GARMIN GMR 18 HD+ Radome Radar

Garmin GMR18HD+ Radar Overview
• Type: 18-inch dome-shaped marine radar (Radome)
• Transmitter power: 4kW, providing clear echo resolution at all ranges
• Maximum range: 36 nautical miles
• Suitable for: Small to medium-sized vessels with limited space
• Key advantages: Compact size, suitable for installation on vessels with limited space, and provides stable navigation and collision avoidance capabilities
________________________________________
Comparison and Key Points
• Compared to Garmin's xHD series (such as the GMR18xHD), the HD+ version has lower resolution (fewer colors) and a slightly shorter maximum detection range (36 nautical miles vs. 48 nautical miles).
• Simple installation and no complex setup required when used with Garmin GPSMAP 922 or 1222 PLUS chartplotters. ________________________________________
Pros and Cons
Pros

Compact size, suitable for small boats

Detection range shorter than xHD models (36 vs. 48 nautical miles)

4kW high power, clear echoes

Lower color resolution
Easy integration with Garmin marine systems

Cons

Lacks advanced features such as bird detection and automatic filtering

________________________________________
Recommended Use Cases
• Recreational boats and yachts: Need a practical radar but limited installation space.
• Need a stable, cost-effective radar solution but less demanding on the highest resolution and ultra-long range.
• Quick integration and use with Garmin chartplotters (particularly the GPSMAP PLUS series).

________________________________________
Is it right for you?

If you need a small, stable radar and a 36 nautical mile detection range is sufficient, the GMR18HD+ is a great choice. However, if you need longer-range detection or higher image resolution (such as bird flock detection, long-distance clear identification, etc.), you can consider Garmin's xHD series (such as the GMR 18 xHD or GMR 24 xHD), which offer a 48 nautical mile detection range and more advanced processing technology.