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10 Best Gps Chartplotters 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder is designed for anglers looking for an advanced tool to enhance their fishing experience. One of its standout features is the Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, which integrates CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan technologies, offering clear views of underwater structures and fish. This feature is beneficial for identifying key fishing spots, making it highly valuable for serious fishermen. The 9-inch multi-touch screen is user-friendly and offers high resolution, ensuring that details are easy to see and navigate.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,246
Chart Compatibility
Additional Features

Most important from
537 reviews

Chart Compatibility
Preloaded maps are highly appreciated, offering all essential details like depths, water temperature, and side scan, making navigation and fishing enjoyable and straightforward.
Additional Features
Significantly more detailed than older models, providing an enhanced fishing experience.
#2
9.8 score

Humminbird Helix 5 G3 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar

The Humminbird 411660-1 Helix 5 Chirp GPS G3 is a solid choice for recreational and serious anglers. Its 5-inch LCD screen may be on the smaller side, but it offers clear and detailed visuals, thanks to the Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar technology. This feature allows anglers to differentiate between fish and other underwater structures effectively, with options for both wide and narrow views. The keypad control offers intuitive operation, a boon in tough conditions, though some users might prefer touchscreen functionality for quicker navigation through the menu system. The built-in GPS with Humminbird Basemap provides extensive coverage of over 10,000 lakes and coastal areas in the continental U.S., proving to be a reliable navigation aid. Additionally, the chart compatibility with Humminbird LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics charts means you can access premium mapping options for enhanced fishing experiences.

Rating
9.8
GPS Receiver

Most important from
293 reviews

GPS Receiver
The GPS and maps are user-friendly, fast, and accurate, making navigation a breeze.
#3
9.7 score

Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging+ & HD Touchscreen Display

The Humminbird XPLORE 9 is a solid choice for anglers looking for a reliable GPS chartplotter and fish finder combo. It features a sharp 9-inch HD touchscreen with a 1280 x 720 resolution, making it easy to see detailed sonar images and maps even in bright conditions. The MEGA Side Imaging+ sonar technology stands out by providing clear views up to 200 feet on each side, which helps spot fish and underwater structures effectively. It also includes MEGA Down Imaging+ and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, offering detailed fish detection and depth readings.

Rating
9.7
Chart Compatibility
Connectivity

Most important from
7 reviews

Chart Compatibility
The AutoChart Live feature is a game-changer, allowing real-time mapping of lakes not covered by preloaded charts, adding great value for local fishing spots.
Connectivity
Connectivity options enable seamless pairing with other marine electronics, improving overall usability on the water.

Top 10 Best Gps Chartplotters 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9  score

Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

Screen Size: 9 Inches
Resolution: high resolution
Chart Compatibility: preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts
Connectivity: wireless, NMEA 2000, Ethernet
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: touchscreen
Additional Features: Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar

Chosen by 1246 this week

Humminbird Helix 5 G3 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar

Screen Size: 5 Inches
Chart Compatibility: Humminbird LakeMaster, CoastMaster, Navionics
GPS Receiver: Built-in GPS with Basemap
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: Button Control
Additional Features: Dual Spectrum CHIRP, AutoChart Live

Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging+ & HD Touchscreen Display

Screen Size: 9 Inches
Resolution: 1280 x 720
Chart Compatibility: Basemap, LakeMaster, CoastMaster VX
GPS Receiver: Built-in GPS
Connectivity: Ethernet, Bluetooth, NMEA 2000
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: Touchscreen and keypad controls
Additional Features: MEGA Side Imaging+, Down Imaging+, CHIRP sonar

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

Screen Size: 9 Inches
Resolution: 1024 x 600
Chart Compatibility: Garmin Navionics+ charts
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: Touchscreen
Additional Features: ClearVü, SideVü, Garmin Force compatibility

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV Chartplotter/Fishfinder with US Coastal Maps and GT20-TM [010-02591-51]

Screen Size: 5 Inches
Chart Compatibility: US coastal maps, LakeVü g3
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: Button Control
Additional Features: Garmin CHIRP sonar, ClearVü sonar

