Best Marine GPS Units & Chartplotters of 2026
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Marine GPS units and chartplotters are essential tools for any boater navigating on open water. These devices use advanced satellite technology to provide accurate location data and detailed maps of the surrounding area, allowing boaters to plot their course and avoid hazards. Many models also offer additional features such as weather updates, fish finders, and autopilot capabilities. With a variety of sizes, prices, and features available, there is a marine GPS unit or chartplotter to suit the needs of every boater, from weekend cruisers to professional fishermen.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Marine GPS Units & Chartplotters
Simrad GO9 XSE Display with Transducer and C-MAP Charts
The Simrad GO9 XSE Display is a versatile marine GPS unit and chartplotter that includes a 9'' multi-touch screen, built-in echosounder, GPS, and Wi-Fi. It comes with an 83/200 kHz transducer, C-MAP Discover charts, and a radar interface. The advanced echosounder can show CHIRP, Forwardscan, Sidescan, and Downscan images. With direct connections for audio, autopilot, and engine control via NMEA2000, and built-in Wi-Fi for mobile device mirroring, the Simrad GO9 XSE Display offers convenience and efficiency for marine navigation.
Humminbird ICE Transducer XI 9 20
The Humminbird ICE Transducer offers reliable performance even when you’re moving fast, thanks to its design that reduces turbulence and helps maintain clear readings. It delivers detailed underwater views with MEGA Imaging and CHIRP technology, so you can easily distinguish fish and underwater structures. This transducer is tuned to give you the right frequency for spotting fish and structures in both shallow and deep waters, providing versatility for different fishing environments. Plus, it’s built with durable marine-grade materials to withstand tough conditions, and select models include a temperature sensor for added convenience. Overall, the Humminbird ICE Transducer makes your fishing trips more productive and enjoyable.
C-MAP Discover North America Lakes Map Card
The C-MAP Discover Map Card offers extensive coverage of North American lakes, providing you with detailed and reliable navigation information. Its full-featured vector charts ensure you have precise and up-to-date data, making it easier to plan your routes confidently. The high-resolution bathymetry layer helps you spot underwater features such as shallow spots or drop-offs, which is essential for safe boating. Additionally, the subscription-free autorouting automatically calculates the safest and shortest path based on your boat’s specifics, saving you time and effort during your trips. Overall, this map card is designed to enhance your marine navigation experience with accuracy and convenience.
Garmin ECHOMAP 53CV
The Garmin 53CV Chartplotter is a marine GPS unit with a 5” color display. It offers you double the views with traditional and ClearVü scanning sonars, allowing you to see underwater details clearly. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily share information between compatible devices. The device comes preloaded with Garmin Navionics + U.S. Inland Mapping, ensuring you have detailed maps at your fingertips. The CHIRP UHD Traditional/ClearVü Scanning Sonar helps you locate fish more effectively, enhancing your fishing experience.
Minn Kota i-Pilot Link Bluetooth Remote
The Minn Kota Bluetooth Remote lets you control your i-Pilot Link trolling motor easily. It can connect with multiple remotes, so you can use your regular remote and a smaller one together for more flexibility. This remote only works with Bluetooth-enabled i-Pilot Link systems, ensuring a reliable wireless connection without interference. Plus, it's waterproof, so you don't have to worry about water damage while fishing. The remote is powered by a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery, saving you from constantly buying batteries and giving you longer use time. Keep in mind, the lanyard and charging cable are not included, so you may want to get those separately.
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv Chartplotter
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 offers a bright and easy-to-use 9-inch touchscreen that remains clear even in sunlight, making it simple for you to navigate and view detailed maps. It comes with the GT56-TM transducer, which provides traditional sonar along with ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars, helping you see underwater structures and fish clearly. The device includes built-in Garmin Navionics+ inland maps, covering over 18,000 lakes with detailed contours, so you can explore waterways confidently. Plus, with built-in Wi-Fi, you can easily share sonar data, waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP UHD2 units, making group trips more connected and coordinated.
