I'm shopping for a Chart Plotter/GPS for my 255 Formula. i want about a 7" screen with capability for chart plotting, GPS, Depth Sounder,etc. I am ok with a binnacle mount. What are you guys running? I have set a budget of $1200-$1500. What's the best "Bang for the Buck" in that price range?

I have the Raymarine A70D, REALLY happy with it, the Lowrance HDS7 would work too, lots of options out there!

West marine is going to have the Garmin 740s on sale shortly, I have to check the flyer that just came in the mail. $899. It was $1499 last year. I bought one this year and am very happy with it so far. I haven't learned how to use all the functions yet. lol

I have the hds 5. The 7 is the same just larger screen and love these units. My vote goes to them john

Wow...that Garmin 740 with a 10% discount at West Marine looked like a great deal...until I noticed it does not come with a transducer!!

Still worth of consideration though.

I had a standard horizon on my last boat and it was "ok". Sold that boat and plotter went with it. Bought a new boat last month. I had a Samsung Galaxy tab 2 7 inch screen and decided to try out MX Mariner Program on it. Its a Marine GPS program. I have it mounted with a ram mount on the boat. It works GREAT. Far superior to the Standard Horizon unit. 160 for the Galaxy, 50.00 for the ram mount, and 10.00 for the MX Mariner Program. For 220 combined this just can not be beat.

Chris

Transducer is only about $100

Can this be seen in direct sunlight?

It is at least as viewable as my Standard Horizon was.. I don't think any tablets or chart plotters in the 7 inch size excel in direct sunlight. But it is viewable.

Chris

Lowrance elite 5 does everything g I want for a good price.