup & Install Experience:
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is an excellent value GPS color fishfinder. It has vivid scanning sonar color palettes to identify fish and structures quickly. Sonar imaging on this unit also allows you to see an image of the floor. It comes with a tilt/swivel ball mount bracket for mounting and can easily fit on your boat or even a kayak.

Portability is also great on this unit as it features Wi-Fi connectivity to connect to the ActiveCaptain app on most smartphones to transfer waypoints, get notifications and access the Garmin Quickdraw Community for help with your device or advice on exploring new spots.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use
  • Vivid scanning sonar
  • Tilt/swivel ball mount bracket included
  • High-sensitivity GPS
  • Wi-Fi connectivity

Cons

  • No preloaded maps or charts included

Performance & Overall Experience: 
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is an excellent choice for anglers and boaters who want an easy-to-use, feature-rich fishfinder/GPS/chartplotter combo.

The GT20 transducer provides both Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar, allowing you to identify fish and structures.

The high-sensitivity GPS will enable you to mark waypoints, create routes, and view your boat’s speed. Additionally, the built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping allows you to create HD fishing maps easily.

Overall, my experience with the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv has been great. It is simple and easy to use and provides all the necessary features for a reliable navigational system. The included Wi-Fi connectivity makes it easy to connect your smartphone to access the ActiveCaptain App, transfer waypoints, and access the Garmin Quickdraw Community. I recommend this device to anyone looking for an excellent value color fishfinder/GPS/chartplotter combo.

Tested Features: 

  • Straightforward GPS navigation
  • CHIRP traditional sonar imaging
  • CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar
  • High-sensitivity GPS
  • Quickdraw Contours mapping
  • Wi-Fi connectivity to iPhone 12

Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv – Chartplotter / GPS / Fish Finder


Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv - Chartplotter / GPS / Fish FinderScreen Size: 9 inches
Mounting type: Bracket/Mount
Preloaded Maps: Garmin G3 Charts
Dimensions: ‎‎9.2 x 6.4 x 3 inches
Weight: 8 pounds
Model number: ‎010-02366-03


Setup & Installation Experience:
The Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv Chartplotter/Fishfinder is an all-in-one unit with a high-resolution IPS display that integrates seamlessly into your marine electronics system. It has nearly double the processing power of previous-generation devices. With 50% more display pixels, it features vivid color palettes to help you distinguish fish from structures. This unit also supports 1 kW CHIRP traditional sonar capabilities, making it easy to find those hard-to-spot fish.

The setup and installation process was straightforward—mount the device using the included bracket/mount, plug in the power cable, connect a compatible transducer if needed (sold separately), and you’re ready to go. The included Garmin G3 Charts provide detailed marine and lake maps. In addition, the GPSMAP 943xsv has an ultra-bright display that can be easily seen in direct sunlight.

Pros

  • High-resolution IPS display
  • Vivid color palettes for easy fish identification
  • Compatible with 1 kW Garmin CHIRP sonar
  • Includes Garmin G3 Charts
  • Ultra-bright display

Cons

  • Transducer needed for sonar and sold separately.

Performance & Overall Experience:
I found the Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv to be a great addition to my fishing arsenal. The high-resolution IPS display makes it easy to see what’s below the surface and its vivid color palette helps me identify fish quickly and accurately. Not only does the unit come with Garmin G3 Charts, but it also has Wi-Fi connectivity so that you can download maps from the Active Captain app.

I found the unit to be highly responsive throughout my testing. I was delighted with the performance and overall experience of the Garmin GPSMAP 8612XSV. It is an excellent value for anglers and boaters looking for an all-in-one unit that provides detailed marine and lake maps on a high-resolution IPS display.

Overall, I was pleased with my experience using the Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv Chartplotter/Fishfinder and recommend it to anyone looking for a powerful fish-finding system.

