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The lowrance elite fs 7 touchscreen alternatives list helps you find gear that matches your specific needs. This original unit offers a compact 7-inch touchscreen and preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts. It supports future expansion with Active Imaging and ActiveTarget 2 sonar. The device is lightweight at 1.9 pounds and fits well in smaller boats. However, you might prefer a different screen size, a different display type, or integrated sonar rather than buying a transducer separately.
We selected these 6 alternatives because their published specifications overlap with the original. You may want a larger 9-inch or 12-inch display for better visibility. Some anglers prefer IPS screens for clearer viewing in bright sunlight. Others need built-in Live Sonar or TripleShot HD transducers without extra wiring. This guide compares the key specs of each option so you can choose the right fit for your boat and fishing style.
Comparing Elite FS 7 Alternatives
Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder
The Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD replaces the Elite FS 7’s no-transducer design with an integrated sonar suite. You get CHIRP and Down Imaging immediately, whereas the Elite FS 7 requires a separate purchase. Both units feature a 7-inch display and C-MAP mapping. The Eagle 7 uses an IPS screen rather than a touchscreen, which may suit users who prefer button controls. It is slightly lighter at 1.5 pounds compared to the Elite FS 7’s 1.9 pounds. This model is ideal for anglers who want structure data without the hassle of selecting and wiring a compatible transducer later. It offers a practical middle ground for those who find larger 9-inch units too bulky for their small boat setup.
Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder
The Lowrance Elite FS 9 increases the display size from 7 to 9 inches, providing more screen real estate for chartplotting and sonar data. It comes with an Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer included, unlike the Elite FS 7 which requires you to buy one separately. Both units share the same C-MAP mapping and support for Active Imaging sonar technology. The larger screen benefits anglers who prioritize display clarity over compactness. However, the Elite FS 9 is wider at 14.1 inches, making it less suitable for very small installations. Choose this alternative if you have the space for a larger unit and want advanced imaging capabilities out of the box without additional hardware purchases.
Simrad GO9 XSE 9-Inch Fish Finder
The Simrad GO9 XSE shifts focus from pure sonar to advanced navigation with vector charts and radar connectivity. Like the Elite FS 7, it uses C-MAP mapping but offers a different ecosystem for networked marine electronics. The 9-inch screen is larger than the Elite FS 7’s 7-inch display, providing better visibility for charts. It weighs less at 3.5 inches in width but lacks the specific ActiveTarget 2 support found in the Elite FS 7. This unit suits boaters who value radar integration and vector chart details over the compact footprint of the Elite FS 7. It is a premium choice for those who need sophisticated navigation tools rather than just a compact fish-finding solution.
Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fish Finder
The Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar adds real-time Live Sonar visibility to the 9-inch display, a feature not available on the Elite FS 7. It includes CHIRP and DownScan imaging in one unit, whereas the Elite FS 7 relies on compatible modules for similar imaging. Both use C-MAP mapping, but the Eagle Eye 9 provides an IPS screen for better viewing angles. It weighs 2 pounds, similar to the Elite FS 7, but offers a larger 9-inch display. This alternative is best for anglers who prioritize live video of fish over the compact size of the 7-inch Elite FS 7. It integrates chartplotting and advanced sonar without needing separate expansion modules.
Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot Fish Finder
The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot offers a smaller 5-inch display, making it significantly more compact than the 7-inch Elite FS 7. It includes a SplitShot transducer for immediate sonar use, unlike the Elite FS 7 which requires a separate purchase. Both units support C-MAP mapping. The HOOK Reveal 5 weighs only 14.4 ounces, much lighter than the Elite FS 7’s 1.9 pounds. It is ideal for small boats where screen size is secondary to sonar clarity and minimal footprint. Choose this if you need a lightweight, simple solution for reliable sonar performance without the larger screen and networking features of the Elite FS 7.
