Axiom MFD vs an a/c/e/eS/gS-Series MFD ... which should I purchase?

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Axiom MFD vs an a/c/e/eS/gS-Series MFD ... which should I purchase?

Axiom MFDs are Raymarine's latest generation of MFDs and the comparison to a-Series MFDs is commonly made as both Axiom MFDs and a-Series MFDs feature touchscreen-only user interfaces and are priced competitively with other manufacturer's entry level MFDs. The decision to purchase an Axiom MFD instead of an a/c/e/eS/gS-Series MFD would typically be based on a number of subjective criteria including the following:
- features, features, features ... Raymarine posts the latest versions of its operations manuals here to permit customers to review and assess all of the features currently supported by its products prior to making a purchase. While it is expected that the software feature set of the Axiom MFDs will eventually equal or exceed those of the MFDs running LightHouse II software, the Axiom Advanced Operation Instructions (may be accessed via the link provided above) will identify the features supported by Axiom MFDs today. Should a specific feature(s) be critical and needed immediately, then it would be recommended that one ensure that the MFD being considered presently supports that feature(s).
- requirement for button/key interface and whether the boat's layout would support installation of a RMK-9/10 Remote Keyboard. Button/key interfaces are commonly required by those who will be operating a MFD while under exposure to very wet conditions which may prevent a MFD's touchscreen from functioning. Should the vessel regularly be operated under such conditions and should the installation location not support installation of a RMK-9/10, then it would be recommended that a MFD having a hybridtouch user interface (ex. eS-Series, e-Series, etc.) be considered.
- support for currently installed marine electronics
- support for integration with future Raymarine products
- cost
- future serviceability. Raymarine has a product support goal of being able to supply parts and service for approximately five years after production of a product has been discontinued. Accordingly, one would reasonably expect that a product which has recently been introduced may be supported further into the future than a product which was introduced several years ago.


RAYFAQ#