Garmin UHD 9 – This device already has a fully functional touchscreen. It offers the ability to connect Panoptix and multimedia, as well as work with the GT56 transducer, which competes worldwide. The engine connection is limited, but everything works perfectly. It has a standard resolution of 800×480, while the ten-inch model has a 1280 resolution, and for the GT56 transducer, it results in a higher-quality image. Yes, you will have better image quality. There is also a keyboard, which I really miss in Garmin, but thankfully, it’s already available in the GPSMap series 1022. Unfortunately, this model lacks a touchscreen, which is disappointing.
So, regarding the ten-inch model, many ask me: what should I choose? My personal advice: if you’re buying for Panoptix, go for the twelve-inch model, but we’ll get back to that later. The price difference isn’t significant. Yes, this is a good option, but if you want a unique device, the 122 is the most logical choice, in my opinion. Let me explain why: it doesn’t have a touchscreen, but the entire platform works like the 8412 and 943, as in all the high-end lines, with excellent resolution. The most important thing is that the screen is bright, and it is a well-priced piece of equipment. If you’ve fished with Panoptix, you know it’s not always convenient to press buttons, and you just want to cast your bait, zoom out, and still see the image on a super-bright display.
The added bonus is that it works with the app. You turn it on and can record the screen image directly to your phone and also control the device from it. It can mirror the image to your phone, something the Ultra 9 and 10 can’t do.
The Ultra 122, followed by the 943 and 8412 models, are probably the most popular models today. Yes, as I said, the 122 is the most optimal device for Panoptix and the GT56 transducer, as it has the right size, resolution, and excellent brightness. The 8412 is brighter and has Full HD resolution, which is great, but the price ends up being around 3200 euros without a transducer.
For the typical user, a classic angler moving to Panoptix and Garmin systems, I recommend the Ultra 122 for a very reasonable price. It covers all the needs. Don’t forget about the Garmin 943 model, which has excellent resolution and a great screen. I fished with it with some friends, and I really liked it. Although it’s small—9 inches—it is comparable in price to the 1022 and Ultra 102. For those who don’t want to give up the touchscreen, I recommend considering the 943 model. It’s more than worthy.