Tested Features: 

  • High-resolution IPS display
  • Compatibility with a 1 kW CHIRP system
  • Included Garmin G3 Charts
  • Wi-Fi connectivity to Active Captain App

Simrad NSS9 evo3S – 9-inch Multifunction Fish Finder Chartplotter

Simrad NSS9 evo3S - 9-inch Multifunction Fish Finder Chartplotter
Screen Size: 9 inches
Screen Brightness: 1200 nits
Mounting type: Dash mount kit
Preloaded Maps: C-MAP Enhanced Charts
Dimensions: 11.30 x 6.55 x 3.50″
Weight: 8.93 pounds
Model number: 000-15402-001


Setup & Installation Experience: 
The Simrad NSS9 evo3S is a 9-inch multifunction chartplotter that offers high-performance navigation and integrated sonar capabilities. It includes preloaded C-MAP Enhanced Charts for superior detail and accuracy when navigating your favorite fishing spots. This unit also supports 1 kW CHIRP traditional sonar and scanning sonar, plus features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver.

Installation of the NSS9 evo3S was straightforward. The unit comes with a dash mount kit, making it easy to install in our boat. We also had no issues connecting the power and NMEA 2000 cables. The unit booted up quickly, and we could start fishing in no time.

Pros

  • High-performance
  • High-sensitivity GPS receiver
  • Supports 1 kW CHIRP sonar
  • C-MAP Enhanced Charts preloaded
  • Easy installation with included dash pad mount kit

Cons

  • It does not include a transducer

Performance & Overall Experience: 

The Simrad NSS9 evo3S was an excellent choice for our boat. The 9-inch display screen offers plenty of room to view charts and sonar, and the 1200-nit brightness makes the display easy to view in direct sunlight. I found the unit extremely high-resolution when using both traditional and scanning sonar. The C-MAP Enhanced Charts provided excellent detail and accuracy when navigating our favorite fishing spots.

Overall, we were delighted with our experience using the Simrad NSS9 evo3S. It is a high-quality unit and an excellent choice for anglers looking for a high-performance chartplotter GPS device. We recommend it to anyone in the market for a multifunction navigation system!

Tested Features: 

  • High-resolution display screen
  • Preloaded C-MAP Enhanced Charts
  • Integrated sonar capabilities
  • Support for 1 kW CHIRP traditional sonar
  • High-sensitivity GPS receiver

Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv

Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv

Screen Size: 10 inches
Mounting type: Ball or Flush mount
Preloaded Maps: Garmin Navionics+
Dimensions: 12.5 x 2.7 x 7.3 inches
Weight: 4.1 pounds
Model number: 010-01740-03


Setup & Installation Experience: 
The Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv is a 10-inch chartplotter with a built-in worldwide base map, including Garmin Navionics+â„¢ coastal charts. 

This unit also has auto Guidance+ technology, Garmin SailAssist™ feature, and NMEA 2000® connectivity. It comes with the power/data cable, NMEA 2000 T-connector, an 8-pin transducer to 12-pin sounder adapter cable, and a bail mount kit with knobs.

Installation of the GPSMAP 1042xsv was relatively easy. We followed the instructions in the included user manual and had no issues connecting the power and data cables. The unit booted up quickly, and we were able to get started easily.

Pros

  • Built-in worldwide base map
  • Garmin Navionics+â„¢ coastal charts
  • Auto Guidance+ technology
  • Garmin SailAssistâ„¢ feature
  • NMEA 2000 connectivity
  • ClearVü™, SideVü™, Panoptixâ„¢ Sonar capabilities

Cons

  • It does not include a transducer

Performance & Overall Experience: 
This unit is packed with features and offers an excellent navigation experience. The 10-inch display is clear and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. We particularly liked the Auto Guidance+ feature, which calculates a route from our current position to where we want to go. The integration of NMEA 2000 also allows us to easily connect other devices on board and view data, such as real-time engine data.

Overall, we were very impressed with the Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv. It is a high-quality unit and an excellent choice for anglers looking for a multifunction fish finder/chartplotter GPS device. We recommend it to anyone in the market for one!