Lowrance HDS PRO 12 Touchscreen Fish Finder
The Lowrance HDS PRO 12 provides a massive 12-inch display, far larger than the Elite FS 7’s 7-inch screen. It is designed for serious anglers who need extensive screen real estate and robust networking capabilities. Both units support C-MAP mapping, but the HDS PRO 12 offers significant expansion potential for sonar and radar. It weighs 11 pounds, making it unsuitable for small boats where the Elite FS 7’s 1.9 pounds is an advantage. This alternative is for those who prioritize display size and advanced system integration over compactness. It fits installations where space is not a constraint and high-end performance is the primary goal.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lowrance Elite FS 7 Touchscreen Best overall | small boats needing a compact 7-inch chartplotter | |
| 2 | Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder Best budget | Anglers needing structure data in a compact 7-inch form | |
| 3 | Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder Also great | Anglers needing large 9-inch display and Active Imaging | |
| 4 | Simrad GO9 XSE 9-Inch Fish Finder Best premium | boaters needing radar connectivity and vector charts | |
| 5 | Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fish Finder Best live sonar | Live Sonar visibility on a 9-inch display | |
| 6 | Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot Fish Finder Also great | small boats and anglers prioritizing sonar clarity | |
| 7 | Lowrance HDS PRO 12 Touchscreen Fish Finder Also great | large display and sonar expansion |
Lowrance Elite FS 7 Touchscreen
Best for: small boats needing a compact 7-inch chartplotter
- Display Size
- 7 Inch
- Sonar Technology
- Active Imaging, ActiveTarget 2
- Display Type
- Touchscreen
- Mapping
- C-MAP Contour+, C-MAP Discover
- Dimensions
- 16 × 11.4 × 5.42 inches
- Weight
- 1.9 pounds
The Lowrance Elite FS 7 Fish Finder features a 7-inch touchscreen display and supports Active Imaging and ActiveTarget 2 sonar technologies. It comes preloaded with C-MAP Contour+ and Discover charts to help you locate fish-holding areas. This unit weighs 1.9 pounds and measures 16 inches in length. It is designed for smaller installations and allows you to select compatible sonar transducers separately. It connects via NMEA 2000 and Ethernet for networked system control.
- 7-inch high-resolution touchscreen for intuitive control
- Supports Active Imaging and ActiveTarget 2 sonar
- Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ and Discover charts
- Networked control via NMEA 2000 and Ethernet
- Lightweight at 1.9 pounds for easy mounting
- 7-inch display is smaller than 9, 10, or 12-inch alternatives
- Unit does not include a transducer in the box
- 16-inch length is bulkier than compact handheld units
- You need a dedicated 7-inch screen for a small boat
- You want to choose your own compatible sonar transducer
- You require preloaded C-MAP Contour+ lake charts
- You require a display larger than 7 inches
- You want a complete package with a transducer included
- You prefer a smaller footprint under 16 inches
Verdict: Lowrance Elite FS 7 7-Inch Touchscreen fits anglers who need a compact 7-inch screen and plan to add their own sonar transducer later. It is ideal for small boats where space is limited but chart detail is essential.
Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder
Best for: Anglers needing structure data in a compact 7-inch form
- Display Size
- 7-inch
- Sonar Technology
- CHIRP, SideScan, DownScan, FishReveal
- Display Type
- IPS
- Mapping
- C-MAP inland, Genesis Live
- Dimensions
- 8.89 × 3.48 × 5.5 inches
- Weight
- 1.5 pounds
The Lowrance Eagle 7 is a 7-inch fish finder featuring an IPS display and TripleShot HD sonar. It combines SideScan, DownScan, and CHIRP to cover a wider area. The unit includes C-MAP US Inland charts for over 17,000 lakes. Its balanced screen size fits well where a 9-inch unit is too large. It suits anglers who want detailed structure data without a larger footprint.
- IPS display provides clear viewing angles
- TripleShot HD combines SideScan, DownScan, and CHIRP
- Includes C-MAP US Inland charts for 17,000+ lakes
- FishReveal overlays CHIRP targets on DownScan images
- 7-inch screen is smaller than the 9-inch options on this list
- 1.5-pound weight is heavier than the 5-inch HOOK Reveal model
- You want a balance between screen size and mounting space
- You need detailed structure imaging with SideScan and DownScan
- You fish in US inland waters with C-MAP charts
- You prefer a larger 9-inch or 12-inch display
- You want the most compact and lightweight unit available
- You do not need SideScan or DownScan sonar
Verdict: Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder offers a practical middle ground with its 7-inch IPS screen and comprehensive sonar suite. It fits anglers who need detailed structure data but find 9-inch units too bulky for their setup.
Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder
Best for: Anglers needing large 9-inch display and Active Imaging
- Display Size
- 9 Inch
- Sonar Technology
- Active Imaging 3-in-1
- Mapping
- C-MAP Contour+
- Dimensions
- 16 × 14.1 × 5.54 inches
This Lowrance Elite FS 9 features a 9-inch display and Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar. It includes preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts for navigation. The unit measures 16 inches in length and 14.1 inches in width. It suits anglers who want a larger screen for clearer sonar images. The Active Imaging technology provides detailed underwater views. This model is a solid alternative for those needing more display real estate than smaller units offer.
- 9-inch display size for better visibility
- Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar technology
- Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts
- Compact 5.54-inch height for easy mounting
- 9-inch screen is larger than the 7-inch alternatives
- 16-inch length requires more dashboard space
- 14.1-inch width may not fit smaller consoles
- You need a larger 9-inch display for clearer sonar readings
- You want Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar for detailed underwater views
- You have ample space for a 16-inch long unit
- You prefer a smaller 7-inch or 5-inch display
- You have limited dashboard space for a 14-inch wide unit
- You do not need preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts
Verdict: Lowrance Elite FS 9 9-Inch offers a larger screen and advanced sonar for anglers with space. It fits those prioritizing display size and imaging detail over compactness.
Simrad GO9 XSE 9-Inch Fish Finder
Best for: boaters needing radar connectivity and vector charts
- Display Size
- 9-inch
- Sonar Technology
- CHIRP, DownScan Imaging
- Mapping
- C-MAP DISCOVER
- Features
- GPS
- Dimensions
- 11.3 × 3.5 × 6.55 inches
The Simrad GO9 XSE is a 9-inch multifunction display designed for sportboats and center consoles. It includes a C-MAP Discover chart card with vector charts and bathymetric contours. The HDI transducer supports Medium and High CHIRP sonar along with DownScan Imaging for clear structure views. Built-in NMEA 2000 connectivity allows integration with radar and smartphone mirroring for expanded functionality.
- 9-inch display size for clear visibility
- Includes C-MAP Discover vector charts
- HDI transducer with DownScan Imaging
- Radar ready with plug-and-play connectivity
- NMEA 2000 integration options
- 9-inch screen is smaller than the 12-inch HDS PRO 12 on this list
- HDI transducer lacks the Active Imaging 3-in-1 capability found in the Elite FS 9
- No built-in GPS mentioned, requiring external integration
- You want a larger 9-inch screen for better visibility
- You need radar connectivity for safer cruising
- You prefer C-MAP Discover vector charts
- You require a 12-inch display for maximum detail
- You need Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer support
- You want a built-in GPS without external integration
Verdict: Simrad GO9 XSE 9-inch Chartplotter suits boaters who value radar connectivity and vector charts over the largest available screen size.
Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fish Finder
Best for: Live Sonar visibility on a 9-inch display
- Display Size
- 9-inch
- Sonar Technology
- Live Forward, Live Down, CHIRP, DownScan
- Display Type
- IPS
- Mapping
- C-MAP inland, Genesis Live
- Dimensions
- 11.3 × 3.54 × 6.39 inches
- Weight
- 2 pounds
This 9-inch IPS fish finder integrates Live Forward and Live Down sonar with CHIRP and DownScan Imaging. It includes C-MAP US Inland charts and uses a single transducer for direct connection to the display. The unit offers high-resolution mapping and real-time fish movement visualization. It suits anglers who want detailed sonar views and chartplotting in a single, compact 2-pound package without extra modules.
