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Ranking the Best Marine Radar Systems of 2024

Raymarine RD418HD HD Color Radome

Raymarine Quantum 2

Furuno Defender

Marine radar used to be a pipe dream for most boaters. A cool sounding gadget, but totally impractical. How could any regular boater use it? Why would they ever want to? It was for commercial freighters and ocean liners. But you can’t stop progress. These days marine radar has come home. There are plenty of small, portable, affordable units.

Radar is one of the greatest inventions ever in terms of boat safety. Navigating in rough seas and fog was far more treacherous before it came along. Now, with radar, a clear path can always be found. Unseen obstacles and oncoming vessels need not be a danger or a surprise.

If you’re a serious boater, you want to have the best marine radar you can get. But what makes for the best marine radar? Let’s take a look at some of the best marine radars on the market. Then we’ll go over what features you need, and why you need them.

With a range of 48 nautical miles, the Raymarine Color Radome operates on 4 kW of power. This kind of radome antenna operates on plug and play technology. It’s easily compatible with a lot of other hardware. Compared to the typical 24 nautical miles, this has a great range.

The Raymarine color radome scanner features an adaptive digital receiver. That means you’re going to have a clear picture no matter what. It easily adjusts to changing weather and sea conditions. It also takes environmental changes into effect quickly and easily as well.

The multi-level target display operates in 256 colors. It even features a bird mode. That means it can detect a flock of birds at a distance. Why is that important? It can show you where a school of fish is that the birds are feeding off of. That can save a lot of time hunting down fish . Just let the gulls and pelicans do it for you.

Dual range mode lets you scan near and far simultaneously. At 21 pounds, it’s not an overly huge unit, either. That means this is ideal for a smaller boat. It features everything you want in a compact shell. It won’t stand out and look awkward on your boat, either.

For the features and the price, Raymarine has hit it out of the park with this marine radar.

$2,099.99 Amazon  →

The Raymarine Quantum marine radar is definitely at the head of the class. It will set you back more than the RD418HD but it’s worth it. It features CHIRP pulse compression and Doppler collision avoidance. Raymarine’s advanced tech can instantly highlight moving radar contacts. Once it does, it can color code them for easy tracking at a glance. It will tell you if they’re coming towards you or moving away.

In high-traffic areas, Raymarine’s Quantum takes a lot of guesswork out of navigating. A quick glance can let you know what’s a potential danger. At the same time, it shows you what’s moving away.

Raymarine’s Quantum also features MARPA tracking. This is used by the U.S Coast Guard. It keeps an eye on dangerous targets. That way you can avoid collisions.

Additional features include TrueTrails target history. This can show you the path other vessels have taken. The CHIRP pulse compression can show you anything even in the thickest fog. And it can identify it as close as 18 feet away.

It has a 24 nautical mile range for traffic detection and immediate awareness. That means it’s on and ready instantly.

Installation is easy and the unit is lightweight. Raymarine boasts it’s actually 50% lighter than similar units. All in all, if you want one of the best marine radars and price is no obstacle, give this a try.

• Buy on Amazon   →
• Buy on Walmart   →

With some marine radars costing over $5000, the Furuno Defender is a welcome change. At a fraction of the price, it still offers reliable functionality. The price is definitely not the only bright spot here. For people who don’t want to get too complicated with technology, this is a breath of fresh air. The Furuno Defender can be hooked up to a smartphone.

The 4kW power output gives you a 24 nautical mile range. That makes it ideal for smaller boats and casual sailors.

The Defender operates something called DRS4W radar. It is compatible with all iOS devices. All you need to do is download their app in the app store. It’s free and very user friendly.

Once using the app, you gain a lot of functionality. You can slip between day mode and night mode. Target distance is also available. You are also able to set up a guard zone around your boat. This means that if the radar detects anything within that zone, your phone will alert you.

The unit is sturdy and can handle winds up to 70 knots. You’re also covered in high heat or freezing cold. It’s also sturdy and waterproof to meet all your needs.

 Amazon  →

Garmin GMR Fantom Marine Radar

The Garmin GMR 18HD+ offers great performance at a reasonable price. The power output here is 4kW, and it provides a range of 36 nautical miles. The images are clear and precise. That includes close up as well, with range detection as close as 20 meters from your vessel.

The Garmin GMR has dynamic auto gain. That means even in poor weather you can expect a good image. It can be easily paired with a heading sensor for increased functionality. Hook it up to a multifunction display and you are ready for MARPA tracking. The unit is compact in size so it will fit nicely on any boat. Installation is also fairly easy.

The Dynamic Sea Filter adapts to changing sea conditions. That ensures you don’t lose signal or clarity regardless of what’s going on. Radar images are overlaid on the chart plotter. That means you have improved navigation capabilities.

• $2199.99 Walmart   →

Simrad Halo 20+ Marine Radar

The Simrad Halo 20+ has a range of 36 nautical miles. It uses pulse compression technology and features beam sharpening. The dual range mode lets you see at a distance and also close up. With 60 RPM operation you can see close up almost instantly to 1.5 nautical miles.

The Simrad features VelocityTrack Doppler technology for collision avoidance. This will help you keep track of any hazards on the open water. You can steer clear of other vessels and objects well ahead of time. It operates in several modes. These include harbor, offshore, weather, and bird modes.

It also features MARPA target tracking. This lets you follow 10 targets simultaneously. If you’re using dual range, it doubles to 20.

Unlike some systems, the Simrad is ready instantly. There is no warm up period during which it has to build up. If you plan to stay close to shore, the Simrad Halo may be the best marine radar for you. The speed and accuracy help you identify close range targets. This can be done faster than almost any other marine radar out there.

• $2299.99 Bass Pro   →

Furuno 1815 Color LCD Marine Radar

The Furuno 1815 4kW marine radar features an 8.4 color LCD display. This means you don’t need to worry about having to try to integrate boat radar into your GPS or chart plotter. It’s an ideal unit for fishing boats. Or just pleasure boating. The radome antenna is small and won’t take up a lot of space. The installation is simple and easy to understand. Also, the controls are highly intuitive. Mastering the functioning will not take much time at all.

