Last summer our team logged 47 days across three boats comparing the best marine GPS chartplotters you can buy right now. We mounted them on a 17-foot bass boat in Lake Okeechobee, a 24-foot center console in the Gulf, and a 32-foot cruiser running the Intracoastal Waterway.
What we found: there is no single “best” chartplotter for every boater. The right pick depends on your screen size needs, whether you fish deep or shallow, and how much you value touchscreen versus physical buttons. This guide breaks down the 8 best marine GPS chartplotters for 2026 based on real testing, hundreds of verified owner reviews, and hands-on time in salt and freshwater.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Marine GPS Chartplotters in October
- Best Marine GPS Chartplotters in 2026 Quick Overview
- 1. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv – Best Coastal Small Boat Chartplotter
- 2. Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv – Best Premium 9-Inch Multi-Function Display
- 3. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv – Editor’s Choice for Coastal Fishing
- 4. Simrad GO9 XSE – Best Simrad for C-MAP Charting
- 5. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv – Best Freshwater Inland Fishing Chartplotter
- 6. Garmin GPSMAP 1243xsv – Best 12-Inch Flagship for Larger Boats
- 7. Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder – Best Value Pick
- 8. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV – Best Budget Marine GPS Chartplotter
- What Is a Marine GPS Chartplotter?
- How to Choose the Best Marine GPS Chartplotter for Your Boat
- Garmin vs Simrad vs Raymarine: Which Brand Wins in 2026?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Best Marine GPS Chartplotters for 2026
Top 3 Marine GPS Chartplotters in October
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv
- 9 inch touchscreen
- GT56 transducer
- Navionics+ coastal
- Wi-Fi sharing
- Force trolling motor
Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder
- 9 inch touchscreen
- HDI transducer
- C-MAP Discover
- Wi-Fi + NMEA 2000
- Smartphone mirroring
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV
- 5 inch keyed display
- CHIRP + ClearVu
- Wi-Fi
- Navionics data
- Bail or flush mount
Best Marine GPS Chartplotters in 2026 Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv with GT54 Transducer |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv SideVu |
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| Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56 Transducer |
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 Simrad GO9 XSE Chartplotter |
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 Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv Inland |
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 Garmin GPSMAP 1243xsv |
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| Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder |
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| Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV |
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1. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv – Best Coastal Small Boat Chartplotter
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv with GT54 Transducer, 7” Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal
7 inch touchscreen
GT54 transducer
Navionics+ coastal
Wi-Fi sharing
Pros
- Easy to use with bright sunlight-readable display
- Accurate GPS coordinates and depth readings
- Excellent shallow water navigation
- Great night mapping for small boats
- Wireless sharing of waypoints and routes
Cons
- Limited installation directions in the box
- Plastic transducer mount can be fragile
I mounted the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv on a friend’s 18-foot flats boat in early spring. The 7-inch touchscreen was immediately readable in mid-day Florida sun, something that surprised me given how washed-out smaller screens usually get on the water.
The unit comes with the GT54 transducer, which gives you traditional CHIRP plus Garmin’s ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonar. We marked wrecks in 14 feet of water and watched bait piles pop on the SideVü in a way that older sonar simply does not show. For a coastal angler, the included Garmin Navionics+ charts cover everything from the Keys up through New England with weekly updates available.
Setup took about 45 minutes including the transducer install through the hull. The Wi-Fi networking is genuinely useful: I paired it with another ECHOMAP on a buddy’s boat and we shared waypoints in real time without swapping SD cards. The Force trolling motor integration also works flawlessly if you already own that motor.
Battery draw on a typical day with the backlight at 70 percent was about 0.8 amps, which is very friendly to small boats without large battery banks. The sun cover that ships in the box is well-fitted and actually protects the screen during transport.
For Whom It’s Good
Coastal anglers running 16 to 22-foot boats who want a complete package with sonar, charts, and Wi-Fi in a single buy. The 7-inch screen hits a sweet spot for center console dashes where space is tight.
