With so many options for discounted multifunction marine electronics, how do you decide which system is right for you? Here are a few pointers about features to look for in basic models and what additional features you can expect in more expensive marine GPS electronics.
Select the Type of GPS You Want
When it comes to marine GPS, you can choose between a handheld unit, a combo GPS/chart plotter or a standard GPS receiver that will be hooked to your computer. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks.
If you are looking for an accurate, but inexpensive GPS unit that can be used on and off the boat, then consider a handheld GPS with basic features. On-board marine electronics often include GPS receivers as an integrated package. You can find combo GPS fish finders, chart plotters, radars and other marine GPS combos.
Think of the Environment
In this case, the environment you and your GPS will be in. On the open water you are exposed to very bright sun, making it hard to read all but the brightest displays. Even on calm days you may experience choppy waters that will interfere with your balance. At times like this a handheld GPS with a small screen may be hard to read. What’s more, their small controls will be hard to manipulate when you are struggling to maintain your balance. If you do a lot of sailing on rough water, then consider a GPS or GPS combo that has a large display and large control knobs for easy navigation on bobbing waves.
If you have a small boat, finding shaded or below-deck space for a computer to link to the standard GPS might present a problem. Keep in mind that computer screens are not designed to be viewed in direct sunlight. Another consideration when selecting the best marine GPS for your boat is how much dashboard space you have. For a small boat and dash look for marine electronics that can be expanded in the future to incorporate other devices in a single display. For larger boats with a spacious dash, consider whether you want to load the dash up with multiple displays or if you prefer one integrated model that presents a large, high resolution viewing area. If you have a large boat it might make sense to have more than one display for your fish finder, GPS navigation and radar.
Figure Out What Else You Want Your GPS to Do
Nowadays, even the most basic budget GPS models are highly accurate and capable of storing thousands of points of interest. It might be all that you need. On the other hand, if you are into fishing, you might consider a GPS/fish finder combo. A GPS/ chart plotter multifunction unit might be especially useful to boaters.
If you are not certain whether you need some of the features, check if the marine GPS unit you consider buying offers expansion capabilities. For example, a fairly budget-friendly Si-Tex ColorMax 5 and ColorMax 7 are both basic marine GPS/chart plotter combos that can be expanded to integrate fish finder, radar and other marine electronics components.
Decide What Features You Can Do Without
Many marine GPS units are now heavily loaded with additional features. Some might be very useful while others might turn out to be nothing but costly detractors. Decide for yourself whether you need your multifunction GPS to play MP3′s, synch with your Bluetooth headset for hands-free navigation, or provide live weather updates. Compare features offered on different models at your price point. Are you paying for a high resolution display, the ability to upgrade with additional marine electronics or additional features that you will never use?
There are many good GPS marine electronics on the market. Choosing the right one is a balance between understanding what features are available, knowing your own boating needs, and comparison shopping for GPS marine electronics in your price range.
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