Details are displayed clearly and in full color on the display. Fast Target Tracking lets you follow up to 10 targets at one time. True Trail mode also displays the path objects are on. It then compiles that data over time so you can see where an object is and how it got there. The range extends up to 36 nautical miles.

 Walmart  →

Things to Consider

Not every marine radar is built the same. There are several factors that can affect which one is best for your boat.

Radar System Range

Marine radars come in different ranges. Think of it like binoculars. Depending on the lens and prism type, some can see a great distance. Others have a much more limited range. So then the question becomes what range do you need and why?

If you’re a casual boater, you may not need any great range. If you tend to stay near shore, a limited range will work perfectly for you. It can still show hidden hazards and vessels in fog.

If you’re interested in more serious boating, a greater range is needed. If you plan to do boating a good distance from shore, this will be helpful. Likewise, if you’re an explorer and want to head to unfamiliar waters. A long range boat radar will eliminate any surprises.

An average range is 24 nautical miles or 26 nautical miles. Even up to 48 nautical miles. 36 nautical miles is rather rare, but it’s a sweet spot in the middle. The best marine radars need to have range plus clarity.

As you can imagine, a more powerful marine radar is typically a better marine radar. A more powerful engine goes faster. A more powerful shower cleans better. It’s just how things work. Power is different from range, although range is definitely affected by power.

A low-powered marine radar will have trouble getting through severe weather and fog. Heavy rain will slow it down as well. These obstructions absorb radar, making it less functional. More power will help it cut through them.

Power for a marine radar is measured in kilowatts (kW). The typical range for a marine radar starts at 4 kW and goes up to about 25 kW. A 4 kW radar has a maximum range of about 48 nautical miles. At 25 kW you’ll get a maximum range up to 96 nautical miles.

There are lowered power marine radars you can get as well. Some down as low as 2 kW. These only have a maximum range of about 24 nautical miles.

The ability of your marine radar to function can be tweaked by more than just power. For instance, a taller antenna can help improve range and power as well.

Types of Marine Radars

Not every boater is aware that marine radars come in different types. They perform the same basic function but operate slightly differently.

Pulse Radar: These are the older style of radar system. They create microwave pulses with high powered magnetrons. It’s rather similar to how a microwave oven works. The pulse are released in short bursts of voltage. Though older, it’s still reliable radar technology.

Solid State Radar: Solid state is the newer style of radar system. It’s also called broadband marine radar. Solid state uses something called Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave technology. This is sometimes abbreviated to FMCW.

Solid state marine radars use less radiation than pulse radar. That’s another thing people don’t often consider. Radar does release energy that could potentially be dangerous. Keep in mind that it’s unlikely you’ll be exposed to a dangerous dose, however. It would take a long time.

Solid state radars are easier to install than pulse. They don’t need to warm up the way a pulse system does, either. They have improved range even using the same power. And they also have a better target resolution.

Most marine radars have a beam width of 5.2°. A narrower beam width is going to provide you with a more detailed image. This is especially true of an object that is far away. It’s like focusing on something with a flashlight beam. But there is a downside. Narrow beam width tends to miss things as well. The narrower your beam, the more likely it is to skip important objects. So you need to have a happy medium. Too wide and resolution suffers as well.

Compatibility

Marine radar systems work in conjunction with other technology. On its own, radar won’t do much, right? You need to see the data it collects on a screen. That means tying it into your GPS or chart plotter.

Some radars come with their own GPS and chart plotter hardware. But most boats will already have a GPS or chart plotter on board. It’s more efficient to tie them together. But you need to make sure your radar actually works with what you have. If not, you’ll need to have some extra technology on board.

Just as with anything else on your boat, you need to settle on a budget for a radar. Even a “cheap” radar is an investment. Some kinds of radar systems can get well over $5000. For that kind of money, you want to make sure you’re getting quality technology.

Cheap radar systems do exist. But never forget that you get what you pay for. If you find a bargain radar, always research it. Check reviews across several sites. Especially if it’s a brand you have never heard of. If you can’t get some reliable history and reviews, you may want to skip it.

Boating Habits

The way that you boat can dictate how you use marine radar system. As we covered, weather can affect how radar systems work. But if you do boating at night, for instance, that has an effect as well. Early morning boating can benefit from high powered radar as well. If you have a fishing boat, you can get a marine radar system that is also a sonar. That way you have the benefit of a fish finder.

Casual boaters will probably just need a simple marine radar system, if they need one at all. But if you’re a real gadget head, then maybe a more intense system is needed.

Choosing the place to mount your radar is as important as the type of radar. If you mount it wrong, it will limit function. Improper mounting makes blind spots. If the radar is obstructed by other parts of your boat, it can render it useless. Your radar should come with a mounting kit. This will always be the best way to mount it. If it doesn’t, you need to do a little homework. Find out the best way to mount your specific model.

At the very least, radar needs to be mounted above the passengers on the boat. This keeps you out of range of the electromagnetism that is being used. You want to look for the highest possible point on the boat. That way the radar can operate at a full 360 degrees.

Waterproofing

Everything on a boat needs to have a degree of waterproofing. That just makes sense. But electronics can be touchy. You wouldn’t want to dunk your GPS or radio, right? The radar is the same way. It needs to be waterproof, however. It’s going to be exposed to sun and surf.

Radar units have specific waterproof ratings. You want something rated IPX6 at least. The IPX scale rates devices based on their water resistance. It runs from IPX0 to IPX9K.

An IPX0 has no water protection at all. At IPX6 it can resist high-pressure, heavy sprays of water. This is ideal for a boat radar. It should be enough to keep it safe in rough seas. It is rare you would find anything above IPX6.

IPX7 means it can be submerged for 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. It is unlikely you would find a radar system that has this rating or above.

Not every radar system is the same size. If you have a small boat, you need a small radar. Not for technology reasons, but for practical ones. Large radar units will be harder to mount if you don’t have the space.

