Garmin continues to dominate the market for fishfinders and chartplotters with the launch of the EchoMap Plus series. This collection offers a range of fishfinder and chartplotter combo units with screen sizes ranging from 4 inches to 9 inches. If you are on the lookout for your next large-screen fishfinding device, then the Garmin EchoMap Plus 93sv and the Garmin EchoMap Plus 94sv are just two of the top choices in the market. These models come pre-installed with different types of maps, so check out our in-depth review below to learn which one will better suit your needs.
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Garmin EchoMap Plus 93sv vs 94sv Comparison Chart
| Model | Garmin EchoMap Plus 93sv | Garmin EchoMap Plus 94sv |
| Price | ||
| Dimensions | 11.4″ x 6.5″ x 2.4″ (28.2 x 16.4 x 6.0 cm) | 11.4″ x 6.5″ x 2.4″ (28.2 x 16.4 x 6.0 cm) |
| Weight | 2.3 lbs (1.0 kg) | 2.3 lbs (1.0 kg) |
| Display Size | 7.8″ x 4.8″; 9″ diagonal (19.9 x 11.3 cm; 22.9 cm diagonal) | 7.8″ x 4.8″; 9″ diagonal (19.9 x 11.3 cm; 22.9 cm diagonal) |
| Display Type | WGA Display | WGA Display |
| Display Resolution | 400 x 800 pixels | 400 x 800 pixels |
| Receiver | 5 Hz | 5 Hz |
| Garmin Marine Network™ Ports | 1 Panoptix™ port | 1 Panoptix™ port |
| Transmit Power | 500 W (RMS) / 4,000 W (peak to peak) | 500 W (RMS) / 4,000 W (peak to peak) |
| Preloaded Maps | LakeVü g3 (inland maps) | BlueChart® g3 (coastal maps) |
| Accepts Data Cards | 1 microSD™ card; 32 GB maximum card size | 1 microSD™ card; 32 GB maximum card size |
| Waypoints | 5000 | 5000 |
| Accepts Data Cards | 1 microSD™ card; 32 GB maximum card size | 1 microSD™ card; 32 GB maximum card size |
| CHIRP Sonar Technology | Built-in | Built-in |
| Maximum Depth | 2,300 ft @ 77 kHz, freshwater 1,100 ft @ 77 kHz, saltwater (depth capacity is dependent on water bottom type and other water conditions) | 2,300 ft @ 77 kHz, freshwater 1,100 ft @ 77 kHz, saltwater (depth capacity is dependent on water bottom type and other water conditions) |
Display
Both models are equipped with 9-inch screens so you can easily read the display.
Because of their size, these units are perfect for those who own bass boats or similar types of boats. Since the 9-inch units in the EchoMap Plus series have the steepest prices, some might argue that you are actually paying more for a larger screen display. For reference, a 9-inch screen is as big as an iPad, so expect that you’ll find it easier to read data being displayed in these units. To maximize their screen size, you can use the split display functionality which allows you to display up to four sections. With this feature, you can easily get four SONAR readings at once, which gives you more data to make the best possible cast.
Both units have a WGA display type that can render 400 x 800 image resolution. Their screens can also automatically brighten or dim the backlight to ensure optimal viewing experience across different lighting conditions. Overall, the large display can give you a more enjoyable experience while using the fish finder.
The EchoMap Plus 93sv is pre-loaded with the LakeVü g3 (inland maps) while the EchoMap Plus 94sv comes with the BlueChart® g3 (coastal maps).
The LakeVü HD charts in the EchoMap Plus 93sv offer a lot of useful data points such as interstates, boat ramps, bridges, general roads, fishing areas, marinas and even camping grounds. The EchoMap Plus 93sv also has the Shallow Water Shading feature which will allow you to assign a minimum depth that you can quickly glance on the displayed map. The maps work with GPS tracking that can read the watercraft’s location five times per second to display its accurate real-time location on any given map. In case this is not enough for your needs, you can easily purchase some enhancement software like the LakeVu HD Ultra, Bluechart g2, and Bluechart g2 Vision.
On the other hand, the EchoMap Plus 94sv’s default map database is the BlueChart® g3. This database includes U.S. coastal charts covering the East and West Coast, the Gulf of Mexico area and the U.S./Canada side of the Great Lakes. These maps are based on official charts which include other pertinent information such as depth contours, nav-aids, spot soundings, and tides information. Just like the EchoMap Plus 93sv, this unit has a 5 Hz internal GPS receiver that allows it to portray your boat’s location on the map as accurately as possible.
Sonar Capabilities
Both models come with CHIRP traditional sonar already built-in along with CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars.
Whether you decide to go with the EchoMap Plus 93sv or the EchoMap Plus 94sv, you’ll enjoy clear and detailed imaging with the built-in CHIRP sonar in these models. This is one of the most advanced sonar technologies available for fishing and boating use. In case you need some integrations, the CHIRP sonar provides support for Minn Kota® and MotorGuide® trolling motors when used with integrated transducers. Both models are also compatible with the Panoptix all-seeing sonar.
Aside from the traditional CHIRP sonar, these fishfinder units are also equipped with the CHIRP ClearVü™ scanning sonar that allows you to see what’s below your boat at a nearly photographic level. You will also get the CHIRP SideVü™, which, as the name suggests, gives you a better view of the structures and fish on the sides of your boat. All these three sonars are combined into one transducer.
Other Features
Both models have built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping software which allows users to create their personalized finishing maps with 1′ contours as they fish.
Both models have built-in Wi-Fi which allows you to sync your unit with your smartphone to receive notifications. It also allows you to connect to the free ActiveCaptain app. This mobile app allows you to access the Quickdraw Community where other users share their personal fishing maps. By using this app, you may also update, download, or purchase new charts through OneChart. Overall, it’s an active community where you can connect with other fishing enthusiasts and get more resources for your next fishing adventure.
Verdict
The EchoMap Plus 93sv and EchoMap Plus 94sv offer almost similar features aside from the type of pre-loaded maps that they have.
Overall, the EchoMap Plus 93sv and the EchoMap Plus 94sv offers almost the same functionalities and features. It all boils down to knowing what type of map will you need. If you need a reliable database of 17,000 lake charts, then the EchoMap Plus 93sv is the better option. However, if you need access to coastal charts covering the East and West Coast, the Gulf of Mexico area, and the U.S./Canada side of the Great Lakes, then you should definitely go for the EchoMap Plus 94sv.
Last update on 2022-06-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API