We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy
Home
All Categories
Electronics
Car & Vehicle Electronics
Depth Finders

10 Best Depth Finders 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

Lowrance

10.0 score

Check price

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder is a well-rounded device suitable for anglers seeking detailed underwater views and advanced fishing features. One of its standout strengths is the Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, which includes CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan capabilities. This combination allows users to see underwater structures and fish with high clarity. The inclusion of FishReveal helps in distinguishing fish from other objects, making it easier to identify targets. Additionally, the device supports ActiveTarget Live Sonar, providing real-time images of fish movements and reactions to lures, which can enhance the fishing experience considerably.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,177
Display
GPS Integration
CHIRP Technology

Most important from
535 reviews

Display
Users find the 9-inch multi-touch LCD screen easy to navigate and read, even in bright sunlight.
GPS Integration
The preloaded maps on the Lowrance Elite FS 9 are highly appreciated, making navigation and fishing easy and enjoyable.
CHIRP Technology
The device's advanced sonar capabilities, including CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan, offer unparalleled detail compared to older models.
#2
10.0 score

Garmin 010-02550-00 Striker Vivid 4cv, Easy-to-Use 4-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Color Palettes

Garmin 010-02550-00 Striker Vivid 4cv, Easy-to-Use 4-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Color Palettes

Garmin

10.0 score

Check price

The Garmin Striker Vivid 4cv is a compact and user-friendly depth finder ideal for anglers who want a clear view of underwater fish and structures. Its 4-inch color display uses vivid scanning color palettes, making it easier to spot fish and details below the surface. The included GT20 transducer supports Garmin's CHIRP traditional sonar and ClearVü scanning sonar, which provide better detail and clearer images compared to older sonar types, resulting in more accurate fish and bottom readings.

Rating
10.0
Display
GPS Integration

Most important from
2084 reviews

Display
The display size and clarity make it easy to spot fish and navigate even in challenging conditions like fog.
GPS Integration
The built-in GPS significantly improves navigation, offering precise guidance to fishing spots.
#3
10.0 score

Humminbird Helix 5 G3 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar

15%OFF

Humminbird Helix 5 G3 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar

Humminbird

10.0 score

Check price

The Humminbird 411660-1 Helix 5 Chirp GPS G3 is a user-friendly depth-finder that offers a range of features tailored to enhance your fishing experience. The keypad control system is intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the pre-loaded views using softkey controls. This ensures that you can operate the fish finder effectively in various conditions. The Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar is notable for its detailed imaging, allowing you to see clear fish arches and underwater structures. You can switch between Wide Mode for broader coverage and Narrow Mode for more precise details, providing flexibility depending on your fishing needs.

Rating
10.0
Transducer
GPS Integration
Portability

Most important from
292 reviews

Transducer
The unit arrived looking brand new, complete with a new transducer, power cord, and instruction manual, and it works perfectly.
GPS Integration
I upgraded from a Gen2 to this Gen3, and it's an upgrade at a lower cost. The GPS and maps are easy to use, fast, and accurate.
Portability
The transom mount unit has plenty of cable for most 30-foot or smaller boats and is super easy to mount.

Top 10 Best Depth Finders 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Lowrance

Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

Power: 12 Volt DC
Display: 9-inch LCD
Transducer: Active Imaging 3-in-1
CHIRP Technology: Yes
Portability: 4.53 kg

Check price

Chosen by 1177 this week

#2
10.0  score
Slide 1Slide 2

Garmin

Garmin 010-02550-00 Striker Vivid 4cv, Easy-to-Use 4-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Color Palettes

Display: 4-inch color LCD
Transducer: GT20 transducer
GPS Integration: built-in high-sensitivity GPS
CHIRP Technology: Garmin's CHIRP traditional sonar
Portability: 2-pound weight, compact size

Check price

#3
10.0  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Humminbird

Humminbird Helix 5 G3 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, Dual Spectrum Chirp Sonar

Power: Corded Electric
Display: 5-inch LCD
Transducer: XNT 9 HW T transducer
GPS Integration: Internal GPS with Basemap
CHIRP Technology: Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar

Check price

15% OFF
#4
10.0  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Humminbird

Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging+ & HD Touchscreen Display

Display: 9-inch Full HD, 1280 x 720
Transducer: Included
GPS Integration: Built-in GPS with Basemap
CHIRP Technology: Dual Spectrum CHIRP
Portability: 9 pounds

Check price

#5
9.9  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Garmin

Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer - Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)