Tested Features: 

  • Built-in worldwide base map
  • Garmin Navionics+â„¢ coastal charts
  • Auto Guidance+ technology
  • NMEA 2000 connectivity
  • Chirp Sidevü scanning sonar

Humminbird HELIX 8

Humminbird HELIX 8

Screen Size: 8 inches
Mounting type: Global mount
Preloaded Maps: Humminbird Basemap
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11 x 9.5 inches
Weight: 8.63 pounds
Model number: 411330-1


Setup & Installation Experience: 
The Humminbird HELIX 8 is an 8-inch chartplotter with built-in Ethernet networking and AutoChart Live technology. This unit has dual spectrum CHIRP Sonar, internal GPS, Humminbird Basemap preloaded, NMEA 2000® connectivity, and chirp sidevü scanning sonars. It comes with the control head, transom mount transducer, hardware, power cable, gimbal mounting bracket, and a 2-year limited warranty.

Pros

  • AutoChart Live technology
  • Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
  • Internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap
  • NMEA 2000 connectivity
  • Side imaging capabilities

Cons

  • This model does not have Down Imaging

Performance & Overall Experience: 

The Humminbird HELIX 8 has a very powerful internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap, which provides excellent navigation capabilities. The AutoChart Live technology is great for creating detailed contour personalized fishing maps of your favorite fishing spots. We also found the dual spectrum CHIRP Sonar incredibly accurate, allowing us to locate fish quickly. The side imaging capabilities are also quite helpful in finding and tracking fish.

Overall, we were impressed with the Humminbird HELIX 8 unit. It offers excellent performance and is a great choice for anglers looking for a powerful multifunction fish finder/Chartplotter GPS device. We would recommend this unit!

Tested Features: 

  • AutoChart Live technology
  • Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
  • Internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap
  • NMEA 2000 connectivity
  • Side imaging capabilities

Hummingbird Helix 12 w/Chirp

Hummingbird Helix 12

Screen Size: 12.1 inches
Mounting type: Global mount
Preloaded Maps: Humminbird Basemap
Dimensions: 19.25 x 12.75 x 10.25 inches
Weight: 13.9 pounds
Model number: 411430-1


Setup & Installation Experience: 
The Humminbird HELIX 12 is a 12.1-inch chartplotter with built-in Ethernet networking, AutoChart Live technology, and Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar. 

This unit also has an internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap preloaded, NMEA 2000® connectivity, and side imaging/ down imaging capabilities. It comes with the control head, transom mount transducer, mounting hardware, power cable, and gimbal mounting bracket.

Pros

  • AutoChart Live technology
  • Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
  • Internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap
  • NMEA 2000 connectivity
  • Side imaging and Down Imaging capabilities
  •  

Cons

  • This model is quite large

Performance & Overall Experience: 
Our experience with the Helix 12 was great. The internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap is accurate and provides excellent navigation capabilities. The Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar works excellently and provides crystal-clear images of the water below.

The AutoChart Live technology is great for creating detailed maps of bodies of water, making it easy to identify any potential hazards or other features.

This unit made our list of top-rated chartplotters because of its impressive features, accurate GPS, and outstanding performance. Whether you are a seasoned angler or novice, we highly recommend the Humminbird Helix 12 for all your needs!

Tested Features: 

  • AutoChart Live technology
  • Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
  • Internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap
  • NMEA 2000 connectivity
  • Side imaging and Down Imaging capabilities

Si-tex SVS-460C

Si-tex SVS-460C

Screen Size: 4.3 Inches
Mounting type: Dashboard Mount
Preloaded Maps: Yes, US waters
Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 9 inches
Weight: 3.7 Pounds
Model number: 54169


Setup & Installation Experience: 
The SI-TEX SVS-460C chart plotter is an easy and intuitive device to install. It comes with a mounting bracket and all the necessary hardware, including the wiring, and harnesses for both NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 networks, so you can easily connect to your boat’s electronics.

The installation process is fast and straightforward, taking only a few minutes. Once you’ve connected all the cables, you can power up the chartplotter and begin mapping.

Pros

  • Rugged construction
  • Intuitive user interface
  • No-nonsense performance
  • Outstanding value for your money

Cons

  • It does not display depths, as it is only a GPS Chartplotter

Performance & Overall Experience: 
We found the SI-TEX SVS-460C chart plotter very reliable and easy to use. The intuitive user interface is excellent for navigating menus and finding what you need quickly. The rugged construction ensures it can withstand harsh environments, making it perfect for boats of all sizes.

