What Is The Difference Between A Helix And A Solix Humminbird?
Have you ever wondered what sets apart a Helix from a Solix Humminbird? Well, the answer lies in their distinct features and capabilities. While both of these fish finders are designed to provide top-notch navigation and fish-finding capabilities, there are some key differences that make each one a unique choice for anglers. In this article, we will explore the disparities between a Helix and a Solix Humminbird, helping you make an informed decision about which one suits your fishing needs best. So, let’s dive into the exciting world of fish finders and uncover the distinctive qualities of these two remarkable Humminbird models.
Display
Screen Size
When it comes to screen size, the Humminbird Helix and Solix models offer a range of options to suit your preferences and needs. The screen sizes vary from compact to larger displays, allowing you to choose the one that provides the best visibility for your fishing or boating adventures. Whether you prefer a smaller, more portable screen or a larger screen for a more immersive experience, there is a Humminbird model to meet your requirements.
Resolution
Both the Helix and Solix series feature high-resolution displays that ensure crisp and clear imaging. The resolution of the screens enables you to see intricate details of the underwater environment and make accurate assessments of your surroundings. This feature is particularly beneficial for anglers who rely on visual cues to locate fish and underwater structures.
Color
The Humminbird Helix and Solix units come equipped with vibrant color displays that enhance your overall fishing or boating experience. The color screens provide a more realistic representation of the underwater world, allowing you to distinguish between different objects and structures with greater ease. The vivid colors also make it easier to interpret the sonar and mapping data, providing a more intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Touchscreen Capability
One key difference between the Helix and Solix models is the touchscreen capability. While both series offer excellent user interfaces, the Solix series takes it a step further by incorporating a touchscreen display. This touchscreen functionality allows for a more intuitive and interactive user experience. With a simple tap or swipe, you can navigate through menus, adjust settings, and access various features. This touchscreen capability adds convenience and ease of use to your fishing or boating activities.
Sonar Technology
Side Imaging
Both the Helix and Solix models boast advanced sonar technologies, including side imaging. Side imaging allows you to scan a wider area on either side of your boat, giving you a more comprehensive view of the underwater landscape. This feature is invaluable for locating fish, submerged structures, and underwater vegetation. With side imaging, you can quickly identify prime fishing spots and make more informed decisions about where to cast your line.
Down Imaging
In addition to side imaging, both the Helix and Solix series come equipped with down imaging capabilities. Down imaging provides a detailed view of what lies beneath your boat by utilizing high-frequency sonar waves. This technology allows you to see the contours of the seabed, submerged objects, and even individual fish with remarkable clarity. Down imaging helps you identify fish-holding structures, such as drop-offs, ridges, and submerged trees, so you can target your efforts more effectively.
DualBeam Plus
Another innovative sonar technology present in both the Helix and Solix models is DualBeam Plus. This dual-beam sonar system combines a wide beam for broader coverage and a narrow beam for increased detail. The DualBeam Plus technology ensures a clear and accurate understanding of the underwater environment, providing you with precise information about the location and behavior of fish. With DualBeam Plus, you can optimize your fishing strategies and maximize your chances of success.
Mega Imaging
The Solix series takes sonar technology to the next level with Mega Imaging. This groundbreaking feature provides ultra-high-definition imaging that surpasses traditional sonar capabilities. With Mega Imaging, you can see unparalleled details of fish, structures, and the underwater terrain, allowing you to make highly informed decisions during your fishing expedition. This cutting-edge technology is a game-changer for serious anglers who require the utmost clarity and precision in their underwater observations.
GPS and Mapping
Internal GPS Receiver
Both the Helix and Solix units are equipped with an internal GPS receiver, which is a valuable feature for any fisherman or boater. The internal GPS receiver allows you to pinpoint your exact location on the water with exceptional accuracy. This information is crucial for navigation, especially when exploring unfamiliar waters or when trying to locate specific fishing spots. The GPS receiver also enables you to track your movements, record your routes, and mark waypoints for future reference.
Mapping Software
To complement the GPS functionality, Humminbird offers advanced mapping software that is compatible with both the Helix and Solix models. The mapping software provides detailed and up-to-date maps of lakes, rivers, and coastal regions, helping you navigate confidently and effectively. The maps offer crucial information, such as depth contours, underwater structures, and navigation aids, allowing you to plan your fishing or boating trips with precision.
Waypoints and Routes
With the Helix and Solix units, you can create and store waypoints and routes to enhance your fishing or boating experiences. Waypoints are specific locations, such as fishing hotspots, favorite anchorages, or hazards, that you want to mark for future reference. By marking these waypoints, you can easily navigate back to these locations, ensuring you never miss out on productive fishing spots. Additionally, the ability to create and follow routes allows you to plan and execute efficient navigation strategies.
