Hottest New Boating MFD for 2019

Not that long ago, no fishing boat would be considered complete without an entire helm full of aftermarket electronics – or at the very least, a large-screen fish finder and a GPS plotter for navigation. Today, electronics manufacturers combine these different devices into a single integrated screen commonly known as an MFD or multi-functional display. By reducing clutter on the helm, the MFD allows anglers to go with a single display screen of much greater size, offering substantially greater clarity, greatly improved graphics and easy, intuitive operation with familiar touch-screen gestures we use every day on our smartphones.

Most MFDs connect to other electronic devices onboard using a NMEA2000 connection, which allows the MFD to display other information like engine data, operating data like boat speed or water temperature, or even to control the stereo. It also allows the unit to work with any additional equipment you buy in the future, like a radar set.

With every electronics manufacturer fighting for market share, the 2019 MFD lineup includes some of the most capable displays ever, and some tremendous values as well. Here’s what’s hot for MFDs in 2019.

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.

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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.

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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.

Lowrance Elite Ti2

Also new from Lowrance is its all-new Elite Ti2, available in 7-, 9-, and 12-inch display sizes. Delivering enhanced high-resolution sonar functionality and wireless networking, the Elite Ti2 features CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan imaging, Bluetooth calling and text notifications.

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. 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.

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