How would you spend $500 for a GPS device?

[BryanOnTheBay]

There is some confusion up here.

All iPads that have the cell capability have a built-in GPS chip that functions without any cell connection, the iPad doesn't even need to have a service for the GPS to work.

All iPads that are wi-fi only must have an external GPS ("the puck") to use GPS functions off wi-fi. The GPS will work in populated areas without a contract connection by getting coordinates from cell or wi-fi connections.

Age of the iPad has nothing to do with the GPS function, this is how it was all along. Either iPad GPS is accurate, my Garming and my Ipad with Navionics are right in lockstep with one another. The heat issue is real and if it has not happend to a boater it will, the helm is just to hot in the sun for the iPad. It does not have to be 100 degrees either, just sunny.

MM

+1.

 

[OllieC]

I have a Lowrance Elite 7 series that works pretty well for me. It will be higher than your budget and you will still have to purchase a Navigation Chart Chip/SD Card for $100.

 

[dpmulvey]

I have a Lowrance Elite 7 series that works pretty well for me. It will be higher than your budget and you will still have to purchase a Navigation Chart Chip/SD Card for $100.

Good Unit. I like the NMEA 2K ease of integration. That was my 1st choice had I not been a time crunch due to a broken SH.

 

[BruceK]

Raymarine Dragonfly? Not sure how much they are your side but the 7 " screen was impressive. Has transponder but no need to drill holes. I've seen some inventive ways of using it. I have the Garmin 551S, but the screen is hard to focus on when on the move... might be an age thing.