Budget echo sounders: rating of simple branded models, features, advantages

Which echo sounder is better to buy?

Regardless of the nature of use, when purchasing an echo sounder, you should take into account a number of technical features of the model.

The main ones include transmitter power, receiver sensitivity, converter operating frequency, display parameters and device cost.

The transmitter power value determines the strength of the signal sent to the bottom.

The required indicator depends on the depth of the reservoir in which it is planned to use the device:

For fishing in rivers or small lakes, 100-150 W will be enough.
Effective use of an echo sounder at sea will require at least 400 watts of power from the device.

The quality of the received signal also depends on the sensitivity of the receiver. A low indicator will not allow you to pick up even a powerful signal, while a too high one will negatively affect the quality of the transmission.

To use an echo sounder in reservoirs of varying depths, we recommend choosing models equipped with a receiver sensitivity regulator.

To effectively fish with a fish finder, you must use it correctly. Before activating the device, it is important to make sure that there are no air bubbles in the water that could interfere with the signal. Obtaining a clear picture of the bottom of the reservoir is noticeably easier if you direct the beam of the device at different angles.

The permissible depth for scanning is affected by the operating frequency of the transducer. The lower the value set, the greater the distance underwater the echo sounder can survey. However, at a high frequency, the resulting image will be clearer and more detailed. The choice depends on the depth of the reservoir in which you plan to use the device.

Additional important characteristics of the device include its cost, size and contrast of the display, as well as the number of rays. The accessibility of the model, the ease of working with it, and the permissible viewing angle depend on them. Read more about the criteria for choosing an echo sounder in a separate article.

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How to choose an inexpensive echo sounder for fishing?

Many brand name fish finders cost more than models from lesser-known companies. Although the differences in quality and performance of basic functions may be minor.

Experienced fishermen always pay attention to the technical characteristics of the product when purchasing. This helps you choose one that will work properly and efficiently. What to look for when buying an echo sounder:

1. Power and sensitivity of the sensor. The sonar performance depends on how strong the sound waves come out and how quickly they return.

2. The distance to objects and their display on the screen depends on the frequency of the rays. Narrow beams work well at great depths, and wide ones in small bodies of water. But it is better to take a combined model with two beams.

3. Don’t forget about the main function of the echo sounder – searching for fish. If the device detects fish within a range of 0.5 meters, this is a good indicator.

It is quite difficult to choose indicators that will suit everyone. Some people pay attention to the characteristics of the screen, the strength of the case, the dimensions of the device, etc. All this is somewhat secondary, if we do not forget that an echo sounder is purchased to scan the bottom and look for fish.

Best Boat Fish Finders

Such models are distinguished by a multi-beam signal, which allows them to scan large areas of the bottom.

Garmin Striker Plus 4CV

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The model has mapping software that stores information about the bottom topography over an area of up to 8,000 km².

The receiver is equipped with a GPS module, thanks to which the device is able to mark waypoints and track the speed of the vessel.

The device display has a diagonal of 4.3 inches and maintains high image quality in bright sunlight or bad weather.

The peak power of the transmitter is 300 W. The device has additional features such as a water temperature graph and real-time tracking of fish movement.

Advantages:

intuitive controls;
waterproof;
GPS and GLONASS support;
capacious memory;
map drawing function.

Flaws:

weak fastening.

The Garmin Striker Plus 4CV is designed for use on a boat moving at speeds up to 30 km/h. An excellent solution for lake fishing.

Simrad GO7

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

95%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The main features of the model include a wide screen and high sensitivity of the receiver. The LED display provides good visibility and no glare in daylight conditions.

The device's interface is customizable, and NMEA 2000 network compatibility allows it to be integrated with sensors for speed, fuel level, water temperature, etc. The GPS antenna updates the vessel's location 10 times per second, which provides real-time motion tracking.

Advantages:

high sensitivity;
control of boat performance;
Wi-Fi support;
ease of setup and management.

Flaws:

lack of a transducer in the package.

