GPS/Chartplotter

[newguy]

I'm looking to get a 5" unit, Im looking at the Garmin 541 and the Lowrance HDS-5 and Elite 5. Im looking to get some feedback on these units if any of you own any of them. Any idea on the difference between HDS5 and elite5?? Also, are the mapping cards worth the extra money?? This will be my first unit so im a total newb to marine electronics

[Let um land]

Have the 541 in one boat, sweet unit. Do not own a hds 5 but have used them, much prefer the 541. Just put a 7" hummingbird in a new hull and love it, think it's a 859. Personally prefer hummingbird base map to lorance, have a gold card in the 541 and it has great detail. Just 2 cents, go to bass pro or cable as and play with the displays before making a $500 + mistake. Good luck buddy.

[I make oil]

This is my opinion. For a recreational user like me the Elite5 will do everything I need. I do have the HDS but to do over I'd get the Elite. I mainly use the GPS and have the card in mine. I really don't know if the card is necessary but it is nice. All of the bells and whistles are nice but I don't use them so why pay extra for them? You won't see any return when you go to sell the boat. I'd recommend you think about what you will use the unit for then buy what will fit your needs. Use the money you save on a better trolling motor.