It is the most affordable color handheld GPS. Unfortunately that is it's only major plus. The world basemap has almost no streets [they should have just provided a more detailed North America]. It's supposed to be a marine-oriented unit, but the lack of nautical waypoints and features is upsetting [it has fewer than my non-chart Garmin 72]. Whole islands are missing here in the Florida Keys, an official channel that has been here for decades with markers is marked private with no details, wrecks are identified as "partially submerged" when they are 65 feet below. No tide computation feature [even the Garmin 72 has that]. Pluses are that it updates quickly, has decent battery life, and is relatively easy to use [although it should be simpler -- they took a land-based unit and slapped the "marine" title on it]. 2 stars

We purchased the Lowrance iFinder H2Oc GPS with some Navionics maps on an SD memory card. We used new Lithium AA batteries with the unit.

Our purpose for purchasing the unit was for use in navigating waterways
between Minnesota and Ontario, specifically the Rainy Lake region.

The unit worked very well, and was very useful for navigating these rocky lakes, with many navigational hazards, such as numerous rock outcroppings, and hazards just below the surface of the lake.

The only problem we encountered was a long delay in downloading/processing map information, if you chose to zoom in/out of your current display. It sometimes took 10 seconds or more for the new screen to load, and if you are using this device as an aid, and travelling across the lake at 30 or 40 knots, the delay was a little unnerving at times, specifically if the lake has a lot of rock pile hazards. And yes, the software states you should not use this device for navigation, it is only an aid.

The batteries we started with lasted all week, and we used this unit extensively all week.

When you arrive at your destination, you need to remember to load the specific map you will use. For the Navionics maps, you will also need to
know the abbreviated file name for the area you want to view. The file names are not always obvious, so make sure you review the software to know what map to load, for the area you are using the GPS. This is a Navionics comment, so we did not add or detract from the GPS review score.

That issue aside, we would probably rate this item overall at a 4.5.

If you are heading to a large unknown lake, looking for navigation aids, and a depth chart, this is a great tool, and we doubt you will regret the purchase. If you are getting older, the screen is a little small, but it is hand-held, and small enough to put in your pocket or tacklebox.


Good luck


4 stars

I have had this unit for about 18 months but have used it only 6-8 times - never in foul weather. It worked fine at first - with TOPO downloaded maps onto the MMC card and a Navionics card for marine use. Always locked on fairly quickly. Displayed maps beautifully. Now, after not using it for about 4 months (the batteries removed for safe storage) the unit will not lock onto satellites regardless of how long it's left on or despite performing soft and hard resets. The built-in Lowrance software on it is actually newer than what's on the latest Lowrance software update page - which makes no sense at all. Lowrance's minimum repair rate is $149.95 plus shipping since the 1 year warrenty has expired!! I might as well buy a new GPS - a non-Lowrance unit this time! The price and features are very attractive. But beware, I think it's a very inferior product in the long run. 1 star

Have used this only a couple of time and it works very well in the areas I have tried. Would buy this product again. 5 stars

This Lowrance GPS receiver has all the features needed for geocaching. Aided by topo mapping software, this device will lead you to any spot you want. To get the same features in other brands, you would have to spend more money. Also, the car adapter comes with the device whereas it is a separate purchase in other brands. We have used it extensively and never had a problem. It acquires the satellites quickly and keeps the signal under adverse conditions such as tree cover. The only small problem is that the road map overlay may be off in some areas by several yards. This is not a big concern since it's the topographical accuracy that is important. This model doesn't have an electronic compass or altimeter; however, for just a little bit more money you can get these features in a Lowrance Expedition C. Not a big deal for most folks. 5 stars