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10 Best Marine Gps Chartplotters 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 12-inch Chartplotter with LiveScope Plus Bundle, GPS, Chirp Sonar, Navionics+ Charts

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,329
Screen Size

Most important from
9 reviews

Screen Size
The large, bright display combined with advanced sonar and navigation features makes this unit a dependable choice for serious boaters.

The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 is a strong choice for boaters needing a large, clear chartplotter. Its 12-inch screen with 1280 x 800 resolution makes maps and sonar views easy to see, and the hybrid touch controls help with smooth navigation. It supports high-accuracy GPS by using multiple satellite systems at once, so you can trust your position on the water. The included LiveScope Plus sonar system is a major plus, providing real-time, detailed underwater views that help with fishing and navigation.

Connectivity options like dual microSD slots, network ports, and NMEA 2000 support allow you to connect this device with other marine electronics and update charts easily. Garmin’s preloaded Navionics+ charts cover North America well. The unit’s surface mount design is straightforward to install, and its durability and waterproofing make it suitable for marine environments. At 14 pounds, it is somewhat heavy, which might affect mounting choices on smaller boats. It offers Wi-Fi, though other wireless connections like Bluetooth are not mentioned, which could limit some smart device integrations. This chartplotter suits serious anglers and boaters who want advanced sonar and reliable navigation in one large, bright display, but it may be more than casual or occasional users need.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,329
Screen Size

Most important from
9 reviews

Screen Size
The large, bright display combined with advanced sonar and navigation features makes this unit a dependable choice for serious boaters.
#2

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

Rating
9.1
Resolution
Mapping and Chart Options
Connectivity

Most important from
241 reviews

Resolution
The new UHD2 versions offer a significant upgrade, with better side imaging resolution and longer scan distances.
Mapping and Chart Options
Sonar and charts perform great, offering clear underwater imaging.
Connectivity
Works well right out of the box, but linking it to the app makes it even better.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Installation is straightforward – mount the sensor, feed wires, install brackets, and connect to power.

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a 9-inch touchscreen chartplotter that stands out for its bright, sunlight-readable display, making it easy to view even in direct sunlight. It has a resolution of 1024 x 600, which provides clear and detailed images. The device is equipped with the GT56 transducer for traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning sonars, enhancing its capabilities for detailed underwater imaging – a great feature for fishing enthusiasts. It comes preloaded with Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal charts, offering comprehensive mapping options for coastal navigation. GPS accuracy is reliable, which is crucial for marine navigation, ensuring you stay on course accurately.

The built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows for seamless sharing of sonar data, waypoints, and routes with another ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotter, which is handy for those using multiple devices on their boat. Additionally, it can wirelessly connect to a Force trolling motor to follow routes, navigate to waypoints, and control speed, adding convenience for anglers. The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, thanks to the touchscreen feature, making it easy for both beginners and experienced boaters to operate. The device is designed for durability and has a good waterproof rating, suitable for harsh marine environments.

However, at 8.08 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for those looking for a more portable option. Despite its robust feature set, it might be on the pricier side, but the value it offers in terms of advanced sonar technology and connectivity could justify the investment for serious boaters and fishers.

Rating
9.1
Resolution
Mapping and Chart Options
Connectivity

Most important from
241 reviews

Resolution
The new UHD2 versions offer a significant upgrade, with better side imaging resolution and longer scan distances.
Mapping and Chart Options
Sonar and charts perform great, offering clear underwater imaging.
Connectivity
Works well right out of the box, but linking it to the app makes it even better.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Installation is straightforward – mount the sensor, feed wires, install brackets, and connect to power.
#3

Simrad NSS12 Evo3S - 12-inch Multifunction Fish Finder Chartplotter with Preloaded C-MAP US Enhanced Charts,000-15403-002

Rating
8.8
Resolution
Mapping and Chart Options
Connectivity

Most important from
25 reviews

Resolution
The unit delivers fast and reliable performance with a sharp, high-definition display that makes navigation clear and enjoyable.
Mapping and Chart Options
The detailed preloaded charts provide comprehensive coverage, making it a dependable tool for both inland and coastal boating.
Connectivity
Connectivity options allow easy integration with other vessel systems, expanding the device's versatility beyond navigation.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Installation is straightforward, and the interface is intuitive, offering a user experience as simple and familiar as using a smartphone.

The Simrad NSS12 Evo3S is a solid choice for boaters looking for a 12-inch marine GPS chartplotter with a sharp, high-definition screen and fast performance thanks to its iMX 8 processor. It comes preloaded with detailed C-MAP US Enhanced charts covering inland and coastal waters, making navigation straightforward and reliable. The built-in GPS is accurate and helps provide precise location data, which is essential for safe and efficient boating.

