Raymarine Axiom 7 RV vs Garmin UHD 74cv

For starters, I would have to say, this comparison isn’t entirely fair.

On the one hand, the Axiom 7 RV is a powerful multifunction chartplotter designed for full vessel management with outstanding fishfinder capabilities.

On the other hand, the Echomap UHD 74cv is an excellent Chirp and DownVu fishfinder with substantial chartplotting capabilities but lacks multifunctional boat management.

I think a more direct Garmin comparison is the GPSMAP 743xsv.

So… Which One is Right for You?

Axiom 7 RV would be my pick… if I want more of a full-blown multi-function chartplotter with solid fishfinding capabilities with Chirp Sonar, DownVision SideVision, RealVision, and expandability for things like  Radar, AIS, Weather, and additional vessel integration.

UHD 74 cv would be my pick… if you just want an excellent fishfinder with Chirp and DownVu Sonar coupled with solid chartplotter capability but no need for SideVu, Radar, or other networking abilities.

Knowing that, let’s dive into a detailed side-by-side comparison and see how they stack up.

► Or, jump straight to the:

Side by Side Comparison – InfoGraphic

The Raymarine Axiom 7 RV and Garmin Echomap UHD 74cv differ significantly in their design and capabilities.

The Axiom 7 RV stands out with its multifunctional approach, serving as a powerful chartplotter designed for comprehensive vessel management.

Its robust features include support for Radar, AIS, Weather integration, SideVision, and RealVision, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an all-in-one marine solution.

The Garmin UHD 74cv specializes in being an exceptional fishfinder, featuring Chirp and DownVu sonar capabilities.

While it offers solid chart plotting features, it doesn’t dive into multifunctional boat management, making it a preferred option for anglers who prioritize advanced sonar performance over extensive vessel integration.

These distinctions make the Axiom 7 RV and UHD 74cv cater to slightly different needs.

Here are the differences in more detail:

Physical Size: The UHD is a little wider.

• Axiom – 7.92″x5.24″x3″
• UHD – 9.8″x5.5″x2″

Weight: The Axiom is a little heavier.

• Axiom – 3.35 lbs
• UHD – 1.7 lbs

Power Use @ 12v: The Axiom uses a little more power.

• Axiom – 1.75A
• UHD – 1.25A

GPS Acquisition Speed: The Axiom is faster.

• Axiom – 10Hz
• UHD – 5Hz

Sonar Features: The Axiom has more sounder options.

• Axiom – Chirp | DownVision | SideVision | ReallVision – Sonar Output: 150W/600W
• UHD – Chirp & ClearVu – Sonar Output: 500W

NMEA 0183 Connections: The Axiom does not directly support MNEA 0183.

• Axiom – No
• UHD –  NMEA 0183 In/Out

Additional Onboard Storage:

• Axiom has 4GB
• UHD does not.

Waypoints | Routes | Tracks: I don’t like only having 15 tracks on the Axiom.

• Axiom – 10,000 | 150 | 15
• UHD – 5,000 | 100 | 50

Mapping:

• Axiom supports more charting options
• But the Garmin BlueChart g3 + Navionics is very good.

Radar:

• Axiom supports Radar
• The UHD does not.

Weather:

• The Axiom supports 3rd party weather
• The UHD does not.

Here is our, Raymarine Axiom 7 RV vs Garmin Echomap UHD 74cv – Comparison Infographic showing a more detailed view of the differences between the two:

Here are some of the shared features that both the Raymarine Axiom 7 RV and Garmin Echomap UHD 74cv offer:

• Water Rating – IPX7: Both the Axiom 7 RV and Echomap UHD 74cv are rated IPX7, ensuring they’re water-resistant and suitable for marine environments.

• Touch Screen Display: Both models are equipped with touch screen displays, offering easy and intuitive navigation and interaction.

• Display Resolution: Their screens both boast high-resolution displays, with excellent detail when viewing charts, sonar readings, and navigation data.

• NMEA 2000 Capability: Both chart plotters support NMEA 2000, allowing seamless integration with other marine devices and systems for data sharing and control.

• CHIRP Sonar & Down View Sonar: Equipped with CHIRP sonar technology and Down View capabilities, providing enhanced clarity and depth in sonar imaging.

• Preloaded Mapping: These units come with preloaded maps, enabling immediate use without additional purchases. The Axiom does have several different mapping options depending on the model.

• Black Box Sonar Expandability: Both models support expandability with black box sonar systems, offering flexibility for enhanced sonar capabilities. For instance, you could add SideVu to the UHD 74cv  by adding a black box.

• WiFi & Bluetooth Connectivity: They both feature WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, facilitating wireless data sharing and updates with compatible devices.

 

Tip: See the full reviews for full feature details.

Garmin Echomap UHD 74cv – Review ►

Raymarine Axiom 7 RV – Review ►

 

The decision between the Raymarine Axiom 7 RV and the Garmin Echomap UHD 74cv largely hinges on your specific boating or fishing needs and priorities.

Here are what I think the strengths and considerations for each are:

Raymarine Axiom 7 RV:

More Expandability: The Axiom shines when it comes to vessel management, offering extensive expandability options for Radar, AIS, Weather integration, SideVision, RealVision, and additional vessel systems.

Radar: Axiom’s radar support enhances situational awareness, important for those navigating in varied conditions or those keen on tracking weather patterns while out on the water.

Third-Party Weather Input: Axiom’s compatibility with third-party weather data is an important factor if you prioritize real-time weather info.

Garmin Echomap UHD 74cv:

Excellent Fishfinder: The UHD model excels as a fishfinder, with top-notch Chirp and DownVu sonar capabilities.

If your primary focus is on fishing and you don’t require extensive boat management functions, the UHD is a great choice.

Solid Chartplotter Capability: Alongside its exceptional fishfinder features, the UHD also provides reliable charting, making it a balanced choice for those who want effective navigation alongside being a solid fishfinder.

No Need for SideVu: If you don’t need SideVu, the UHD provides everything you need in terms of a fishfinder with navigation capability.

While the Axiom is an excellent all-in-one solution for those who seek vessel management, radar support, and advanced integration, the UHD stands out as a top-notch fishfinder and chartplotter, catering to those who are more focused on angling and chartplotting functions.

Ultimately,  you will want to choose the one that will best fit your needs and budget.