What is the difference between Lowrance Elite and HDS

Lowrance Elite Chirp and HDS Gen2/ HDS Gen3 Comparison

When deciding which Lowrance unit is best going to suit your needs, it is handy to know the differences between the two series.

The Lowrance Elite series is regarded as an "entry level series" and therefore has a basic level of functions when compared to the HDS.

Features found in HDS Touch & Keyboard series but NOT FOUND in Elite

no sonic hub, wifi go free, radar, or Structure Side Scan interface
no autopilot integration
no bottom lock in Sonar
no multiple display sharing of Transducer via Ethernet
no NMEA 2000 fuel/engine management support for Evinrude, Suzuki or Yamaha
no Navionics Platinum map option (so you miss out on better depth contour lines, community data & Aerial photos)
faster processor speed

The advantage of the HDS series is that it can start off simply and be added to as the need, experience or budget allows, or you can fit it up as a "hamburger with the lot" from the beginning.

The disadvantage of the Elite series is "what you see is what you get". No other abilities are possible.