What a clunky description, I thought, upon first hearing the term “multifunction display” in the early 2000s. Today, multifunction display (or MFD) is part of the marine lexicon, and as it turns out, a truly apt term. An MFD can network with complex electronic systems, processing at blinding speeds to display a world of information in high-definition color, with split-screen capabilities to monitor and control multiple systems simultaneously.
MFDs from brands such as Furuno, Garmin, Humminbird, Lowrance, Raymarine and Simrad come in a variety of screen sizes and capabilities to help boating anglers navigate safely and find and catch more fish. Here are examples of the latest models.
Furuno
Furuno is expanding its NavNet TZtouch MFDs with the new TZtouchE series, designed with affordability and smaller saltwater fishing boats in mind. The TZtouchE series includes two models: 9- and 13-inch versions. Both can be networked with Furuno dome radars and optional sonar systems, as well as upper-end TZtouchXL models.
The TZtouchE multi-touch display models are powered by a streamlined version of the TZtouchXL platform, and feature chart plotting and 300/600/1,000-watt TruEcho chirp and Continuous Wave sonar capability, as well as 230 or 455kHz chirp side-scan functionality.
They also are compatible with all current NavNet DRS Radar models and support Furuno’s powerful networkable sonar modules, including the DFF3D Multibeam Sonar, CSH10 Omni Sonar, and the DFF series. The TZT9E andTZT13E also unlock advanced navigational tools like Risk Visualizer and AI Avoidance Route.
TZtouchE units come ready-to-navigate out of the box with pre-loaded, official NOAA vector charts for the entire coastal US. Optional Furuno Z Maps that include official hydrographic data, high-resolution BathyVision bathymetry, satellite imagery, and community-sourced content, can be purchased directly from the MFD for $263.
Retail prices for the new TZtouchE series start at $2,195 for the TZT9E and $3,095 for the TZT13E model. To learn more, visit furunousa.com.
Garmin GPSMap 9000xsv
Garmin’s new top-of-the-line GPSMap 9000xsv MFD series is available in 10-, 13- or 17-inch touchscreen models. The 13- and 17-inch models feature 4K resolution, as well as improved brightness and greater contrast thanks to a mini LED backlight. The 13- and 17-inch screens are the first marine products to take advantage of this technology.
Anglers will love the crystal-clear high-definition with UHD scanning sonar, built-in xCHIRP and RapidReturn, allowing for up to twice the sonar update rate. The faster refresh rate provides more sonar information in the scrolling window, a critical advantage when daytime swordfishing or deep-dropping.
Each is preloaded with Garmin Navionics+ charts with Auto Guidance+ technology, as well as OneHelm digital switching that supports the Garmin EmpirBus systems and other third-party monitoring and control solutions. Garmin’s edge-to-edge design seamlessly flush-mounts into almost any boat helm for a custom-looking dash layout. Boating anglers can access 5G Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless software and map updates, as well as chart viewing.
Boating anglers also can build extensive networks with multiple chartplotters, cameras, radars and sonars, and enjoy gigabit speeds on the Garmin BlueNet network. In addition, they can take command of all boat operations on one screen with OneHelm integrated digital switching. The new MFDs fully integrate with Garmin’s advanced radar systems to enhance safety when navigating in limited-visibility situations. The 9000xsv series starts at $3,199.99. To learn more, visit garmin.com/marine.
Humminbird Apex
The popular Apex series from Humminbird has been relaunched in sizes that suit saltwater anglers. The full-HD full-color MFDs are available in 13-, 16- and 19-inch sizes. Each pairs with a powerful high-resolution sonar transducer and Humminbird’s refined Cross Touch user interface for faster waypoint management, split-screen adjustments and more. CoastMaster and LakeMaster high-definition electronic charts are included.
Apex MFDs also offer robust connectivity (HDMI in/out, dual Ethernet, Bluetooth, and NMEA 2000) for networking with a variety of Humminbird and Minn Kota peripherals. These models remain fully compatible with Mega Live 2, Mega 360 Imaging, Talon/Raptor anchors, and Minn Kota trolling motors for easy system expansion.
