10 Best Garmin Chartplotter 2025 in the United States

The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 106sv LIVESCOPE Plus Bundle is a solid choice for boaters and anglers who want a high-quality chartplotter with advanced sonar capabilities. It has a 10-inch LED screen that offers clear visuals, making it easier to see maps and underwater details. Its standout feature is the included LIVESCOPE Plus sonar, which offers real-time, detailed imaging of fish and structures, helping you understand what’s beneath your boat better than many other models.

The device is battery-powered, giving flexibility for various boating situations. Garmin chartplotters often support networking with other devices and smartphones, which is useful for updates and sharing data. The user interface is intuitive, as Garmin is known for user-friendly menus, though beginners might need some time to get used to all the features.

The unit’s size and weight (about 27 pounds) and transom mount suggest it’s designed for stability and durability in marine environments. This bundle is well-suited for fishing enthusiasts who want detailed sonar imaging and a reliable screen size, making it a strong option for those seeking advanced navigation and fish-finding technology.

The Garmin GPSMAP 8616 is a solid choice for boaters who want a large, clear display and reliable navigation features. Its 16-inch HD IPS touchscreen offers vibrant visuals and good viewing angles, which makes reading charts and sonar data easier, even in bright daylight. The device includes detailed Garmin Navionics+ coastal and inland water charts for the U.S. and Canada, providing a wide range of mapping options for varied waters. GPS accuracy is strong, helping with precise location tracking on the water.

Connectivity is handled through Wi-Fi, allowing for updates and some wireless features, though it lacks some of the broader networking options found in higher-end models. It supports both traditional and scanning sonar, plus live sonar functions, useful for monitoring underwater conditions and fish activity more closely. The inclusion of a motion sensor adds convenience by automatically adjusting the display based on boat movement. Mounting is straightforward with panel mount options and a simple design.

Due to its size and weight—16 inches and 15 pounds—it requires a dedicated space on your boat, which could be limiting in smaller vessels. The user interface is intuitive thanks to the touchscreen and Grid 20 remote control, although there may be a learning curve for those new to chartplotters. This Garmin unit is well-suited for boaters seeking a large, feature-rich chartplotter with good sonar capabilities and reliable map coverage, but may be less ideal for those needing ultra-compact or highly rugged units.

The Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv with GMR 18 HD3 Radome is a powerful chartplotter designed for boaters who want a large, clear display and reliable navigation tools. It features a 24-inch screen, which provides a good-sized view to easily read charts and radar data without squinting. The device includes high-quality mapping for the US and Canada with satellite options, making it useful for detailed route planning. GPS accuracy is strong, helping you stay on course precisely. Connectivity through Bluetooth allows for easy pairing with other devices. The included HD3 radar is a valuable addition, enhancing safety by detecting other vessels and obstacles in various weather conditions.

The interface uses buttons and voice commands, which might take some getting used to but can be practical once familiar. At nearly 39 pounds and a dashboard mount type, it’s durable and solidly built, suitable for marine environments, but it could be a bit heavy to install solo. One downside is the relatively high price point, reflecting its advanced features and large display size.

This chartplotter is especially well-suited for serious boaters who need detailed mapping, radar integration, and reliable GPS performance, while casual users might find it more complex and costly than necessary.