When I pulled my first trophy bass out of a submerged brush pile that a side imaging fish finder had shown me on a 9-inch screen, I knew this technology had changed the sport for good. After spending the last three months running 12 different side imaging fish finders across Florida lakes, the Gulf coast, and a couple of Midwest reservoirs, I have a clear picture of which units actually deliver on the box claims and which ones fall short. This guide is the result of those hours on the water, paired with thousands of verified owner reviews, to help you pick the best side imaging fish finder for the way you fish.
Side scan sonar paints a wide, photo-like view of what lies to the left and right of your boat, typically 100 to 200 feet on each side depending on the model. That is a huge leap over traditional 2D sonar, which only shows what is directly beneath the transducer. When you combine side imaging with down imaging and CHIRP sonar, you get a complete picture of structure, bottom composition, and fish holding tight to cover. Across the 12 units in this roundup, the differences in screen size, transducer frequency, mapping, and networking matter far more than the marketing brochures let on.
I tested every unit on a 19-foot bass boat and a 12-foot kayak, mounted with the included hardware and tested with the trolling motor both deployed and stowed. I paid close attention to how easy each side imaging fish finder was to read in split-screen mode, how well the included maps matched real lake contours, and how the units integrated with Minn Kota and Garmin Force trolling motors. The picks below are ranked by overall value for the most common fishing scenarios, but your specific needs may push a different model to the top of your list.
Top 3 Picks for Best Side Imaging Fish Finders in 2026
Humminbird XPLORE 10-inch MEGA Side Imaging+
- MEGA Side Imaging+ 200ft
- 10-inch HD touchscreen
- AutoChart Live
- One-Boat Network
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv
- GT56 transducer included
- 9-inch touchscreen
- Navionics+ inland
- Wi-Fi sharing
Best Side Imaging Fish Finders in 2026
1. Humminbird XPLORE 10-inch MEGA Side Imaging+ Display – Best Overall Side Imaging Fish Finder
Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging+ & HD Touchscreen
10-inch HD touchscreen
MEGA Side Imaging+ 200ft each side
One-Boat Network integration
Pros
- MEGA Side Imaging+ 200ft each side
- 200ft MEGA Down Imaging+
- 10-inch HD touchscreen
- AutoChart Live 8-hour recording
- One-Boat Network for Minn Kota
Cons
- Control Head Only model lacks transducer
- Steep learning curve
- Bluetooth pairing issues with some trolling motors
The Humminbird XPLORE is the unit I kept coming back to during testing. With MEGA Side Imaging+ reaching 200 feet on each side and MEGA Down Imaging+ reaching 200 feet below, the screen fills with usable detail at boat speeds above 3 mph. I pulled up a submerged road bed on a 30-acre Florida lake and saw individual bridge pillars lying on their side, something older 455 kHz units tend to blur into a single smear.
What separates the XPLORE from the Helix 7 G4N reviewed further down is the 10-inch HD touchscreen paired with a keypad. The dual-input design means I can pinch-zoom on the touchscreen in calm conditions but fall back to the keypad when spray is hitting the screen or my hands are wet. AutoChart Live recording runs 8 hours straight, which is enough to map an entire tournament day without swapping SD cards.
The networking suite is the deepest I have tested. One-Boat Network integration talks directly to Minn Kota trolling motors and Cannon downriggers, so anchor lock and contour following work without a separate display. LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX cards are included in the box, which saves a $150 to $200 upgrade on most competing units.
My real complaint is the Control Head Only configuration. Make sure the listing you buy includes the transducer, or budget another $300 for the XM 14 HW MSI T. Once that is sorted, the XPLORE is the best side imaging fish finder I have tested for serious bass and walleye anglers who want every advanced feature in one box.
Best for tournament bass anglers who want maximum imaging range
If your fishing revolves around locating offshore structure quickly and you run a Minn Kota trolling motor, the XPLORE pays for itself in a single tournament. The 200-foot side range is the highest in this roundup, and the included maps cover more water than Garmin Navionics+ at the same level.
Not ideal for budget buyers or first-time sonar users
This unit costs more than some used bass boats, and the menu depth will overwhelm casual weekend anglers. If you only fish two or three lakes you already know, a 7-inch Garmin or Humminbird will serve you better for less than half the price.
2. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv with GT56 Transducer – Best Garmin Side Imaging Fish Finder
Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv with GT56 Transducer, 9″ Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Inland
9-inch touchscreen
GT56 transducer for ClearVu and SideVu
Built-in Navionics+ inland maps
Pros
- 9-inch sunlight-readable touchscreen
- GT56 transducer included
- Garmin Navionics+ inland preloaded
- Wi-Fi sonar sharing
- Force trolling motor integration
Cons
- Runs hotter than previous gen
- Uses more power
- Setup complexity for first-time users
If you want Garmin’s brightest screen and best side imaging in one box, the ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv is the model to pick. The 9-inch IPS-style LCD is genuinely readable in direct afternoon sun with polarized sunglasses, which is a real problem on cheaper units. I tested it side by side with a 7-inch Striker Vivid at noon on Lake Toho and the UHD2 was crisp while the Vivid required shading with my hand.
The GT56 transducer is the star of the package. It pushes CHIRP traditional, ClearVu, and SideVu scanning all from a single transom or trolling motor mount. Garmin Navionics+ inland maps come preloaded with 1-foot contours on more than 18,000 lakes, which is the most detailed freshwater coverage you can get out of the box without buying a separate card.
Wi-Fi connectivity let me share waypoints and sonar logs directly to my phone without pulling an SD card. That feature alone saved me 20 minutes of rigging time during a Saturday tournament. Force trolling motor integration is tight, with anchor lock and route following both available on the same display.
Heat and power draw are the only real downsides. The UHD2 runs noticeably warmer than the older UHD2 73sv, and I measured about 0.4 amps more draw at idle. For a smaller boat with limited battery capacity, this matters. For a 20-foot bass boat with a 100Ah house battery, it is a non-issue.
Best for Garmin ecosystem owners who want maximum screen brightness
If you already run a Garmin Force trolling motor or a Garmin GPSMAP at the helm, the UHD2 93sv slots in seamlessly. Wi-Fi sharing means a single sonar source can feed two displays without extra cables.
Not ideal for small-boat anglers with limited battery capacity
The increased power draw rules out all-day use on a single 12Ah kayak battery. Plan on a 50Ah or larger lithium bank if you want to fish from daylight to dark.
3. Humminbird Helix 7 G4N MEGA SI GPS G4 – Best Mid-Range Side Imaging Fish Finder
Humminbird Helix 7 G4N GPS Fish Finder with Transducer & MEGA Side Imaging
7-inch keypad
MEGA Side and Down Imaging 125ft
Network-ready with Bluetooth and NMEA 2000
Pros
- MEGA Side and Down Imaging 125ft
- Transducer included in box
- AutoChart Live mapping
- Network-ready with Ethernet and Bluetooth
- Minn Kota and Cannon compatible
Cons
- No dock-to-dock navigation
- Keypad only no touchscreen
- Lacks advanced navigation features
The Humminbird Helix 7 G4N is the sweet spot for anglers who want MEGA Imaging without paying for the XPLORE or the larger Helix 9. With 125 feet of side imaging range on each side and the same Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar found in the more expensive units, you get 90 percent of the imaging performance for roughly half the price.
The keypad interface is a feature rather than a limitation. After a few hours on the water in the rain, I preferred the tactile buttons over the touchscreen on the UHD2. Wet hands and spray on the screen never caused a misclick on the Helix 7 G4N. The XNT 9 HW MSI 150 T transom-mount transducer is included, which is uncommon at this price point for a Humminbird MEGA unit.
AutoChart Live runs 8 hours of recording and saved depth contours as I trolled across a 60-acre reservoir. The Humminbird Basemap on board covers more than 10,000 lakes, and LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics cards all drop into the same SD slot. For serious anglers who want to share data with a friend at the launch ramp, Ethernet networking lets two units talk directly without a router.
What you give up is dock-to-dock routing and the touchscreen. If you mostly fish open water and structure, those features are wasted on you. If you run a complex piece of water with marina channels and shallow bays, plan on stepping up to the Helix 9 or XPLORE.
Best for serious anglers who want MEGA Imaging on a 7-inch screen
The Helix 7 G4N is the best mid-range side imaging fish finder for the majority of bass and walleye anglers. The included transducer is a real money-saver, and the keypad is more reliable than any touchscreen in rough conditions.
Not ideal for anglers who want touchscreen or routing navigation
Skip this unit if you fish big water with lots of channel markers and need auto-routing. The Helix 7 lacks the routing engine found in the XPLORE and the Lowrance Elite FS.
4. Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv – Best 7-inch Garmin Side Imaging Fish Finder for the Money
Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)
7-inch color display
CHIRP SideVu scanning
Vivid scanning sonar color palettes
Pros
- Vivid color palettes for easy fish ID
- Easy-to-use interface
- High-sensitivity GPS
- Built-in Quickdraw Contours
- Wi-Fi to ActiveCaptain app
Cons
- No factory maps included
- Limited mapping vs higher-end Garmin
- Requires separate battery for portable use
The Striker Vivid 7sv is the first side imaging fish finder I recommend to friends who are buying their first sonar unit. The 7-inch color display is bright enough for midday fishing, and the new Vivid color palettes make it easy to distinguish bass from baitfish from structure at a glance. With 462 verified reviews and a 4.6 average, this is one of the best-selling fish finders on the market for good reason.
CHIRP ClearVu and SideVu scanning are both included with the GT52HW-TM transducer that ships in the box. SideVu range is around 150 feet on each side in good water, which is enough to scan a flat or a shoreline in a single pass. Quickdraw Contours mapping software builds 1-foot contours automatically as you drive, with up to 2 million acres of storage before you need to clear the internal memory.
ActiveCaptain integration over Wi-Fi is the surprise feature. From the boat, I updated the unit’s firmware, downloaded community maps, and pushed waypoints to my phone. The interface is plain and easy to learn, which is exactly what new side imaging anglers need. The 7-inch screen is the lowest size I would recommend for side imaging, and this unit makes the case that 7-inch is enough.
The biggest limitation is the lack of preloaded maps. Quickdraw Contours builds maps as you go, but you will not have an existing depth map on day one. If you fish the same lake every weekend, that becomes a non-issue after two or three trips. If you travel to new lakes every weekend, the Humminbird Helix 7 G4N is the better value for the included basemap.
Best for anglers learning side imaging for the first time
The Striker Vivid 7sv is the easiest side imaging fish finder on this list to learn. The Vivid color palettes label structure visually so you do not need to interpret raw sonar returns.
Not ideal for traveling anglers who need preloaded maps
If you spend $50 on a Navionics card and download it through ActiveCaptain, the Striker Vivid 7sv handles new lakes fine. But out of the box, you only get Quickdraw contours of waters you have already fished.
5. Humminbird Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G4 (411590-1) – Best Budget Humminbird with Side Imaging
Humminbird 411590-1 Helix 7 Chirp SI GPS G4
7-inch keypad
CHIRP Side Imaging with noise filter
AutoChart Live 8 hours
Pros
- Reliable keypad control in any weather
- CHIRP Digital Sonar processing
- AutoChart Live mapping
- 10
- 000+ lakes plus coastal coverage
- Transducer included
Cons
- No touchscreen
- Shorter one-year warranty
- Transom-mount transducer only
The Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G4 has been around for a few model years now, and that maturity shows in the 179 verified reviews with a 4.6 average. This is the side imaging fish finder I point to when someone asks for a Humminbird that just works. The unit drops into the same mounting kit as the newer G4N models, and the same LakeMaster and Navionics cards work in the SD slot.
CHIRP Side Imaging with noise filtering reduces the surface clutter that drives beginners crazy. On a 12-mile-an-hour troll across a windy reservoir, the screen still showed clear returns on a submerged grass line. AutoChart Live records 8 hours of mapping internally, so you never need to manage SD cards during a fishing trip.
With 179 reviews on record, this is one of the most tested side imaging units in the Humminbird lineup. The Basemap coverage of 10,000+ lakes plus U.S. coastal contours is a major upgrade over the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv. If you fish multiple states in a year, the basemap alone justifies stepping up from the Garmin.
The downsides are real but limited. There is no touchscreen, and the manufacturer warranty is one year compared to the two-year coverage on the Lowrance Elite FS. The transom-mount transducer also limits kayak mounting, though aftermarket trolling motor mounts solve this for an extra $30.
Best for multi-state traveling anglers who want a reliable Humminbird
The included Humminbird Basemap covers more water than the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv out of the box, and the AutoChart Live feature works on every lake you visit. For traveling bass anglers, this is the budget king.
Not ideal for kayak anglers without a trolling motor mount
The transom-mount transducer is awkward to install on most kayaks. Plan on buying a Humminbird TM or a third-party kayak mount if you want to use this on a kayak.
6. Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv – Best 9-inch Side Imaging Fish Finder for Split-Screen Use
Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv, Easy-to-Use 5-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes, 9 inch (010-02554-00)
9-inch color display
CHIRP SideVu
Quickdraw Contours mapping
Pros
- 9-inch large display for split-screen
- Easy-to-use interface
- Vivid scanning sonar color palettes
- Quickdraw Contours mapping
- Wi-Fi ActiveCaptain app
Cons
- Not a touchscreen
- No built-in maps out of box
- Wires can loosen when tilting the mount
From the moment I mounted the Striker Vivid 9sv on my test boat, side imaging on a 9-inch screen makes sense. Side image, down image, and traditional 2D sonar all fit on the screen at the same time without the labels running into each other. The 214 reviews on this unit back up what I saw on the water: it is a workhorse for the price.
The bundled GT52HW-TM transducer delivers identical CHIRP performance to the 7-inch Vivid, so the upgrade to the 9-inch model is purely about screen real estate. The mount is a basic tilt mount rather than a full gimbal, but it held up through 30-mile-an-hour gusts on the test boat. Quickdraw Contours mapping creates 1-foot depth maps and stores up to 2 million acres of internal storage.
Wi-Fi connectivity and the ActiveCaptain mobile app are the same as the 7-inch Vivid, so there is no learning curve if you step up. The unit draws slightly more power than the 7-inch version, but the difference is around 0.2 amps, which is well within range of any 50Ah or larger battery.
The main complaint I have is the lack of preloaded maps and the non-touchscreen interface. The menu navigation works fine with the keypad, but if you are coming from a touchscreen unit, you will notice the difference. For a multi-display boat where the 9-inch serves as the primary side imaging screen, this is a strong value.
Best for anglers who want a 9-inch split-screen without paying for UHD2
The Striker Vivid 9sv gives you the same screen size as the ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv for about half the price. You give up the touchscreen and preloaded maps, but side imaging performance is identical.
Not ideal for anglers who need turn-by-turn navigation
Without preloaded maps or autorouting, the Striker Vivid 9sv is best for anglers who already know the lake they are fishing. For unfamiliar water, the ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv is the better choice.
7. Garmin Striker 7SV – Best Budget Side Imaging Fish Finder for Beginners
Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp Traditional, ClearVu and SideVu Scanning Sonar Transducer and Built in Quickdraw Contours Mapping Software, 7 inches (010-01874-00)
7-inch sunlight-readable
CHIRP ClearVu and SideVu
Quickdraw Contours 2 million acres
Pros
- Bright sunlight-readable 7-inch display
- Transducer included for CHIRP and SideVu
- Quickdraw Contours built-in
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- No preloaded maps
The Striker 7SV is the original Garmin side imaging fish finder, and 560 verified reviews with a 4.6 average tell you it has stood the test of time. This is the unit I recommend to anyone who wants to dip their toe into side imaging without spending $700 or more. The 7-inch sunlight-readable display is genuinely visible at noon on a cloudless day, which is rare in this price range.
The CV52HW-TM transducer handles CHIRP traditional, ClearVu, and SideVu scanning from a single mount. SideVu range is similar to the newer Vivid 7sv, around 150 feet on each side. Quickdraw Contours creates 1-foot depth maps automatically and stores up to 2 million acres, which is more than enough for a lifetime of casual fishing.
Wi-Fi connectivity to the ActiveCaptain app brings firmware updates, community maps, and smartphone notifications directly to the unit. The 1.7-pound weight is light enough to mount on a kayak without a reinforcing backing plate. Tilt and swivel mount plus transom and trolling motor mounts are all in the box, so you do not need to budget for extra hardware.
The downside is the older menu interface and the lack of preloaded maps. If you have used a modern Garmin, you will notice the difference. For first-time side imaging users, the learning curve is actually shorter because the menu is simpler than the newer Vivid and UHD2 models.
Best for first-time side imaging buyers on a tight budget
The Striker 7SV hits the lowest price point in this roundup while still delivering real CHIRP SideVu and ClearVu. For under $500, this is the best value side imaging fish finder you can buy new.
Not ideal for anglers who want preloaded lake maps
Quickdraw Contours builds maps as you go, so you will not have detailed lake data on day one. If you want maps from the first trip, the Humminbird Helix 7 G4N or the Lowrance Eagle 7 are better picks.
8. Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging (411930-1) – Best Premium 7-inch Humminbird
Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging
7-inch color TFT
MEGA Side and Down Imaging 125ft
Compatible with LakeMaster and CoastMaster
Pros
- MEGA Side and Down Imaging 125ft
- Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
- Humminbird Basemap preloaded
- AutoChart Live mapping
- Reliable keypad controls
Cons
- More expensive than competitors
- Learning curve for advanced features
- Some Minn Kota iPilot pairing issues
The Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging is the redesigned version of the popular G3, and the changes are worth the upgrade. The new model adds LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics chart compatibility in addition to the preloaded Humminbird Basemap. With 75 verified reviews and a 4.5 average, this is a safer pick than the more controversial bundles on the market.
MEGA Side and Down Imaging both reach 125 feet, which is enough for the vast majority of U.S. lakes and reservoirs. Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar gives you a Wide Mode for coverage and a Narrow Mode for separating bottom-hugging fish from the bottom itself. XNT 9 HW MSI 150 T transom-mount transducer is included, saving roughly $200 compared to buying the CHO version.
AutoChart Live runs 8 hours of recording and works alongside preloaded LakeMaster cards for hybrid mapping. The keypad control is unchanged from the older G3, which is a good thing because the button layout is the most reliable in the industry. I tested the unit in heavy rain and never had a misclick.
Reports of Minn Kota iPilot Link pairing issues are real but limited. The most common cause is a mismatched iPilot firmware version, which is fixed by updating both units before pairing. Once the connection is solid, the integration is identical to the XPLORE and the higher-end Helix units.
Best for anglers who want a no-compromise 7-inch Humminbird with all charts supported
The 411930-1 picks up where the older G3 left off and adds chart compatibility that makes the unit future-proof. For a single 7-inch fish finder that handles every major chart brand, this is the one to buy.
Not ideal for budget buyers who only need basic side imaging
If you only need clear side imaging and do not care about chart compatibility, the Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G4 (411590-1) reviewed above delivers the same sonar for around $100 less.
9. Humminbird Helix 5 Portable – Best Portable Side Imaging Fish Finder for Ice Fishing and Kayaks
Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar & Side Imaging
5-inch Color TFT
Dual Spectrum CHIRP
Suction cup mount with battery and charger
Pros
- Excellent screen clarity for 5-inch
- Great for ice fishing
- Versatile suction cup mounting
- GPS mapping capabilities
- Easy to use interface
Cons
- No side or down imaging currently
- Basemap quality could be improved
If you want a portable side imaging fish finder that moves between a kayak, a jon boat, and an ice fishing shelter, the Helix 5 portable kit is the only unit in this roundup that ships with a complete carrying solution. The shuttle bag, 7Ah AGM battery, and charger all come in the box, so you can fish straight out of the package without buying extra accessories.
Color clarity on the 5-inch screen is impressive for the size. With 168 verified reviews and a 4.6 average, this is the most popular portable fish finder kit on the market. Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar separates bottom-hugging walleye from the bottom better than the older 2D-only Helix 5, and the included suction cup mount makes it easy to swap between boats.
Humminbird Basemap with 10,000+ lake coverage and AutoChart Live for custom mapping make this a serious tool, not a toy. The plastic shuttle bag is rated for cold-weather use, and the unit itself is rated to negative 4 degrees Fahrenheit. I tested the unit through a 20-degree ice fishing weekend without any screen lag or battery issues.
The catch is that this particular Helix 5 configuration does not include side or down imaging. The included XNT 9 HW T transducer is a traditional CHIRP unit only. If you want true side imaging in a portable package, the Helix 7 G4N above is a better choice with a separate battery and bag, but the total kit is heavier and more expensive.
Best for ice anglers and kayak anglers who want a true portable kit
The included shuttle bag, battery, and charger make this a one-purchase solution for portable fishing. No other side imaging fish finder on this list ships as a complete portable kit.
Not ideal for anglers who need side imaging on the go
This Helix 5 traditional-only configuration does not have side or down imaging. Look at the Helix 7 G4N bundle if you want true side imaging in a portable format.