Simrad GO7 is suitable for use on powerboats or sports boats. The device's highly sensitive antenna is capable of receiving the transmitter signal in both lake and sea fishing conditions.

Deeper Smart Sonar CHIRP+

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

89%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The main distinguishing characteristics of this model are high image resolution and signal transmission accuracy. It is provided by using CHIRP technology, which sends several pulses into the water at different frequencies.

To solve various problems on the water, three beams are available to the user: 100, 290 and 675 kHz. Their varying frequency not only makes it easier to find places where fish accumulate, but also allows you to obtain accurate information about the structural features and size of an individual individual.

Advantages:

Wi-Fi support;
three-beam scanning;
capacious battery;
detailed image.

Flaws:

short operating time.

Deeper Smart Sonar CHIRP+ can be used to catch saltwater fish. The detail error is 1 centimeter, which guarantees high accuracy of data transmission at a depth of up to 100 meters.

Humminbird Piranha MAX 4

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

This model has a large scanning depth and has status signaling. The device promptly notifies the owner about the presence of fish, the beam reaching the desired depth and the battery being discharged.

Peak output power is 2400 W, transducer frequency is 200 kHz. The device is equipped with backlight and image magnification functions. With its help you can find out the characteristics of the bottom, the size of the fish and use GPS.

Advantages:

permissible depth - 200 meters;
protection from dust and moisture;
temperature sensor;
powerful transmitter;
Ease of use.

Flaws:

lack of speed indicator.

The Humminbird Piranha is used for fishing in deep water. The device remembers the settings, is easy to operate and is affordable.

Raymarine Element 7 HV

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

85%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

High quality scanning of the echo sounder is ensured by the RealVision 3D system. It combines the functions of a three-dimensional sonar with a frequency of 1.2 MHz and a multifunctional cartograph, allowing the user to independently create a map of the bottom or mark the location of the fish.

The performance of the device is guaranteed by a quad-core processor and the LightHouse Sport operating system. The device transmits detailed images from a depth of up to 270 meters with a viewing angle adjustable up to 70°.

Advantages:

wide screen;
high sensitivity;
large permissible depth;
storage capacity - 8 GB.

Flaws:

lack of touchscreen.

The Raymarine Element 7 HV is a versatile fish finder for fishing at various depths. The wide mapping capabilities of the device will be useful not only for fishing, but also in research activities.

The best coastal echo sounders

Such models are designed to search for places where fish accumulate by detecting various holes, channels and other relief features underwater. They are distinguished by a wide viewing angle, small dimensions and, at the same time, poor detail, but they are much cheaper than their boat counterparts.

Inshore echo sounders are used by experienced fishermen to quickly scan large areas of the bottom.

FishHunter Directional 3D

5.0

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

The main feature of the model is the five-beam transducer mechanism, consisting of several three-frequency sensors that supply signals at frequencies of 381, 475 and 675 kHz. This allows you to visualize objects in detail at a depth of up to 50 meters.

The transmitter power is 300 W, the viewing angle of each beam can reach 80°. The user has access to the function of creating a three-dimensional map of the scanned bottom area.

The echo sounder connects to a smartphone via Wi-Fi and allows you to adjust the signal strength as well as the sensitivity of the receiver.

Advantages:

flexible setup;
operating time up to 10 hours;
five-beam transmitter;
3D mapping function.

Flaws:

high price.

FishHunter Directional 3D is suitable for long-term coastal fishing. It is easy to operate and can be used on a country trip or on vacation.

GSMIN WA3

5.0

★★★★★

editorial assessment

98%

buyers recommend this product

The model features a reliable shock-resistant case and an LED display. The viewing angle of the device is 105°, which allows you to quickly assess the condition of the selected fishing area and increases fishing productivity.

The device is easy to operate and does not require special skills when connecting for the first time. It is controlled remotely from a distance of up to 50 meters and is capable of working without interruption for 5 hours.

