There is no doubt that having a radar on your boat is essential when navigating, weather it sailing around the coast, fishing off-shore or cruising through rivers or harbours. It is especially useful when navigating in conditions with limited visibility like darkness, heavy rain and fog as well as areas with high traffic. But with so many options on the market, which Furuno radar is best for you?

Solid-State vs Magnetron Radar: What’s the difference?

Before discussing the different options, it’s important to understand the difference between solid-state and magnetron radars:

Solid-state radars like Furuno’s NXT series are the go option for those who want the latest technology, fast performance, lower energy consumption and precision. On the contrary, Magnetron radars like Furuno’s X-Class series offers long-range detection, reliability at a lower upfront cost, making it ideal for workboats, those needing to cover more open water, or fishing boats that use Bird Mode in order to find fish.

Category 1: Solid-State Doppler Radars (Furuno NXT Series)

Furuno’s solid-state radars (NXT series) offer the latest technology and features. The radars integrate directly with Furuno NavNet TZtouch multifunction displays, or, if you prefer an alternative to those self‑contained multi-functional displays, you can opt for the TZtouch Black Box processor, which lets you custumize your setup by choosing your own monitors such as Nottrot* or Hatteland.

* Nottrot screens typically ship faster.

Key Features:

• Target Analyzer ™ shows dangerous targets in red
• RezBoost ™ image sharpening identifies small objects as well
• Fast Target Tracking ™ follows up to 100 targets
• Bird Mode to identify feeding flocks and fishing hotspots

Furuno’s NXT Radar series includes a wide range of options:

• DRS2D-NXT radar: 19" compact and lightweight Radome Ideal for small boats or as a second radar.

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• DRS4D-NXT radar: 24” Radome that offers better definition and a longer range. It is a great all-around radar and ideal for mid-sized cruising boats or sport fishers.

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• DRS6A-NXT radar: Open Array for bigger boats demanding better clarity and range. Ideal for offshore powerboats and fishing vessels.

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• DRS12A-NXT radar: Open Array with Increased power 100W, range and detail perfect for larger yachts and commercial boats.

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• DRS25A-NXT radar: Furuno’s most powerful solid-state radar. This Open Array is a heavy duty 200W radar designed for expedition yachts and pro fishing vessels. Best for rough marine environments.

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Category 2: Magnetron Radars (Furuno X-Class Series)

Furuno’s X-class radar series use traditional microwave technology with modern upgrades. Ideal for those looking for affordable power and long-range visibility. They connect seamlessly with Furuno’s TZTouch displays as well as the TZT Black Box which can connect to any monitor, for instance a previous TZT series display or a third-party display like Nottrot of Hatteland.

Key Features:

• Long-range scanning with pulse length technology
• UHD™ signal processing for clear images and target separation
• Fast Target Tracking™ of up to 30 targets
• Bird Mode and target trails for sport fishing

Furuno’s X-Class Radar series includes a wide range of options:

• DRS6A X-Class radar: Compact open array for mid-range performance with all they key features, ideal for workboats and coastal fishers.

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• DRS12A X-Class radar: open array with better long-range and object clarity, perfect for large cruisers and offshore vessels.

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• DRS25A X-Class radar: 25 kW open array with pulse length, used by long-haul commercial boats. Moreover, it is best for harsh seas.

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Category 3: Standalone Radar Displays (FR-10 & FR-12)

These standalone radar displays are ideal for those who prefer to maintain their radar separate from their multifunctional displays. Both the FR-10 and FR-12 connect seamlessly with solid-state (NXT) and magnetron (X-class) radars (usually purchased separately).

Key Features:

• Comes in 10.4" (FR-10) or 12.1" (FR-12) LCD screens.
• Connects directly with both X-Class and NXT radars (no multifunctional display required).
• Features Risk Visualizer™ (highlights potential collision areas), Target Analyzer™ (identifies dangerous targets in read) , and Echo Averaging (to clen up sea clutter in bad weather).
• Simple-to-use interface

Additionally, the FR‑12 for tug and push boats,  includes a dedicated barge‑mark function that you can easily create and call up. The length and breadth of the total barge size can be shown as a rectangle on the Radar display.  It can show up to five rows of barges with nine barges in each row. With the optional RP (Radar Plotter) board installed, the FR‑12 can also overlay radar echoes on MapMedia charts. Moreover, they can show Marks and Lines created on a linked GP3700GPS Chart Plotter.

Best for: Skippers who require radar on a stand-alone screen, yachts that require redundancy or as backup systems.

Independent Options:

• FR-10 Standalone Radar ideal for smaller consoles are flybridges.

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• FR-12 Standalone Radar great for wheelhouses or primary stations as it offers a bigger screen enhancing visibility.

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Category 4: PC Radar with TIMEZERO Software

Turn your laptop or onboard PC into a powerful navigation station with TimeZero software and a Furuno radar antenna.

What you will need:

• TZ Navigator (recreational use) or TZ Professional (commercial use) software.

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• The TimeZero Radar Module to connect your radar of choice directly with your PC (purchased separately).

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• A compatible radar antenna

Key Features:

• You can control your radar from your computer, no need for multifunctional displays.
• Overlay radar information on digital raster or vector charts (charts purchased separately)
• Smart Radar Mode filters out unnecessary echoes
• Compatible with AIS, ARPA, and sounder modules
• Sync routes and data with other devices via TZ Cloud

Ideal for: Tech-savvy sailors, racers, or professionals who need maximum control, advanced features, and PC-based convenience, as you can make your routes at home. Furthermore, this is ideal for multi-screen setups.

One of the Best-Selling combinations:

• TZ Navigator Software* + Radar Module + DRS4D-NXT

*TZ Professional Software if used mainly for fishing or on work boats

Category 5: Wi-Fi Radar (Furuno DRS4W)

The Furuno DRS4W allows you to have your radar information in your pocket. Additionally, it has a very simple and easy installation, just mount the dome, download the app and see your radar information right on your iPad or iPhone. Moreover it can be connected to the GP-1971F chartplotter.

Key Features:

• Live images wirelessly transmitted (via Wi-Fi) to iPad, iPhone, or GP-1971F chartplotter.
• No multifunctional displays or cables needed.
• Very Easy to install and operate
• 4 kW power in a compact 19" radome

Perfect for: smaller boats, day sailors, weekend cruisers, or owners who are looking for flexibility and simplicity.

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Need any help deciding?

Here is a quick overview to help you decide:

• Looking for the latest technology and clarity? Go for a solid-state (NXT) radar
• Need a long-range radar at a cheaper price? Choose a Magnetron (X-Class) radar.
• Are you looking to have your radar separate from the rest of your setup? Then the standalone (FR-10 or FR-12) are the best options for you.
• Want to operate entirely from your PC? Then the TZ Software in combination with a radar is the way to go.
• Do you have a small boat and are looking for a simple easy-to-use system? then look no further than the Wi-Fi DRS4W radar

Still not sure and need help making the decision? Talk to the professionals at Sail360, we'll help you choose and option that's reliable, forward-thinking, and tailored to your vessel and needs.

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