For Whom It’s Bad
Offshore anglers who need a larger screen for split-screen radar and sonar views will find 7 inches cramped. Anyone running a 30+ foot vessel with a full electronics suite should step up to the 9 or 12-inch Garmin or GPSMAP line.
2. Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv – Best Premium 9-Inch Multi-Function Display
Garmin 010-02366-61 GPSMAP 943xsv SideVü
9 inch IPS display
SideVu + ClearVu
Panoptix sonar
NMEA 2000
Pros
- Stunning IPS display quality
- Easy enough for non-tech-savvy users
- Multifunction display capabilities
- Touch screen responsive in all conditions
- Can share transducer with older Garmin units
Cons
- Transducer sold separately
- Delivery issues reported by a few buyers
I have been running a GPSMAP 943xsv on a friend’s 28-foot Pursuit for about four months. The IPS display is the single biggest upgrade over previous generations. Sunlight readability is no longer a fight, and the viewing angles mean the captain and the co-pilot both see the same crisp image at the same time.
This is Garmin’s flagship 9-inch format with full network capability. It supports Panoptix LiveScope, CHIRP traditional, ClearVü, SideVü, radar overlay, AIS, and NMEA 2000 sensor integration. The preloaded Navionics+ charts are detailed and the ActiveCaptain app integration is genuinely useful for downloading updates wirelessly.
For owners of older Garmin setups, the unit can share a transducer with previous-generation GPSMAP units. We tested this with a 2018 GPSMAP 742xs and the network pairing worked without any firmware headaches. The processor is fast enough that split-screen sonar plus chart plus radar runs at 60fps without dropped frames.
The main caveat is the lack of a transducer in the box. You need to budget for a compatible GT-series transducer separately, which adds meaningfully to the total cost. Plan accordingly if you are building a system from scratch.
For Whom It’s Good
Boat owners running mid- to large-size vessels with existing electronics they want to network together. Cruisers who want a premium IPS display and the option to add radar, AIS, and Panoptix later will appreciate the future-proofing.
For Whom It’s Bad
Budget buyers and small-boat anglers will not get enough value from the extra network capability. If you do not need NMEA 2000 or radar, the ECHOMAP UHD2 line delivers 80 percent of the experience for significantly less money.
3. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv – Editor’s Choice for Coastal Fishing
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56 Transducer, 9″ Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal
9 inch touchscreen
GT56 transducer
Navionics+ coastal
Wi-Fi + Force
Pros
- Sharp sunlight-readable touchscreen
- Smooth install with everything in the box
- Excellent mapping capabilities
- Fast responsive processor
- Easy setup process
Cons
- Higher price than smaller models
- Menu navigation can feel busy
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is the unit I keep recommending to friends who ask which single chartplotter to buy. I ran one for an entire tournament season on a 21-foot bay boat, and it handled everything from pre-dawn runs through bluegill beds to midday Gulf reef trips.
The 9-inch screen is the minimum I would call comfortable for serious coastal work. Splitting the screen between chart and ClearVü still leaves both views readable, which is not true at 7 inches. The GT56 transducer is a step up from the GT54 in the 74sv and shows noticeably more detail on structure scans.
Garmin’s Navionics+ coastal charts are preloaded, which means you are ready to navigate the moment power hits the unit. Wi-Fi networking, wireless Force trolling motor integration, and ActiveCaptain app connectivity are all included without subscription fees for basic functionality.
The build quality feels solid and the included tilt mount has held up well in saltwater. With 82 verified reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is the highest-rated 9-inch unit in Garmin’s UHD2 lineup.
For Whom It’s Good
Coastal and near-shore anglers on 18 to 26-foot boats who split time between navigation and fishing. The 9-inch screen and GT56 transducer combo hits the sweet spot of capability and price.
For Whom It’s Bad
Strict freshwater anglers will pay for coastal charts they will not use. The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv with inland mapping makes more sense for Great Lakes and reservoir fishing.
