If you use TIMEZERO marine navigation software (TZ Navigator or TZ Professional), you’ve probably seen two names mentioned when it comes to charts: MM3D and TZ MAPS.

Both MM3D and TZ MAPS will give you the charts you need for your navigation, but they work in different ways. This guide explains what each one is, the differences between both, and how you can get the best value for your money.

What is MM3D?

To put it simply, MM3D is the old chart format of TIMEZERO, which operates in the “classic” way of buying marine charts.

Think of it like this:
✅ You buy a chart for an area (your region)
✅ You choose a format (Raster or Vector)
✅ You now have that chart, in that area/format

How MM3D works

As mentioned above, there are two types of charts available in MM3D: Raster and Vector.

• Raster charts = digital, scanned versions of traditional paper charts, with the same look and feel.
• Vector charts = modern interactive charts that allow you to tap objects like buoys, marinas, lights, etc., to access more data and relevant information.

If you want the same region in both formats, you typically need to buy both. Additionally, when updates are released, you need to purchase the latest version of the same chart (albeit at a discount).

When is MM3D your best option?

While MM3D charts are still available to purchase on TIMEZERO, they are the old chart format, and thus, we recommend only purchasing MM3D charts when you do not have the option to purchase TZ MAPS. This will be the case for users who have an old version of TIMEZERO, or an older version of TZT hardware, for which TZ MAPS is not compatible. 

So, What is TZ MAPS?

TZ MAPS is an upgrade of TIMEZEROs chart offering. Instead of purchasing one chart for your area, you will receive an all-in-one chart package for your preferred area.

This means that TZ MAPS will give you access to all of the available charts and formats for your region, regular complimentary updates, and whole range of exclusive features.

What you get in a TZ MAPS area

A TZ MAPS area will typically include all of the following:

• Vector charts
• Raster charts (available in most areas)
• Detailed land data
• High-resolution satellite imagery (where available)
• High-resolution bathymetric charts/BathyVision (though resolution can vary depending on the area)

Simply put, that means: more layers, more detail, and more tools.

The biggest difference: updates + value

TZ MAPS Features

Alongside the additional charts, TZ MAPS users also unlock some exclusive user-requested tools. These include:

• BathyVision: bathymetric charts that show clearer bottom structure, configurable contours. These are especially useful for fishing and understanding what’s beneath you in greater detail.
• Dynamic Lights: surrounding light sectors displayed based on your boat’s position, for better situational awareness.
• Dynamic Moorings: a feature that helps you identify the best locations to anchor, based on weather conditions.
• Community Maps: access to crowd-sourced local knowledge to better understand your area.
• Smart Search: faster searching with a browser-like feature that quickly helps you locate destinations, as well as objects like buoys and tide stations.
• Smart Zones: customizable alarms that notify you when you enter/leave defined zones (restricted areas, hazards, etc.)
• Route Assist: a faster method of creating a route. Select two-way points and let TIMEZERO do the rest.

MM3D vs TZ MAPS Overview

* Raster charts and satellite imagery are not available in all areas.
** BathyVision coverage/resolution varies by area; some regions combine high- and low-resolution data.

“Why is MM3D discounted but TZ MAPS looks full price?”

This is the most common question we receive when it comes to understanding the difference between MM3D and TZ MAPS, and the answer is actually quite simple:

• A discounted MM3D update usually means renewing one chart format (Raster or Vector) for one region.
• TZ MAPS is an upgrade on MM3D. It’s a bigger package that gives you more charts, more features, more flexibility — and most importantly, better long-term value.

While it might look like TZ MAPS is never discounted, that’s because you are comparing the renewal price of your MM3D chart to your first year of TZ MAPS.

After that first year, you’re no longer on the “first purchase” price: you move to the TZ MAPS preferential renewal rate (annual subscription), which is typically cheaper than MM3D discounted updates, while also giving you access to far more content (Raster* + Vector, plus additional layers, features, BathyVision and Community Charts).

In other words:

• Year One: TZ MAPS = full price (same logic as a first MM3D purchase)
• Year Two: TZ MAPS = preferential renewal rate (the real “deal” — and usually the point where TZ MAPS becomes the smarter spend)

That’s why TZ MAPS may look “full price” at first glance — but it’s only full price on the first purchase, and the renewal is where MM3D users start saving money, while also getting a much broader chart library and more capabilities for their navigation area.

When should I choose MM3D?

Overall, it makes no sense to choose MM3D over TZ MAPS, considering the value of what’s included in TZ MAPS. However, should you decide that MM3D is what you would prefer, then you are free to do so.

Some cases where this might be better for you are:

1. When you have an older version of TIMEZERO, where TZ MAPS is not available
2. When you have an older piece of TZT hardware that is not compatible TZ MAPS
3. If the area you need to purchase is not available in TZ MAPS format
4. Or, if you don’t mind paying more but would just prefer a pay-as-you-go model.

Either way, if you choose TZ MAPS or MM3D, rest assured knowing that your charts will always come with the same high-standard and quality required for a safe and enjoyable time out on the water.