Power: Battery Powered
Display: LCD
Transducer: GT20-TM
GPS Integration: High-sensitivity GPS
CHIRP Technology: Garmin CHIRP sonar and ClearVü
Portability: 4.4 pounds, 3.4"L x 6.1"W

Check price

#6
9.8  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Garmin

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv with GT56 Transducer, 9" Touchscreen Chartplotter, Garmin Navionics+ U.S. Coastal

Display: 9-inch, 1024 x 600
Transducer: GT56-TM
GPS Integration: Garmin Navionics+ charts
CHIRP Technology: Yes
Portability: 8.08 pounds

Check price

#7
9.7  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Garmin

Garmin Striker Vivid 5cv, Easy-to-Use 5-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02551-00)

Power: Battery Powered
Display: 5-inch color LCD
Transducer: GT20-TM
GPS Integration: high-sensitivity GPS
CHIRP Technology: CHIRP sonar and ClearVü sonar
Portability: portable

Check price

7% OFF
#8
9.6  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4

Garmin

Garmin 010-01870-00 Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam transducer

Check price

11% OFF
#9
9.4  score
Slide 1

Garmin

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)

Power: 500 W (RMS)
Display: 7-inch WVGA, 800 x 480
Transducer: CV52HW-TM transducer
GPS Integration: Built-in GPS
CHIRP Technology: CHIRP sonar, ClearVü, SideVü
Portability: 1.7 pounds, battery-powered

Check price

#10
9.2  score
Slide 1Slide 2Slide 3Slide 4Slide 5

Humminbird

Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder with Transducer, MEGA Side Imaging

Power: DC Power Supply
Display: 7-inch color TFT
Transducer: Low-Q CHIRP transducer
GPS Integration: Internal GPS with Basemap
CHIRP Technology: Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar

Check price

7% OFF
How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Buying Guide for the Best Depth Finders

Choosing the right depth-finder can significantly enhance your fishing or boating experience. A depth-finder, also known as a fish finder or sonar, helps you determine the depth of the water and locate fish. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the essential specs to consider when selecting a depth-finder.
FrequencyFrequency refers to the sonar waves emitted by the depth-finder. It is important because different frequencies are suitable for different depths and types of water. Low frequencies (50 kHz) penetrate deeper waters and are ideal for deep-sea fishing, while high frequencies (200 kHz) provide better detail and are suitable for shallow waters. If you fish in various environments, a dual-frequency or multi-frequency depth-finder might be the best choice.
PowerPower is measured in watts and determines the strength of the sonar signal. Higher power allows the depth-finder to send stronger signals, which can penetrate deeper waters and provide clearer images. For deep-sea fishing, a depth-finder with higher power (500 watts or more) is recommended. For shallow waters, lower power (100-300 watts) is usually sufficient. Consider the typical depth of the waters you navigate to choose the appropriate power level.
DisplayThe display is where you view the sonar readings. It is important because a clear and easy-to-read display can make a big difference in usability. Displays come in various sizes and resolutions. Larger screens with higher resolutions provide better detail and are easier to read, especially in bright sunlight. If you need to see detailed images or have multiple readings on the screen simultaneously, opt for a larger, high-resolution display.
TransducerThe transducer is the component that sends and receives sonar signals. It is crucial because it directly affects the performance of the depth-finder. Transducers come in different types, such as single, dual, and multi-beam. Single-beam transducers are suitable for basic depth readings, while dual and multi-beam transducers provide more detailed and wider coverage. Choose a transducer based on the level of detail and coverage you need.
GPS IntegrationGPS integration combines depth-finding with navigation capabilities. This is important for marking fishing spots, navigating to specific locations, and tracking your route. If you frequently fish in unfamiliar waters or need precise navigation, a depth-finder with built-in GPS can be very beneficial. For casual or recreational use, GPS integration might be less critical.
CHIRP TechnologyCHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) technology sends a continuous range of frequencies, providing more detailed and accurate sonar images. This is important for distinguishing between different types of underwater objects and getting clearer images of fish and structures. If you need high precision and detail, especially in challenging conditions, a depth-finder with CHIRP technology is a good choice. For basic depth readings, CHIRP may not be necessary.
PortabilityPortability refers to the ease of transporting and installing the depth-finder. This is important if you use multiple boats or need a device that can be easily moved. Portable depth-finders are typically smaller and battery-operated, making them convenient for temporary setups. If you have a permanent installation on a single boat, a fixed depth-finder might be more suitable. Consider how and where you will use the device to determine the right level of portability.

FAQ