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10 Best Chartplotters 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Lowrance Eagle Eye™ 9 Live + C-MAP®, 9" IPS Screen, Eagle Eye™ transducer, C-MAP® Discover microSD Card Charts for The US and Canada

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,233
User Interface
Durability

Most important from
130 reviews

User Interface
Setup is straightforward with a plug-and-play design that requires no additional modules, making it accessible even for first-time live sonar users.
Durability
The lack of a screen cover is a minor downside but can be easily remedied by adding one, especially considering the unit's affordable price point.

The Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live chartplotter features a solid 9-inch IPS screen, providing clear, bright images visible from different angles, even when wearing polarized sunglasses, which is ideal for outdoor use on the water. It includes detailed C-MAP Discover charts for the US and Canada to assist with navigation and fishing, and supports Genesis Live for custom mapping. The GPS accuracy and chart compatibility make it suitable for lake and coastal fishing trips.

A standout feature is the transducer's ability to deliver four types of sonar views without extra modules, including forward and down views, which are valuable for spotting underwater structures and fish. The sonar autotunes itself, simplifying operation for users who prefer a plug-and-play experience. The interface is straightforward, and the new twist-lock connector system makes installation on boats or kayaks easier and more secure compared to older models.

This battery-powered unit is fairly lightweight at 2 pounds, making it portable yet sturdy enough for regular use. Its plastic housing suggests durability under normal conditions, though it may not be as rugged as some heavy-duty chartplotters designed for extreme environments. The included 1-year warranty provides some peace of mind. This model suits users seeking a dependable, user-friendly chartplotter with advanced sonar features and solid screen quality, especially for fishing, but may be less ideal for those needing a super rugged build or advanced connectivity options like Wi-Fi or smartphone integration.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,233
User Interface
Durability

Most important from
130 reviews

User Interface
Setup is straightforward with a plug-and-play design that requires no additional modules, making it accessible even for first-time live sonar users.
Durability
The lack of a screen cover is a minor downside but can be easily remedied by adding one, especially considering the unit's affordable price point.
#2

Humminbird APEX 19 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging+ & HD Touchscreen

Rating
9.7
Screen Size
GPS Accuracy
Connectivity

Most important from
7 reviews

Screen Size
The large 18.5-inch full HD screen delivers sharp, clear images that make spotting fish and underwater structures effortless.
GPS Accuracy
Reliable GPS accuracy paired with detailed basemaps and support for premium charts enhances navigation and fishing versatility.
Connectivity
Strong connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI, and dual Ethernet ports, enable seamless integration with other devices.
User Interface
Combining touchscreen controls with keypad options provides flexible and intuitive operation tailored to personal preferences.

The Humminbird APEX 19 MEGA SI+ is a solid choice for anglers who want a large, detailed display and advanced sonar capabilities. It features a sharp 18.5-inch full HD screen (1920x1080), which makes reading charts and sonar images easy, with excellent clarity to spot fish and underwater structures. The touchscreen controls combined with keypad options offer flexible and intuitive operation, along with a user-friendly interface that allows customization to suit individual preferences.

GPS accuracy is reliable thanks to its internal GPS and Humminbird’s detailed basemap, covering over 10,000 lakes and coastal areas in the U.S., plus support for premium charts like LakeMaster and Navionics, giving great versatility for navigation and fishing. The sonar is a standout, using MEGA Side Imaging+ and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar that provide clear, wide views under and around the boat, helping anglers detect fish more easily. Connectivity is strong with Bluetooth, HDMI, dual Ethernet ports, and compatibility with other Humminbird and Minn Kota devices, making it good for building an integrated system.

The device is also durable enough for marine conditions, with a solid mounting system included. However, it is a heavier and bulkier unit at over 15 pounds, which might be a consideration for smaller boats. While the price and complexity might be more than casual users need, serious fishermen will appreciate the advanced features and powerful performance this chartplotter offers.

Rating
9.7
Screen Size
GPS Accuracy
Connectivity

Most important from
7 reviews

Screen Size
The large 18.5-inch full HD screen delivers sharp, clear images that make spotting fish and underwater structures effortless.
GPS Accuracy
Reliable GPS accuracy paired with detailed basemaps and support for premium charts enhances navigation and fishing versatility.
Connectivity
Strong connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI, and dual Ethernet ports, enable seamless integration with other devices.
User Interface
Combining touchscreen controls with keypad options provides flexible and intuitive operation tailored to personal preferences.
#3

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56 Transducer, 9" Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal

Rating
9.4
Resolution
Chart Compatibility
Connectivity

Most important from
266 reviews

Resolution
The side imaging resolution is a significant upgrade, providing clearer and longer-distance scans.
Chart Compatibility
The sonar and charts are impressive, offering great underwater visibility.
Connectivity
Works well right out of the box, and performs even better once linked to the app.
Durability
Installation is straightforward, with a removable base dock and sun cover included.