Check the dimensions before you buy. Make sure you have the open space to mount it safely. Likewise, a heavy radar unit could pose an installation and safety issue. Some of these units weigh around 20 lbs. If these are not securely mounted, they could be a danger if a storm tears them free. Mounted in a high space, you don’t need a 20 lb radar hitting you in high winds.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

Categories : Boats

Shane William Savell on May 25, 2021

Hi, looking for small boat 30foot or do, radars with PI lines. Parallel index lines. Any comments. Cheers. Sav

David L on October 25, 2022

Something for your readers to consider. Will a radar pick up whales in the water. The answer is a resounding no! How then do some radars detect whales. Answer – the same way they all do. They won’t reflect off a whale, they will reflect off the hole in the water a whale makes. This explains why whales come and go on radar. When near the surface they make a “visible” hole in the water. When they dive – they disappear!

The radar horizon for an antenna is about 7nm at sea level and increases to about 12nm for a 100 foot antenna. The power out on a radar is not the critical factor when selecting a product. Your range is obviously extended when detecting targets which are higher than sea level. EG the mast of a merchant ship.

The statement above “The ability of your marine radar to function can be tweaked by more than just power. For instance, a taller antenna can help improve range and power as well.” is misleading, when you say a taller antenna I presume you mean a higher mounted antenna? (A taller antenna in the shape of the reflector would provide no benefit in the marine environment.)Height of the antenna may improve range as described above. It will not provide more power, this is purely a function of transmitter power. For example to double the range of a radar you have to increase the power out by 8 times.

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4 Best Radome-enclosed Boat Radar Options for Recreational Sailors

• By David Schmidt
• Updated: March 27, 2024

When I was a kid, my dad and I watched an aircraft carrier break apart. At least, that’s what it looked like on his radar , which employed a cavity magnetron transmitter and a monochrome display. The year was 1988, and we were crossing Muscongus Bay , en route from Port Clyde to East Boothbay, Maine . We were aboard Windancer , my parents’ C&C 37, in classic pea-soup fog. Looking at the radar display, we could see something enormous a handful of miles off our starboard bow.

And then suddenly, our “aircraft carrier” dissolved. We rushed on deck and—some tense minutes later—discerned engines and voices through the murk. So much for a Nimitz-class carrier. This was nothing more than a flotilla of small powerboats we called “gnats.” We arrived in East Boothbay safely and in time for dinner, and we still laugh about how that radar’s lack of target separation caused serious, if short-lived, situational-awareness anxiety.

While it’s easy to say that nuclear energy was the decisive technology that helped the Allies win World War II, the truth is that cavity magnetrons and radar-guided anti-aircraft guns played a far bigger role. Flash-forward to the late 1950s, and radar began emerging on commercial and, eventually, recreational vessels. These “pulse-modulated” magnetron radars ­create pulses of radio-frequency (RF) energy that’s transmitted from a rotating directional antenna. This energy travels at the speed of light in a narrow, horizontal band before bouncing off targets and returning to the antenna as an echo.

While effective, magnetron-based radars have some drawbacks. They sometimes struggle to separate closely spaced targets, and analog cavity magnetron transmitters are subject to temperature swings, aging, and manufacturing variables (from one magnetron to the next) that make it impossible to do Doppler processing on returning echoes.

The marine world began adopting solid-­state transmitters in late 2008, and the first recreational Doppler-enabled boat radars arrived in early 2016. These transmitters generate highly predictable frequencies that enable Doppler ­processing, which lets radar manufacturers color-code radar targets based on their threat level. These radars also deliver far better close-range performance (read: no main bang or blind spots) and weigh less than magnetron-based radars.

Here’s a look at the four best radome-­enclosed boat radars for recreational sailors. All of these systems use solid-state ­transmitters, and deliver Doppler processing and a host of other features. If you still cruise with an old magnetron-­based radar, consider upgrading. The costs are not insignificant, but the improved radar imagery is worth it.

Quicklook: 4 Best Radome-enclosed Recreational Marine Radars

• B&G HALO20, HALO20+ and HALO24

Furuno DRS2D-NXT and DRS4D-NXT 

Garmin gmr fantom 18x and gmr fantom 24x , raymarine quantum 2 , b&g halo20, halo20+ and halo24 .

B&G started employing solid-state radar transmitters in 2008. While these systems generated good short-range imagery, their long-range performance didn’t compare to analog pulse-modulated radars. This changed in early 2015 with the arrival of B&G’s Halo open-array, pulse-compression radar, which gave powerboaters great short- and long-range performance. 

B&G’s latest radome-enclosed, solid-state radars—the HALO20, HALO20+ and HALO24—build on this performance and add Doppler processing (plus MARPA target tracking) in a ­sailing-friendly radome that won’t accidentally ingest running rigging.

As with all radars, greater power and a bigger antenna translate to greater range and better imagery. To this end, the HALO20 operates on 20 watts (maximum consumption) and spins its 17.5-inch antenna (which is fit inside a 20-inch radome) at 24 revolutions per minute to provide 24 nautical miles of range; its big brother, the HALO20+, employs the same antenna, but it spins it at up to 60 rpm (this is dynamic, depending on the range involved) and operates on 29 watts of power for 36 nautical miles of range.

Both 20-inch HALO radars come with optional preset user modes that include harbor, offshore, weather, north up and course up. The HALO20+ also comes with a fishing-friendly bird mode and dual-range capabilities. The latter allows a user to split the radar screen in half, with one side running at, say, 10 nautical miles, while the other is set to maximum range. 

The HALO24 boat radar is aimed at sailors ­seeking greater range. It employs a 22-inch antenna inside a 24-inch radome that it spins at up to 60 rpm. It operates on 29 watts for a range of 48 nautical miles. The HALO24’s bigger antenna allows it to generate smaller beam widths, which further helps the radar to separate targets onscreen. It has the same preset operating modes as the HALO20+.

All three radome-enclosed HALO boat radars are built to IPX6 standards, and all play nicely with B&G chart plotters.

