10 Best Chartplotter 2025 in the United States

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is an impressive chartplotter particularly suited for boaters and anglers looking for reliable navigation and detailed underwater insights. One of its standout features is the 9-inch touchscreen display, which is bright and easy to read even in direct sunlight, making it user-friendly while out on the water. The included GT56 transducer offers multiple sonar modes—traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü—which give users a comprehensive view of what lies beneath, enhancing fishing and navigation experiences.

Another plus is the built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts that come with integrated Navionics data, ensuring that users have access to detailed nautical maps. Additionally, the Wi-Fi connectivity allows for seamless sharing of sonar data and waypoints with another ECHOMAP UHD2, which can be particularly useful for teams or families fishing together. The ability to connect wirelessly to the Force trolling motor is another practical feature, letting users create routes and navigate effortlessly.

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is an excellent choice for those serious about boating and fishing. Its combination of advanced sonar capabilities, user-friendly interface, and robust mapping functionalities makes it a valuable tool in any angler’s gear, although potential users should be mindful of the touchscreen usability in specific conditions.

The Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv chartplotter features a 9-inch IPS display, which offers clear and vibrant visuals, making it easier to read in varying lighting conditions. With its ultra high-definition scanning sonar and support for Panoptix sonar, this device is great for detailed underwater imaging, beneficial for fishing enthusiasts or anyone needing precise waterway information.

The pre-loaded maps and Navionics+ compatibility offer extensive charting options, enhancing navigational capabilities. Additionally, the improved display optics contribute to a better viewing experience. Connectivity is also a strong point, with various options available for integration with other marine electronics.

The user interface is intuitive, making it accessible even for those less familiar with advanced chartplotters. Durability and waterproofing are adequate for marine environments, ensuring the device can withstand harsh conditions. However, the product's weight of 8.48 pounds and its dimensions might make it less portable and more cumbersome to install compared to smaller units. The price could also be a potential drawback for budget-conscious buyers. The Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv is suited for serious mariners, anglers, and navigators looking for a reliable, feature-rich chartplotter.

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder is designed for serious anglers who need a reliable chartplotter with advanced features. The 9-inch high-resolution multi-touch screen offers clear visuals and is user-friendly. The Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, featuring CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan with FishReveal, provides detailed images of underwater structures and fish, making it easier to locate your catch.

The device is also ActiveTarget ready, allowing for high-resolution, live sonar imaging of fish movements in real-time, which can be a game-changer for many anglers. The preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts cover 8,900 U.S. lakes with high-resolution 1-foot contours, aiding in precise navigation and fishing area identification. Full networking capabilities, including integrated wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity, allow for extensive system building and data sharing between displays, making it versatile and expandable.

The unit is built to withstand harsh marine environments, with durable construction and waterproofing features. However, it may be on the pricier side for casual users or those new to fishing technology. Additionally, while the 9-inch screen is substantial, it might be on the larger side for smaller boats. The Lowrance Elite FS 9 is well-suited for experienced anglers seeking a comprehensive and advanced chartplotter and fish finder system.