If you’re shopping for a hand held chart plotter, these picks help with flight planning, wind correction, and chart navigation. They’re best for student pilots, CFIs, and pilots who train with sectional, WAC, and IFR planning. Below, you’ll find five strong options with practical strengths, usage notes, and a clear buyer log.
| Product | Best For | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| EntireFlight E6B Flight Calculator | Course plotting and E6B-based calculations | Trusted FAA-style calculator and plotter combo |
| Advanced Pilot Products Rotating Plotter | Beginner-friendly navigation and wind correction | Rotating design improves accuracy |
| Chart Plotter X 12″ Display | High-contrast map display for chart reading | HD IPS panel, large format |
| Medarchitect Aviation Plotter | Sectional and WAC chart navigation | Rotating azimuth with multiple scales |
| SimCoach Navigation Plotter (Rotating) | Comprehensive flight planning tools | Multiple scales and WAC support |
The following sections highlight five top products, explaining who they’re best for and why they stand out for hand held chart plotting. Each entry includes practical notes to help you compare options quickly.
EntireFlight E6B Flight Calculator Bundle
Features: E6B flight computer for accurate calculations; aviation plotter for course planning on VFR sectional charts; step-by-step guide included for mastering E6B use and navigation. This combination suits pilots who want a single, FAA-trusted toolset for exams, training, and on-the-go flight planning.
Best for: Student pilots and CFIs who need a compact, all-in-one calculator and plotter. Why selected: It combines classic E6B functionality with chart plotting, reducing the number of separate tools a pilot carries.
Caution: The tool relies on traditional E6B methods, which may require learning for those who prefer modern software-based planning.
Advanced Rotating Aviation Plotter
Features: Precise course plotting and wind correction; rotating design for improved accuracy; lightweight and durable for training and cross-country planning. It emphasizes ease of use for beginners while providing reliable performance for real-world flight planning.
Best for: Beginners and pilots in FAA exam prep who need intuitive navigation with reliable wind-corrected plotting. Why selected: Rotating mechanics offer better hand control during cross-country routes.
Caution: Some users may prefer larger displays for detailed chart reading during line-of-sight navigation.
Chart Plotter X 12 Inch IPS Display
Features: 12-inch HD IPS display; support for C-MAP Discover X and Reveal charts; high-resolution 1280×800 panel. This option suits pilots who want a larger, clearer display for chart reading and plan viewing.
Best for: Pilots who prefer larger screens to reduce eyestrain during long planning sessions. Why selected: The high-definition IPS panel improves chart legibility under various lighting conditions.
Caution: Large size may reduce portability for some bag setups.
Medarchitect Rotating Aviation Plotter
Features: 8 navigation functions; rotating azimuth for direct course readout; robust construction for WAC and sectional chart use. Designed to support precise measurement of courses and distances across chart types.
Best for: Pilots who need a versatile tool with multiple scales and a rotating azimuth for fast course reads. Why selected: The rotating azimuth helps align readings quickly during preflight planning.
Caution: PVC/ plastic construction may be less resistant to impacts than metal-infused options in harsh environments.
SimCoach Rotating Plotter With WAC Charts
Features: Premier rotating azimuth plotter with WAC charts; multiple scales (Sectional, WAC, Terminal Area); enhanced durability with rotating course readout for direct navigation reads. Aimed at students needing precise route planning tools.
Best for: Aviation students and journal planners who require a comprehensive toolset for flight routing. Why selected: The combination of WAC charts and rotating azimuth improves planning accuracy.
Caution: This model may be more feature-rich than necessary for casual flyers who mainly need basic plotting functions.
Premier Fixed Plotter For Pilots
Features: Durable resin construction; quick scale references in statute and nautical miles; easy readability of scales. This plotter emphasizes straightforward plotting with stable, heat-resistant materials.
Best for: Pilots seeking a dependable, simple-to-use plotter for routine planning. Why selected: Resin construction offers durability with stable performance in varying temperatures.
Caution: It may lack some advanced rotating features found in other models, which can affect advanced wind-correction workflows.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a hand held chart plotter?
- Check whether the plotter supports sectional, WAC, and IFR charts you use most often. A rotating azimuth feature helps for direct course reads.
- Larger displays improve readability, but weigh portability. IPS panels offer better viewing angles in sunlight.
- Ensure the device provides nautical and statute mile references, wind correction aids, and distance measurement capabilities essential for flight planning.
- Durable materials help withstand heat and handling in training terms. Consider whether you need resin or plastic housing.
- Look for compact form factors and included manuals or guides to support learning for new pilots.
FAQ
- What is a hand held chart plotter used for? It is a compact tool for plotting courses, calculating distances, and navigating with sectional and WAC charts.
- Do plotting tools require electricity? Most are manual or analog devices, not requiring power, though some may include digital readouts.
- Which features improve training? Rotating azimuth, clear scales, and wind correction help with practice routes and exam prep.
- Is bigger always better for pilots? A larger display improves readability but reduces portability; balance needs with your bag and flight bag setup.
- How important is chart compatibility? Very important; ensure your plotter supports the chart types you fly most often to avoid gaps in planning.
- Can these replace a digital cockpit tool? They serve as reliable, independent planning aids but do not replace integrated flight management systems in professional aircraft.