depth finder / GPS combo recommendations

[tavares]

I am looking to purchase a depth finder / GPS combo. Have it narrowed down to two units; Garmin 441s and Humminbird 385ci. I've looked at both and could go with either one. My question pertains to the basemaps that are pre installed in each unit. Seems like the Humminbird has much less info than the Garmin and I would have to buy a Navionics card right from the start. The Garmin appears to have a more complete pre-installed basemap, which includes much more detail, nav aids, etc. No need to buy an additional card for now. If I'm right, the plain Garmin and the Humminbird plus coastal Navionics card will end up costing about the same $. I'm suffering from information overload. Thanks up front for your thoughts on this.

 

[dingbat]

Re: depth finder / GPS combo recommendations

For the Coastal regions the Garmin pre-loaded maps are as good as they get.

One thing to consider is the diffrence in power between the two units. The 385 is only a 300 watt unit. The Garmin is a 500 watt RMS unit. Makes a big difference

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: depth finder / GPS combo recommendations

Had the Humminbird in the old boat... planning on the Garmin for the new boat.

 

[tavares]

Re: depth finder / GPS combo recommendations

Thanks for the responses!!! You've pretty much confirmed my original thoughts, but was a little distracted by the humminbird.