The chartplotter offers excellent performance and outstanding value for your money. We recommend this unit 100%! The SI-TEX SVS-460C proves that you don’t need a big boat — or a big bankroll to benefit from professional-grade features and performance. I highly recommend this chartplotter!

Tested Features: 

  • Rugged construction
  • User interface
  • Chartplotting
  • Pre-loaded Maps
  • GPS accuracy

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv gps chartplotter

Cartography: Navionics+ U.S. Coastal
Display: 9 inches
Data Connection: WiFi/GPS
Mounting Type: Bracket, Panel
Preloaded MAPS: Yes, Nautical North America
Dimensions: 10.4 x 6.5 x 3.2 inches


Setup & Install Experience:

Setting up the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv was a breeze. The included hardware and clear instructions allowed for an easy installation, whether opting for the bracket or panel mounting. Initial boot-up was fairly quick, with the device smoothly transitioning to an easy-to-navigate user interface. The 9-inch touchscreen is impressively responsive, making it easy to toggle between various functionalities.

First Impressions:

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv impresses with its sleek design and high-definition screen for clear coastal charts. Integrated Navionics data enhances navigation accuracy, while wireless connection to the Force trolling motor and support for LiveScopeâ„¢ sonar systems promise seamless navigation and superior control. In a nutshell, it’s a robust, feature-rich GPS chartplotter designed for modern mariners.

Pros

  • Intuitive, user-friendly interface
  • High-resolution 9-inch touchscreen
  • Advanced ClearVü and SideVü sonars
  • Seamless integrationtouchscreen

Cons

  • Expensive

Performance & Overall Experience:

In terms of performance, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a standout. It offers unmatched precision and clarity, thanks to its advanced ClearVü and SideVü sonars. The 9-inch touchscreen and user-friendly interface make navigation a breeze, regardless of conditions. Compared to other models on this list, it outshines in terms of integration capabilities, especially with Garmin devices and LiveScope™ sonar systems.

The only downside we found was its price point, which might be steep for some. But given its high-quality features and superior performance, it makes a worthy investment for serious mariners seeking a reliable, state-of-the-art GPS chartplotter.

Tested Features:

  • ClearVü and SideVü sonars
  • Wireless integration
  • LiveScopeâ„¢ sonar system compatibility
  • Garmin Navionics+ data
  • Force trolling motor control

Conclusion

GPS chartplotters are precious tools for any boater, offering accurate navigation and a wealth of features. With so many models on the market, it can take time to choose the right one.

Hopefully, this guide has given you insight into what to look for when shopping for a GPS chartplotter and our top picks for both budget and high-end models. Have fun, and stay safe out there!

Marine GPS Chartplotter FAQs

What features should I look for when choosing a GPS chartplotter?

When choosing a GPS chartplotter, you should consider screen size, mounting type, advanced features such as fishfinder capabilities, user interface, navigation accuracy, and connectivity.

What is the difference between NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 networks?

NMEA 0183 networks are older and more limited in functions and capabilities, while NMEA 2000 networks are newer, faster, and can handle more data.

What is AutoChart Live Technology?

AutoChart Live technology allows you to create detailed maps of bodies of water in real-time using sonar and GPS data. This makes it easier to identify any potential hazards or other features.

How accurate are Marine GPS Chartplotters?

Marine GPS chartplotters are typically very accurate, with most devices offering accuracy within a few feet. However, they can be affected by environmental conditions such as strong winds and storms, so it’s always essential to leave some wiggle room if navigating unfamiliar areas.

Dale Short

Dale Short, an Air Force veteran turned digital marketer, has made a name for himself in the tech world. His military background instilled in him discipline and teamwork, traits that have served him well in his marketing career. But it's his passion for technology, especially GPS devices, that truly sets him apart. Known for his knack for tinkering and improving these intricate devices, Dale has become a respected tech product reviewer in this space. His story is a testament to his tenacity, innovation, and relentless pursuit of knowledge.