What is the Best Marine Electronics Brand for South Florida and the Keys?
- Better Boat Electronics
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
Comparing the Top Marine Electronics Brands for Boaters in South Florida and the Florida Keys: Garmin, Simrad, Furuno, and Raymarine
Boaters in South Florida and the Florida Keys know that having reliable marine electronics is essential for safe and enjoyable navigation. Whether you're fishing offshore, cruising the Intracoastal Waterway, or exploring the Florida Keys, choosing the right navigation, radar, or fish-finding technology can make all the difference. To help you make the best decision, we’re comparing four leading brands in the marine electronics industry: Garmin, Simrad, Furuno, and Raymarine.
Garmin: The Industry Leader
Garmin has established itself as a powerhouse in the marine electronics sector. In 2023, the company's marine segment generated approximately $917 million in net sales. Garmin is widely recognized for its user-friendly interfaces, innovative technology, and consistent quality. Its dominance in the industry is further reinforced by its recognition as the Manufacturer of the Year by the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) for nine consecutive years.
For boaters in South Florida, Garmin's GPS chartplotters, sonar technology, and autopilot systems are excellent choices for navigating coastal waters, fishing on the Gulf Stream, or anchoring in the Keys. Features like Garmin Navionics Vision+ charts and Panoptix LiveScope make Garmin a go-to choice for anglers and recreational boaters alike.
Simrad: A Close Competitor
Simrad, a brand under the Navico Group (which is part of Brunswick Corporation), is another major contender in the marine electronics market. Navico, which also owns Lowrance and B&G, reported revenues of approximately $915 million in 2023. While this figure includes sales from other marine-related products, Simrad remains a strong competitor to Garmin, offering a range of products tailored for serious anglers, commercial vessels, and high-performance boating applications.
Simrad is particularly popular among offshore boaters and sport fishermen in the Florida Keys and South Florida. With advanced chartplotters, autopilots, and fish-finding technology, Simrad provides an edge for those targeting sailfish, mahi-mahi, and wahoo in deep waters. Their Halo Radar is a top choice for boaters looking for situational awareness in changing weather conditions.
Furuno: The Japanese Innovator
Furuno, a Japanese company founded in 1948, is known for its high-quality radar, sonar, and fish-finding technology. While Furuno's total revenue figures are less widely reported, in 2017, the company generated approximately $700 million in sales. The brand is particularly well-regarded in commercial maritime industries, where reliability and precision are paramount.
For South Florida boaters running commercial fishing vessels or deep-sea charters, Furuno’s radar and fishfinder systems are some of the best available. Furuno’s NavNet TZtouch3 chartplotters and DFF3D multibeam sonar are trusted by professionals navigating the waters from Miami to Key West.
Raymarine: A Legacy Brand in Marine Electronics
Raymarine, headquartered in the United Kingdom, has been in the marine electronics business for over 80 years. The brand is well-known for its GPS chartplotters, VHF radios, radar systems, and autopilot technology. Acquired by FLIR Systems in 2010, Raymarine has continued to produce high-performance electronics for both recreational and light commercial marine applications.
Sailors and powerboaters in South Florida and the Florida Keys often turn to Raymarine for its intuitive interfaces and high-quality navigation tools. Raymarine’s Axiom series multifunction displays, Quantum radar, and Evolution autopilots are well-suited for navigating the reefs and sandbars of the region.
Which Brand is Right for You?
Choosing the best marine electronics brand depends on your specific boating needs in South Florida and the Florida Keys:
For offshore sportfishing: Simrad and Garmin offer top-tier sonar and radar technology ideal for targeting big game fish.
For commercial fishing and charters: Furuno’s radar and sonar systems provide industry-leading performance.
For sailing and recreational boating: Raymarine’s user-friendly chartplotters and autopilot systems are trusted by many sailors.
For all-around navigation and ease of use: Garmin is a strong choice for boaters who want reliability, innovation, and an intuitive interface.
No matter which brand you choose, having the right marine electronics onboard ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience on the water. If you need help selecting or installing the best marine electronics for your vessel, contact Better Boat Electronics today for expert advice and professional installation services in South Florida and the Florida Keys.
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