- 9-inch IPS display for clear viewing
- Live Forward and Live Down sonar views
- One transducer provides CHIRP, DownScan, and Live Sonar
- Includes C-MAP US Inland charts
- Direct transducer connection without separate module
- 9-inch screen is smaller than the 12-inch option on this list
- 2-pound weight is heavier than the 5-inch HOOK Reveal
- Includes only C-MAP US Inland charts, not Discover OnBoard
- You want Live Sonar visibility on a 9-inch screen
- You need CHIRP and DownScan in one transducer
- You prefer direct transducer connection without extra modules
- You need a screen larger than 9 inches
- You require the Discover OnBoard chart package
- You want the lightest possible unit under 2 pounds
Verdict: Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar fits anglers who prioritize real-time Live Sonar and detailed CHIRP/DownScan imaging on a 9-inch IPS display. It is a solid choice for those who want integrated chartplotting and sonar without adding separate modules.
Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot Fish Finder
Best for: small boats and anglers prioritizing sonar clarity
- Display Size
- 5-inch
- Sonar Technology
- CHIRP, DownScan Imaging
- Display Type
- SolarMAX
- Mapping
- C-MAP US Inland, Genesis Live
- Dimensions
- 9.02 × 7.13 × 7.52 inches
- Weight
- 14.4 ounces
The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot is a 5-inch fish finder designed for anglers who want clear underwater visibility. It uses CHIRP and DownScan Imaging to identify fish and structure. The unit includes a SplitShot transducer and preloaded C-MAP US Inland maps. Its SolarMAX display ensures readability in bright sunlight. This model suits those who prioritize sonar clarity over large screen real estate.
- 5-inch SolarMAX display for daylight visibility
- CHIRP and DownScan Imaging sonar technology
- SplitShot transducer included for detailed views
- Autotuning sonar adjusts to conditions automatically
- Preloaded C-MAP US Inland maps
- 5-inch screen is smaller than the 7, 9, and 12-inch options on this list
- Weighs 14.4 ounces, which is lighter but offers less presence than larger units
- Lacks the Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer found in the Elite FS 9
- You want a compact unit for a small boat
- You value high-resolution sonar images over a large display
- You fish primarily on US inland lakes
- You need a screen larger than 5 inches
- You require Active Imaging 3-in-1 technology
- You prefer a 12-inch display for maximum visibility
Verdict: Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot fits anglers who need reliable sonar clarity in a compact, lightweight package. It is ideal for small boats where screen size is secondary to performance.
Lowrance HDS PRO 12 Touchscreen Fish Finder
Best for: large display and sonar expansion
- Display Size
- 12"
- Display Type
- SolarMAX HD touchscreen
- Mapping
- C-MAP DISCOVER OnBoard
- Dimensions
- 15.4 × 17.3 × 6.8 inches
- Weight
- 11 pounds
This Lowrance HDS PRO features a 12-inch SolarMAX HD touchscreen for clear visibility in bright conditions. It supports Active Imaging HD and ActiveTarget 2 for detailed sonar readings. The unit includes preloaded C-MAP Discover charts for navigation. It weighs 11 pounds and measures 17.3 inches wide. This model suits anglers needing a large display and expandable sonar capabilities for larger vessels.
