You’re on the water, the sun is just coming up, and you’re trying to find that underwater hump where the bass always hold. Your current fish finder is showing a blob, not a structure. You need a unit that gives you clear, detailed images. Two of the most popular choices are the Garmin Striker series and the Lowrance Hook Reveal series. This guide compares these two heavy hitters in the side imaging fish finder category, helping you decide which one fits your fishing style and budget. We’ll look at sonar technology, GPS features, display quality, and ease of use. Whether you’re a kayak angler or a bass boat captain, this breakdown will make your choice easier.

If you’re also curious about other top brands, check out our comparison of Garmin Striker vs Humminbird Helix to see how they stack up.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Fish Finder

Sonar Technology: CHIRP, DownScan, and SideScan

Sonar is the heart of any fish finder. Garmin Striker models use CHIRP traditional sonar, plus ClearVü (DownScan) and SideVü (SideScan) on ‘sv’ models. Lowrance Hook Reveal uses CHIRP and DownScan Imaging, but it also has a unique feature called FishReveal. FishReveal blends the high-resolution DownScan image with the CHIRP sonar returns, making fish show up as bright, easy-to-see arches on a clear structure image. This is a fantastic feature for identifying fish that are holding tight to cover.

Garmin’s SideVü is a standout if you need to cover a lot of water. It shows a wide area to the left and right of your boat, which is perfect for finding offshore structure. The new Vivid color palettes on the Garmin Striker Vivid series make it easier to distinguish between fish and structure at a glance. For a deeper look at a specific model, read our Garmin Striker Vivid 5cv review.

GPS and Mapping Capabilities

Both brands include high-sensitivity GPS. Garmin Striker units come with Quickdraw Contours, which lets you create your own contour maps of any lake in real time. This is a powerful tool for building a personalized map of your favorite fishing spots. Lowrance Hook Reveal comes preloaded with C-MAP US Inland mapping, covering almost 4,000 US lakes. It also has Genesis Live, which allows you to create custom contour maps as you fish.

If you fish a variety of lakes, having preloaded maps is a big plus. But if you prefer to build your own maps and share them with a community, Garmin’s Quickdraw Community is a great resource. For anglers who want a compact unit, the Garmin Striker 4 is a popular entry-level option.

Display Quality and Size

Screen size and readability are crucial. Garmin Striker Vivid comes in 4, 5, 7, and 9-inch models. Lowrance Hook Reveal is available in 5 and 7-inch versions. Both use bright, sunlight-readable displays. The Garmin Vivid series offers new color palettes that enhance contrast, making it easier to see fish and structure. Lowrance uses SolarMAX display technology, which is known for excellent daylight visibility and wide viewing angles.

Consider where you’ll mount the unit. A larger screen is easier to read from a distance, but it takes up more space on your console. A smaller screen, like the 5-inch, is perfect for kayaks or smaller boats. Our Lowrance Hook Reveal 5 review gives more details on that specific model.

Ease of Use and Installation

Both Garmin and Lowrance have focused on user-friendly interfaces. Garmin Striker uses a keyed interface with dedicated buttons, which is simple and reliable. The menus are straightforward, and you can quickly adjust settings without scrolling through pages. Lowrance Hook Reveal features Autotuning sonar, which automatically adjusts settings based on conditions. This is ideal for beginners who don’t want to fiddle with gain and frequency.

Installation is also a consideration. Both come with transom-mount transducers and basic mounts. Garmin’s tilt/swivel mount is easy to adjust. Lowrance’s SplitShot transducer is compact and easy to install. For a detailed look at the top Garmin model, see our Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv review.

Final Thoughts

So, which one should you choose? If you want the most advanced sonar features, especially SideVü scanning, and you value a wide range of screen sizes, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv is a powerhouse. But if you’re a beginner or you want the easiest way to see fish, the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot with its FishReveal technology is incredibly intuitive. Both are excellent fish finders, and your decision really comes down to which features matter most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Garmin Striker and Lowrance Hook Reveal?

The main difference is sonar technology. Garmin Striker offers CHIRP, ClearVü, and SideVü, while Lowrance Hook Reveal offers CHIRP and DownScan with the unique FishReveal feature. Garmin also has a wider range of screen sizes. Both have GPS and mapping capabilities.

Which fish finder has better side imaging: Garmin or Lowrance?

Garmin Striker models with SideVü provide excellent side imaging coverage. Lowrance Hook Reveal does not have side imaging, but its DownScan and FishReveal are excellent for seeing fish directly under the boat. If side imaging is a must, go with Garmin.

Can I use Garmin Striker and Lowrance Hook Reveal for ice fishing?

Yes, both can be used for ice fishing, but you’ll need a portable ice transducer or a flasher mode. The Garmin Striker 4 has a built-in flasher mode, making it a popular choice for ice anglers. Lowrance Hook Reveal also has a flasher mode, but you may need to purchase an ice transducer kit.

Is the Lowrance Hook Reveal worth the extra money in 2026?

If you value the FishReveal feature and preloaded maps, yes. FishReveal makes it easier for beginners to identify fish. The autotuning sonar also saves time. However, if you want side imaging and a larger screen, Garmin might be a better value for you.