Budget Segment: Garmin Fishfinders
Let’s start with the most affordable solutions. One of the leaders in this category is the Garmin Striker 4 with a classic sonar. Its price is around $150.
This model features:
It is important to understand: the chartplotter here is essentially a blank “sheet of paper” where you plot routes, waypoints, and tracks yourself. There is no shoreline; the device only creates your own custom map.
Also worth considering in the budget category is the Garmin 4 Vivid (about $190). The main difference is the larger screen and down-scan technology operating at 455/800 kHz, which makes it possible to see bottom structure in more detail: snags, branches, and other objects.
Mid-Range Segment: Lowrance Eagle Eye
With a budget of around $1,000, more advanced equipment comes into play. Here you find units with side-scan technology and next-generation transducers.
The Eagle Eye HD series stands out — these are chartplotters with full mapping and high-quality imaging. Unlike Garmin, Lowrance Eagle Eye devices can display sonar and downscan simultaneously, overlaying fish targets on bottom structure, which saves space on the screen.
For example:
The difference is clear: by slightly increasing the budget, you can get a far more functional device.
Advanced Segment: Simrad
In the $700–$800 category, it is worth looking at the Simrad series. For example, the Simrad GO9 XSE Gold is a full-featured touchscreen chartplotter that allows you to connect an autopilot, radar, audio system, and even engine data.
Just a couple of years ago, such devices cost around $1,700, but today they are available for almost half the price.
Key features:
In essence, this is the “Lexus” of fishfinders (considering Lowrance and Simrad are produced by the same company).
$800–$1,500 Segment: Lowrance Elite and HDS
In this category, users can count on the Elite FS9 (touchscreen, Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer, side imaging, downscan, audio and motor connectivity).
If the budget allows, it is worth looking at the Lowrance HDS9 or the new Elite FS10 (2025 model). These devices feature faster processors, high image detail, and excellent fish-target highlighting without losing bottom structure display.
Premium Segment: Pro Series and Travel
With a budget starting from $1,800 and up, you gain access to the most advanced technologies.
These devices are especially relevant for owners of large boats and yachts, as well as for those traveling across vast waters.
Humminbird and Raymarine
These brands also deserve attention.
