If you wish to track how fast you are moving across the water, a speedometer is necessary to have. Whether it’s just curiosity or you need to stay under the speed limit, the best boat speedometers will give you real-time accurate readings.
When choosing a speedometer for your boat, you need to decide whether you want a manual or a GPS model and if you want some additional functions on the device. In our boat speedometer reviews, we’ll do an in-depth analysis of all the top models available right now, so you’ll have an easier time deciding which one will fit best on your boat.
OUR TOP PICK
Sierra International Arctic 4 Gauge
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Four high-quality gauges included in the kit
- Nice dial design with easily visible numbers
- Perimeter lighting for better night visibility
- Measures speed up to 70 miles per hour
- Easy installation in all standard-sized dash holes
Type: Pitometer
Diameter: 3 inches
Waterproof: Yes
Backlight: Yes
Functions: Current Speed, Tachometer, Voltmeter, Fuel Level
EDITORS CHOICE
ELING Universal MPH GPS
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Universal size for quick and painless installation
- The red backlight makes it easily visible at night
- Completely waterproof with anti-fogging window
- Works with 12 or 24V voltage on all types of boats
- Covered by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
Type: GPS
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes, IP67
Backlight: Yes (Red)
Functions: Current Speed, Total Mileage
BEST VALUE
ELING Backlight GPS
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Ultra-wide working voltage design (9 to 32 volts)
- Accurately tracks speeds up to 80 mph
- Simple installation with only 3 wires (power, ground, and lighting)
- Finds a GPS signal within 3 seconds when turned on
- Curved glass with anti-fog and IP67 waterproof protection
Type: GPS
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes
Backlight: Yes (Red)
Functions: Current Speed, Course
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Beautiful dial design with easily visible numbers
- Large white pointer for faster reading
- Shows current speed in both U.S. and metric scales
- Curved glass design with excellent scratch-resistance
- Smooth black near-flush bezels
Type: Pitometer
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes
Backlight: Yes
Functions: Current Speed
Samdo 85mm GPS
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Short start-up time with fast satellite signal reception
- IP67 waterproof casing for reliable water protection
- Odometer included (works even when GPS is off)
- Multi-plug socket for connecting to the boat’s power circuit
- Works with a wide range of voltages (9 to 32 volts)
Type: GPS
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes, IP67
Backlight: Yes (Red)
Functions: Current Speed, Total Mileage
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Stainless steel bezel for unparalleled durability
- Integrated compass for tracking direction
- Resettable odometer function (distance tracking)
- Flat glass design greatly reduces sun flare
- Excellent accuracy with speeds in 1/10th of a mile
Type: GPS
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes, IP65
Backlight: Yes (Blue)
Functions: Current Speed, Compass, Odometer (Resettable), Trip Meter
LATNEX SP-GPS95 Waterproof GPS
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Displays speed in miles, kilometers, and nautical miles per hour
- Adjustable speedometer refresh rate (0.2 or 0.5 seconds)
- Adjustable maximum speed limit with speeding alerts
- Voltage indicator with real-time detection of voltage levels
- Comes with CE and ROHS certification
Type: GPS
Diameter: 61mm
Waterproof: Yes, IP65
Backlight: Yes (Green)
Functions: Current Speed, Distance, Clock, Voltage
Faria 32810 Euro
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Black and white dial with extra-large numbers
- Reliable readings even in rough water conditions
- Exceptional construction quality and durability
- Designed to easily fit into standard dash openings
- Operates by reading air pressure in the pitot tube
Type: Pitometer
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes, IP65
Backlight: No
Functions: Current Speed
ELING Digital Backlight LCD
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Separate GPS antenna for better signal reception
- Adjustable and resettable odometer function
- Seven backlight colors to choose from
- Equipped with an OverSpeed buzzer alarm
- Protected against reverse polarity when in use
Type: GPS
Diameter: 85mm (3.375 inches)
Waterproof: Yes, IP67
Backlight: Yes (7 colors)
Functions: Current Speed, Odometer, Compass, Alarm
- Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
- Four separate gauges in the package
- Standard gauge size for easy fitting on the dash
- Great dial visibility with additional backlight
- A high-quality pitot tube comes with the purchase
- Covered by a full customer satisfaction warranty
Type: Pitometer
Diameter: 3.375 inches
Waterproof: Yes
Backlight: Yes
Functions: Current Speed, Tachometer, Voltmeter, Fuel Level
How To Choose The Best Boat Speedometer – Buying Guide
Manual Speedometer (Pitometer)
While not as popular as they once were, manual speedometers are still able to give you an accurate reading. They work by measuring the air pressure acting against it through a pitot tube, which picks up the water as the boat is moving.
This is not always completely accurate, as a loose tube or a clog in the system can alter the reading. However, manual boat speedometers are still a good option, and some people prefer their classic design.
These speedometers tell you your speed through the water, which if you are boating in a location with a lot of currents, it will be handy to know. A current can push you or carry you along, and this speedometer will tell you what the boat is doing in the water it’s floating in rather than the speed relative to the seafloor below.
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GPS Speedometer
A GPS speedometer works on an entirely different principle – it receives the signals emitted by GPS satellites in the orbit and uses the data to calculate how fast you are moving overground. It refreshes very quickly and always gives you an accurate reading.
This type of speedometer will usually have a digital display that can also show other pieces of information (besides speed), for example, distance covered or estimated time to your destination. Furthermore, GPS speedometers can also switch between units (mph, kph, or knots).
FAQs
Q: GPS or Manual Boat Speedometers?
We would say GPS, but it depends on your preference. If you have a pre cut hole for the instrument, a manual speedometer might be a better fit. They are also usually more affordable. On the other hand, digital GPS readers are more precise, easier to install and give you other information too.
Q: What Is A Boat Speedometer?
A boat speedometer is a device used to track and display your speed on the water. It works by either tracking your movement using GPS signals or by measuring the changes in air pressure. Modern speedometers are very precise and give accurate readings.
Q: Why Do I Need A Boat Speedometer?
Knowing your speed is very useful for several reasons. With this info, you can adjust how you’re using the engine and how much fuel you’re consuming. You can also calculate how much time you’ll need to reach your destination. Finally, some waters have a speed limit, so this will allow you to stay under it.
Q: Are GPS Speedometers Any Good?
Yes, GPS speedometers are very good. They are very accurate, easy to install, and often display a lot more information than traditional manual models. On the flip side, digital speedometer kits can also be somewhat expensive, but the investment is worth it.
Q: Are Boat Speedometers Accurate?
Yes, they are very accurate. Models that use GPS refresh almost constantly so you’ll always have precise readings. Even manual models can give impressive accuracy, especially in calm water conditions.
Q: How Do You Test A Boat Speedometer?
If you doubt that your manual water speedometer isn’t working properly, you can simply blow into the tube and see if the needle moves. If not, the tube is probably clogged or leaky, and you might need to clean or replace it.
Globo Surf Overview
A speedometer has become one of the standard gauges on a boat. Whether you’re installing a new unit or replacing the broken old gauge, it should be easy to use and accurate in different weather conditions.
Modern digital speed gauges can give you accurate speed reading along with loads of other information. We hope that our reviews and guides have helped you narrow down your choice, so you always have accurate speed information while exploring the water.