Lucky FFW718

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

90%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The model is equipped with a single-beam scanner and a high-contrast LCD screen with adjustable backlight.

The operating viewing angle of the device is 90°, the frequency of the converter is 125 kHz. This allows you to obtain detailed images at a distance under water of up to 45 meters.

Additional functions of the device include automatic recognition of moving objects and determination of water temperature.

The echo sounder notifies the user of the appearance of a fish with a sound signal, displays the distance to it and indicates the size of the fish.

Advantages:

wide viewing angle;
sound alerts;
long work;
portability.

Flaws:

instability of the receiver to water.

Lucky FFW718 will be an excellent and inexpensive solution for lake or river fishing. It is easy to carry and control over long distances, making it easier to use the fish finder in unfamiliar areas.

Vexilar Sonar Phone SP100

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

Thanks to Wi-Fi support, the model can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet. To do this, you need to install the manufacturer's application.

The device displays the contour of the bottom, successfully detects shallows and channels, and notifies the user when a fish is found.

The peak power of the device is 400 W, the signal frequency is 125 kHz. It can be attached to the fishing rod float to improve the efficiency of use. It uses a built-in battery or a set of batteries as a power source.

Advantages:

compactness;
high transmitter power;
remote control;
waterproof.

Flaws:

does not display small fish.

The Vexilar Sonar Phone SP100 is worth purchasing for fishing in a river or lake no more than 90 meters deep. Small dimensions and ease of operation will provide comfort to owners of smartphones with Internet access.

ReelSonar iBobber Classic

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

84%

buyers recommend this product

The weight of the model is only 50 grams. In appearance and shape it is indistinguishable from a fishing float.

The echo sounder is controlled using a smartphone application running on iOS and Android operating systems.

Thanks to its light weight and compactness, the device can be thrown over a long distance. Its additional features include an LED beacon for night fishing, bite alerts, and automatic connection restoration in the event of a short-term signal loss.

Advantages:

viewing angle - 90°;
compact size and light weight;
Bluetooth support;
automatic switching on in water.

Flaws:

rapid battery drain.

The ReelSonar iBobber Classic is easy to use and controlled via your smartphone. The scanning depth is 40 meters, which allows it to be used for river and lake fishing.

Choosing an echo sounder for fishing from a PVC boat

With the help of properly selected echolocation equipment, fishing productivity increases. The main purpose of such a device is to detect the most fishing spots, display the structure of the bottom, measure water temperature and other indicators.

offers an optimal range of echo sounders with high functional characteristics. If we choose an echo sounder for fishing from a PVC boat, we need to take into account several important criteria that will help us choose the most optimal model. The domestic echo sounder Praktik 7 Wi-Fi is not inferior in quality to its foreign counterparts. Their effectiveness has been proven in practice, which is confirmed by numerous positive reviews from fishing enthusiasts.

What is important to consider when we choose an echo sounder for fishing from a PVC boat?

Every fisherman who devotes a lot of time to fishing knows that the main purpose of echolocation equipment is not only to detect places where fish accumulate. With its help, you can get a complete picture of the features of a reservoir, measure its depth, and determine the location of obstacles and holes.

As a rule, most of the fish are found in the areas of holes and depressions, so before fishing you need to carefully study the bottom topography. When wondering which echo sounder to buy for fishing from a boat, you need to consider the following features:

Signal quality and range. Modern devices of the Praktik brand provide connection with a device that transmits an image at a distance of up to 90 m.
Screen. The quality of the monitor can be provided by special blocks that are included with the equipment. There are also wireless models that can be paired with tablets and smartphones running Apple or Android iOS software.
Monitor resolution. The higher the screen resolution and the number of shades, the more interesting the picture turns out.
Fastening. To prevent the unit and sensor from getting lost in the water, it is important that they are securely attached. Practician echo sounders can easily be mounted on the transom of a boat using a special clamp.
Measuring additional indicators. For professional fishermen, the advantage will be the ability to build depth maps and mark interesting and promising places, as well as measure water temperature, which allows you to make a forecast of fish activity. These also include: the presence of an ECO mode, a night mode, and the ability to regulate signal strength.
Number of rays. The breadth of coverage of the area depends on the number of rays. But at the same time, the more there are, the more often there are “dead” zones that do not fall into the viewing angle.
Signal strength. The indicator depends on 2 factors - transmitter power and sensor sensitivity. The image will be clearer if you choose models with high signal transmission power.