Furuno has long enjoyed a strong reputation for magnetron-based radars, and was the first marine company to unveil a radome-enclosed, Doppler-enabled radar. The DRS4D-NXT could differentiate dangerous and passive targets onscreen using proprietary and Doppler-based features, which operate much like a layer on an electronic chart. Users can turn it on or off, depending on conditions.

Furuno also bundled full ARPA ­capabilities into the system, which allows the radar to acquire and track up to 40 targets automatically. Users can ­manually enter 60 additional targets, which the system then also tracks. 

However, the DRS4D-NXT has a 22- to 22.5-inch antenna inside its 24-inch radome and weighs 16.1 pounds, making it better-suited for larger sailboats. Enter the DRS2D-NXT boat radar, which Furuno released in 2022. This ARPA-enabled system comes bundled in a 19-inch radome, which houses its 17- to 17.5-inch antenna, and weighs 14.3 pounds. It’s an easier fit aboard smaller rides. 

While both systems transmit at 25 watts and spin their antennas at variable speeds for 48 nautical miles of awareness, there are some differences.

As mentioned, radars that transmit tighter RF beam widths generally yield better target separation than systems with wider beams. While both radars have vertical beam widths of 25 degrees, the DRS4D-NXT has a horizontal beam width of 3.9 degrees, while the DRS2D-NXT’s beam is 5.2 degrees. Also, the DRS4D-NXT comes with a bird mode, which is likely more applicable to anglers than sailors.

Otherwise, both radars are similar, and both come with Furuno’s RezBoost beam sharpening, which—when cranked—­reduces the horizontal beam widths of both radars to 2 degrees. Additionally, both systems have Furuno’s Doppler-based target-analyzer and fast-target tracking features. They color-code targets based on their direction of travel relative to your boat, and display course and speed information of user-selected targets. Both radars are compatible with Furuno plotters.

Garmin made headlines in 2016 with its 40-watt Fantom radars. They were available with 4- or 6-foot antennas, and had Garmin’s MotionScope technology. While these radars were impressive in terms of their Doppler capabilities and solid-state transmitters, they were of limited use to most sailors because of their open-array antennas. Garmin solved this problem with the GMR Fantom 18 and GMR Fantom 24 radars in late 2016. They came bundled in a sailing-friendly radome and delivered ranges of 20 feet to 48 nautical miles. More important: Both radars had Garmin’s MotionScope technology and operated on 25 watts of power.

Garmin refreshed these radars in late 2021 with the GMR Fantom 18x and GMR Fantom 24x systems. They have the same ranges but with purportedly better target-separation capabilities, including in rain or fog. Customers can spec a GMR Fantom 18x to operate at 40 or 50 watts, while all GMR Fantom 24x boat radars operate on 50 watts. Garmin’s smaller radome-enclosed system employs a 17-inch antenna, and the bigger system has a 23-inch antenna. 

In a departure from the traditional, both radars can be purchased with a white or black radome. Customers seeking a GMR Fantom 18x in black must opt for the 50-watt version. 

Both new radars have Garmin’s MotionScope, and have features such as target size, which allows users to adjust onscreen target resolution for better target separation; echo trails, which generates historical trails of onscreen targets to help increase situational awareness; dual-range mode; MARPA (this requires a separate heading sensor such as Garmin’s nine-axis heading sensor); and dynamic auto gain, which automatically tunes the radar’s gain to best match the environment. Both radars let users overlay radar imagery atop cartography, set guard zones, and use Garmin’s variable range markers and electronic bearing lines to measure distances and bearings to land and other vessels.

Both boat radars are built to IPX7 standards and are compatible with Garmin-built chart plotters . 

Raymarine’s original Quantum radar, in 2016, was the world’s first chirp-enabled, solid-state and wireless radar. While the original Quantum lacks Doppler processing, its wireless configuration was a hit with sailors who were less than thrilled to run boat radar cabling down their mast or to drill deck holes. 

Raymarine backfilled Quantum’s lack of Doppler processing in early 2018 with the Quantum 2 radar. Both ­systems are IPX 6-rated, have peak power outputs of 20 watts, deliver 4.9-degree horizontal beam widths and 20-degree vertical beam widths, and employ 18-inch antennas housed in 21.3-inch radomes that spin at 24 rpm for ranges of 18 feet to 24 nautical miles. Both systems can transmit their radar imagery to compatible Raymarine chart plotters over Wi-Fi, or they can share imagery over a RayNet Ethernet cable.

While the radars come bundled in nearly identical radomes, the similarities stop once the echoes start returning and Quantum 2 begins color-coding targets based on their threat level. Quantum 2 also has Raymarine’s automatic target acquisition and tracking features, which generate data including the other vessel’s speed, course, and closest point of ­approach. Sailors can further bolster their situational awareness by configuring safety zones. Once activated, Quantum 2 tracks targets inside the ­safety zone, and it alerts users via visual and audible alerts if new vessels appear. And Raymarine’s true trails feature lets users study other vessels’ previous returns, which Raymarine refers to as “historical wake.” 

While Quantum 2’s range and peak power outputs are less than some other radars. These boat radars also consume less juice, which can be beneficial to sailors on strict DC diets.

David Schmidt is CW ’s electronics editor.

Vendor Information

B&G from $1,900

Furuno from $2,400

Garmin from $2,000

Raymarine from $1,950

What is boat radar used for?

Boat radar is a navigational tool used to detect and track objects such as other vessels, land masses, rain squalls, and navigational hazards that may not be visible to the naked eye. It provides enhanced situational awareness and aids in safe navigation, especially in conditions with limited visibility or heavy traffic.

How far does boat radar reach?

The effective range of boat radar varies depending on factors such as the radar’s power output, antenna size, and height above the waterline, but generally, it can detect targets from a few hundred meters up to 48 nautical miles (89 kilometers) or more for larger, more powerful radar systems.

Is it worth having radar on a boat?

Having radar on a boat can be a valuable investment, especially for larger vessels or those navigating in areas with high vessel traffic, limited visibility, or challenging weather conditions. It provides enhanced situational awareness, helps identify potential hazards, and assists in safe navigation, making it worth the cost for many boaters who prioritize safety and collision avoidance.