Its touchscreen interface is intuitive, supporting multi-touch gestures, while also offering a keypad and rotary dial for control in rough conditions or when wearing gloves. Connectivity via Bluetooth allows easy integration with other vessel systems, such as engine monitoring and onboard audio, which adds to its versatility. The device supports advanced fish finding technologies like Active Imaging sonar and StructureScan 3D, making it appealing for anglers as well.

The unit weighs about 7.5 kilograms and comes with mounting accessories, making installation manageable but possibly requiring some effort on larger boats. With strong user ratings and a 2-year warranty, this model is well suited for recreational boaters and serious anglers who want an all-in-one navigation and fish-finding solution on a mid-to-large sized display.

Rating
8.8
Resolution
Mapping and Chart Options
Connectivity

Most important from
25 reviews

Resolution
The unit delivers fast and reliable performance with a sharp, high-definition display that makes navigation clear and enjoyable.
Mapping and Chart Options
The detailed preloaded charts provide comprehensive coverage, making it a dependable tool for both inland and coastal boating.
Connectivity
Connectivity options allow easy integration with other vessel systems, expanding the device's versatility beyond navigation.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Installation is straightforward, and the interface is intuitive, offering a user experience as simple and familiar as using a smartphone.

Buying Guide for the Best Marine Gps Chartplotters

Choosing the right marine GPS chartplotter can significantly enhance your boating experience by providing accurate navigation, detailed maps, and essential information about your surroundings. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a marine GPS chartplotter.
Screen SizeThe screen size of a marine GPS chartplotter is crucial as it determines how easily you can view maps and data. Larger screens (10 inches and above) offer better visibility and are ideal for larger boats or when multiple people need to see the display. Medium screens (7-9 inches) provide a good balance between visibility and space, suitable for mid-sized boats. Smaller screens (5-6 inches) are more compact and can be a good fit for smaller boats or kayaks. Choose a screen size that matches your boat size and how you plan to use the chartplotter.
ResolutionResolution refers to the clarity and detail of the display. Higher resolution screens (e.g., 1280 x 800 pixels) provide sharper and more detailed images, which can be particularly useful for identifying underwater structures and navigation markers. Lower resolution screens (e.g., 800 x 480 pixels) may be sufficient for basic navigation but might lack the detail needed for more complex tasks. If you need precise and clear visuals, especially in challenging conditions, opt for a higher resolution chartplotter.
Mapping and Chart OptionsDifferent chartplotters come with various mapping and chart options, such as preloaded maps, compatibility with third-party charts, and the ability to update maps. Preloaded maps can be convenient and save you time, while compatibility with third-party charts allows for more customization and access to specialized maps. Consider what type of maps you need for your boating area and whether you prefer preloaded options or the flexibility to add and update maps as needed.
GPS AccuracyGPS accuracy is essential for precise navigation and positioning. Chartplotters with high-sensitivity GPS receivers and support for multiple satellite systems (e.g., GPS, GLONASS) offer better accuracy and reliability. This is particularly important for navigating in challenging environments or when precise positioning is critical. If you often boat in areas with poor signal reception or need highly accurate navigation, look for chartplotters with advanced GPS capabilities.
ConnectivityConnectivity features, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NMEA 2000 compatibility, allow your chartplotter to connect with other devices and systems on your boat. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable wireless updates, data sharing, and integration with smartphones or tablets. NMEA 2000 compatibility allows for seamless integration with other marine electronics, such as fish finders, radar, and autopilot systems. Consider what connectivity options you need based on your existing equipment and how you plan to use the chartplotter.
User Interface and Ease of UseThe user interface and ease of use are important for ensuring that you can operate the chartplotter efficiently, especially in challenging conditions. Look for chartplotters with intuitive menus, touchscreens, and customizable settings. Some models offer voice control or physical buttons for added convenience. If you are new to using marine electronics or prefer a straightforward operation, choose a chartplotter with a user-friendly interface.
Durability and Waterproof RatingDurability and waterproof rating are critical for ensuring that your chartplotter can withstand the harsh marine environment. Look for chartplotters with high waterproof ratings (e.g., IPX7 or higher) to ensure they can handle exposure to water and weather conditions. Additionally, consider models with rugged construction and protective features to prevent damage from impacts or vibrations. If you frequently boat in rough conditions or saltwater environments, prioritize durability and waterproofing.

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