Electronics

What are the advantages of the HDS series over the Elite series? Any disadvantages? Looking into new electronics and need opinions and different view points before I buy. Elite 7 vs. HDS 5. Price?

The elite 7 looks like a good unit with the down scan already integrated into the unit. Because it is just being released, you probably won’t find many reviews yet.
One thing to look at, especially right now, is for the non-touch screen HDS gen-2’s to be on sale or offer a rebate until they sell out. I got my HDS7 last year for $550 after rebate. I love the HDS, as I added on the Sirius weather and radio. I paired the Sirius with a Sonichub, all of which were on great deals at the NW Sportshow.
These add-ons aren’t available for the Elite series to my knowledge.
No matter what you do, I would go with a 7 inch screen instead of the 5. Much easier to use the split screen and still see enough of your map and graph. Look for the right deals, and you’ll be able to upgrade screen size for a decent price!
Good luck!

The Elite series is more of an entry level line of units. Not as many customization options and you won’t be able to view the side scan on any of these units.

The HDS series is a full component system expandable to left, right and down scan, Radar, Sonic Hub, Sirius Weather, and more.

BTW, the HDS Touch units are not replacing the Key Pad units. The HDS Gen 2 units are offered in Touch and Key Pad models as side by side Gen 2 models. Both are current models, neither is replacing the other, just two different options depending on personal preference.

By no means am I an expert, kinda looking around like you. But if you are not going to buy the structure scan or ever think you will upgrade to it the elite seems to be the way to go since it already has the down scan on it.

I personally wouldnt use the sirus radio either. Would be nice to hear some other pro’s and con’s of each unit. I did see the elite only has a 1 year warranty where I believe the hds has 2.

I think the Elite 7 will be an outstanding unit for a lot of fishermen. Sure it’s not an HDS unit and the price reflects that. But it’s in a price range with features that weren’t in that price range ever before.
You can read up on it HERE. Be sure to click on the Lowrance Elite 7 FAQ link.

Thanks Ben, that was a good read. Looks like it will be a nice unit.