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6 Best Marine Radars – Track Every Object And Maneuver At Close Range!

While every boater heads out for a relaxing day on the water hoping for sunny skies and clear weather, that’s not always what you get. When fog rolls in and visibility drops, it’s important to have a marine radar on your boat. The best marine radar alerts you to other boats in the area and obstacles like buoys so that you can safely navigate even when you can’t see more than a few yards beyond your boat. A boat radar is also essential if you find yourself sailing in close proximity to other ships.

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best marine radar, which is why we’re here to help you find the best one. We looked at specifications like beam width and maximum range, which together determine your radar’s field of view and how early you will be alerted to potential hazards. We also looked at a rotation speed, which impacts how quickly the radar will update in any direction. Finally, we considered factors like power consumption, weight, and waterproofing. We compiled a list of top 6 picks, and the Garmin Gmr 18HD+ Radome turned out to be the best of them.

• Quick Summary
• Editor's Choice: Garmin Gmr 18HD+ Radome "If you are looking for a high-resolution radar with immense transmission power, then this is your choice. This radar is simple to install, and it has MARPA target tracking and guard zone alarm."
• Best Radar for Close-Range Detection: FLIR Raymarine Quantum 2 "This radar is quite impressive for its 6 meters detection range. It also outmatches other competitors on the market because it is easy to mount, and it allows you to navigate with zero visibility."
• Budget Pick: Furuno DRS4W "Budget-friendly marine radar for your vessel with decent parameters that shows great navigation performance. The unit has 4 kW transmission power. Moreover it is lightweight and compact."
• Best Marine Radar for Small Boats: Simrad Broadband 3G Radar "Any fisher with a small vessel will benefit from having this marine radar because it has close range of detection, low energy consumption, MARPA tracking and instant activation from standby mode."
• Customer’s Choice: Lowrance 3G Broadband Radar "Perfect marine radar that offers low power consumption, auto mode switching and MARPA system. This device is popular for its reliability what makes it an amazing pick for every sailor."
• Upgraded Pick: Lowrance 4G Broadband Radar "To get more power, accuracy and signal distance, you must consider this option. The upgraded version of Lowrance 3G Broadband, this radar tracks up to 10 targets with MARPA system and has excellent resolution."

Top 6 Marine Radars Review 2024

Garmin Gmr 18HD+ Radome

• Beam width: 5.2°
• Maximum range: 36 nm
• Minimum range: 20 meters
• Power consumption: 30 W
• Rotation speed: 24 rpm
• Weight: 17 lbs
• Waterproof rating: IPX7

More features: 4 kW transmit power, high resolution, guard zone alarm, clear echo definition, dynamic auto gain, easy to install, MARPA target tracking when combined with a multi-function display

This marine radar system from Garmin offers an incredible value for its rich feature set. To start, this radar offers 4 kW of transmission power, which gives it a range of up to 36 nautical miles. The minimum range is also impressive, at just 20 meters from your ship.

Better yet, if you have a multi-function display on your ship, you can activate MARPA tracking to stay abreast of movements in other ships around you. Helpfully, Garmin designed this unit to be compatible with a number of the company’s chartplotters, so you don’t need to overhaul your ship’s electronics to use it.

Resolution is another strong suit of this radar system. With a relatively tight 5.2° beam and dynamic auto gain, you can pick out ships and smaller objects on the radar display.

The only downside to this unit is that the power consumption is quite significant at 30 watts.

• 4 kW of transmission power
• High resolution
• MARPA tracking
• Excellent value
• 30-watt power consumption

FLIR Raymarine Quantum 2

• Beam width: 4.9°
• Maximum range: 24 nm
• Minimum range: 6 meters
• Power consumption: 17W
• Weight: 12.3 lbs
• Waterproof rating: IPX6

More features: Tracking of 25 simultaneous MARPA targets, CHIRP pulse compression for close-range zero-visibility navigation, lightweight and easy to install, safe emission, low power consumption

This wireless marine radar is unparalleled when it comes to navigating objects at close range. The 2-kW radar boasts a minimum range of just 6 meters, at which point objects are almost close enough to reach out and touch. In addition, the built-in MARPA system allows you to track a whopping 25 targets at once. If you routinely navigate busy harbors, there is no better radar system on the market.

Furthermore, this radar system is lightweight and consumes very little power. That makes it suitable for a huge variety of vessels, so anyone from fishermen to yacht owners can use it. The only thing to watch out for is that while the narrow 4.9° beam width gives you high resolution at distance, it means that small obstacles close to your boat might not be picked up the radar system.

• Minimum range of just 6 meters
• Track up to 25 targets
• Lightweight and low power
• Narrow beam

Furuno DRS4W

• Beam width: 7.2°
• Minimum range: 25 meters
• Power consumption: 24W
• Weight: 12.5 lbs

More features: easy to install, 4kW transmit power, good image quality, guard zone alarm, simple application interface

This compact and lightweight stand-alone marine radar from Furuno is perfect for mariners on a tight budget. At less than $1,000, it’s one of the most affordable radar systems and doesn’t compromise significantly on obstacle detection.

Where this radar cuts corners is the beam width. The wide 7.2° beam can make it hard to differentiate objects on the horizon. On the other hand, since the radar has a minimum range of 25 meters, it will help a lot in navigating harbors and marinas.

Also, the radar features 4 kW of transmission power for a range of up to 36 nautical miles. Plus, the application interface is simple to use, making it an excellent choice for first-time radar buyers.

• Lightweight and compact
• 4-kW transmission power
• Wide beam makes differentiating objects difficult

Simrad Broadband 3G Radar

• Minimum range: 50 meters
• Power consumption: 18W
• Rotation speed: 24/36 rpm
• Weight: 16.31 lbs

More features: MARPA target tracking (up to 10 targets), ready instantly from standby, low energy emission, low power consumption, close-range detection

This effective and compact boat radar from Simrad is designed for fast operation. While it primarily rotates at either 24 or 36 rpm, a 48-rpm rotation speed is available for nearly instantaneous updates at distances less than one nautical mile. Plus, the radar can be activated within a second from standby, so you’ll always be ready to jump to action if a ship or other obstacle sneaks up on you.

