10 Best Garmin Chartplotter 2025 in the United States

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56 Transducer is a robust choice for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The standout feature is its 9-inch touchscreen, which is sunlight-readable, making it easy to view even in bright conditions. The screen resolution of 1024 x 600 ensures clear and detailed images, which is crucial for navigation and identifying underwater structures.

It comes equipped with the GT56 transducer, supporting traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning sonars, giving you comprehensive underwater visibility. The built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts are a significant advantage, offering detailed and accurate mapping data for U.S. coastal areas. Its built-in Wi-Fi allows for wireless sharing of sonar, waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP UHD2 units and can connect to the Force trolling motor for added navigation and control features. The user interface is intuitive, which is great for those who may not be very tech-savvy.

One of the possible drawbacks is its weight and size; at 8.08 pounds and dimensions of 10.4 x 6.5 x 3.2 inches, it might be bulky for smaller boats. Additionally, while the device is designed for durability and comes with a waterproof rating, users should keep this in mind if they frequently encounter rough water conditions. Its mounting options, including dashboard and panel mounts, provide flexibility for different boat setups. This chartplotter is ideal for boaters who want a reliable, easy-to-use device with excellent sonar and navigation capabilities.

The Garmin GPSMAP 1222 Livescope Plus Bundle is designed for boaters seeking a robust navigation and sonar solution. Its 12-inch color display is sizable and clear, making it easy to read even in bright sunlight. The advanced 10 Hz GPS offers impressive accuracy, which is crucial for navigating tricky waters. With the inclusion of the LVS34 Transducer, users can benefit from real-time sonar images that provide detailed views of underwater structures and fish, enhancing the fishing experience.

Connectivity is a strong point of this chartplotter, as it supports Garmin Marine Network and NMEA 2000, allowing users to share data with other devices on board seamlessly. The built-in Wi-Fi enables access to the ActiveCaptain app, letting users manage their marine experience remotely and stay connected to notifications and the boating community.

While the features are top-notch, the size and weight (18 pounds) may be a drawback for smaller boats or those looking for a more portable solution. Additionally, the price point may be on the higher side for casual boaters who may not need all the advanced capabilities. The interface is generally user-friendly, but there may still be a learning curve for those new to advanced chartplotters. Durability is a plus, as Garmin products typically come with a solid build and waterproof rating, making them suitable for various marine conditions. This product is particularly beneficial for avid fishermen and serious boaters looking for comprehensive navigation and sonar capabilities.

The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 with a 12-inch screen offers a bright, sharp display (1280 x 800 resolution) that's easy to see and use even in bright sunlight. Its hybrid touch controls make navigation straightforward, balancing touchscreen ease with physical button reliability. For GPS accuracy, it supports multiple satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BEIDOU) and updates position at 10 times per second, which means your location on the water is pinpointed quickly and precisely.

Mapping comes preloaded with detailed Navionics+ charts covering North America, providing rich information for navigation and fishing spots. Connectivity is strong, with dual microSD slots for extra maps or data, two network ports for connecting other devices, and compatibility with NMEA 2000 systems, making it easy to integrate with your boat’s electronics. Sonar capabilities stand out thanks to the included LiveScope Plus bundle, providing real-time, clear imaging of underwater structures and fish with multiple CHIRP frequencies and ClearVu/SideVu scanning to cover a wide area around your boat.

The user interface is designed for ease, combining touchscreen and buttons, but those new to advanced chartplotters may face a learning curve given the many features. The unit is somewhat heavy at 14 pounds and fairly large, so ensure your boat’s mounting space can accommodate it. This chartplotter is ideal for serious anglers and boaters wanting detailed sonar and mapping combined with reliable navigation. It may be more than casual boaters need, but it delivers excellent performance for those focused on fishing and precise positioning on the water.