Garmin Reactor 40 Steer-by-Wire, GHC 50
#2 in Steer-by-wireFull review
For boats with generic steer-by-wire steering that want Garmin autopilot control.
Amazon $2,799.99$2,799.99
The Garmin Reactor 40 Steer-by-Wire, GHC 50 and the Furuno NavPilot 300 OPT Kit are evenly matched, rated 3.1 and 3.0. The Garmin Reactor 40 Steer-by-Wire, GHC 50 leads on features. The Furuno NavPilot 300 OPT Kit costs $104.99 less ($2,695 vs $2,799.99).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Furuno NavPilot 300 OPT Kit
#3 in Steer-by-wireFull review
For multi-engine outboard fishing boats that already have SeaStar Optimus 360 steering.
Amazon $2,695$2,695
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Garmin Reactor 40 Steer-by-Wire, GHC 50 for features (control head in the box, heading sensor included, NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng vs NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every steer-by-wire marine autopilot; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Garmin Reactor 40 Steer-by-Wire, GHC 50 | Furuno NavPilot 300 OPT Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 22 $2,799.99 for the pack | 23 $2,695 for the pack |
| Capability range 30% | 50 boat size and cylinder range not published (neutral score used) | 86 boats to 50 ft |
| Features 25% | 75 control head in the box, heading sensor included, NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng | 25 NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng |
| Power draw 10% | 50 standby draw not published (neutral score used) | 50 standby draw not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 5% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 warranty not published, scored as none |
Specifications
| Garmin Reactor 40 Steer-by-Wire, GHC 50 | Furuno NavPilot 300 OPT Kit | |
|---|---|---|
| Capability | ||
| Steering type | Steer-by-wire | Steer-by-wire |
| Boat size | - | 24 to 50 ft |
| Pack type | Core pack | Complete pack |
| In the pack | ||
| Contents | Reactor 40 CCU, GHC 50 display, cables, buzzer, NMEA 2000 drop cables, power cable, T-connectors and terminators | Autopilot components, cables and gateways for SeaStar Optimus 360 (joystick system sold separately) |
| Control head | GHC 50 touchscreen | - |
| Control head included | Yes | - |
| Drive or pump included | No | No |
| Heading sensor | Solid-state 9-axis AHRS | - |
| Rudder feedback unit | - | No |
| Electrical | ||
| Supply voltage | 12 V | - |
| NMEA 2000 / SeaTalk ng | Yes | Yes |
| Support | ||
| Warranty | 1 year | - |
| Released | 2022-06 | - |