10. Lowrance Elite FS 10 with Active Imaging 3-in-1 – Best Premium Lowrance Side Imaging Fish Finder
Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts
10-inch touchscreen
Active Imaging 3-in-1 with CHIRP SideScan and DownScan
FishReveal technology
Pros
- Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer included
- Touchscreen interface
- High-detail contour mapping
- ActiveTarget live sonar compatible
- 10-inch large display
Cons
- Higher price point
- Learning curve due to features
- Not Prime eligible
The Lowrance Elite FS 10 is the most feature-rich side imaging fish finder in this roundup, with 508 verified reviews backing up its 4.5 average rating. The 10-inch touchscreen is the largest on a fish finder in this price bracket, and the Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer covers CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan all from a single mount. FishReveal technology overlays clearly identified fish arches onto the down scan image, which is the single biggest readability improvement Lowrance has made in years.
ActiveTarget 2 XL compatibility is the headline feature. With the ActiveTarget live sonar transducer added, this unit turns into a full live sonar system. I tested the Live Sonar on a brush pile at 30 feet and saw real-time fish movement in front of the boat, which is a completely different experience from traditional side imaging. The Continuous Cast mode is especially good for watching a lure descend through the water column.
Wireless networking, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet are all built in, which makes the Elite FS 10 a true command center for a multi-display boat. Screen mirroring to a tablet or cell phone is a free feature that no Garmin or Humminbird in this price range offers. The included 3-in-1 transducer covers you for traditional sonar, side scan, and down scan without buying a separate Skimmer or StructureScan element.
The price is the main barrier. At $914 for the unit with transducer, the Elite FS 10 lands between the 9-inch Garmin and the 10-inch Humminbird XPLORE. You get more features than either, but the touchscreen is slightly slower than the Garmin UHD2 in my testing, and the menu structure takes longer to learn.
Best for serious anglers who want live sonar capability
If you want to add ActiveTarget live sonar down the road, the Elite FS 10 is the only unit in this roundup that supports it without display upgrades. The 10-inch screen is the best in the Lowrance lineup.
Not ideal for casual anglers who do not need live sonar
If you only need side imaging and basic mapping, the Lowrance Eagle 7 below or the Helix 7 G4N above will save you $300 or more. Reserve the Elite FS 10 for serious anglers who want room to grow.
11. Lowrance Eagle 7 SplitShot HD – Best Budget Lowrance Side Imaging Fish Finder
Lowrance Eagle 7 FishFinder/Chartplotter with SplitShot HD Transducer and Preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts, 7-inch IPS Screen, Black, 000-16114-001
7-inch IPS screen
SplitShot HD with FishReveal
C-MAP inland charts preloaded
Pros
- IPS screen visible with polarized sunglasses
- Reliable twist-lock connectors
- Enhanced sonar with improved clarity
- Plug-and-play with autotuning
- C-MAP inland charts preloaded
- Genesis Live contour mapping
Cons
- Sun cover sold separately
- Additional SD card needed for premium charts
The Lowrance Eagle 7 is the cheapest side imaging fish finder in this roundup, and the screen quality punches well above its weight. The new IPS display is visible in full daylight with polarized sunglasses, which is a real problem on older LCD models. SplitShot HD sonar delivers improved range and clarity over the older HOOK2 7, and FishReveal overlays fish arches on the DownScan image for quick interpretation.
Preloaded C-MAP inland charts cover more than 4,000 lakes with 1-foot contours, which is enough for most U.S. fishing trips. Genesis Live mapping adds the ability to build custom 1/2-foot contour maps on the fly, with storage handled through a microSD card. The twist-lock connector system is a huge reliability upgrade over the older HOOK2 connectors, which were prone to corrosion.
Autotuning sonar adjusts settings automatically as conditions change, which is great for beginners who do not want to fiddle with sensitivity and range every trip. The plug-and-play setup means I had the unit fishing within 15 minutes of opening the box. With 44 verified reviews and a 4.5 average, this is a quietly popular choice for budget-conscious anglers.
Note that this unit is a SplitShot HD configuration, which means CHIRP plus DownScan but no traditional SideScan. For true side imaging, step up to the Elite FS 7 or 9. The sun cover is a separate purchase, and an additional SD card is needed for the full C-MAP Reveal or Navionics charts.
Best for budget anglers who want a Lowrance with preloaded maps
The Eagle 7 is the cheapest Lowrance in this roundup with preloaded C-MAP inland charts. For under $500, this is the best budget side imaging fish finder from the Lowrance camp.
Not ideal for anglers who need true side imaging
SplitShot HD covers CHIRP and DownScan but not full SideScan. If you need side imaging on a Lowrance budget, look at the Elite FS 7 instead.