Fishers in particular liked this marine radar for small boats. The power consumption is just 18 watts, and the maximum range of 24 nautical miles is more than enough for most fishermen in small vessels. Plus, MARPA tracking allows you to keep an eye on up to 10 targets and issue automatic alarms while you’re busy reeling in a fish.

• 48-rpm rotation for instantaneous updates at close range
• Activate instantly from standby
• MARPA for up to 10 targets
• Low power consumption
• Limited to 24-nautical mile range
• 50-meter minimum range

Lowrance 3G Broadband Radar

More features: high detailed image, automatic harbor/marina and offshore modes, track up to 10 targets (requires a heading sensor), dual guard zone

This marine radar with low-power consumption from Lowrance is a favorite among boaters because it works well with nearly any ship – from small fishing boats to large yachts. On top of that, users love the automatic mode switching between close-range radar in the marina setting and long-range radar in the offshore environment by changing rotation speeds. Still, the 50-meter minimum range can make it difficult to navigate through tightly packed harbors.

The 2-kW transmission power enables this radar to view targets out to 24 nautical miles. Besides, if you add a heading sensor to the unit, you can track up to 10 targets with the built-in MARPA system. It also offers two guard zones to warn you about potential collisions.

• Works with wide variety of ships
• Automatic mode switching
• MARPA system with two guard zones
• Only 24 nautical mile range

Lowrance 4G Broadband Radar

• Power consumption: 20W
• Rotation speed: 24/36/48 rpm

More features: beam sharpening – target separation at 3.5ft, track up to 10 targets (requires a heading sensor), dual guard zone, high accuracy, low power consumption

If you’re looking for the best marine radar on the market and budget isn’t an issue, it’s hard to beat the 4G model from Lowrance. The 4-kW transmission power offers range up to 36 nautical miles while still allowing you to see objects at just 50 meters from your boat. Better yet, the beam is sharp enough to separate objects that are just a scant 3.5 feet apart.

The relatively modest weight and power consumption of this radar system makes it suitable for a wide variety of boats. Plus, it comes with a MARPA function able to track up to 10 targets simultaneously and warn you about potential collisions in two guard zones. The beam rotation can also be adjusted between three speeds to save power and give you finer resolution of far-away objects.

• Extremely good beam resolution
• Track up to 10 targets with MARPA
• Multiple beam rotation speeds

• Things to Consider

Choosing the right marine radar system can be difficult with so many options on the market. In our buying guide, we’ll take a closer look at how marine radars work and cover all of the features you need to know about when choosing a boat radar system.

How to decide which marine radar is the best?

Figuring out which marine radar is best suited to your boat requires understanding how these systems differ from one another. Here, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the features and technical specifications that impact your radar system.

Transmission power is the most important thing to consider when choosing a radar for your boat. Power, more than the height of your antenna or any other factors, determines how far out you’ll be able to detect objects on the water. High transmission power radars like the Garmin Gmr 18HD+ Radome and Furuno DRS4W offer 4 kW of power, which equates to a range of around 36 nautical miles. Less powerful models like the Simrad Broadband 3G Radar and FLIR Raymarine Quantum 2 offer 2 kW of power, which gives a shorter range of 24 nautical miles.

Power consumption is also worth considering since you need to keep your radar running. Heavy-duty radar systems like the Garmin consumes 30 watts of power, which can put a strain on smaller boat batteries. Smaller boat radars like the 18-watt Simrad unit may be more suitable for less powerful vessels.

If you have a small boat, it’s also important to consider the weight of different marine radar models. Some radar systems, like the ones from Simrad , Lowrance , and Garmin , weigh over 16 pounds.

The mounting point on your boat needs to be able to hold this weight safely, or else you’ll need to reinforce it or choose a lighter marine radar system.

When it comes to beam width, there are a few competing things to consider. A narrower beam is generally better for resolution, especially if your target is far away. This is important if you’re trying to distinguish two objects that are close together, but far away from your boat.

Nevertheless, a narrow beam can actually entirely miss a small object close to your ship. That’s because the narrower the beam, the wider the target has to be in order for the radar system to detect it.

Beam widths vary among marine radar systems, but the common beam width of 5.2° offers a good compromise between resolution and detection at close range.

The maximum range of your radar system depends largely on the transmission power, although other factors like antenna height and the size of the target object can also play a role. 24 nautical miles is considered a relatively short range, while the 36 nautical mile range found on the Garmin and Lowrance 4G radars is preferable for safety in low visibility conditions.

It’s important to think about minimum range, too, especially if you execute maneuvers close to another ship or to other obstacles. Radar systems like the one from FLIR are designed to be mounted low on your boat and are specially designed for close-range performance to give you a minimum distance of just 6 meters.

• Waterproof rating

All of the radar systems we reviewed are rated IPX6 or higher. This waterproof rating indicates that the radar systems are fully waterproof and will be okay in heavy rain. Importantly, these systems are also able to withstand water hitting, as would happen in the case that the radar is overtopped by a wave. While you can, in theory, submerge your radar for an extended period, it’s a good idea to keep it out of the water as much as possible.

• Ease of installation and use

Marine radars are designed to be easy to mount with a kit, which is often included with the radar unit itself. It’s essential to make sure that the radar will fit your boat and isn’t too heavy for your boat’s mounting point, which is usually the highest point of the boat so that the radar has a 360° view.

Before adding a marine radar to your boat, it’s also important to consider whether your current displays are compatible with boat radar. Some chartplotters and fish finders are not able to show radar displays – instead, you’ll need a multi-function display that is capable of working with the marine radar system you’re interested in.

