Garmin 010-01740-50 GPSMAP 1042xsv Without Transducer

What buyers think

Buyer-review evidence on this model is limited, but a recurring theme is usability. Some owners praise the overall value of the unit and describe the purchase experience positively, while at least one detailed reviewer focuses on Garmin’s human-machine interface, noting that menu navigation can take more steps. Another reported preference-related drawback is that precise touch selection can be difficult on Garmin’s touch interface, and that a physical control approach may feel cumbersome compared with what they expected.

What this chartplotter is for

This is a 10-inch Garmin GPSMAP chartplotter for boaters who want a dedicated navigation display rather than relying on a phone or small charting screen. It’s especially relevant if you care about:

• Chart and route planning with preloaded map capability for North America and support for importing or transferring waypoints, tracks, and routes.
• Connected features via ANT connectivity and Bluetooth, plus Garmin ActiveCaptain integration.
• Safer sailing workflows with Garmin SailAssist and a position update rate described as 10 times per second for fluid changes in position and heading.
• Sharing information across multiple units using Garmin Marine Network support.

Key features that affect day-to-day use

Large screen navigation with keypad-first control

The GPSMAP 1042xsv uses a keypad input style for control, along with touchscreen capability (described as resistive touch). If you are accustomed to direct, drag-and-drop interactions on capacitive touch devices, you may find certain actions less intuitive, and some people report frustration with menu depth and extra steps.

Connectivity for a connected cockpit

Connectivity includes ANT and Bluetooth, plus support for sharing information among multiple compatible Garmin units via Marine Network. If your setup already uses Garmin marine electronics, that kind of ecosystem support can reduce the effort needed to keep devices coordinated.

Sonar support without the transducer

This specific version is sold “without transducer.” That means you can use it as a chartplotter now, but you will need to add the appropriate transducer hardware if you want sonar views. This is a common upgrade path, but it is also the biggest practical purchase caveat for buyers comparing models.

Data transfer and planning workflows

It supports transferring waypoints, tracks, and routes from other GPS devices, plus it includes preloaded maps and GPX waypoint transfer. For people who plan trips on another device, this can be a real time-saver.

Pros and cons: is it worth it?

Good fit if you want

• A 10-inch marine chartplotter with a dedicated interface for route navigation.
• Connected features (ANT, Bluetooth, ActiveCaptain) and the potential to share data across Garmin Marine Network-compatible devices.
• expanded to sonar later by adding a transducer, rather than committing upfront.

Not the best fit if you need

• All-in-one sonar out of the box, because this version does not include a transducer.
• Minimal menu friction and an interface that feels as fast as a modern touchscreen app. Some buyers report Garmin menus can be deep and require additional input steps.
• Touch precision optimized for quick, exact tapping. If accurate finger placement is critical for you, confirm how you prefer to interact with the screen and controls.

Price and availability

The listed price is $1699.99 USD. Availability is shown as “Only 2 left in stock, order soon,” so if you decide this model matches your setup, it may be worth acting sooner rather than later.

Want to double-check the current price and stock? Buy on Amazon

How to choose the right marine chartplotter for your boat

Before you buy any chartplotter, match the product to your boating style and electronics ecosystem:

• Decide on sonar now vs later: if sonar matters immediately, don’t assume a transducer is included. For this model, you’ll need to purchase the transducer separately.
• Think about input preferences: if you want fast, tap-driven operation, spend time evaluating how you like the resistive touchscreen plus keypad approach.
• Plan for connectivity: if you already use Garmin marine electronics, Marine Network support can make your system feel more cohesive.
• Confirm chart and map coverage: this unit is described with North America mapping, which helps narrow what coverage you’ll get.
• Check storage and integration: SD support is listed, which can matter if you plan to add maps, charts, or transfer data regularly.

Verdict

The Garmin GPSMAP 1042xsv without transducer is a strong option for boaters who want a larger 10-inch Garmin chartplotter with connected features and the ability to add sonar later. The biggest tradeoff is that you need to buy a transducer for sonar, and some owners find the interface and menu navigation less straightforward than they expected. If you can live with that learning curve and you plan your sonar hardware accordingly, this model fits well into a connected Garmin marine setup.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

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