10 Best Gps Chartplotters 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance Elite FS 12 features a 12-inch touchscreen fishfinder and chartplotter, combining a large, high-resolution display with user-friendly controls. It includes preloaded C-MAP Discover charts with detailed 1-foot contours on thousands of U.S. lakes, helping anglers navigate accurately and identify promising fishing locations.

Although the unit does not include a transducer, it is compatible with Lowrance’s Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar systems and ActiveTarget Live Sonar, allowing users to customize their sonar setup according to their needs. The system supports full networking via wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet, enabling seamless sharing of data such as waypoints and charts, and integration with accessories like radar or autopilots, making it suitable for serious anglers seeking an expandable system.

The bright, multi-touch LCD screen is easy to read and operate, enhancing usability on the water. Battery power adds portability but may require monitoring power levels on longer trips. Positioned as a solid mid-range option, this unit provides a versatile chartplotter experience with strong connectivity and detailed charts, ideal for users prepared to add compatible sonar hardware separately.

The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 features a large 12-inch screen with a sharp 1280 x 800 resolution, making maps and sonar images easy to see even in bright light. It combines touchscreen with button controls, catering to users who prefer physical buttons for reliability in rough conditions. The chartplotter supports Navionics+ charts preloaded for U.S. waters, ensuring detailed and updated navigation maps. Its GPS receiver is advanced, using multiple satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BEIDOU) with a fast 10 Hz refresh rate for very accurate and responsive positioning.

Connectivity options are robust, including dual microSD slots for extra maps or data, two network ports, and NMEA 2000 compatibility, allowing seamless connection with other marine electronics. The included LiveScope Plus sonar system delivers live scanning sonar views with high detail, which greatly benefits serious anglers and boaters wanting to track fish and underwater structures in real time.

The unit weighs about 14 pounds, which might be a consideration for smaller boats or for portability. While the touchscreen controls are responsive, some users may find the hybrid control method requires some adjustment if they prefer a single control approach. This product suits boaters and anglers seeking a premium, feature-rich chartplotter with excellent sonar and navigation capabilities, especially those who value a large, clear screen and strong connectivity for system integration.

The Simrad NSS12 Evo3S is a 12-inch multifunction chartplotter designed for boaters who want a clear and responsive navigation and fish-finding device. Its large, high-definition screen offers sharp visuals, making it easy to read charts and sonar images even in bright daylight. The unit comes preloaded with C-MAP US Enhanced charts, which cover inland and coastal waters, helping users navigate confidently. It has a built-in GPS receiver that provides accurate positioning without needing extra equipment. Connectivity is strong with Bluetooth support, allowing integration with other onboard systems like engine monitoring and sound control.

One standout feature is the dual control system: you can switch between a touchscreen with multi-touch gestures or use the physical keypad and rotary dial, which works well in rough conditions where touchscreens might be less reliable. The processing power is impressive, enabling smooth screen transitions and supporting advanced sonar technologies like StructureScan 3D and HALO radar for better fish finding and situational awareness.

The device is somewhat heavy and bulky to install, which might be a consideration for smaller boats. While the preloaded charts are useful for most users, advanced or international sailors might need additional chart options. Customer feedback generally rates it well, though some mention a learning curve for the touchscreen controls. The Simrad NSS12 Evo3S suits recreational anglers and boaters looking for a versatile, high-quality chartplotter with strong fish-finding capabilities and good system integration.