Display Size

Like a regular TV one of the first considerations when buying a fish finder will be display size. Generally speaking, the bigger the display the better. A large display can be viewed from several feet away or even from the back of a boat. One large fish finder display may suffice instead of two small displays commonly used at the helm and near the stern.

Fish finders have split vertical screen options, which allow viewing in normal mode and zoom mode simultaneously. Obviously, a wider display will be easier to view and control.

Console space is often at a premium, but given that sonar is your underwater eyes and ears, a large display fish finder should be money well spent. However, sometimes only smaller spaces are available and a smaller unit is necessary. Some smaller units also happen to be more portable and are ideal to transfer back and forth to a different vessel when necessary.

Generally, mid range priced fish finders have a 5-inch diagonal display. Combo units with built-in GPS and color units may have larger displays and of course require a larger investment. 15-inch displays are available! Large units usually consume more power, and may be a constraint on electrically underpowered craft. Large displays are easier to see and allow better use of split screens. Larger units take up more console space, usually cost more, and consume more power.