Echo sounders for fishing from a boat can be wireless, providing data transmission using a Wi-Fi channel. Such models are the most practical to use.

Which echo sounder to buy for fishing from a boat

All models presented on the site are equipped with several useful functions. Basically, they are universal, used for winter and summer fishing, in deep and shallow water. The most popular Praktik models are: “7 Wi-Fi”, “ER-6Pro2”, “ER-6Pro2 Premium”. The choice of an echo sounder for fishing from a boat should be based on the conditions of its use, taking into account the type of fishing. Our consultants will help you choose the most effective device, taking into account the area in which it will be used. Each product comes with a warranty.

The best fish finders for ice fishing

The main features of such models are their adaptability to long-term exposure to cold water and stable operation at temperatures down to -20 °C. To do this, specialized “winter” sensors are installed in echo sounders.

Such devices are used for fishing through a hole or ice hole and are characterized by a small scanning angle.

Marcum Showdown Troller 2.0

5.0

★★★★★

editorial assessment

100%

buyers recommend this product

Features of the model are the presence of a sensitivity and scanning angle regulator. This allows flexible configuration of the device based on the characteristics of a particular hole or ice hole.

The transmitter power is 400 W, the beam coverage angle is 20°. Comfort when using the device is ensured by a high-contrast screen, ten levels of noise reduction and LED backlighting for night fishing.

Advantages:

battery life about 20 hours;
powerful sensor;
fixation at the selected depth;
convenient adjustment.

Flaws:

high price.

Marcum Showdown Troller 2.0 is easy to operate and configure. It is worth purchasing for long and effective winter fishing on reservoirs with different bottom topography.

Practitioner 6M

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

93%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The model received a shock-resistant sealed case, a frost-resistant cable and a sensor resistant to temperatures down to -20 °C.

The device is controlled using 4 buttons and is capable of displaying not only the movement of the fish, but also the density of the soil, the depth of the reservoir, and the bottom topography.

The device is powered by an AA battery and can operate without interruption for about 100 hours. The user has the ability to adjust the transmitter power and filter the reflection of objects on the screen.

Advantages:

frost resistance;
flexible adjustment;
information content;
long work.

Flaws:

not very convenient controls.

Practitioner 6M is designed specifically for winter fishing. The strength and durability of the device guarantee a long service life of the echo sounder during active use.

Craft Echo 200 Ice

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

89%

buyers recommend this product

The main features of the model include the presence of a flasher mode and audible status signaling.

The device allows you to monitor the situation under water in real time and promptly notifies the user when a fish is detected or the battery is low.

The viewing angle of the device is 40°, the maximum scanning depth is 24 meters. The echo sounder is suitable for finding fish in both fresh and salt water. The universal transducer mount allows you to use it for fishing from the shore or from a boat.

Advantages:

long sensor cable;
sound notification;
sensitive receiver;
flasher mode;
universal application.

Flaws:

rapid battery drain.

Craft Echo 200 Ice is worth purchasing for ice fishing enthusiasts who value the speed and accuracy of an echo sounder. The universal sensor mount makes the device multitasking.

Lowrance FishHunter Pro

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The spherical shape of the device is perfect for use in a hole. The model can be controlled using a mobile application and a Wi-Fi connection with a smartphone at a distance of up to 60 meters.

The device has a three-frequency sensor with ranges of 381, 475 and 675 kHz. It is distinguished by stable operation at temperatures down to -30 °C.

The echo sounder has a special mode of operation in shallow water, which makes fishing in the ice hole most effective.