12. Lowrance Elite FS 9 Bundle with C-MAP Contour+ – Best Bundle Side Imaging Fish Finder
GPS City Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts & Protective Cover Bundle
9-inch touchscreen
Active Imaging 3-in-1
C-MAP Contour+ preloaded
Pros
- Active Imaging 3-in-1 with CHIRP SideScan and DownScan
- ActiveTarget ready for live sonar
- Wireless
- NMEA 2000 and Ethernet networking
- Pre-loaded C-MAP Contour+ charts
- 9-inch multi-touch screen
Cons
- Only 2 left in stock
- Large connector size requires 7/8 inch hole
- 2D sonar issues reported by some users
The Lowrance Elite FS 9 bundle from GPS City is one of the more interesting side imaging fish finder deals on the market. The 9-inch multi-touch screen is the same size as the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv, but the bundle includes Active Imaging 3-in-1 plus C-MAP Contour+ with 1-foot contours on 8,900 U.S. lakes. For an angler who wants to do all of their mapping in the unit, that adds up to a real $200 or more in value.
Active Imaging 3-in-1 delivers CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan from the included transducer, and FishReveal helps read the screen faster. ActiveTarget ready means you can add the live sonar transducer later without buying a new display. Wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet networking are all included, which makes this bundle a true command center for any boat.
At 3.9 out of 5 stars, the rating is the lowest of any unit in this roundup. The 20 reviews highlight real concerns: 2D sonar issues out of the box on some units, and a 7/8-inch connector hole that requires a larger drill than most boat rigging plans call for. The seller is also a third-party (GPS City), which is great for the included C-MAP Contour+ but adds risk around returns.
For the price, this is a strong deal if you can get a unit without the 2D issue. If you prefer the safety of buying direct from Amazon, the Lowrance Elite FS 10 above or the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv are safer picks at a similar price.
Best for anglers who want full C-MAP Contour+ coverage out of the box
The preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts on 8,900 U.S. lakes save you $200 or more versus buying the card separately. For an angler who travels between lakes, this is the best bundle in this roundup.
Not ideal for buyers who want Amazon-direct fulfillment
This bundle ships from a third-party seller with limited stock. For fastest returns and Amazon-backed support, the Elite FS 10 or the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv are safer.
What to Look for When Choosing a Side Imaging Fish Finder?
Picking the best side imaging fish finder comes down to four key factors: screen size, transducer and frequency, mapping and GPS, and how well the unit integrates with your trolling motor. Across the 12 units in this roundup, those four factors account for nearly every difference in price and performance.
Screen Size and Resolution
Side imaging renders the most detail when you can see both the side image and the down image at the same time. A 7-inch screen is the minimum I would recommend for serious side imaging, and 9-inch or larger is preferable for split-screen use. The Humminbird XPLORE 10-inch and the Lowrance Elite FS 10 deliver the most usable split-screen real estate. If you only fish from a kayak or a small jon boat, 5-inch is the smallest size that still produces a readable side image, but you will be relying on quick scrolling rather than split-screen.
Transducer Frequency and Range
Higher frequency (1.2 MHz MEGA Imaging) gives sharper detail at shorter range, while lower frequency (455 kHz) gives wider coverage at the cost of clarity. Most of the units in this roundup switch between 455 kHz and 800 kHz or 1.2 MHz automatically. Humminbird MEGA Side Imaging+ on the XPLORE pushes 200 feet on each side, which is the largest range in this roundup. If you fish deep reservoirs or rivers, longer range matters more than megapixel detail.
Mapping and GPS
Preloaded maps save hours of mapping time, but most of the units in this roundup also build their own maps through AutoChart Live, Quickdraw Contours, or Genesis Live. The question is how much water you fish and how often you travel. The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv with 18,000+ lakes of Navionics+ is the strongest mapping out of the box, while the Humminbird XPLORE includes LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX cards in the box for the deepest chart premium option.
Trolling Motor Compatibility
If you run a Minn Kota or Garmin Force trolling motor, the networking options matter as much as the imaging. The XPLORE, Helix 7 G4N, and Elite FS 10 all integrate tightly with major trolling motors. The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv is the best pick for anglers running a Garmin Force motor. For Minn Kota owners, the XPLORE and Helix lineup are the safest choice thanks to One-Boat Network integration.
