At the top end of the market, Humminbird’s SOLIX range and Garmin’s GPSMAP xsv series are both built for anglers and boaters who want the sharpest possible picture and don’t want to compromise on chart or sonar detail. Here’s how they compare.
| Humminbird SOLIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI+ G3 | Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv GN+ Multifunction Chartplotter | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £2874.99 | £3414.99 |
| Screen | 12.1-inch | 12-inch |
| Sonar | MEGA Side/Down Imaging+ | ClearVü/SideVü CHIRP |
| Mapping | Humminbird AutoChart Live | Garmin Navionics/BlueChart |
The Humminbird SOLIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI+ G3 is built around Humminbird’s MEGA Imaging+ sonar, which produces some of the sharpest, most photo-realistic side and down images on the market — genuinely useful for reading structure and cover in detail. It also supports AutoChart Live, which builds and refines your own depth maps as you drive, layering your real-world data over factory charts.
The Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv GN+ Multifunction Chartplotter leans on Garmin’s broader ecosystem — Navionics and Garmin’s own BlueChart mapping, plus compatibility with Panoptix LiveScope live sonar, radar and autopilot integration if you’re building out a full helm. If you value one connected system across chartplotter, autopilot and engine data, Garmin’s network tends to be the more mature option.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Humminbird SOLIX if imaging sonar detail and self-built depth mapping (AutoChart Live) are your priority — strong for anglers focused on structure fishing.
- Choose Garmin GPSMAP if you want the widest ecosystem for autopilot, engine data and live sonar (LiveScope) integration, or you’re already invested in Garmin handhelds and watches.
- On a tighter budget: the Humminbird HELIX 12 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G4N (£1954.99) gives you Humminbird’s MEGA imaging technology in a smaller, more affordable 12-inch package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SOLIX only for freshwater fishing?
No — SOLIX units are used offshore too, though their imaging sonar strengths are most noticeable in structure-rich inshore and freshwater fishing.
Does GPSMAP support live sonar?
Yes, the GPSMAP xsv series is compatible with Garmin’s Panoptix LiveScope system for real-time forward-facing sonar.
Which has better factory charts for UK waters?
Both support UK chart cards (Navionics for Garmin, standard chart cards for Humminbird) — check the specific chart card included or required before you buy.
Torn between SOLIX and GPSMAP? Our team can walk through both systems before you invest — browse the full range in our online shop.