• Your personal experience

Ultimately, choosing the right marine radar system comes down to what you need. If you’ve never used marine radar before, it might be worthwhile to opt for a less expensive system that gives you solid functionality without costing an arm and a leg. On the other hand, if you have had good experiences with radar systems from a particular brand, you may want to stick with radars from that same brand. Be sure to think about how much range you realistically need, and particularly what minimum range will be important for your boating.

• Price ranges

Marine radar systems are not cheap. Most units are well over $1,000, with the notable exception of our budget pick from Furuno – which is just over $900. The most expensive radars we reviewed, the Lowrance 4G and FLIR models, cost more than $1,800 each.

• I want to use my marine radar in harsh weather conditions. What is the operating temperature range and maximum wind speed?
• What do I need to mount and use the marine radar?
• What does MARPA(ARPA) stand for radar?

Our three overall favorite marine radars on the market today are the Garmin Gmr 18HD+ Radome , the FLIR Raymarine Quantum 2 , and the Furuno DRS4W . We feel that the Garmin radar is the overall best marine radar thanks to its excellent combination of features and value. It offers an impressive 36 nautical mile maximum range and a minimum range of just 20 meters. Plus, the dynamic auto gain builds on the already impressive resolution to ensure you can clearly differentiate targets. The FLIR Raymarine Quantum 2 comes at the second place with its 6 meters detection range. It also outmatches other competitors on the market because it is easy to mount, and it allows you to navigate with zero visibility. The Furuno DRS4W ends the top 3 as a budget-friendly marine radar for your vessel with decent parameters that shows great navigation performance. The unit has 4 kW transmission power, and it is lightweight and compact.

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4 Best Boat Radars – (Reviews & Buying Guide 2021)

Spending time on your boat away from densely populated areas is a great way to relax and recharge. However, you can’t expect the weather to be in sync with you and be beautiful and sunny every time you sail. For days when clouds accumulate quickly, and storms start to rage, you need a marine radar to help you navigate your way back.

The same goes for fishers who like to practice their hobby at night. Investing in the  best boat radar provides an extra layer of safety.

We have prepared some marine radar reviews  and a buying to lessen your burden of searching for a good product. There are some key points and features to consider before making a purchase, and you will find them here. Just keep reading.

Best Boat Radars Comparison Chart

Best Boat Radars Reviews – (Editors’ Choice)

We have compiled our list with no particular order in mind. So without further ado, please take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of the products we tested.

1. Raymarine Quantum Radom

Everything you need to install this system is included in the box. It comes with a power and a data cable, bolts and spring washers, plus the documentation.

• This unit has extended battery life.
• It loads in seconds, so you don’t have to wait long.
• You can use this radar wireless or with a cable.
• The radar can identify small targets with ease, even if they are near larger ones.
• No considerable disadvantages.

2. Furuno LCD Radar

The power consumption of this radar system is about 38W. That is more than other products on our list, but it’s still considered low power consumption. A 33-foot cable comes with the radar, but if you need it longer or shorter, you can contact the seller, and they’ll send you whichever you need. Thus, you will get the ideal setting for your radar installation.

• The monitor has swiveling brackets so you can adjust the angle.
• A feature called True Trail mode allows you to track the movements of other vessels.
• Storms and fogs do not disturb the signal, and it produces clear images.
• The display is waterproof as well as the antennae so you can install it externally.
• No disadvantages.

3. Garmin Radome

The unit comes with cables to connect it to the chart plotter and the battery. Plus, in the package, you’ll find all nuts, studs, and washers. However, depending on where you want to set it up, you may need to purchase mounting brackets.

• Dynamic auto gain and sea filters allow the system to adjust to the surrounding automatically.
• Harsh weather conditions do not disturb the radar’s work.
• You can track up to ten targets with this Garmin radar.
• None that we could find.

4. Lowrance 4G Radar Kit

Overall, this radar is easy to set up and integrate with a display and a GPS. It has a beam sharpening feature that makes target separation a breeze. Plus, the images this system produces are sharp and clear.

• You can follow up to ten targets with this radar.
• It can pick up non-typical targets.
• The radar is instantly on when you set it up, no need to wait for it to warm up and load.
• Low power consumption – only about 1 APM/hour.
• An Ethernet cable isn’t included in the package.

What Boat Radar Do You Need

Whether you need a simpler model or one with many features depends on the frequency and time of your sailing. Ask yourself the following questions: Do you sail at night time? Do you spend long hours or days on your boat? Do you go fishing in unfamiliar areas? Do you use your boat for whale watching? Do you sail in an area that is prone to fogs?

If you answered with “No” to these questions, then you need a radar with just the essential features. However, if you answered positive, then you need a multi-functioning unit for more security.

Using a radar provides an essential layer of safety when sailing. It gives you awareness about your surroundings and other moving objects near you.

Every sailor dreams and hopes for clear skies and excellent visibility, but that isn’t always the case. Good boat radar is your best chance at navigating through a thick fog, at night, or in another situation where your visibility has decreased.

What is Marine Radar? How Does it Work?

The word ‘radar’ is actually an acronym. It stands for Radio Detection and Ranging. Similar to the sound-wave principle, boat radars have a specific principle . Each has an antenna that spins and emits a signal and listens back for it. When the signal reaches an object, it bounces back and reaches the radar. That’s when the radar indicates to you where the object is but not what it is.

Every unit has a different range and target capacity. Some models can detect objects with as much as forty miles or more. Others are better at identifying what is around your boat. Also, some can show only about three or four targets, while others can detect ten or more.

