Is Humminbird vs Lowrance a Ford vs Chevy debate?

i want to put new electronics on my boat for spring, and have been reading about both brands. I read a lot of people talking up their Humminbird units on one thread, then discussing all the issues in another. I hear the talking up, but don't hear as many issue stories, with the Lowrance.
When I look at online retailers like BassProShop or Cabelas, the Humminbirds seem to have noticeably lower customer ratings.

Does one have "Must Have" qualities the other doesn't?

I want a console unit and a front mounted unit.

What say ye? Ford or Chevy?