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

Screen Size: 12 Inches
Chart Compatibility: C-MAP US Enhanced charts
GPS Receiver: built-in GPS receiver
Connectivity: Bluetooth
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: touchscreen with keypad and rotary dial
Additional Features: StructureScan 3D, HALO radar

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74cv with GT20 Transducer

Screen Size: 7 Inches
Resolution: high-resolution
Chart Compatibility: US Coastal GN+ charts
GPS Receiver: integrated
Connectivity: robust
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: button control
Additional Features: mounting options, one-year warranty

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

Screen Size: 12 Inches
Resolution: 1280 x 800
Chart Compatibility: Navionics+ charts for U.S. waters
GPS Receiver: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BEIDOU; 10Hz
Connectivity: dual microSD, 2 network ports, NMEA 2000
Touchscreen vs. Button Control: Touchscreen with button controls
Additional Features: LiveScope Plus sonar system
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Buying Guide for the Best Gps Chartplotters

Choosing the right GPS chartplotter can significantly enhance your navigation experience, whether you're a seasoned sailor or a weekend boater. A GPS chartplotter combines GPS navigation with electronic charts, providing you with real-time positioning and detailed maps. To make an informed decision, it's essential to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a GPS chartplotter.
Screen SizeThe screen size of a GPS chartplotter is crucial as it determines how easily you can view maps and data. Screen sizes typically range from 5 inches to over 12 inches. Smaller screens (5-7 inches) are more compact and suitable for smaller boats or limited dashboard space. Medium screens (8-10 inches) offer a balance between visibility and space, making them ideal for mid-sized boats. Larger screens (11 inches and above) provide the best visibility and are perfect for larger vessels or those who need to see detailed information at a glance. Choose a screen size that fits your boat's space and your need for clear, easily readable information.
ResolutionResolution refers to the clarity and detail of the display, measured in pixels. Higher resolution means sharper and more detailed images. Common resolutions range from 480 x 800 pixels to 1280 x 800 pixels or higher. For basic navigation, a lower resolution may suffice, but for detailed charting and viewing multiple data points simultaneously, a higher resolution is beneficial. Consider your need for detail and clarity when selecting the resolution.
Chart CompatibilityChart compatibility indicates which types of electronic charts the chartplotter can use. Popular chart formats include Navionics, C-MAP, and proprietary charts from the manufacturer. Ensure the chartplotter you choose is compatible with the charts you prefer or already own. Some chartplotters come with preloaded charts, while others require separate purchases. Think about the areas you navigate and the level of detail you need in your charts when making your choice.
GPS ReceiverThe GPS receiver's quality affects the accuracy and speed of your positioning. Most modern chartplotters come with built-in GPS receivers, but the number of channels and the type of GPS system (such as WAAS-enabled) can vary. More channels generally mean better accuracy and faster updates. If precise positioning is critical for your navigation, look for a chartplotter with a high-quality GPS receiver.
ConnectivityConnectivity options, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NMEA 2000, allow your chartplotter to connect with other devices and systems on your boat. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable wireless updates and integration with smartphones or tablets, while NMEA 2000 allows for seamless communication with other marine electronics like fish finders, radar, and autopilot systems. Consider the other equipment on your boat and how you might want to integrate your chartplotter with these systems.
Touchscreen vs. Button ControlChartplotters come with either touchscreen controls, button controls, or a combination of both. Touchscreens offer intuitive and quick navigation, similar to using a smartphone, but can be challenging to use with wet hands or in rough conditions. Button controls are more reliable in harsh marine environments but may be slower to operate. Some models offer hybrid controls, providing the best of both worlds. Think about the typical conditions you navigate in and your personal preference for control types.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features such as sonar integration, radar compatibility, and AIS (Automatic Identification System) can enhance your chartplotter's functionality. Sonar integration is useful for fishing, radar compatibility helps with navigation in poor visibility, and AIS provides information on nearby vessels for collision avoidance. Consider what additional features might be beneficial for your specific boating activities and choose a chartplotter that supports those features.

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