Choosing between these two Garmin chartplotters is a true marine electronics decision: one is a low-cost unit in need of some attention, and the other is a higher-priced model. Which one belongs on your boat depends on your budget and how much connectivity you need.
Quick verdict
The Garmin GPSMAP 740s is the price pick at USD 150.00, while the Garmin GPS MAP 8008 costs USD 699.95 and brings a larger interface plus broader connectivity. The 740s is $549.95 less, but its description includes screen damage. The 8008 is the more capable unit, but you pay for that capability.
Comparison table
| Feature | Garmin GPSMAP 740s | Garmin GPS MAP 8008 |
| Listed price | USD 150.00 | USD 699.95 |
| Display type | Chartplotter screen | Touch screen |
| What's included | Sun cover and cut power cable | No original packaging; comes as shown |
Where each wins
- The Garmin GPSMAP 740s wins on price and the included sun cover, making it an easy choice for a tighter boat budget.
- The Garmin GPS MAP 8008 wins on screen and connection options. It's the unit to choose if you need a more capable interface for a complex marine setup.
Product notes
Garmin GPSMAP 740s
This chartplotter is the budget pick in this head-to-head. The title notes it's TESTED, and the description says it turns on and functions, but the screen has sun damage, so it won't suit anyone who needs a flawless display. It comes with a sun cover and a power cable, though the cable is cut. For a boater who can fix a cable or already has one, this is a way into a Garmin chartplotter without a big outlay. The main limitation is the damaged screen; you're buying a unit with a visible issue that may make navigation harder to read.
Garmin GPS MAP 8008
If you need a unit with more ports, this Garmin chartplotter for Volvo Penta carries part number 2VD000078. It's the higher-priced option here, but it brings a bigger interface and a much more complete connection setup, including NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, four network connections, engine and house connections, DVI-I video, and two CVBS inputs. The description calls it new but without the original packaging, and it comes as shown. If you're building out a marine electronics station or replacing a Volvo Penta unit, this gives you room to connect multiple devices. The tradeoff is the price and the fact that there's no extra gear included with the unit.
Final choice by use case
Choose the Garmin GPSMAP 740s if you want the lowest-cost path to a Garmin chartplotter and are comfortable with the tradeoffs shown in the description. Choose the Garmin GPS MAP 8008 if you need a touch screen with broad NMEA and network connectivity for a Volvo Penta boat and are willing to spend more for that level of interface.