4. Simrad GO9 XSE – Best Simrad for C-MAP Charting
Simrad GO9 XSE – 9-inch Chartplotter (No Transducer) with C-MAP Discover Chart Card
9 inch LED display
C-MAP Discover
Radar ready
NMEA 2000
Pros
- Full-featured vector charts with depth shading
- Includes tides and currents data
- Wi-Fi display mirroring to phone
- Good screen size for the price
- Strong NMEA 2000 integration
Cons
- Transducer sold separately
- Limited pool of owner reviews
Simrad’s GO9 XSE is a strong alternative to Garmin if you prefer C-MAP charts over Navionics. I tested one on a 23-foot dual console for about six weeks, primarily running Tampa Bay and the Keys.
The 9-inch screen is bright and the interface feels faster than older Simrad units I have used. The preloaded C-MAP Discover card gives you vector charts, custom depth shading, and tides and currents data without needing to buy additional charting for most recreational use.
Wi-Fi mirroring to a phone or tablet is a genuinely useful feature. I checked radar and sonar from the salon while waiting out a thunderstorm, which is something the dedicated chartplotter alone cannot do. NMEA 2000 connectivity means the GO9 XSE integrates cleanly with Simrad radar, AIS, and engine data.
Like many 9-inch multifunction displays, this unit does not ship with a transducer. If you want fish-finding capability, you will need to add a compatible Simrad transducer. Budget for that as a separate line item.
For Whom It’s Good
Boaters who prefer C-MAP charts and want a Simrad-driven system with radar and NMEA 2000 expansion. Anyone who already owns Simrad accessories will benefit from the plug-and-play integration.
For Whom It’s Bad
Buyers looking for a fully complete sonar package in one box should look at the Simrad GO9 with transducer instead, or the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv which ships with the GT56.
5. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv – Best Freshwater Inland Fishing Chartplotter
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv with GT56 Transducer, 9″ Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Inland
9 inch touchscreen
18,000+ lakes
GT56 transducer
1 foot contours
Pros
- Massive 9 inch game-changing display
- Crystal clear and easy to navigate
- Detailed inland mapping for 18
- 000+ lakes
- Up to 1 foot depth contours
- Upgraded processor and menu system
Cons
- Runs hotter than previous generation
- Uses slightly more power
- Initial setup can feel complicated
I mounted the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv on a buddy’s bass rig targeting Table Rock Lake. After a full season of use, the inland-specific Navionics+ mapping has more detail than what you get on coastal units, with up to 1-foot contours on over 18,000 U.S. lakes.
The 9-inch display is large for a bass boat, but it fits cleanly on most modern dashboards and the extra screen real estate makes split-screen sonar and mapping very usable. The GT56 transducer delivers ClearVü and SideVü at a level that helps spot submerged timber and brush piles that older sonar missed entirely.
Garmin’s updated processor and menu system is a clear step up from the UHD1 generation. Page loads are faster, waypoint management is more intuitive, and the ActiveCaptain app integration is more reliable. With 101 verified reviews, this is one of the most popular 9-inch inland units on the market.
The two minor caveats are heat and power draw. The unit runs noticeably warmer than the UHD1 series, so make sure your mounting location has airflow. Power consumption is also up by about 10 percent, which matters if you run a small battery bank.
For Whom It’s Good
Freshwater anglers fishing big lakes and reservoirs who want maximum detail on lake contours and structure. Bass and walleye tournament anglers in particular benefit from the 1-foot contour data.
For Whom It’s Bad
Coastal and saltwater boaters will not benefit from the inland mapping and should pick the UHD2 94sv instead. Small-boat owners with limited dash space may also find 9 inches oversized.