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a 9-inch touchscreen chartplotter that is designed for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Its bright and sunlight-readable display ensures good visibility even on sunny days, while the 1024 x 600 resolution provides clear and detailed visuals. The included GT56 transducer supports traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning sonars, offering comprehensive underwater imaging. This chartplotter comes with built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts, which integrate extensive Navionics data for accurate navigation along the U.S. coastlines.

The built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows for easy sharing of sonar, waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP UHD2 units, which is highly convenient for users with multiple devices or those who fish in groups. Moreover, it can wirelessly connect to Garmin’s Force trolling motor, giving you the ability to control speed, navigate to waypoints, and monitor battery life directly from the chartplotter. One of the standout features of this model is its user-friendly touchscreen interface, which simplifies operation and navigation through menus.

However, it is relatively bulky at 8.08 pounds, which may be a consideration for users looking for a more lightweight option. Additionally, it is positioned at a higher price point, which might be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers. The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a feature-rich and reliable choice for serious boaters and anglers who need a high-quality chartplotter with versatile connectivity and detailed charting capabilities.

Rating
9.4
Resolution
Chart Compatibility
Connectivity

Most important from
266 reviews

Resolution
The side imaging resolution is a significant upgrade, providing clearer and longer-distance scans.
Chart Compatibility
The sonar and charts are impressive, offering great underwater visibility.
Connectivity
Works well right out of the box, and performs even better once linked to the app.
Durability
Installation is straightforward, with a removable base dock and sun cover included.

Buying Guide for the Best Chartplotters

Choosing the right chartplotter for your boating needs can significantly enhance your navigation experience. A chartplotter is an essential tool that combines GPS technology with electronic charts to help you navigate waterways safely and efficiently. When selecting a chartplotter, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your specific requirements. Here are the main specs to focus on and how to approach them.
Screen SizeScreen size refers to the diagonal measurement of the display. This spec is important because it affects how easily you can view and interpret the information on the screen. Screen sizes typically range from 5 inches to 12 inches or more. Smaller screens are more compact and can be ideal for smaller boats or limited space, while larger screens provide better visibility and are easier to read, especially in rough conditions. Choose a screen size that fits your boat's layout and your personal preference for readability.
ResolutionResolution is the number of pixels on the screen, which determines the clarity and detail of the display. Higher resolution means sharper and more detailed images. Resolutions can vary from basic (480 x 800 pixels) to high-definition (1280 x 800 pixels or higher). If you need to see fine details on charts or want a clearer view of sonar images, opt for a higher resolution. For general navigation, a standard resolution may suffice.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy indicates how precisely the chartplotter can determine your location. This is crucial for safe navigation, especially in areas with narrow channels or obstacles. GPS accuracy is typically measured in meters, with more advanced models offering accuracy within a few meters. If you frequently navigate in challenging environments, higher GPS accuracy is beneficial. For casual boating, standard accuracy may be adequate.
Chart CompatibilityChart compatibility refers to the types of electronic charts the chartplotter can use. Different chartplotters support various chart formats like Navionics, C-MAP, or proprietary charts. This spec is important because it affects the detail and coverage of the maps you can access. Ensure the chartplotter is compatible with the charts you prefer or need for your boating area. If you travel to different regions, look for a model that supports multiple chart formats.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NMEA 2000 compatibility. These features allow the chartplotter to connect with other devices and systems on your boat, such as radar, sonar, autopilot, and mobile devices. Connectivity is important for integrating your chartplotter into a comprehensive navigation system. If you want to share data between devices or control your chartplotter remotely, look for models with robust connectivity options.
User InterfaceThe user interface encompasses the layout and ease of use of the chartplotter's controls and menus. A well-designed interface makes it easier to access and interpret navigation information. Interfaces can range from simple button controls to advanced touchscreens with customizable menus. Consider how comfortable you are with technology and choose a user interface that you find intuitive and easy to use. If you prefer simplicity, opt for basic controls; if you like advanced features, look for touchscreens with customizable options.
DurabilityDurability refers to the chartplotter's ability to withstand harsh marine conditions, including exposure to water, salt, and sunlight. This spec is important for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the device. Look for chartplotters with waterproof ratings (such as IPX7) and robust construction. If you boat in rough conditions or saltwater environments, prioritize models with high durability ratings. For calmer waters, standard durability may be sufficient.

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