Key Differences & Upgrades: 

Chartplotter | Processor Speed: 

• The UHD2 got an Upgraded & Faster Processor

Screen Resolution: 

• The UHD2 9” models have a higher screen resolution.

Physical Size:

• The height and depth dimensions within the 6”,7” and 9” units are similar but all 3 UHD2s are between ½” and 1” narrower than their UHD counterparts. 

GPS Reception: 

• The UHD2 models have a slightly faster 10Hz GPS with GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou
• UHD models have a 5Hz GPS. 

► This means that the UHD2 models should have a slightly faster acquisition speed and better reception in areas with weak GPS signals.

Sharing Sonar over WiFi: This, I think is the biggest upgrade.

• Wireless Data Sharing – If you have another compatible ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotter on your boat, you can wirelessly share information such as sonar, waypoints, and routes with them.
• Network Cable Data Sharing – If you have additional ECHOMAP UHD or ECHOMAP Ultra devices on your boat, the 7” and 9” models can share information — such as sonar, user data and charts.

NOTE: As of now ECHOMAP UHD or ECHOMAP Ultra can’t share data with the UHD2 models

Additional Connectivity: 

• UHD2 models have Bluetooth, ANT, and Garmin Wi-Fi.
• UHD models only have Garmin Wi-Fi. 
• Both are Active Captain capable

Built-in Mapping: 

• UHD2 models come with preloaded the new Garmin Navionics+ (coastal): Select Models.
• UHD models come with preloaded BlueChart g3 charts. Select Models.

► Here’s a quick comparison showing the different Chart and Mapping features between BlueChart G3 and Garmin Navionics+.

Software Updates: 

• The UHD2 models can be updated with the latest software.
• UHD models cannot.

► This means that the UHD2 models will have access to new features and bug fixes along with mapping and navigation upgrades in the future.

Mounting Bracket:

• The UHD2 models also have newly redesigned quick-release brackets to make it simple to remove the unit from the boat at the end of the day.

My Final Thoughts:

The Garmin Echomap UHD and UHD2 are both great fishfinder/chartplotter combos, but the UHD2 does have some pretty cool updated features.

The Garmin Navionics+ charts, higher screen resolution on the 9” version and the ability to share fishfinder data and other data via WiFi make it a great choice if you want to upgrade.

Not having to run network cables between additional UHD2 units during installation is a big plus.

The Echomap UHD is still a great unit, and it’s a good option if you’re on a budget or don’t need the latest features.

Ultimately, I think your best choice will depend on your individual needs and budget. But I do like the UHD2 Wi-Fi upgrade.

Also see – How to Choose the Best Garmin Fishfinder ►

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