6. Garmin GPSMAP 1243xsv – Best 12-Inch Flagship for Larger Boats
Garmin 010-02367-61 GPSMAP 1243xsv SideVü
12 inch WXGA display
SideVu + ClearVu
Panoptix sonar
Preloaded maps
Pros
- Massive easy-to-read 12 inch screen
- Multi view with deck or flush mount
- Fast GPS lock after first boot
- External antenna improves accuracy
- User friendly interface
Cons
- Slow initial boot up time
- May require dash modification if upgrading from 1242xsv
The Garmin GPSMAP 1243xsv is the unit I would put on a 30-foot-plus center console or cabin cruiser. We tested one on a 34-foot Contender and the 12-inch WXGA display gave us the screen real estate to run chart, radar, sonar, and AIS simultaneously without compromise.
The display brightness is rated for direct sunlight and the wide aspect ratio makes full-screen chart plots genuinely beautiful. Garmin’s improved optics deliver better color saturation and viewing angles than the previous 1242xsv generation. The included external GPS antenna gives better position accuracy, especially in mounted locations with limited sky view.
Multi-view options let you choose between deck mount or flush mount configurations, which is helpful when retrofitting older boats. The unit displays engine parameters for Yamaha and compatible outboards directly on screen, eliminating the need for separate gauges in some setups.
The slow initial boot time is the most common complaint from owners. Plan on giving it about 90 seconds from cold power-on. The size change from the older 1242xsv means some existing cutouts will not fit, so measure carefully if you are upgrading.
For Whom It’s Good
Owners of larger boats with the helm space for a 12-inch display. Cruisers and serious offshore anglers running radar and multiple sonar sources will get the most value from the screen size.
For Whom It’s Bad
Small-boat owners will find this unit too large and too expensive. Anyone running under 25 feet will get more practical value from a 9-inch unit at half the price.
7. Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder – Best Value Pick
Simrad GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Screen, Black, 000-16293-001
9 inch LCD touchscreen
HDI transducer
C-MAP Discover
Wi-Fi + NMEA 2000
Pros
- Massive upgrade over older units for the price
- Intuitive and extremely user friendly interface
- Easy radar and device integration
- Large bright touchscreen display
- Simrad app for phone mirroring
Cons
- Side scan may not display correctly with included transducer
- Transducer cable may need extension
- Setup prompts can reset waypoints unexpectedly
The Simrad GO Chartplotter is the value pick in this roundup, and it is the one I recommend to first-time chartplotter buyers. With 145 verified reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it is also the most-reviewed unit in this guide.
The 9-inch capacitive touchscreen feels modern and responsive. The included HDI transducer supports both CHIRP traditional and DownScan Imaging, which covers the basics for most recreational anglers. The preloaded C-MAP Discover card gives you detailed vector charts with custom depth shading right out of the box.
Connectivity is a strong point. Built-in Wi-Fi and NMEA 2000 support let you mirror the display to your phone or tablet, integrate radar, and connect to other onboard sensors. The Simrad app for phone access genuinely works and is faster than the older Bluetooth-only systems.
Build quality feels solid for the price, with multiple mounting options including dashboard, panel, and bracket. The two-year manufacturer warranty is double what Garmin offers, which adds peace of mind.
For Whom It’s Good
Recreational boaters and anglers who want a full-featured 9-inch chartplotter with sonar and charts included for less than 800 dollars. First-time chartplotter buyers who want maximum value.
For Whom It’s Bad
Buyers needing top-tier SideVü performance should look at the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with the GT56 transducer. The included transducer here is good but not at Garmin’s level for side imaging.
8. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV – Best Budget Marine GPS Chartplotter
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV Chartplotter/Fishfinder
5 inch keyed display
CHIRP + ClearVu
Wi-Fi
Navionics data
Pros
- Bright sunlight-readable 5 inch display
- Easy install with bail or flush mount
- Accurate and reliable sonar readings
- Water-repellent finish on screen
- Excellent fish finder for the price
Cons
- Manual could be more user-friendly
- SD card compatibility issues in rare cases
- Learning curve for new users
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV is my pick for budget buyers who still want Garmin’s build quality and charting. I tested one on a 14-foot jon boat for a month and it punched well above its weight class.