Humminbird has reduced the prices of Apex MFDs by about $600. Prices start a $3,399.99 for the 13-inch model and range upward to $4,699.99 for the full-featured 19-inch Apex MFD. To learn more, visit humminbird.johnsonoutdoors.com.
Lowrance HDS Pro
The HDS Pro series of MFDs from Lowrance is not new, but this proven series is the top-of-the-line for this brand. Available in 9-, 10-, 12- and 16-inch sizes, HDS Pro units offer full networking and bow-to-stern boat control spanning trolling motors, autopilots, engines, radar, communications, and connectivity and control of Power-Pole shallow-water anchors.
Equipped with a SolarMax HD touchscreen, the HDS Pro also networks with the new ActiveTarget 2 XL live sonar system that features surface-to-surface 180-degree real-time views of fish and structure using the XL transducer (starting at $1,399) in Forward, Down and Scout modes.
Combining the new 360-degree Scout XL live view to see around the entire boat with Forward XL/Down XL allows anglers to identify casting spots without repositioning. However, this requires running two sonar modules and transducers. This particular functionality is compatible only with the Lowrance HDS Pro series MFDs. HDS Pro also is compatible with Active Imaging HD, which provides chirp, and SideScan/DownScan imaging
The HDS Pro has a built-in GPS/chartplotter, and is loaded with C-Map Discover OnBoard charts with 1-foot bottom contours. You can also upgrade to C-Map Reveal, Navionics, Florida Marine Tracks and more. Models range from $1,799 to $4,599. For more details, visit lowrance.com.
Raymarine Axiom 2
The new Axiom 2 MFDs from Raymarine combine a powerful six‑core processor, next‑generation LightHouse charts, exclusive HydroTough nano-coated displays and expanded app and engine integration.
The 7-, 9- and 12-inch MFDs are available in two models: one non-sonar version and one featuring a built-in 600-watt sonar, plus Raymarine’s award-winning RealVision (RV) sonar and imaging. Axiom 2 RV features high-frequency chirp sonar to help anglers pinpoint fish and assess bottom hardness, while DownVision and SideVision paired with RealVision 3D will offer a full-picture view to help keep anglers on the bite.
The MFDs come bundled with LightHouse Gen 2 charts, and the enhanced processor offers 30 percent faster chart rendering. It’s paired with high-speed gigabit networking to seamlessly integrate chartplotting, sonar, radar, autopilot and video with Axiom 2’s LightHouse operating system. The upgraded memory lets boating anglers access more than 30 mobile apps for entertainment, weather, lighting, vessel monitoring and more. Pricing starts at $1,199 without charts or sonar, $1,299 with LightHouse charts. For more details, visit raymarine.com.
Read Next: Wide-Screen vs. Standard MFDs
Simrad NSO 4
Simrad Marine Electronics is marking its 80th anniversary with the launch of NSO 4 series of MFDs, featuring the brand’s Neon operating system. Designed to be the most intuitive models to operate, NSO 4 comes in 16-, 22- and 24-inch touchscreen display sizes. Sleek glass-to-edge screens feature SolarMAX IPS technology to enhance viewing in harsh sunlight and at side angles.
Each model is powered by a Qualcomm 8-core processor that results in instant responsiveness and 35 percent faster boot-up times, 10 times quicker auto-routing, and eight times more storage versus the previous NSO evo3S MFDs.
NSO 4 models integrate with the full Simrad suite of electronics systems, including radar, sonar, and engine systems. There’s also support for multiple sonar modules and FishCast powered by Roffs forecasts. For easier, safer navigation, NSO 4 includes auto-routing, chart safety alerts and the latest AutoTrack Radar target tracking feature. These MFDs can also control lighting, audio, trolling motors, and more from a single screen.
NSO 4 pairs perfectly with C-Map Discover X and Reveal X charts. The X-Chart Manager enables direct chart updates via internet connection and custom area selection for those exploring new waters. NSO 4 is also compatible with third-party charts like Cmor Mapping, StrikeLines and Standard Mapping.
The new NSO 4 series range starts at $6,499. For more details, visit simrad-yachting.com.
