Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv Review – Check What It Can Offer

by

Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv is a powerful and intuitive fishfinder/chartplotter that shines with its bright 10-inch touchscreen, ultra-high-definition sonar capabilities, and seamless integration with a wide range of Garmin marine accessories. If you’re looking for a premium-level unit that balances clarity, control, and customizability, this is a solid option for serious anglers and boaters alike.

Table Of Contents Show

What Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv Offer?

  • The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv has a bright 10-inch keyed-assist touchscreen for clear visibility in direct sunlight and quick, intuitive control even in rough marine conditions.
  • Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv has built-in UHD SideVü and ClearVü sonar for delivering ultra-sharp images of structure, fish, and the bottom beneath and around your boat.
  • It supports Panoptix LiveScope sonar for real-time, forward-looking, and downward sonar views to help you track fish and react instantly.
  • The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv includes preloaded BlueChart g3 and LakeVü g3 maps for accurate coastal and inland navigation with integrated Navionics data.
  • Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv has built-in Wi-Fi for syncing with the ActiveCaptain app to enable wireless updates, smart notifications, and mobile access to charts and data.
  • It supports Garmin Marine Network and NMEA 2000 connectivity for integrating radar, autopilot, engines, and sensors into one seamless system.
  • The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv has customizable split-screen and data overlays for viewing multiple sonar types, charts, or engine data simultaneously.
  • Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv features a rugged, IPX7-rated waterproof design for dependable performance in all weather conditions.

Check Price at Amazon

 

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Bright, responsive 10″ touchscreen with intuitive interface

  • UHD SideVü and ClearVü for sharp, detailed sonar imaging

  • Panoptix LiveScope support for real-time underwater views

  • Accurate navigation with built-in GPS and BlueChart g3 maps

  • Wi-Fi and Garmin Marine Network for full system connectivity

  • Compatible with wide array of accessories and add-ons

  • Excellent multi-view customization options

  • Weatherproof and sunlight-readable display

Cons
  • Higher price compared to entry-level units

  • Panoptix LiveScope transducer sold separately

Check Price at Amazon

Comparison

FeatureGarmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106svGarmin ECHOMAP UHD 93svLowrance HDS-9 Live
Screen Size10″ touchscreen9″ touchscreen9″ touchscreen
Sonar TypeUHD SideVü, ClearVü, CHIRPUHD SideVü, ClearVü, CHIRPActive Imaging 3-in-1
Live Sonar SupportYesYesYes
GPS & MappingBlueChart g3 + LakeVü g3BlueChart g3 + LakeVü g3C-MAP & US Inland
Network CompatibilityYesLimitedYes
ConnectivityWi-Fi, NMEA 2000NMEA 2000Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Display Resolution1280 x 800 pixels1024 x 600 pixels1280 x 720 pixels
Waterproof RatingIPX7IPX7IPX7
PriceCheck Ultra 106sv PriceCheck UHD 93sv PriceCheck HDS-9 Live Price

FAQ

Does the Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv come with preloaded maps?
Yes, it includes both BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps, which combine Garmin and Navionics data for excellent coverage and detail.

Can I use the Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv in saltwater?
Absolutely, it’s built for both saltwater and freshwater use, and the BlueChart g3 maps provide detailed coastal coverage.

Does it support real-time sonar like LiveScope?
Yes, the ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv is fully compatible with Garmin Panoptix LiveScope for live, forward-looking and down-looking sonar views.

Is the touchscreen easy to use with wet hands or gloves?
Yes, the keyed-assist touchscreen is designed for marine environments, and users report good responsiveness even with wet fingers or gloves.

What kind of transducer is included with the ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv?
Many packages include the GT56UHD-TM transducer, which supports UHD SideVü, ClearVü, and CHIRP traditional sonar.

Can I connect this unit with other Garmin devices on my boat?
Yes, through the Garmin Marine Network and NMEA 2000, it integrates easily with radar, autopilot, engine data, and other compatible Garmin systems.

Is there a way to update software and maps wirelessly?
Yes, you can use built-in Wi-Fi to download software updates and transfer waypoints or routes via the ActiveCaptain app.

Does the unit have a split-screen feature?
Yes, you can customize multiple split-screen layouts to view sonar, charts, and data all at once.

How is the screen visibility in direct sunlight?
The display is high-resolution and designed to be sunlight-readable, so visibility remains excellent even on bright days.

Is the Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv portable?
While not handheld, it can be removed from its quick-release mount for storage or transfer to another vessel if needed.

What is the waterproof rating of this device?
It is rated IPX7, which means it can withstand incidental exposure to water like rain or splashes, and even brief immersion.

How accurate is the GPS?
The high-sensitivity GPS provides accurate position tracking, waypoint marking, and route planning for both inland and offshore trips.

Can I add a second display or remote control?
Yes, it supports network sharing with other Garmin chartplotters, and you can control it through connected devices using the ActiveCaptain app.

What is the installation process like?
It includes a quick-disconnect bail mount and power/data cable for straightforward installation and removal.

Can I record or save sonar history?
Yes, sonar recording is supported, and you can review past sonar scans directly on the unit or export them for analysis.

Leave a Comment