How do I choose a Garmin chartplotter for my boat?
I'm choosing a Garmin chartplotter and want something I can read easily at the helm. How do I decide on screen size and model range, and check whether it will work with my existing instruments and AIS?
Answer
Choose a Garmin chartplotter by checking your existing electronics first, then picking a screen you can read from your normal steering position. An ECHOMAP suits many straightforward navigation and fishing installations, while a GPSMAP is usually the better starting point for radar, multiple displays and wider system integration.
Check your existing electronics
Before comparing screens, list the exact model numbers of your AIS, VHF, autopilot, wind instruments, radar and depth transducer. Photograph their plugs and labels to avoid buying a display that needs expensive adapters or replacement equipment.
- NMEA 2000: commonly carries depth, wind, heading, AIS and engine data between compatible equipment. Check that the exact plotter has a port; availability varies across Garmin ranges.
- NMEA 0183: still matters with older AIS receivers, DSC radios and instruments. Some newer displays omit it, so you may need a suitable converter.
- Garmin Marine Network or BlueNet: carries supported radar, sonar and other network information. These connections serve a different purpose from NMEA 2000.
The large GPSMAP 9000-series displays use BlueNet. Connecting supported equipment on the older Garmin Marine Network requires a BlueNet 30 gateway. Do not assume a radar from another manufacturer will work simply because it has an Ethernet-style connection.
Size up the helm
Measure the mounting area, allowing space behind the panel for connectors and cable bends. Screen diagonal does not tell you the unit's overall width. For a flush installation, use the exact model's cutting template.
As a starting point, choose 7 to 9 inches for a small cockpit or console, 10 to 12 inches for regular cruising, and 12 to 16 inches if you frequently split the screen between charts, radar and sonar. A 9-inch display can become cramped with three windows open.
Try the display in daylight from your normal steering position, wearing your usual polarised sunglasses. Check that you can read depth and waypoint information without leaning forward. At an exposed sailing helm, physical keys or a compatible remote controller can make operation easier when the boat is moving. Check controller compatibility before ordering.
Garmin's GPSMAP 8610, 8612 and 8616 offer 10-, 12- and 16-inch touchscreens respectively. Their IPS screens have wide viewing angles, useful when the display sits beside the wheel rather than directly ahead.
Match the range and sonar
For coastal cruising with one display, start with ECHOMAP, but check the particular model's networking and instrument connections. Look at GPSMAP when your plans include radar, several helm stations or integration with more onboard systems.