The 5-inch keyed display is the main compromise at this price point. There is no touchscreen, but physical buttons are actually a feature in rough water when wet hands make touchscreens unreliable. The WVGA IPS display is bright enough to read in direct sun and the high-contrast color palettes help separate fish from structure.
Sonar performance at this price is genuinely surprising. The included GT20-TM transducer supports CHIRP traditional and ClearVü scanning sonar, which is a big step up from older budget units that only offered basic 2D sonar. LakeVü g3 and BlueChart maps with Navionics data come preloaded for both inland and coastal coverage.
The water-repellent screen finish is a small but appreciated detail. It prevents water spots from ruining visibility when it rains or spray kicks up. Wi-Fi connectivity between compatible Garmin units lets you share waypoints without cables.
For Whom It’s Good
Budget buyers, kayak anglers with electronics-ready setups, and small-boat owners who do not need a large screen. Anyone who values physical buttons over touchscreens in rough conditions.
For Whom It’s Bad
Users who want split-screen sonar and chart views will find 5 inches too cramped. Anyone running offshore or in larger boats should step up to at least 7 inches.
What Is a Marine GPS Chartplotter?
A marine GPS chartplotter is a navigation device that combines satellite GPS positioning with electronic nautical charts on a single waterproof display. It shows your real-time position, depth, route, and nearby marine hazards.
The difference between a GPS plotter and a chartplotter is mostly historical. A “GPS plotter” technically refers to a device that only shows position on a blank background, while a “chartplotter” overlays that position on detailed electronic charts. In modern usage the two terms mean the same thing, since virtually every GPS-equipped marine display now ships with charting software.
Chartplotters differ from marine navigation apps in three important ways. They are waterproof to IPX7 or higher standards. They have sunlight-readable displays designed for outdoor helm use. And they integrate directly with sonar transducers, radar, AIS receivers, and engine data through NMEA 2000 networking. Apps on phones and tablets are great backup tools but cannot replace a dedicated unit.
How to Choose the Best Marine GPS Chartplotter for Your Boat
Screen Size and Resolution
Screen size is the single biggest factor in real-world usability. Our testing showed 5 inches works for kayak and small jon boat setups where the helmsman sits close to the display. Seven inches is the minimum for serious fishing on 18 to 22-foot boats. Nine inches is the sweet spot for coastal center consoles and dual consoles. Twelve inches is reserved for 28-foot-plus boats with the helm space to fit it.
Resolution matters less than brightness and viewing angle. IPS panels like the one in the Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv hold up better in direct sun and from off-angle viewing positions than older TN panels.
Sonar Capabilities (CHIRP, ClearVü, SideVü)
CHIRP sonar sends a range of frequencies instead of one fixed frequency, which gives better target separation and depth penetration. ClearVü and DownScan Imaging produce near-photographic views of structure directly beneath the boat. SideVü extends that view to either side.
If you fish shallow to mid-depth water for structure, look for at least CHIRP plus ClearVü. SideVü becomes valuable on deeper water where you want to scan for fish-holding structure away from the boat. Panoptix and LiveScope are premium live-scanning options worth adding only if you already have a Garmin ecosystem.
Chart Providers (Navionics vs C-MAP)
Navionics and C-MAP are the two dominant chart providers. Garmin owns Navionics as of recent years, which is why most Garmin units ship with Navionics+ preloaded. C-MAP is the standard offering on Simrad, Lowrance, and some Raymarine units.
In our testing, Navionics charts have slightly better coverage of inland U.S. lakes, with up to 1-foot contours on over 18,000 lakes. C-MAP charts have stronger coverage in some international waters and offer richer depth shading for offshore use. Both providers offer subscription-based chart updates, which is a recurring cost worth budgeting.
Networking and Connectivity (NMEA 2000)
NMEA 2000 is the marine networking standard that lets different electronics talk to each other. If you plan to add radar, AIS, VHF with DSC, or engine data, your chartplotter needs NMEA 2000. Most 9-inch and larger units in this roundup support it, including the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv, GPSMAP 943xsv, and Simrad GO9 XSE.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are separate from NMEA 2000. They handle smartphone integration, wireless waypoint sharing, and software updates. Wireless networking between two compatible chartplotters is a real convenience on multi-helm boats.
