Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

[scottsnyder]

Which do people prefer... They are both GPS/Sounder combo units, around the same price range.

 

[AndyL]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

My advice would be to view them both running bearing in mind that I think they use different mapping. Lowrance use Navionics and Garmin I think use Blue chart. Pick an area that you are familiar with and see how each is represented in the mapping display. One may have better or clearer coverage for the area you are going to use the system. I believe both have strong merits however my only experience is with Lowrance and I would say that their back up is excellent. You pay your money and take your own choice.

 

[RubberFrog]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

The Lowrance has more features. And cheaper maps. It also has a better screen, the viewing angle is amazing.

 

[Boatist]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

I agree try and find someplace that has both units up and running and compare side by side. I own a Garmin GPSMAP 76 but I think the lowrance is better.<br /><br />Thing I do not understand is why so many shops push Garmin even when they sell both. In my city West Marine sell both but in their stores they only display Garmin. I really hope it is not because they know the Garmin base maps are so bad and do not have navigation aids that they know you will come back to buy better maps and Unlock codes for $300. Then after a year or two when the maps get updated you will be back again to buy the updated maps and unlock codes. <br /><br />At least every Lowrance I have seen has had a decent base map and navigation aids (Buoys and Lights) on the base map for no charge.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

If you are going to rely on a base map system it doesn’t really matter what system you buy. I guess you would be OK in a lake but darn if I'm relying on a base chart to navigate tidal waters.<br />Now if you are serious about a "real" chart plotting system the Garmin and Bluechart is the way to go. I've got no idea what Bluechart maps you’re buying at $300 a shot. I purchased the wide area map for the Southeast Bite for $125 from Boat US

 

[Patty Pooh]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

I have been debating about the Garmin 178 and Lowrance 337c DF as well. The one thing that has me leaning toward the garmin is the built in tide tables, thats sweet.

 

[dhipwell]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

I wanted to check back in to the users on this post and also query other buyers....Garmin 188C vs. Lowrance 337c DF as to which is the best combo unit to purchase. Which one did you go with? Also, does any one else have an opinion. Your thoughts are much appreciated.

 

[fullsize_chevy]

Re: Lowrance 337DF OR Garmin 178C or 188C

I am trying to choose between a garmin 182c or a lowrance 3500c. I own a lowrance color chartplotter now along with a lowrance df sonar unit and love them both. A buddy has the garmin color chartplotter, and the mapping is fine, but the screen is lousy compared to the lowrance. I'd say Lowrance. It will be my next purchase.