App Control vs Control Head: What to Choose

What app control means for an autopilot

App control lets you operate your autopilot from a smartphone or tablet. Instead of pressing buttons on a dedicated screen, you use an app to set a course, adjust the heading, or engage the autopilot. The app communicates with the autopilot system, usually over a wireless connection like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

For example, the Furuno NavPilot 300 includes a Gesture Controller that uses Bluetooth signals to steer the boat from anywhere within 10 meters. You push a button, point to the desired heading, and release. This is a form of remote control that goes beyond a traditional control head.

App control is convenient because you can operate the autopilot from the cockpit, the deck, or even the cabin. You do not need to be at the helm to make adjustments. This can be useful when you are handling lines, fishing, or moving around the boat. For more on how autopilots integrate with other electronics, see autopilot integration with chartplotters.

What a control head is

A control head is a dedicated physical interface mounted at the helm. It has buttons, a knob, or a touchscreen that lets you control the autopilot. The control head is designed for marine use, with a weatherproof housing and backlit display for visibility in all conditions.

Control heads are built to withstand the marine environment. They are mounted in a fixed position, so they are always ready to use. You do not need to find your phone or worry about battery life. The control head is the primary way to interact with your autopilot on most boats.

On Raymarine Evolution autopilots, the control head is a key part of the system. It gives you access to the autopilot's feature set, including course setting, navigation modes, and system status. The control head is designed to be intuitive and reliable. For a deeper look at control head options, see autopilot control head options.

Durability and reliability in the marine environment

The marine environment is tough on electronics. Salt water, sun, and vibration can damage devices that are not designed for it. A control head is built to handle these conditions. It is sealed against moisture and has a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of a boat.

A smartphone is not designed for constant marine use. It can be affected by water, heat, and battery drain. While you can use a phone for app control, it is not a substitute for a dedicated control head. The control head is always there, ready to work, without needing to be charged or protected.

The U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety page emphasizes the importance of being prepared and safe on the water. A reliable control head is part of that preparedness. You do not want to rely on a phone that might run out of battery or get wet in a critical moment. For more on safety considerations, see autopilot safety features.

Convenience and flexibility of app control

App control offers flexibility that a fixed control head cannot match. You can operate the autopilot from anywhere on the boat. This is useful when you are at the bow, on the flybridge, or in the cockpit. You can also use the app to monitor the autopilot's status without being at the helm.

Some systems, like the Furuno NavPilot 300, use a gesture controller that works with Bluetooth. This allows you to steer the boat by pointing the controller in the direction you want to go. This can be more intuitive than pressing buttons, especially when you are moving around.

App control can also be useful for multi-station setups. If you have a control head at the main helm, you can use the app as a second station. This avoids the cost and complexity of installing a second control head. However, you still need a control head for primary operation. For more on remote options, see autopilot remote control.

What to consider when choosing

When deciding between app control and a control head, think about how you use your boat. If you spend a lot of time at the helm and want a simple, reliable interface, a control head is the right choice. If you often move around the boat and want to adjust the autopilot from different locations, app control is a useful addition.

Consider the conditions you boat in. In rough weather, a control head is easier to use because it is fixed and has large buttons. A phone can be slippery and hard to read in bright sunlight. The control head is designed for marine use, so it is more durable.

Also consider the cost. A control head is included in many autopilot packs, so you do not need to buy it separately. App control may require additional hardware or software, but it is often a feature of the system. Check the listing to see what is included. For a comparison of complete packs and core packs, see autopilot complete pack vs custom.

How app control and control heads work together

In many autopilot systems, app control and a control head are not mutually exclusive. You can have both. The control head is the primary interface, and the app is a remote control. This gives you the best of both worlds: the reliability of a physical head and the convenience of app control.

For example, the Raymarine Evolution system uses a control head as the main interface. You can also use the Raymarine app on your phone to control the autopilot from anywhere on the boat. This is a common setup for many boaters.

When you are choosing an autopilot, look for a pack that includes a control head. This ensures you have a reliable interface. Then check if the system offers app control as an extra feature. This way, you get both options. For more on how autopilots connect to networks, see autopilot NMEA 2000 connectivity.

What the catalogue can and cannot tell you

The catalogue listings on this site state whether a control head is included in the box. This is a key detail. Some packs come with a control head, while others are core packs that do not. The catalogue also lists the model line, which can indicate whether app control is available.

However, the catalogue does not provide details on app functionality, such as the range of the wireless connection or the features of the app. For that, you need to check the maker's page. The maker's page is the source of truth for what the system can do.

The catalogue also does not tell you about the durability of a control head or the reliability of app control. These are general characteristics of the technology, not specific to a listing. You can use the general knowledge in this article to guide your decision. For a broader look at what to consider, see autopilot control head features.

Questions to ask before you buy

Before you buy an autopilot, ask the seller or the maker these questions:

Does the pack include a control head? If not, can you buy one separately? Does the system support app control? If so, what is the range and what features does the app have? Is the control head weatherproof? What is the warranty on the control head?

These questions will help you understand what you are getting. The answers will also help you compare different systems. Remember, the control head is the primary interface, so make sure it meets your needs. For more on warranty and support, see autopilot warranty and support.

Summary

App control and a control head serve different purposes. A control head is a durable, reliable interface that is always ready to use. App control offers convenience and flexibility, allowing you to operate the autopilot from anywhere on the boat.

For most boaters, a control head is the essential component. It is the primary way to interact with the autopilot. App control is a valuable addition, but it should not replace a control head. Choose a pack that includes a control head, and consider app control as an extra feature.

When you are ready to buy, use the guides on this site to compare autopilots based on their stated details. Look for packs that include a control head, and check the maker's page for app functionality. Start with the best marine autopilot guide to see top picks.

What to pick for your situation

Questions

Can I use my phone as the only control for an autopilot?

Technically, some systems allow app control as the only interface, but it is not recommended. A phone is not as durable or reliable as a dedicated control head, especially in marine conditions. A control head is always ready and weatherproof.

Is app control available on all autopilots?

No, app control is a feature that depends on the model and maker. Check the maker's page to see if a specific autopilot supports app control. The catalogue on this site does not list app functionality.

Do I need a control head if I have app control?

It is highly recommended. A control head provides a reliable, fixed interface that is always available. App control is a convenience, but it should not be your only way to operate the autopilot.

Are control heads waterproof?

Control heads are designed for marine use and are typically weatherproof, but the level of protection varies by model. Check the maker's specifications for the IP rating. The catalogue does not provide this detail.

Can I use app control from anywhere on the boat?

The range of app control depends on the wireless technology used. For example, Bluetooth has a range of about 10 meters, as with the Furuno Gesture Controller. Wi-Fi may have a longer range. Check the maker's page for specifics.