TOO MANY OPTIONS - LET US HELP

Navigating the world of technology can be overwhelming. With countless options, accessories, and ways to integrate devices—and with technology evolving so rapidly—it’s easy to feel lost. Online forums and public opinions often add to the confusion, making it even harder to make informed decisions.

That’s where we come in. Since 2003, we’ve been dedicated to helping individuals find the perfect technology solutions tailored to their unique needs. We provide comprehensive packages that include all necessary components, such as cables, connectors, and mounts, all backed by our FREE lifetime tech support.

This page is designed to make your journey easier. You’ll find helpful articles, tips, and insights organized to guide you through each step of the process. We showcase the latest technology and the most popular devices to help you stay ahead. And if you need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to call us for one-on-one assistance. We’re here to simplify technology for you.

GPS, Chartplotters, and Multifunction Displays

A main display is the foundation for all marine electronics. You will certainly want to have a good display on your boat. Nowadays, your main display can show just about anything regarding navigation. There are lots of confusing terms when describing this main display. These include Chartplotter, GPS, Combo Unit, Networking Display, Graph, and more. In general, these are all referring to the same type of display. There are three real classes we can drop displays into.

The first is a "Chartplotter". These units generally will act as a chartplotter out of the box. A chartplotter is a display that has a scrolling map that follows your boat as it moves. Sometimes that is all they will do, but sometimes they have networking capabilities and can do much more via attachments. Attachments include Fishfinder Modules, Radars and more. So really we have "standalone chartplotters" which are rare. And we have "Networkable chartplotters" which are what we commonly see offered by manufacturers.

Next is a "Combo Unit". A GPS/FF Combo. These vary tremendously in price and can include the least expensive tiny units as well as the most expensive 16" units. These units always have a chartplotter built in, as well as a sonar so they can act as a Fishfinder too. So a combo unit will always be a chartplotter and fishfinder. But some of them are networkable too, meaning you can add from a variety of attachments to make them do so much more.

Last is a "Networkable Unit" or "Multifunction Display". These are generally the more expensive displays and are meant to be used to connect to a variety of attachments. From the paragraphs above you have already seen that both chartplotters and combos can be networkable. Manufacturers generally lump these displays into their own class as the higher end display. So networkable displays may come preloaded with charts and have an internal antenna which essentially makes them a chartplotter. Or a networkable display may have a sonar built in making it a combo. But they are networkable displays and meant to accept any attachments the manufacturer may offer.

NOTE: Here is where it gets tricky, some manufacturers consider a unit a GPS/FF or Chartplotter even if it has networking capabilities. So be sure to check in each area for the unit you are wanting.

Which display is for me?

Choosing the right chartplotter or combo for your boat can be a daunting task. With so many options—and options within those options—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Do you need radar capability? Side imaging? CHIRP technology? Will it fit your space? Let’s break this down into a logical approach to help you make an informed decision.

Step 1: Determine What Fits
Start by assessing the available space on your boat. Whether you’re flush-mounting or using a bracket, identify the largest display that can fit. While you may not choose the biggest option, knowing your size constraints is essential to narrowing down your choices.

Step 2: Establish Your Budget
Next, set a budget range. Are you looking to spend $500, $1,000, or even $25,000? Having a clear price range will help focus your search. Many websites, including ours, offer filters to narrow results by price, making this step easier.

Step 3: Prioritize Features
With size and budget in mind, you can begin focusing on the features that matter most to you. Some popular features to consider include:

CHIRP sonar:
A revolutionary sonar technology that sends a range of frequencies for clearer, clutter-free imaging beneath the boat.
Side imaging:
Provides a 3D-like view of structures beneath the water, invaluable for locating underwater formations.
Networkability:
Allows multiple units to share accessories like radar, sonar, and GPS, enabling seamless integration of all your equipment.
NMEA 2000 compatibility:
Ensures your unit can communicate with other devices on your boat.
Radar capability:
Essential for navigation and safety in low visibility.
Preloaded charts and mapping:
Saves time and provides reliable navigation.
Touchscreen vs. buttons:
Choose based on your personal preference and usability in wet conditions.
Weather integration (e.g., XM or Sirius):
Stay informed of changing weather conditions.
Internal GPS and sonar:
Reduces the need for additional equipment.

High-end units (typically $1,500 and up) often include most of these features out of the box. Lower-priced models may require you to prioritize the features most important to you.

By following these steps and focusing on your specific needs, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect chartplotter or combo for your boat. If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert guidance.

So what should you pick? Below we will put together common groups of "wants" for units and like you to the most popular option among our customers.