Side Imaging vs Down Imaging vs Live Sonar
Side imaging scans wide to the left and right of your boat, down imaging scans directly beneath the boat, and live sonar (LiveScope, ActiveTarget) shows real-time fish movement. The best side imaging fish finders in this roundup cover side and down imaging, but only the Lowrance Elite FS 10 and Elite FS 9 bundle support ActiveTarget live sonar as an upgrade. If you want real-time fish watching, plan on a Lowrance Elite FS or a Garmin LiveScope-equipped unit.
Saltwater Use
Saltwater side imaging is harder than freshwater because salt absorbs sonar faster and the deeper water reduces range. Humminbird MEGA Side Imaging+ and Lowrance Active Imaging 3-in-1 are the strongest saltwater options in this roundup. Garmin SideVu is the weakest of the three for saltwater use, but it is still usable in depths under 100 feet. If you fish inshore saltwater, the Humminbird XPLORE with MEGA Side Imaging+ is the most reliable choice.
Budget and Value
The cheapest side imaging fish finder in this roundup is the Garmin Striker 7SV at under $500, and the most expensive is the Humminbird XPLORE 10-inch at over $1,400. For most weekend anglers, the sweet spot is between $500 and $900, where you get real side imaging and CHIRP without stepping into the prosumer price range. The Striker Vivid 7sv, Helix 7 G4N, and Striker 7SV all deliver the best value in this roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Garmin or Humminbird better for Side Imaging?
Humminbird generally produces sharper side imaging detail at shallow depths thanks to MEGA Side Imaging and MEGA Side Imaging+, while Garmin’s SideVu is a strong all-around performer with better live sonar integration. For pure freshwater side imaging in shallow water, Humminbird is widely considered the leader. For saltwater or for anglers who want the best live sonar and tightest trolling motor integration, Garmin is the stronger choice.
What is a good portable fish finder with Side Imaging?
The Humminbird Helix 7 G4N MEGA SI GPS G4 is the best portable side imaging fish finder when paired with a separate battery and carrying bag. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv is another solid portable option that is lighter and easier to set up. For true ice fishing portability, the Helix 5 portable kit reviewed above is the most complete package, though it does not have full side imaging on the transducer included.
Is side scan or livescope better?
Side scan and LiveScope serve different purposes. Side scan is best for covering large areas of water quickly and locating structure, weed edges, and fish-holding cover. LiveScope is best for watching individual fish react to your lure in real time. Most tournament anglers run both systems on a single boat, with side scan on the bow and LiveScope on the trolling motor. For weekend anglers, side imaging provides more value per dollar.
Is Side Imaging or down imaging better for fishing?
Side imaging is better for finding structure and fish over a wide area, while down imaging is better for identifying fish directly beneath your boat and separating fish from the bottom. The best units in this roundup combine both. For scanning new water, side imaging is the better tool. For vertical fishing like jigging or ice fishing, down imaging is more important.
What fish finder brand has the best side imaging?
Humminbird is widely considered the best side imaging brand among freshwater anglers thanks to its MEGA Side Imaging and MEGA Side Imaging+ technology. Lowrance is the second strongest with Active Imaging 3-in-1, and Garmin is the third with SideVu. For saltwater use, the rankings shift slightly because Garmin’s SideVu handles deep water better than its freshwater performance implies.
What is the best side imaging fish finder under $500?
The Garmin Striker 7SV is the best side imaging fish finder under $500, with 560 verified reviews and a 4.6 average rating. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv and the Lowrance Eagle 7 also deliver real side imaging in the same price range. The Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G4 (411590-1) is the best sub-$500 Humminbird unit, though it is technically $580 at most retailers.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing 12 side imaging fish finders on the water, the Humminbird XPLORE 10-inch MEGA Side Imaging+ remains the best overall side imaging fish finder for serious anglers. The 200-foot side imaging range, the included LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX cards, and the deep One-Boat Network integration make it the most capable unit in this roundup. For most weekend anglers, the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 93sv delivers the best balance of screen size, brightness, and preloaded maps at a price that is closer to the mid-range.
If you are buying your first side imaging fish finder and want to spend the least amount possible, the Garmin Striker 7SV still sets the standard at just under $500. The 560 verified reviews and the 4.6 average rating give you confidence that the unit will perform. Whichever model you choose, the most important thing is to get out on the water and start scanning. Side imaging rewards practice, and after a few trips you will see structure and fish you have been missing for years.
Have a question about a specific unit or a fishing scenario I did not cover? Drop me a line in the comments, and I will help you pick the right side imaging fish finder for the way you fish. Tight lines in 2026.