C-MAP Reveal Coastal Gulf of Mexico & Bahamas Map Card
The C-MAP Reveal Marine Map offers detailed 3D views of land and underwater terrain, making it easier for anglers and divers to understand their surroundings. This map provides up-to-date, accurate navigation details, helping you find your way safely on the water. With high-resolution bathymetry, you can spot shallow spots, drop-offs, and underwater features, which is useful for avoiding hazards or finding fishing hotspots. You can also customize depth shading to set safe water levels or create a clear, easy-to-read map view. These features work together to give you confidence and convenience while navigating coastal waters.
Garmin 18x LVC GPS Navigator
The Garmin 18x GPS Unit offers high sensitivity with its LVC sensor, allowing you to connect directly using bare wires for easy installation. Its WAAS-enabled GPS receiver ensures more accurate and reliable positioning, which is especially helpful when you’re navigating marine environments. The unit also includes a connector that can attach to CMOS devices, making it versatile for different OEM applications. Additionally, it stores your configuration settings securely with non-volatile memory, so you won’t need to reset your preferences every time you power it on. These features combined make it a dependable and user-friendly choice for your GPS navigation needs.
Humminbird LakeMaster Southeast States V1 SD Card
The Humminbird LakeMaster Map offers detailed coverage for Southeast States, compatible with many Humminbird fish finders like HELIX G3 and SOLIX units. With VX Technology, you get clear, customizable map colors, making it easier to read and switch views based on your preference. The SmartStrike Fish Forecasting feature helps you find the best fishing spots by showing where fish are likely to bite, considering the season, time, and weather. You can also highlight specific depth ranges to focus on productive waters, and easily spot shallow areas with red shading, helping you avoid hazards and find good fishing zones quickly.
Humminbird CoastMaster U.S. Coastal Map SD Card
The Humminbird CoastMaster Map offers great convenience for anglers using compatible Humminbird devices. With VX Technology, it provides faster map loading and five color options, so you can quickly view your charts in the way that suits you best. The map also features three preset views, letting you easily switch between fishing and nautical charts or create your own custom display. Using advanced predictive software, it helps you plan your fishing trips by showing tidal movements, current speed, and direction, so you’re always prepared. These features combine to give you a smoother, more informed fishing experience on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between a GPS and a chartplotter?
A GPS provides your location but doesn't display it on a map. On the other hand, a chartplotter takes the GPS location and overlays it on a map. While all chartplotters use GPS, not all GPS devices are chartplotters. Chartplotters are especially useful as they combine GPS functionality with map display.
2. Do I need a chartplotter on my boat?
Having a chartplotter on your boat is highly recommended. It serves as an essential tool, offering more than just route plotting. Many chartplotters now function as multifunction displays (MFDs), allowing boaters to monitor various connected devices and access additional features.
3. Do chartplotters come with maps?
Yes, most chartplotters come preloaded with maps. For example, the Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra series chartplotters come with Garmin Navionics+ combined mapping for inland and coastal waters. Additionally, the ECHOMAP UHD2 5” and 7” chartplotters provide a choice of built-in Garmin Navionics+ inland or coastal content.
4. Can I use my phone as a chartplotter?
Yes, you can use your phone or tablet as a chartplotter. These devices offer similar functionality to marine chartplotters. Many boaters use their phones or tablets for navigation purposes in various watercraft, including sailing yachts, motorboats, kayaks, RIBs, jet skis, and paddleboards.
5. What is the alternative to a chartplotter?
An alternative to a chartplotter is using Navionics on a tablet or smartphone. This option offers portability and cost-effectiveness. Navionics can be used on a tablet or smartphone, making it easy to carry wherever you go. It is often a more affordable option compared to a dedicated chartplotter.
During our marine gps units & chartplotter research, we found 24 marine gps units & chartplotter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,009 customer reviews through our big data system to write the marine gps units & chartplotters list. We found that most customers choose marine gps units & chartplotters with an average price of $234.21.
The marine gps units & chartplotters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of marine gps units & chartplotters, including Simrad, Humminbird, C-MAP, Garmin, Minn Kota. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.