- 12-inch SolarMAX HD touchscreen display
- Supports Active Imaging HD and ActiveTarget 2
- Preloaded C-MAP Discover charts
- Bow-to-stern networking via Ethernet and NMEA 2000
- 12-inch size is larger than the 9-inch options on this list
- 11-pound weight is heavier than smaller units
- 17.3-inch width requires more mounting space
- You need a large 12-inch display for multi-panel layouts
- You want expandable sonar with ActiveTarget 2 support
- You have space for a 17.3-inch wide unit
- You prefer a smaller 9-inch or 10-inch display
- You need a lighter unit under 10 pounds
- You want a compact setup with less mounting space
Verdict: Lowrance HDS PRO 12 Fish Finder offers a large 12-inch display and robust networking for serious anglers. It fits those prioritizing screen real estate and sonar expansion over compact size.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Lowrance Elite FS 7 Touchscreen | Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder | Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder | Simrad GO9 XSE 9-Inch Fish Finder | Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fish Finder | Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot Fish Finder | Lowrance HDS PRO 12 Touchscreen Fish Finder |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 7 Inch | 7-inch | 9 Inch | 9-inch | 9-inch | 5-inch | 12" |
| Sonar Technology | Active Imaging, ActiveTarget 2 | CHIRP, SideScan, DownScan, FishReveal | Active Imaging 3-in-1 | CHIRP, DownScan Imaging | Live Forward, Live Down, CHIRP, DownScan | CHIRP, DownScan Imaging | – |
| Display Type | Touchscreen | IPS | – | – | IPS | SolarMAX | SolarMAX HD touchscreen |
| Mapping | C-MAP Contour+, C-MAP Discover | C-MAP inland, Genesis Live | C-MAP Contour+ | C-MAP DISCOVER | C-MAP inland, Genesis Live | C-MAP US Inland, Genesis Live | C-MAP DISCOVER OnBoard |
| Size | 7 Inch | 7 Inch | 9 Inch | 9 Inch | 9 Inch | 5 Inch SplitShot | 12 Inch |
| Features | – | – | – | GPS | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 16 × 11.4 × 5.42 inches | 8.89 × 3.48 × 5.5 inches | 16 × 14.1 × 5.54 inches | 11.3 × 3.5 × 6.55 inches | 11.3 × 3.54 × 6.39 inches | 9.02 × 7.13 × 7.52 inches | 15.4 × 17.3 × 6.8 inches |
| Weight | 1.9 pounds | 1.5 pounds | – | – | 2 pounds | 14.4 ounces | 11 pounds |
| Color | No Transducer | Black | Active Imaging 3-in-1 | Black | Black | 4000 US Lake Map | Black |
| Model | 000-15703-001 | 000-16120-001 | – | 000-13211-002 | 000-16129-001 | 000-15500-001 | 000-16002-001 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the best budget alternative to the Elite FS 7?
The Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder is the best budget option. It features a 7-inch IPS screen and includes CHIRP and Down Imaging sonar technology. This unit weighs 1.5 pounds and measures 8.89 inches in length, making it compact for smaller boats. It provides structure data without requiring separate transducer purchases.
Which unit offers the largest display size?
The Lowrance HDS PRO 12 Touchscreen Fish Finder provides the largest 12-inch display. It weighs 11 pounds and measures 15.4 inches in length. This model is designed for anglers who prioritize screen real estate and sonar expansion. It supports robust networking capabilities for serious fishing applications.
Is there a 9-inch model with Live Sonar?
Yes, the Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fish Finder includes Live Sonar on a 9-inch IPS display. It also features CHIRP and Down Imaging technologies. The unit weighs 2 pounds and measures 11.3 inches in length. It integrates chartplotting and sonar functions into a single device.
Which alternative is best for radar connectivity?
The Simrad GO9 XSE 9-Inch Fish Finder is best for radar connectivity. It supports vector charts and fits boaters who value connectivity over maximum screen size. The unit measures 11.3 inches in length and 6.55 inches in height. It provides a compact 9-inch display for navigation and sonar.
What is the lightest option available?
The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot Fish Finder is the lightest option at 14.4 ounces. It features a 5-inch SplitShot display and weighs significantly less than larger models. The unit measures 9.02 inches in length. It is ideal for small boats where weight and compactness are priorities.
Does the Elite FS 9 include Active Imaging?
Yes, the Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder includes Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar. It features a 9-inch display for anglers needing larger screens and advanced imaging. The unit measures 16 inches in length and 14.1 inches in width. It prioritizes display size and imaging detail over compactness.
Which model has an IPS display?
Two models feature IPS displays: the Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD and the Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar. Both provide clear visibility and contrast. The Eagle 7 measures 8.89 inches in length, while the Eagle Eye 9 measures 11.3 inches in length. Both include C-MAP mapping.
Can I get a 7-inch unit with integrated sonar?
The Lowrance Eagle 7 TripleShot HD Fish Finder offers a 7-inch screen with integrated sonar. It includes CHIRP and Down Imaging technologies. The unit weighs 1.5 pounds and measures 5.5 inches in height. It is designed for anglers needing detailed structure data in a compact form.