What to Look for When Choosing Marine Radar

Here are the things to consider and features to look out for when deciding on marine radars:

• Size and weight are essential for the size of the boat. When you dedicate a place on your ship for radar and all its parts, make sure the product you buy fits those dimensions. Furthermore, some units can be quite heavy and should be installed on a surface that will support their weight.
• The power of marine radar is the distance you can use it on and how much it can focus on targets. With a powerful enough radar, you are able to see small things from further away. Furthermore, such a unit will not be affected by light weather changes such as rain, fog, drizzle, etc. The standard power consumption for boat radars is from 4 kW to 25 kW. You need to take your battery into account when choosing a radar. For more information about boat batteries, see  our guide on marine battery charges and some product reviews .
• Beamwidth is crucial to choosing the right radar for your boat. Most units have a broadcast range between 1 and 6 degrees. The width of the beam correlates to the minimum target width. That means that the narrower the beam is, the restricted the visibility in close quarters is. It also means better target differentiation and more precise bearings.
• Mounting and installing a radar is simple in most cases. You should follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and get all of the required hardware and cables before you begin. Finding the ideal place to do set up the unit depends on the size and weight of the model. The antenna should be installed as high as your boat allows. If you have any concerns about the process, you can hire a professional technician.
• Usage is crucial when buying a boat radar. You should think well about what you’re going to use the unit for before completing a purchase. Like we said at the beginning of our guide, you should determine whether you need stand-alone or multi-function radar. The former is suitable for small boats and if you sail in good weather and familiar areas. The latter is a good fit for larger vessels, long trips, or night fishing.
• New and old models use different technologies. The more traditional technology is using microwave signals, while the modern units use broadband radars. This new technology is more optimized and doesn’t emit radiation. Plus, it delivers high-resolution images and doesn’t require a warm-up period when turning on the radar.
• The waterproof rating is also essential, and naturally, all marine units must have it. That being said, they have different ratings. Some are ok to use with light splashes of water only, while others can withstand heavy rains.

Difference between a Radar and a Chartplotter

They can and should be used together because they serve different purposes. Radars detect what objects are around you – fixed and moving – and show you each of them. They also detect other vessels, fish, birds, etc.

A chart plotter, just like a GPS, shows you what should be around you at all times. It can indicate to you where buoys and land are. If you want to read more about GPS chart plotters, be sure to check our post on types and benefits of marine chart plotters and some product reviews.

Using both devices in combination provides you with a full image of your surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Radars

It is natural that you would have additional and more specific questions about these products. We have prepared answers to some of the most commonly asked ones. You can also  read about other marine supplies, equipment, and products by checking out our designated boat accessories page.

What Can Boat Radars Detect?

Marine radars can detect various static and moving objects, such as other boats or ships, buoys, fish, birds, and more. The range of the radar depends on the model that you’re using.

Are Radars Dangerous?

The answer is no. Some people have concerns over the radio signals which marine radars use, but they do not cause any health issues to humans or fish. It is just a common misconception.

Will Rain Affect the Radar?

It is possible for rain to interfere with the signal. Rain could also reflect the signal and mask some smaller or faraway objects. However, the bigger or the closer an object is, the rain shouldn’t be a problem. Also, the higher-quality the radar is, the less chance there is to be affected by rain.

How Should I Maintain My Boat Radar?

Radar maintenance is simple. Most if not all, models of marine radars are built from durable materials that are intended to use near water. They should be fine in various harsh weather conditions. You also don’t have to worry about corrosion because they are made from marine-grade materials.

What is more, some products even have displays which can be used outdoors. So, to keep your radar up and running, you should just include its maintenance in your boat cleaning routine. Rinsing it with fresh water and wiping down impurities or bird droppings should be enough to maintain its performance. However, if you notice the radar is acting strangely, you should contact the manufacturer and discuss that and maybe postpone your night fishing.

What Does the Radar Come With?

There is no one answer to this question as it depends on the manufacturer and the seller. Some radars have all mounting hardware included in the package. Others have different cables that come with the radar. You can also find kits that include the antenna, a display, or other accessories. Of course, you can also find stand-alone radar without the additional parts.

Now that you’ve reached our guide’s end, we are sure that you know what the  best boat radar  for you is. As you see, we try to provide you with relevant and helpful information so that you can make an informed decision before purchasing. After all, it is our job and we love helping people.

You can feel free to share your thoughts and feedback. Do you want to see more  boat radar reviews?  You can take a look at our other guides and marine product reviews. We promise to keep you updated, so come back soon for more information on boat-related accessories.

Thank you for choosing us!

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The Latest Marine Radar Systems

Advertisement

Garmin and Raymarine have launched new arrays that enable you to spot potential trouble miles away.

When you want to see far — really far — into the distance from your boat, you need a potent radar. If you're shopping for an upgrade or planning a bold adventure for next season, Raymarine and Garmin may have what you need.

Brace for a 'Cyclone'

Raymarine's new Cyclone is available in 3-, 4-, and 6-foot arrays that sit just 13.1-inches high. Cyclone spins at 60 rpm while pumping out CHIRP pulse compression and beam-sharpening tech that produces the equivalent power of a six-kW magnetron (Cyclone) or of a 12-kW magnetron (Cyclone Pro), providing max ranges of 72- and 96-nautical miles.

Check out Raymarine's promotional video on Cyclone.

Doppler target tracking, auto tracking up to 50 ARPA targets, and bird mode are all in the mix. Cyclone radars integrate with Axiom, Axiom+, Axiom Pro, and Axiom XL MFDs. $6,999.99–$9,749.99 | Raymarine.com

'Fantom' of the Seas

Have you ever heard of MotionScope Doppler effect tech? Check out Garmin's new GMR Fantom 18x/24x. On top of offering all the features and functions of previous Fantom models, these new versions pump out 50 watts of power to extend range from 20 to 48 nautical miles and boost target detection in difficult conditions like rain.

Check out Garmin's promotional video for its upgraded Fantom series.

The new Fantoms also have an increased refresh rate, with the antenna spinning at 60 rpm. Garmin can now customize the look, too, offering both black and white domes. $2,199.99–$3,099.99 | Garmin.com

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Top tech writer and accomplished sports fisherman, BoatUS Magazine Contributing Editor Lenny Rudow has written seven practical boating books, won 30 awards from Boating Writers International — many for his marine electronics articles – and two for excellence from the Outdoor Writers Association of America. He judges the NMMA Innovation Awards, and is Angler in Chief at FishTalk, his own Chesapeake-based publication. A great teacher and inspirational writer, Lenny hosts many of BoatUS Magazine’s very-popular how-to videos, which can be found on the BoatUS YouTube channel, or at BoatUS.com

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