10 Best Chartplotters 2026 in the United States

The Simrad NSS9 evo3S is a feature-packed 9-inch chartplotter that caters well to boating and fishing enthusiasts. The high-definition LCD screen offers clear visuals, making it easy to read charts and sonar images. The device’s new iMX 8 high-performance processor ensures quick response times and smooth transitions between screens, which is crucial for real-time navigation and fish finding.

The built-in GPS is reliable and comes preloaded with C-MAP US Enhanced charts, covering both inland and coastal areas, which adds to its versatility and ease of use for different water activities. Connectivity options allow integration with various systems on the vessel, including monitoring engines and controlling the onboard sound system.

The user interface is intuitive, with the ability to switch between a responsive touchscreen and a physical keypad with a rotary control dial, accommodating different user preferences and weather conditions. On the downside, the product's relatively high price and moderate best-seller rank might deter budget-conscious buyers. Some users might also find the weight (8 pounds) a bit cumbersome for smaller vessels. However, its robust build promises durability and a solid 2-year warranty backs it up. The Simrad NSS9 evo3S is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable, high-performance chartplotter with extensive features for a variety of marine applications.

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.

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.