Garmin

[kananumpua]

I'm trying to help a buddy pick out a chart plotter for his new (less than 25ft) boat. He will primarily be using it on coastal waters and rivers. The boat he is looking at has the option of either the Garmin GPSMAP 540s or the 545s. Other than the resolution is there any discernible difference between the two? If not, what is adequate resolution for one of these units?

Feel free to add any input.

Thanks all!

[sailingdog]

No... no major difference other than screen resolution. If you can find an older 492 or 498 unit, I would recommend that instead. The main reason I make this recommendation is that the user interface on the older units is better than the current units IMHO. The major difference between the 492 and the 498 is the 498 has a sounder.

[SCoffshore]

I would buy the 545S, it is the same price as the regular 545 right now, and yes, I personally think the difference in the pixel count is big. The details enables you to be zoomed out a little further and still reasonably use the unit. I would stay away from a 492 or 498 unit if you can find one, because they will stop being supported soon. Also, unless you get a real good price, you are spending a lot of money for older technology. Yes, the older units are a little more user friendly, but in all reality all it takes is sitting down with a six pack of beer or other beverage at the dock one afternoon and you are fine.

[arf145]

I just installed a 545s on our boat--wanted the extra resolution. I don't know what the old Garmin interface was like, but so far--and this is with only a couple of days use--it seems pretty straightforward.

Tom

[kananumpua]

Hey guys,

Thanks for all your input!

He decided to go with the higher resolution model.