Free GPS Guidance
Posts Tagged ‘Garmin GPSMAP’
Wow, here’s a tough comparison we were recently asked to make. Which GPS fishfinder combo should I buy, the Humminbird 587ci combo or the Garmin GPSMAP 441S? Ooh, that one is tricky. Those are two very good options to fit his needs, but which is better for him? Okay – let’s try.
First, they are a close match on screen size 4-inch diagonal for the GPSMAP 441S compared to 4.5 for the 587ci Combo. Both have built-in maps, Garmin GPSMAP has the worldwide marine basemap, and the Humminbird 587ci has a UniMap. Both have card slots for maps and saving waypoints – that’s handy. Also, both use either a Tilt & Swivel quick disconnect mounting system or can be flush mounted – flexibility. Each will hold 3,000 waypoints, and the 587ci holds 50 routes versus GPSMAP 441S with 100 routes. The GPSMAP 441S will accept a couple of external antenna choices, where the Humminbird 587ci has no port for external antenna so you want to be sure it is used in an open boat, not from a cabin unless it is near the windshield – good to know. As for cartography; the Humminbird fishfinder combo uses Navionics maps, and Garmin GPSMAP uses BlueChart g2 Vision cards.
Of course, there are even more differences and similarities between them. Now do you see why it is tough to help someone choose which GPS fishfinder combination to choose? I definitely prefer to help folks find the information, but to make the final decision themselves as the differences between them can be a non-issue for one boater, but critical to another depending on their boat and situation.
For all you beginning boaters out there, you really might want to consider purchasing a chartplotter for your vessel. Garmin chartplotters like the Garmin GPSMAP series include marine cartography – preloaded with marine mapping software – and have GPS and WAAS capabilities so that you can not only see the rocks and shoals to avoid, but you can plot your best course to your destination. Also, with the use of the GPS/WAAS capabilities you can know with accuracy if you are beginning to venture off course. You can also save each course you plot to make finding your way back to that great getaway or fishing ground a cinch next time you want to return. Marine chart plotters are built rugged to be reliable, and are completely sealed with a waterproof casing, especially built to stand up to use in harsh saltwater environments.