Choosing between a compact marine GPS navigator and a Garmin chartplotter is not just about screen size. The lower-priced unit-the Boat GPS Navigator 5in Marine GPS Navigator AIS TFT LCD Screen LED Backlight-sells for $336.52. The higher-priced unit-the GARMIN GPS MAP 8008 VOLVO PENTA TOUCH SCREEN CHARTPLOTTER 2VD000078 MARINE BOAT-sells for $699.95. That spread means the Garmin costs roughly twice as much. The question is whether the extra money buys a better fit for your boat's marine electronics for sonar and navigation.
Quick Verdict
If you want a lower-cost display with two chart sources, the Boat GPS Navigator is the sensible choice. If you want a Garmin chartplotter with network and video connections for a more connected helm, the GPS Map 8008 is worth the higher price.
Comparison Table
| What matters | 5-Inch GPS Navigator | Garmin GPS Map 8008 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $336.52 | $699.95 |
| Display | 5-inch TFT LCD, 480 x 272 resolution, LED backlight | Touch screen in a housing roughly 7 1/2 by 10 1/2 by 4 1/2 inches |
| Chart system | C-MAP and XINUO MAP dual chart system | Garmin Volvo Penta chartplotter |
| Connections | AIS in product name; DC12-36V input | NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, four network connections, DVI-I video, CVBS 1 and 2, power |
| Part / identifier | Manufacturer part number as described | MPN 2VD000078 |
Where the Lower-Priced Navigator Wins
The lower-priced navigator wins on price and chart flexibility. It costs far less and still includes two chart sources. If you want a self-contained navigation display without a full rack of connections, this is the practical choice.
Where the Garmin Wins
The Garmin GPS Map 8008 wins on connectivity and its Garmin Volvo Penta identity. The listed connections are extensive, which makes it a stronger centerpiece for a networked helm.
Product Notes
Boat GPS Navigator 5in Marine GPS Navigator AIS TFT LCD Screen LED Backlight
This navigator offers a color TFT LCD screen with a 480 x 272 WVGA panel, LED backlight, and wide viewing angle. The dual C-MAP and XINUO MAP chart system lets you switch between two chart platforms, and the wide DC12-36V input makes it easier to think about installing on different boats. The product name also lists AIS, which is useful if you want that capability on a simpler display. The limitation is the scope: the listed details focus on the screen and charts, not an extensive connection list, so it is best treated as a stand-alone navigation display.
GARMIN GPS MAP 8008 VOLVO PENTA TOUCH SCREEN CHARTPLOTTER 2VD000078 MARINE BOAT
The Garmin option brings a wide connection set. Along with the touch screen, you get NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, four network connections, DVI-I video, CVBS 1 and 2, engine, house, and power connections. The unit is physically large at roughly 7 1/2 inches long, 10 1/2 inches wide, and 4 1/2 inches deep, with six mounting holes. If your boat has multiple electronics that need to share data, this chartplotter is the one to build around. The trade-off is that all that capability costs more and may be overkill for a simple display-only setup.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choose the Boat GPS Navigator when you want the lower-priced display and are happy with a dual-chart unit. Choose the Garmin GPS Map 8008 when you want a Garmin chartplotter with the full connection set to anchor a larger electronics setup.
