5 of the Best New Multi-Function Displays For 2019

The latest multi-functions displays combine GPS, fishfinder, engine management and more into a single high resolution touchscreen for the easiest operation yet.

It started with a simple fishfinder. Then came the chart/plotter. It was only a matter of time until combination fishfinder/chart units arrived on the market, followed by GPS. Before long, the average boat helm was beginning to look like a little TV studio, with multiple small boxes and their even smaller, pixelated screens bristling from every flat surface. While it certainly looked impressive to have three or four of these units bolted to the dash, small screen sizes meant you usually had to squint to see anything at all. The modern multi-function displays (MFD) have changed all that.

Boats today have seen big changes in the dashboard, from the smallest fishing rig up to the largest ocean-going yacht. Gone are the days of clusters of tiny devices, replaced by one or more large, high resolution touch-screens that can do multiple things. Using familiar smartphone-like gestures, today’s touch-screen displays give boaters the big picture like never before, allowing skippers to easily swipe between fishfinder, GPS, engine data or even views from docking cameras at their whim. Or, use advanced split screen capability to view two, three or four different functions at once.

Ready to be impressed? Here are five of the best multi-function displays on the market today.

Garmin GPSMAP 8624

Garmin’s GPSMAP 8624 features a massive 24-inch high definition touch screen that is said to currently offer the highest resolution on the market. A high-speed processor provides fast map drawing, while network presets for sonar, radar, cameras, media and digital switching allow the screen to operate independently or be incorporated into Smart-Mode station controls. Connectivity is assured with built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi; it also features NMEA 2000, HDMI, USB and Ethernet connections as well as FUSION-Link integration. It’s also fully compatible with Garmin’s Active Captain app.

Humminbird SOLIX 15 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS

While its SOLIX 15 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS name is definitely a mouthful, Humminbird’s all-new touchscreen is claimed to be the first fish finder operating in the megahertz range. With its CHIRP technology and high power, it delivers exceptionally clear underwater views with improved detail and target separation. Its fully customizable 15.4-inch screen – controlled either directly or via a keypad – provides up to four viewing panes. This is one of the most advanced multi-function displays in the industry.

Shop For Humminbird SOLIX 15 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS

Lowrance HDS Live

Lowrance greets 2019 with its all-new HDS LIVE flagship MFD, offering real-time 3-in-1 sonar with Lowrance CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan Imaging, charting, and a broad range of connectivity features including LiveCast smartphone integration. It’s available in 7-, 9-, 12- and 16-inch display sizes.

Shop For Lowrance HDS Live

Simrad NSO evo3

The NSO evo3 from Simrad features an ultra-bright, ultra-clear 19-inch display that’s viewable from any angle without blacking out, even when wearing polarized sunglasses – a feature we’d like to see on all multi-function displays. Features include an integrated quad-core processor for instant data access, and low-profile glass helm styling that complements any décor.

Raymarine Axiom 16 Pro RVX

Raymarine’s Axiom 16 Pro RVX is powered by a blazingly fast quad core processor that works in concert with the LightHouse 3 OS with IPS display technology to make the most of its full 1920 x 1080 high definition screen. Instantaneous response from its built-in one kW RealVision 3D CHIRP sonar gives boaters an amazing amount of information in full high definition, while intuitive operation and classic styling suit a variety of helm designs.

Shop For Raymarine Axiom 16 Pro RVX

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works.