Features: GPS, CHIRP Fishfinder, Buttons - Lowrance Eagle, Garmin 1042 / 1242, Raymarine Dragonfly

Features: GPS, CHIRP Fishfinder, Touchscreen - Lowrance PRO, Simrad GO Series, Garmin 742xs / 942xs, Lowrance Eagle w/Tripleshot

Features: GPS, CHIRP Fishfinder, Side Imaging, Buttons - Garmin 1042 / 1242, Lowrance FS w/ Active Imaging, Raymarine Axiom Pro

Features: GPS, CHIRP Fishfinder, Side Imaging, Touchscreen - Garmin 8600 Series, Lowrance HDS Pro, Simrad NSS Evo3s, Garmin 742xsv / 942xsv, Raymarine Axiom+, Simrad GO Series

Features: GPS, CHIRP Fishfinder, Side Imaging, Radar, Networkability - Garmin 8600 Series, Simrad NSS Evo3s, Lowrance HDS Pro, Raymarine Axiom Pro RVM, Furuno TZT

Our Best Selling Multi-Function Displays

Sonar and Fishfinders

There’s a lot to cover when it comes to sonar technology, so we’ve created detailed guides to help you navigate your options. You can find these guides just below.

In summary, most modern sonar systems have transitioned to CHIRP technology. CHIRP sends a range of frequencies instead of a single one, providing much clearer and more detailed images of what lies beneath the boat. We highly recommend CHIRP, regardless of your intended use—it’s now the standard option offered by most brands.

Additionally, many brands now feature advanced 3D sonar technology, which provides a three-dimensional view of what’s beneath and around the boat. This feature is particularly useful in waters less than 100 feet deep for identifying underwater structures.

Selecting the right sonar and transducer can be complex, which is why we encourage you to explore our articles or give us a call for personalized assistance. We’re here to make the process as straightforward as possible!

Expert Article: Selecting The Right Marine Transducer for your Boat

Expert Article: The Ultimate Airmar Mix & Match Compatibility Guide

Radar

We receive questions about radar daily: Do I need it? Should I choose an open array or a dome? How is it mounted? Below is a brief overview to help guide you.

Do I Need It?

If you boat at night, in fog, or want to locate distant birds for fishing, then radar is essential. While a chartplotter shows what should be there, radar reveals what is actually there, including other vessels around your boat. It is a vital safety tool in low-visibility conditions.

Open Array or Dome?

Two factors influence this choice: performance and aesthetics.

Performance: Any radar is adequate for basic navigation in impaired visibility, regardless of boat size. Dome radars are often used on large ships for navigation through busy harbors or channels. For navigation alone, a dome radar will suffice. An open array, however, excels in specific applications like spotting distant birds—ideal for fishing enthusiasts—or detecting distant traffic on large ocean-going vessels.
Aesthetics: Larger yachts often look out of place with a small dome. Properly outfitting a recreational boat or yacht is part performance, part style. For larger cruisers, sportfishing boats, or yachts, an open array complements the vessel’s appearance and adds enhanced performance.

Modern radars are nearly all compatible with their brand’s networkable chartplotters/MFDs. For instance, a Simrad Evo3s display will work with any Simrad radar.

Expert Article: Why Radar?

Expert Article: Radar for your Boat

Autopilots

Shopping for an autopilot can feel overwhelming, but we're here to help. With over 15 years of experience assisting customers, we’ve put together some key insights to guide you.

Virtual Feedback
This innovative technology allows an autopilot to operate without a rudder or outboard position sensor. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Outboard Boats: Opt for a pilot with Virtual Feedback for seamless operation.
Inboard Boats: A rudder position sensor is still recommended for optimal performance.

Brand Compatibility: A good rule of thumb is to match the autopilot brand with your chartplotter. Why? Using the same brand often provides enhanced functionality, such as controlling your autopilot directly from your chartplotter or seamlessly following a track. Sticking to the same brand ensures compatibility and simplifies integration. The leading autopilot brands include: Garmin, Simrad, Raymarine, Furuno, Lowrance and Si-Tex.

Each brand offers unique features, but they all provide autopilots in different sizes:

Type 1 (Small)
Type 2 (Medium)
Type 3 (Large)

Choosing the Right Size
The size you need depends on your steering ram capacity. To determine this:

Locate the part number on your inboard or outboard ram.
Reference the manufacturer’s charts to select the appropriate pump and autopilot size.

Hose Requirements
If you’re installing a new autopilot, don’t forget you’ll need custom hydraulic hoses—typically three. We offer custom-length hoses made to order, which you can find here.

For Mercury Verado engines, you’ll need special Verado hoses. Most brands provide kits for these, which you can find here.