Every unit here is radar-capable when paired with a compatible radar antenna, spanning a wide budget range from a compact 9-inch combo unit to a full 16-inch offshore-grade display. Here’s how they stack up.
Best Budget Entry: Simrad NSS9 evo3S
The Simrad NSS9 evo3S 9-Inch Chartplotter Fishfinder ($1,199.00) is the least expensive way into a radar-capable networked system here, pairing C-MAP Discover charts with a display that supports Simrad’s Halo and 3G/4G radar lines — a strong starting point for a small to mid-size boat.
Best Value Multifunction Display: Garmin GPSMAP 8610xsv
The Garmin GPSMAP 8610xsv GN+ Multifunction Chartplotter ($1,899.00) brings Garmin’s xsv-series radar and sonar networking to a 10-inch display, a solid mid-size-boat pick that leaves room to add a radome later.
Best for 3D Sonar Plus Radar: Raymarine AXIOM+ 12RV
The Raymarine AXIOM+ 12RV with LightHouse North America Maps ($2,229.00) combines RealVision 3D sonar with a 12-inch display and full radar networking support — a strong choice if you want 3D sonar imaging and radar on one larger screen.
Best for Larger Boats: Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv
The Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv GN+ Multifunction Chartplotter ($2,969.00) steps up to a 12-inch display with the same xsv radar and sonar networking, suited to a busier helm running multiple data sources at once.
Best for Full Offshore Helms: Garmin GPSMAP 8616xsv
The Garmin GPSMAP 8616xsv GN+ 16-Inch Multifunction Display ($4,519.00) is the largest and most capable unit in this lineup, built for boats running a full networked helm with radar, multiple sonar sources, and AIS all displayed at once. It’s a serious investment aimed squarely at offshore and larger center-console owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the radar antenna come included with these displays?
No — these are the display/chartplotter units, and each supports a specific line of compatible radar antennas sold separately. Confirm the compatible radar family for your chosen display before ordering.
What size display do I need to read radar clearly?
9-10 inches works for a single full-screen radar view; if you plan to split-screen radar alongside sonar and charts simultaneously, 12 inches or larger makes a noticeable difference in usability.
Is a bigger, more expensive display always the better choice?
Not necessarily — match the display to your boat size and how many data sources you’ll run simultaneously. A 9-inch unit like the Simrad NSS9 is plenty for a smaller boat running radar and sonar alone.
New to marine radar generally?
Read our understanding marine radar guide first to understand range, overlay, and whether you actually need it for how you boat.
Browse the full chartplotter & MFD collection to compare specs side by side.
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