How to Choose the Right Simrad Display for Your Boat

Learn which Simrad MFD fits your boat

Choosing the right marine display can make all the difference in how you navigate, fish, and explore. Whether you’re outfitting a small center console or upgrading your offshore cruiser, Simrad multifunction displays (MFDs) deliver the performance and reliability serious boaters depend on.

With models like the GO, NSS, and the next-generation NSX Series, there’s a Simrad system built for your exact boating style.

Here’s how to choose the right Simrad display for your boat — and get the most from every trip.

1. Identify Your Boating Style and Needs

Before comparing features and screen sizes, start by identifying how you use your boat:

  • Inshore anglers and small-boat owners: You’ll want a compact, all-in-one unit with reliable sonar and mapping.
  • Offshore fishermen and cruisers: Look for larger MFDs with radar, autopilot, and networking capabilities.
  • Family and leisure boaters: Focus on intuitive touchscreen control and easy chart navigation.

Knowing your boating habits helps you pick the Simrad system that matches your priorities.

2. Simrad GO Series – Compact, Intuitive, and Affordable

The Simrad GO Series is ideal for smaller boats or secondary stations. These units combine powerful technology with plug-and-play simplicity—no complex setup required.

Highlights:

Best for: Bay boats, pontoons, and inshore anglers looking for performance, simplicity, and value.

GO Series

Discover the complete lineup of Simrad GO Series products—chartplotter/fishfinder combos, radar bundles, displays, remote controls, mounting accessories, and more.

Designed for serious anglers, cruisers, and boaters seeking a powerful, all-in-one marine electronics solution, the GO Series delivers advanced sonar, wide touchscreen displays, C-MAP/Discovery chart support, and seamless network integration.

3. Simrad NSS Series – Powerful Performance & Full Control

The NSS Series (including the latest NSS evo3S and NSS 4) delivers professional-grade speed and versatility. It’s built for serious anglers and boaters who want total control in all conditions.

Highlights:

Best for: Offshore fishing boats, center consoles, and sport cruisers that need powerful, all-in-one navigation and sonar performance.

NSS Series

Designed for anglers, cruisers, and tech-savvy boaters alike, the NSS Series combines cutting-edge processing power, sleek displays, and full connectivity to deliver a modular, scalable navigation and sonar platform.

Whether you’re retrofitting a center console or upgrading a large sportfishing boat, this catalog provides everything you need to build a next-generation helm setup.

4. Simrad NSX Series – Smart, Modern, and Next-Generation

Simrad’s NSX Series represents the future of marine electronics—combining a sleek design with next-gen mapping, sonar visualization, and cloud connectivity. With an intuitive interface built on the latest Simrad software platform, it’s perfect for modern boaters who value innovation and ease of use.

Highlights:

Best for: Boaters and anglers who want cutting-edge navigation, powerful sonar imaging, and a user-friendly interface that feels as smooth as a smartphone.

NSX Series

Each NSX offers full sonar, radar, and autopilot integration in compact 7", 9", and 12" touchscreen units that are fast, intuitive, and customizable.

With built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, and C-MAP Discover X (with optional REVEAL X upgrade) charts, the NSX gives you detailed depth shading, high-resolution bathymetry, seamless networking, faster auto-routing, and drag-and-drop screen layouts.

5. Screen Size & Installation Considerations

Once you’ve chosen the series, pick a display size that fits your console and use case:

  • 5"–7": Compact boats and kayaks
  • 9"–12": Center consoles and mid-size vessels
  • 16"+: Dual-helm or complex networked setups

Be sure to measure your dash space and consider future add-ons like radar, sonar modules, or networking hubs before you buy.

6. Plan for Future Expansion

One of Simrad’s biggest strengths is scalability. Even if you start small, you can expand your system over time with:

Choosing a model that supports these upgrades ensures your investment grows with your boating ambitions.

7. Get Expert Help Before You Buy

At Suncoast Marine & Auto, we’re more than just a Simrad dealer—we’re your marine electronics specialists. Our team can help you:

  • Match the right display to your vessel
  • Recommend transducers and accessories
  • Provide installation support and setup assistance

Final Thoughts

A Simrad display is more than just a navigation tool—it’s the heart of your boat’s command center. From the budget-friendly GO Series to the advanced NSX Series, each system delivers intuitive control, powerful sonar, and unmatched reliability on the water.

👉 Explore the full Simrad collection at SuncoastMarineAndAuto.com and find the perfect MFD for your next adventure.

Suncoast Marine and Auto is an Authorized and Trusted SIMRAD Dealer

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