Advantages:

sensitivity regulator;
maximum depth - 50 meters;
Wi-Fi support;
powerful radiation of 300 W.

Flaws:

lack of autonomous operation.

The Lowrance FishHunter Pro's frost-resistant housing, powerful transmitter and long cable allow you to fish through holes in thick ice. Ease of control and a wide frequency range also distinguish the device from its analogues.

Echo sounders for winter fishing

Deeper Smart Sonar Pro

The winter rating starts with a device that can work at any time of the year. This echo sounder can work not only on small rivers, but also on reservoirs. It is equipped with wireless data transmission via Wi-Fi. It is worth noting that initially the Internet does not work on the device. In order for the data transfer function to appear, software must be downloaded to the echo sounder from the manufacturer’s official website. After this, Wi-Fi will become available.

The device has 2 scanning beams built in, thanks to which you can see even the smallest fish. Some fishermen consider this echo sounder to be ineffective, but this is absolutely not the case. Despite its small dimensions, it perfectly assesses the surrounding environment and transmits accurate data to the display.

Advantages:

strong and durable body;
small sizes;
powerful “filling”;
affordable price.

Flaws:

You must have a mobile device;
you will need a strong fishing line.

Craft Echo 600 Duo

A very simple and convenient echo sounder that is suitable for fishing at any depth. It can be used both in the river and in the sea. It will equally accurately determine the depth and number of fish. The device has a built-in alert signal that will help a person understand that a concentration of fish has been detected. The device can be used when fishing from the shore or boat.

Advantages:

large radius;
durable body that will last for many years;
the ability to use an echo sounder at any depth;
good performance when driving the boat.

Flaws:

black and white screen.

LUCKY FFW718

The device can be useful not only for experienced fishermen, but also for beginners. It works perfectly at any depth. This allows you to use it not only on the river, but also at sea. The readings will not be affected by water temperature or salinity percentage. The echo sounder will work well at a distance of up to 50 meters. The distance can be greater, but then the accuracy will be significantly reduced.

The device is able to determine the temperature, the current number of fish and conduct a detailed analysis of the bottom. The display will show information about the composition of the rock (sand or stone). The echo sounder perfectly analyzes interference within a radius of 50 m. If it is detected, the fisherman will receive a special signal.

Advantages:

affordable price;
the device is completely wireless;
high accuracy will allow you to detect minimal concentrations of fish;
intuitive interface.

Flaws:

The echo sounder must be secured.

Rivotek Fisher 20

A high-quality and modern device that performs well at great depths. The display will contain information about the bottom topography, the number of fish and the depth of the reservoir. Viewing angle – up to 75 degrees. Thanks to its good accuracy, the echo sounder is able to discern even small fish at a great distance. The display will not show information about current bottom disturbances.

The device is able to work in any weather. Therefore, it can be used both in summer and winter. Buyers noted the durable case, which allows the device to last a long time without breakdowns.

Advantages:

high precision of work will allow you to enjoy fishing;
the compact size of the device will not scare away the fish;
simple controls that can be easily handled by both beginners and professionals;
affordable price.

Flaws:

not every fisherman will like the black and white display;
Additionally, you may need to purchase more durable fasteners.

ReelSonar iBobber Classic

This device differs from others in its very small size. At any depth it becomes almost invisible. The echo sounder operates wirelessly, so the fisherman must take a smartphone or tablet with him. The operating system of the device does not matter. An additional bowl and battery charger will be sold along with the echo sounder.

The device has a built-in modern GPS tracker, which works well at a distance of up to 100 meters. This allows you to use the device not only from the boat, but also from the shore. The echo sounder can be used for its intended purpose not only in winter, but also in summer. Accurate information about the depth of the bottom and the location of the fish will be transmitted to the display of the mobile device.

Advantages:

high strength guarantees long service life;
low cost;
small dimensions.

Flaws:

A mobile device with a wireless network connection is required.