Garmin vs Dynon

[RV10inOz]

They are both good, but the Dynon EMS, is by far, the best on the market. This includes all certified gear.

Dual redundant device networks is a plus for Dynon, theirs is way better than the G3X system. That is simple as it gets. Why Garmin did what they did still amazes me and my friends at Garmin agree, although only in private.

Customer service is better. Do not read that as Garmin is bad.....just one is better overall.

I get to play with both. For me the HDX and a Garmin GTN650/GTN750/GPS175 or whatever you prefer in an IFR navigator is the answer.

Put simply if you offered me two identical RV's to purchase, I would pay a few grand more for the HDX system equipped plane, despite the Garmin probably costing a bit more.

If you are reading this in Australia, despite the G3X finally getting mapping, it is still sub standard and way more expense.

[emsvitil]

Don't forget the recurring costs of database updates..............

[Ironflight]

To the OP Dave,

This Question/debate comes up about every two months here on VAF - you can scroll through the Glass Cockpit forum and find all the previous threads, and you’ll find the same guys posting the same things in support of each. And, of course, I usually post the same thing:

All of the EFIS systems work these days. All of the companies have GREAT customer service (or POOR customer service, depending on how some individuals experienced it). The apples to apples comparison on cost is usually a wash at the levels of spending we’re talking. What makes a difference is how the particular systems work with YOUR brain. Get your hands on them and try them - then choose the one that interfaces best with you.

I own at least one of all of them (except AFS, but I use that in many airplanes, and like it too!), and have adapted to all of them. My favorite? That doesn’t make any difference - you need to try them and choose for yourself.

Take the time to find examples to play with - you’ll be spending a lot of money, so spend a little to travel if you have to.

Paul

[sjarrell]

There is no right or wrong, better or worse. The good news is you have a LOT of really good choices, in products, features, support, etc. My recommendation is that instead of relying on our opinions you form your own based on (in no particular order):

1. Your personal requirements
2. Your previous experience and comfort level with any of the products
3. Careful review of the product's features
4. Vendor's reputation
5. Determine if "one vendor" is important to you for IFR. If it is, then Garmin will score more points as it's the only one that has IFR certified components.
6. Ease of installation
7. Who you're most comfortable dealing with based on YOUR own personal interaction with the company, not ours.

The good news is you have a number of REALLY good choices and vendors. They all have their plusses and minuses, like everything else in life.

I've made my choice and frankly, it really doesn't matter who it is. That's my choice, not yours, and I'm happy with it.

I'm sure you'll be happy with whatever choice you make IF you make the effort to learn the system inside and out and use it to its fullest. Frankly, IMO that's more important that the vendor that you select!

[Av8rRob]

One difference I have found is that you cannot see the Dynon screens with polarized sunglasses and you can on Garmins.

[vlittle]

Originally Posted by Av8rRob

One difference I have found is that you cannot see the Dynon screens with polarized sunglasses and you can on Garmins.

https://www.faa.gov/pilots/safety/pi...sunglasses.pdf

The FAA warns against using polarized sunglasses. Unfortunately, most sunglasses are polarized, even prescription ones.

[Steve]

You can wear gloves during the winter and still use the Garmin G3X Touch. I don't know about the others.

[Carl Froehlich]

A few thoughts:
- Both Garmin G3X and Dynon SkyView have EFIS products for the certified world.
- The legacy Garmin products, like the G1000, have fallen behind the current Garmin G3X and SkyView HDX offerings.
- I am firmly in the Dynon SkyView camp - mainly because Garmin burned me on my GTN-650 after the sale “known problems”. The short story was the certified side of Garmin had horrible after the sale service. I note however the G3X side service is much better. Dynon after the sale service sets the high bar across the industry.
- BUT - I put a GTN-650 in my new plane along with the dual screen SkyView HDX. I really did not want to, but I consider it the lesser evil of all the bad TSO certified GPS IFR navigator options.
- The SkyView system interface with the GTN-650 is superb. In other words the “I want all my stuff to talk to each other” is a false augment.
- I find the SkyView system to be amazingly intuitive. Factor this into your decision.

Make your choice and pay your money....
Carl

[mike newall]

Dynon make avionics......

Garmin make all sorts including fish finders

Garmin also drop old models whereas Dynon don't.

[jrtens]

After playing with both, I chose the Dynon because it was specifically designed to operate more easily in turbulence with an 8 button control panel that is angled out on the bottom.