Lowarnce H20 vs Navionics App for Iphone

[TR0PHYPHISHIN]

I have the Lowarance H20 handheld GPS with the Minnesota chip that I use for ice fishing but I also have an Iphone. I was wondering if the Navionics App was comparable to The H20 because I would really like to sell the Lowarnace if my Iphone can do the same thing. Is one better than the other?

[bbfenatic]

I have an H2Oc and a droid but prefer the H2O, mainly because the battery drains so quickly if using my phone as GPS plus i like the buttons vs the touch screen so the H2O is easier to navigate with IMO. I will upgrade the H2Oc at some point but will always use a separate GPS unit other than my phone. Plus; I am quite mobile and like to tuck my phone away when fishing, the handheld GPS units are much more durable IMO.

[ZEEK1223]

The phone will get the job done, but I prefer the h20. Mainly for its durability. I don't trust having my phone out while drilling holes,or out in the rain. its kind of like having a phone with a camera. Yes I can take a picture with my phone,but if I want a really good picture I'm going to use a camera. I think you need service in order for the phone app to work,so depending on where you fish,could be an issue.

[bobbymalone]

I think you need service in order for the phone app to work,so depending on where you fish,could be an issue.

You can download the maps, preferably through wifi (they can get big) and then you are golden.

I have a garmin handheld and an iphone with navionics. I run the iphone from the couch to get a good idea of what i'm doing, but it's the garmin when i'm on the lake. for exactly the reasons described above: ruggedness, waterproof, battery life, etc.

one advantage is that your iphone will probably still work in a year, whereas the H2O will probably take a dump on you in 3...2...1...

[TR0PHYPHISHIN]

This is great information everyone! I just didnt want to have both if I could sell the H20. As fas as durability goes, I work for a large electronic retailer that sells a very rugged and durable underwater case for the Iphone. Waterproof and vurtualy damage proof. If I didnt have the H20 already I would just invest in the smart phone app and get the waterproof case for when I am on the ice. You would save a couple hundred by doing this.

[dan z]

Just got it and it's pretty easy to use. Worth the ten bucks IMO

[Will]

I researched the "lifeproof" cases. $85 seems a bit pricey for a case

That only has a life-span of 50 times off and on.

Also, it doesn't float like my H20 ( when using lithium batteries).

[DTro]

I think pinpoint accuracy is overrated. Get me close and my auger and jig will do the rest of the work. If you have a phone already, I think the app is a no brainer. There are WAY too many advantages of the app like satellite images, occasional updates, community layer for sharing spots, and more.

[bobbymalone]

There are WAY too many advantages of the app like satellite images, occasional updates, community layer for sharing spots, and more.

that's an advantage??? wasn't it you that posted a big warning about it???

Personally, i think the only real advantages are:

1. you already have the phone

2. it's only 10 freakin' bucks!

[DTro]

Of course its an advantage. Especially since it's an option. I have already came across many instances where I temporarily marked a spot for a buddy, FROM MY COUCH then deleted it after he got there.

Actually the more I think about it, it's a HUGE advantage.

[bobbymalone]

Actually the more I think about it, it's a HUGE advantage.

I'd be sold if it had a 'for your eyes only' function on there, maybe something involving your contact list.

I noticed when I was on mille lacs a few weekends ago there were several spots marked

Ill also say, dang it looks 10x cleaner on my phone than my old garmin.

[CaptainMusky]

The app works without phone service. Your phone uses satellites for GPS just like a handheld GPS unit.