Top Five Fishfinders
| Rank | Model | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Humminbird 597ci HD DI |  | |
 | Humminbird 898c SI |  | |
 | Garmin Echo 300c |  | |
 | Humminbird 788ci HD DI | | |
 | Lowrance Elite-5 DSI | |
Lowrance HDS5 Gen2 Review
| Overall Rating | No Ratings |
The Lowrance HDS5 Gen2 is a new model for 2012 and it is an improved version of the old HDS5. It features a more powerful processor which gives the fishfinder faster re-draws and quicker response to user input. It has more memory that its predecessor and that allows it store more TrackBack. But the main improvement is the StructureMap – a great feature that provides a way to overlay side-scan images on a map display. StructureMap is only available with the optional StructureScan module.
Second generation HDS5 has a 5-inch screen and it is compact enough to fit anywhere but provides enough display clarity for most users to work without visual strain. It is available in various bundle options that offer greater usability based on where the fishfinder is going to be used. The 83/200 kHz transducer bundle is best for inland and freshwater use while the 50/200 kHz model is better suited for the great lakes and coastal waters. With the optional Airmar transducers, the Lowrance HDS5 Gen2 can be used in deeper saltwater applications.
The Lake Insight model variation also makes it possible for users to get a greater display inland and in freshwater mapping views. The Nautic Insight variation can cover the US coastal areas in greater detail. If the Lowrance HDS5 Gen2 is to be used internationally in Non-Americas locations the Navionics variation is the best suited option for potential buyers. The HDS5 Gen2 is compatible with a wide range of third party tools and hardware including Insight HD, Fishing Hot Spots Pro, Navionics Gold-Platinum with Turboview.
Lowrance HDS-5 vs Lowrance Elite-5 vs Humminbird 597ci HD DI
| Lowrance HDS-5 | Lowrance Elite-5 DSI | Humminbird 597ci HD DI | |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Screen Size | 5 in / 127 mm | 5 in / 127 mm | 5 in / 127 mm |
| Screen Resolution | 480 x 480 pixels | 480 x 480 pixels | 640 x 640 pixels |
| Display Type | 16-bit color SolarMAX™ PLUS TFT | 256-color SolarMAX PLUS TFT | 256 Color TFT |
| Imaging | 2D | Down Imaging | 2D and Down Imaging |
| Transducer Type | Transom Mount/Trolling Motor | Transom Mount/Trolling Motor | Transom Mount/Trolling Motor |
| Transmit Power | Max 250W Broadband, analog equivalent 30,000W and 32W Broadband, analog equivalent 3,750 W | 500W RMS 4000W Peak-To-Peak | 500W RMS 4000W Peak-To-Peak |
| Sonar Frequency | 50/83/200 kHz | 455/800 kHz | 200/455 kHz 2D 455/800 kHz Down Imaging |
| Maximum Depth | 1900 ft | 1000 ft | 600 ft 2D 250 ft Down Imaging |
| GPS Antenna Type | Internal, high-sensitivity GPS+WAAS | Internal high-sensitivity WAAS + EGNOS + MSAS | Internal |
| Waypoint Storage | 5000 | 3000 | 2,500 |
| Routes | 200 | 100 | 50 |
| Plot Trails | Up to 10 trails - up to 12,000 points/trail | 100 retraceable plot trails/up to 10,000 points per trail | 50 w/ 20,000 points each |
| Background Map | Lake Insight | Over 3,000 enhanced lake maps with depth contour and shoreline detail, plus coastal shoreline detail with offshore depth contours to 1,000 ft./305 m and spot depth soundings | Humminbird UniMap |
| MSRP | $719.99 | $629.99 | $649.99 |
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