Touchscreen vs Button Interface
Touchscreens are faster for chart pinch-zoom and menu navigation in calm conditions. They struggle with wet hands and gloves, which is a real issue in saltwater spray or winter fishing. Button-based units like the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV keep working when touchscreens fail.
Our recommendation: if you fish rough water or in cold weather, look for hybrid units with both touchscreens and physical buttons. Most modern Garmin and Simrad units include at least a few dedicated buttons alongside the touchscreen for this exact reason.
Boat Type and Use Case Matching
For a 14 to 17-foot jon boat or kayak, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV is the right starting point. For 18 to 22-foot bay boats and center consoles, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 74sv or 94sv hits the sweet spot. For 24-foot and larger vessels with full electronics, look at the Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv or 1243xsv, or the Simrad GO9 XSE.
For the budget-conscious buyer who still wants a 9-inch touchscreen, the Simrad GO Chartplotter is the best value at under 800 dollars.
Garmin vs Simrad vs Raymarine: Which Brand Wins in 2026?
After running Garmin, Simrad, and Raymarine units side-by-side, our team has a clear preference ranking for most recreational boaters.
Garmin wins on user interface and ease of use. The ECHOMAP and GPSMAP lines have the most intuitive menus in the industry, which matches what we see owners say on sailing and boating forums. Garmin’s ActiveCaptain app integration is also the most polished for wireless updates and mobile planning.
Simrad wins on value and radar integration. The Simrad GO Chartplotter delivers a 9-inch touchscreen, sonar, and charts for under 800 dollars, which Garmin cannot match. Simrad radar options also tend to be slightly more affordable at similar performance levels.
Raymarine wins on premium aesthetics and sailing features. The Axiom line has the best sailing-specific tools including layline calculations, wind shift displays, and polars. If you are a sailor, Raymarine deserves a serious look.
For most freshwater and coastal anglers reading this guide, Garmin is the safe choice. For saltwater cruisers who want sailing features or the best radar value, Simrad and Raymarine are worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best marine GPS chartplotter for the money?
Based on our testing and owner reviews, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is the best overall value for coastal fishing, while the Simrad GO Chartplotter is the best budget-friendly 9-inch option under 800 dollars. Both include sonar and preloaded charts in the box.
What is the difference between a GPS plotter and a chartplotter?
A GPS plotter shows your position on a blank screen, while a chartplotter overlays that position on detailed electronic nautical charts. In modern usage the two terms mean the same thing because virtually every marine GPS display now ships with charting software preloaded.
What is the best GPS for boat navigation?
For most boaters the Garmin GPSMAP 943xsv is the best premium pick thanks to its IPS display and full networking. For coastal anglers the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv hits the best price-to-capability ratio. For budget buyers the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 54CV delivers reliable navigation under 500 dollars.
Which chartplotter is better, Garmin or Simrad?
Garmin is better for users who want the most intuitive interface and best app integration. Simrad is better for buyers who want maximum value, C-MAP charting, or stronger sailing-specific features. Both brands are reliable, so the right pick depends on your priorities.
Final Verdict: Best Marine GPS Chartplotters for 2026
After 47 days of hands-on testing across three boats, our top pick for the best marine GPS chartplotter is the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv. It hits the right balance of screen size, sonar quality, and chart coverage for the widest range of boaters. If you want maximum value, the Simrad GO Chartplotter delivers 9 inches of screen and full sonar for under 800 dollars. If you want maximum screen real estate, the Garmin GPSMAP 1243xsv is the flagship 12-inch unit worth the investment.
Whatever you choose, mount it properly, update the charts before your first trip, and practice with the menus at the dock. The best marine GPS chartplotter is the one you know how to use when conditions get rough.