Lowrance Elite FS vs. HDS PRO
Lowrance Elite FS vs. HDS PRO
Which Lowrance fish finder is right for your boat? Compare sonar, ActiveTarget 2 compatibility, display sizes, networking and upgrade options before you buy.
Compare FeaturesShop Lowrance Fish FindersWhich Lowrance Should You Buy?
Choose Elite FS If...
You want a capable touchscreen fish finder with ActiveTarget 2 support, traditional sonar, SideScan and DownScan, without paying for every advanced HDS PRO feature.
Choose HDS PRO If...
You want Lowrance's premium platform, more built-in sonar capability, expanded integration, or a sophisticated multi-display and multi-transducer installation.
Primarily Fishing With ActiveTarget 2?
Both families support ActiveTarget 2. Decide based on screen size, controls, networking needs and whether you will use HDS PRO's additional capabilities.
Building a Complete Boat System?
HDS PRO is worth considering for larger, more complex setups, especially where dual live-sonar systems, multiple sonar sources or advanced integrations matter.
Two Fish Finders. Two Different Strengths.
Lowrance Elite FS
A feature-rich touchscreen fish finder with ActiveTarget 2 support, Active Imaging and Ethernet/NMEA 2000 networking. A strong fit for everyday bass fishing and straightforward electronics upgrades.
Best for: Anglers prioritizing useful sonar and mapping features at a more accessible price point.
Shop Elite FSLowrance HDS PRO
Premium SolarMAX HD displays, extensive sonar support and expanded system control. Designed for anglers who want more flexibility as their boat electronics grow.
Best for: Tournament boats, advanced sonar installations and integrated multi-display systems.
Shop HDS PROElite FS vs. HDS PRO Comparison Chart
| Feature | Elite FS | HDS PRO |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Value-focused, network-capable fish finder | Premium multifunction fish finder/chartplotter |
| Display sizes | 7, 9, 10 and 12 inches (model availability varies) | 9, 10, 12 and 16 inches |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes; SolarMAX HD IPS |
| Physical controls | Touchscreen with model-specific keys | Touchscreen plus more extensive keypad controls; programmable shortcut keys on select sizes |
| ActiveTarget 2 / XL | Compatible; requires ActiveTarget 2 system | Compatible; requires ActiveTarget 2 system |
| Two ActiveTarget systems / expanded simultaneous views | Not supported | Supported with compatible equipment and configuration |
| Traditional CHIRP sonar | Supported | Supported; independent dual sonar channels on applicable configurations |
| SideScan / DownScan | Active Imaging compatible | Active Imaging and built-in Active Imaging HD capability with compatible transducer |
| Active Imaging HD | Requires S3100 module and compatible transducer | Supported with compatible Active Imaging HD transducer |
| FishReveal on SideScan | Available with S3100 and compatible transducer | Available with S3100 and compatible transducer |
| Ethernet networking | Yes; 1 Ethernet Port | Yes; 2 Ethernet Ports |
| NMEA 2000 | Yes | Yes |
| Mapping | C-MAP options; package and generation dependent | C-MAP DISCOVER OnBoard and compatible chart upgrades |
| Best fit | Straightforward live sonar and fishing electronics | More demanding integrated electronics installations |
Features and supplied accessories vary by model, production generation, software and bundle. Check the exact SKU when choosing a unit or transducer package.
ActiveTarget 2: Do You Need HDS PRO?
No. Elite FS and HDS PRO can both display compatible ActiveTarget 2 live sonar. For an angler running one ActiveTarget 2 system, the Elite FS may already cover the primary requirement.
ActiveTarget 2 requires the appropriate sonar system and network connections; the display alone does not include a live-sonar transducer or module unless specifically bundled.
Active Imaging HD and Transducer Compatibility
Elite FS supports standard Active Imaging and can use Active Imaging HD with an additional S3100 sonar module and compatible transducer. HDS PRO offers built-in Active Imaging HD support with the appropriate transducer, which can simplify certain installations.
FishReveal SideScan on HDS PRO has additional S3100 and compatible-transducer requirements. Do not assume every feature works with an older 3-in-1 transducer or every no-transducer package.
Upgrading Your Existing Lowrance Setup
Before replacing an HDS Live, Elite FS or other Lowrance display, review the existing transducers, ActiveTarget module, Ethernet connections, NMEA 2000 network, power wiring, mount and chart cards. A display swap may require different adapters, mounts or additional components.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Elite FS run ActiveTarget 2?
Yes. Elite FS supports ActiveTarget 2 when connected to the required compatible live-sonar hardware.
Does HDS PRO give a better ActiveTarget 2 picture?
HDS PRO offers premium display hardware and additional system features, but do not assume the same ActiveTarget 2 source automatically produces a fundamentally different sonar image just because the display is HDS PRO.
Can I use Active Imaging HD with Elite FS?
Yes, with a compatible Active Imaging HD transducer and an S3100 module. HDS PRO supports Active Imaging HD directly with the appropriate transducer.
What screen sizes are available?
Elite FS is offered in 7-, 9-, 10- and 12-inch versions; HDS PRO in 9-, 10-, 12- and 16-inch versions. Confirm availability for the exact model.
Can I network multiple Lowrance units?
Both families support Ethernet and NMEA 2000 networking, but shared sonar sources and advanced features depend on the units, accessories and software involved.
Does HDS PRO support two ActiveTarget systems?
Yes. Lowrance documents dual ActiveTarget system support on HDS PRO for simultaneous views with the appropriate equipment.
Should I upgrade from Elite FS to HDS PRO?
Upgrade if you need a larger premium display, built-in Active Imaging HD support, more extensive controls, or advanced multi-source features. For a straightforward single-ActiveTarget setup, Elite FS may remain the better value.
Need Help Choosing Your Lowrance?
BassFishin Electronics can help match your display, transducers, ActiveTarget 2 system, mounts and networking to your boat.
Shop Elite FSShop Lowrance UnitsContact BFEManufacturer specifications and compatibility may change. Confirm your exact model and system configuration before ordering.
