I bought a 898c SI Humminbird liked it so much I just bought a 1198c SI. I plan to move the 898 to the bow with the 1198c SI at the dash. I have a 360 degree ordered if Humminbird ever gets the bugs worked out of it. I went with Humminbird because it is supposed to be more user friendly and I am computer challenged. I have not tried Lowrance I am sure they are great finders. The only advice I would give is buy as big of screen as your budget will allow.