MachDB vs NavUP
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
MachDB
Easily download and transfer aviation database updates to an SD card or USB key using your iPhone or iPad. Supports major avionics systems like Garmin, Avidyne, and Pro Line for quick field updates.
- Download and transfer aviation database updates
- Supports SD card and USB key transfer
- Compatible with Garmin, Avidyne, and Pro Line avionics
- Fast updates over Wi-Fi or Cellular
- No proprietary hardware required
- Works with existing Jeppesen or Garmin accounts
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MachDB allows you to download and transfer aviation database updates to an SD card or USB key in seconds using your iPhone or iPad for fast updates in the field. Supports Garmin, Avidyne, and Pro Line avionics. All you need is your iPhone or iPad and a standard USB-C SD card reader (for SD updates) or USB-A to C cable (for USB updates). No proprietary hardware required! Download updates fast over Wi-Fi or Cellular connections. MachDB is compatible with all modern Garmin, Avidyne, and Pro Line avionics, using your existing Jeppesen or Garmin database account. No additional subscription or cost required. Supported avionics include: -Garmin G1000, G1000 Nxi, Perspective and Perspective + -Garmin G2000, G3000, G3X and Perspective Touch -Garmin Axis, G500, G600, G700, GTN 600 and 700 Xi -All other Garmin avionics using SD card or USB key for updates -Avidyne IFD, Vantage, and Entegra -Collins Pro Line 21 and Pro Line Fusion Supported Database Providers: -Jeppesen -Garmin
NavUP
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NavUP keeps your aircraft's aeronautical databases current, with a workflow built for how pilots actually fly: download at home on wi-fi, then write to your panel's cards in the field - even with no internet. TWO SIMPLE PHASES 1. DOWNLOAD - connected to your subscription, NavUP downloads the available cycle (navigation, electronic charts, terrain, obstacles, SafeTaxi and more) and stores it on your iPhone. 2. WRITE TO CARDS - with a USB-C reader and your panel's SD cards, NavUP writes each database to the right card. Works 100% offline, in the hangar or on the ramp. BUILT FOR THE FIELD - Works with no internet when it's time to write - no more being stranded away from wi-fi. - Recognizes each card's role (MFD, PFD, spare) and writes the correct content. - Skips anything already on the card at the correct version. - Integrity check on every downloaded file. - Clean, direct interface in cockpit language. MAINTENANCE - Finds the reports recorded by the onboard computer (CMC/ENG) on the card and lets you send them to the manufacturer straight from your iPhone - by email, AirDrop or Files. - You choose which files to export. Nothing is deleted from the card. - No computer, no cable, no waiting until you're back at the hangar. ORGANIZED - Electronic charts appear as a single package covering all regions. - See the available cycle and what's left to download or write at a glance. REQUIREMENTS - An active subscription to your aircraft's database services. - An iPhone-compatible SD card reader (USB-C) and your panel's cards. NavUP is an independent tool for a pilot/operator's personal use in updating their own aircraft. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by Garmin or Jeppesen; trademarks belong to their respective owners.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is update cadence: MachDB at every 2 weeks against NavUP's every 3 months. On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
MachDB ships an update every 2 weeks, NavUP every 3 months. The most recent releases landed on November 5, 2026 and October 31, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | MachDB | NavUP |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.3 (6 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 66.7% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 6 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 2 weeks — better | Every 3 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Free | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad — better | iPhone |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 17.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 18 MB | 2 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | MachDB LLC | Eleven Aviação |
In-app purchases
MachDB
No in-app purchases
NavUP
No in-app purchases









