Upgrade from a Helix 5 SI

[Malcavilli]

New to the forum and have been thinking about upgrading my helix 5 to something larger. I can’t see the detail I was hoping to see on the small screen. Hoping to hear some feedback from people that have went from a 5” screen to something larger. Would like recommendations of for screen size as well. I was thinking 9” or 10” would fit my needs. I am mostly looking for structure on new lakes.

I talked to a hummingbird rep and they tried to get me to get a 7” screen. Any information or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[oldgoat188]

Been there done that! I like you started out with a 5" screen years ago. Went to a 7" screen. Am now at 10" screens. Would like all 12". All I can say is save your money and buy the biggest unit you can. Bigger is ALWAYS better!!!

[Cray]

As with everything else it’s going to depend on your budget. We can all sit here and tell you to buy these great big screens but for a lot of folks it’s not feasible. I have a 7 on front of my boat and it’s 4-5 ft in front of me. I can see detail pretty good on it because of the clarity of the helix units. I have a 998 mounted right by my right knee. Yes the larger screen is nice. If your budget can stand it I’d go 9-10 at least. Personally I don’t see enough difference between 9-10 to justify the cost difference. But now that’s just me and my budget limits.

[Eagle 1]

Reducing range and depth of water will help more than most realize . "Auto" is not your friend on smaller units . Experiment with settings . I know back in the day of "Eagle fish id" units we set them up and did not hardly change . These units are full of untapped technology .I took a few days (easier if retired )and left rods/tackle at home .Played with depth finder 4-5 hrs . each day . Biggest problem I had was not remembering what I learned a week before . has to become second nature . You want break it unless you throw it in the lake lol . Even with larger units the same procedures will still help you see better .There are plenty that do not utilize half of what these thinks can do . Watch every thing you can on u-tube and cling to everything Riki says on this site ( may have spelling wrong on his name )

[LaCorts]

Went from the helix 5 si to the helix 10 si. Found a lot that I missed with the 5 could never go back. I still use a 5 on my trolling motor for 2d sonar only . I like to take screen shots the 10 has 2 card slots allowing me to leave my mapping in the unit. But like said budget rules.


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[Roy]

But the biggest you can afford once. I'd suggest even buying used over new to get a bigger screen. I've had a 7, a 9, a couple of 10's and a couple of 12's. Absolutely no comparison between the units, size matters!
Bite the bullet and feel the pain once. How often have you heard anyone say that their unit is too big.

[Malcavilli]

Appreciate all of the responses. I will keep saving for a bigger unit.