Navionics Compatibility
Humminbird units, including both the Helix and Solix series, are compatible with Navionics charts, offering expanded mapping options. Navionics charts provide comprehensive coverage of various bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. These charts offer highly detailed information, such as submerged structures, navigation hazards, and accurate depth contours. By integrating Navionics charts into your Humminbird unit, you can access even more precise and reliable mapping data.
Networking and Connectivity
Ethernet Networking
Both the Helix and Solix models support Ethernet networking, allowing you to connect multiple units and accessories for enhanced functionality. Ethernet connectivity enables seamless sharing of sonar and GPS data between devices, creating a unified and cohesive fishing or boating experience. With Ethernet networking, you can integrate multiple displays, transducers, and other compatible accessories, maximizing your ability to explore and conquer the water.
Wireless Connectivity
Another convenient feature available in the Helix and Solix series is wireless connectivity. This wireless capability allows you to connect your Humminbird unit to external devices, such as smartphones or tablets, wirelessly. With wireless connectivity, you can transfer data, download software updates, and even control your unit remotely using compatible mobile apps. This wireless integration adds convenience and flexibility to your fishing or boating setup.
NMEA 2000 Compatibility
The Helix and Solix models both support NMEA 2000 compatibility, a standardized communication protocol for marine electronics. NMEA 2000 allows for seamless integration of various devices, such as engines, sensors, and instruments, from different manufacturers. By connecting your Humminbird unit via NMEA 2000, you can access and display additional data, such as engine diagnostics, fuel consumption, or weather information, making your boating experience even more comprehensive.
Bluetooth Integration
Bluetooth integration is a feature found in both the Helix and Solix models, enabling wireless connectivity with compatible devices. With Bluetooth, you can easily pair your Humminbird unit with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as smartphones, headphones, or speakers. This functionality allows you to wirelessly play music, receive notifications, or even make hands-free calls while on the water. Bluetooth integration adds a touch of convenience and entertainment to your boating adventures.
Control and User Interface
Keypad vs. Touchscreen Control
The choice between keypad and touchscreen control is one of personal preference, and both the Helix and Solix series cater to different user preferences. The Helix models predominantly feature keypad controls, which provide tactile feedback and ease of use, especially in rough or wet conditions. On the other hand, the Solix series offers the added functionality of touchscreen control. The touchscreen interface offers a more intuitive and interactive experience, allowing for quick and easy navigation through menus and settings.
Customizable Views
Both the Helix and Solix units allow you to customize your screen views to best suit your preferences and needs. You can display a variety of information simultaneously, such as sonar readings, GPS data, and mapping overlays. The ability to customize views enables you to focus on the specific data that is most important to you, providing a tailored and efficient fishing or boating experience.
Split Screen Functionality
To further enhance your multitasking capabilities, the Helix and Solix series offer split-screen functionality. This feature allows you to divide the screen into multiple sections, displaying different information simultaneously. For example, you can have a split screen with sonar on one side and mapping on the other, or view multiple sonar frequencies side by side. Split-screen functionality maximizes the efficiency and convenience of your Humminbird unit, ensuring you have all the information you need at a glance.
Menus and Settings
Both the Helix and Solix models feature user-friendly menus and settings that are easy to navigate and adjust. The intuitive interface ensures a hassle-free experience when accessing and modifying various functions and options. Whether you want to fine-tune your sonar settings, adjust mapping overlays, or calibrate your GPS, the menus and settings on both series make it straightforward and convenient.
Additional Features
AutoChart Live
An exclusive feature available in both the Helix and Solix units is AutoChart Live. AutoChart Live allows you to create real-time, high-definition maps of uncharted waters as you navigate. As you move along, your Humminbird unit will record sonar data and convert it into detailed maps, revealing previously unknown underwater contours and structures. With AutoChart Live, you can create your own custom maps and build a personalized database of fishing spots.
LakeMaster Compatible
The Helix and Solix series offer compatibility with LakeMaster charts, which are renowned for their accuracy and detail. LakeMaster charts provide highly detailed mapping of specific lakes, complete with precise depth contours, bathymetric data, and other important fishing information. By using LakeMaster charts with your Humminbird unit, you can have unparalleled insight into the underwater terrain of your favorite fishing locations.
Built-in ContourXD Mapping
Both the Helix and Solix models come with built-in ContourXD mapping, offering reliable mapping capabilities straight out of the box. ContourXD maps provide comprehensive coverage of thousands of lakes, including accurate depth contours, vegetation, and submerged structures. This built-in mapping option ensures you have access to essential mapping data without the need for additional purchases or downloads.
SwitchFire Sonar Mode
SwitchFire is a versatile sonar mode present in both the Helix and Solix units. This feature allows you to adjust the sonar settings to your specific needs and fishing conditions. With SwitchFire, you can toggle between clear mode for maximum target separation and detailed mode for enhanced definition and structure identification. The ability to customize your sonar settings with SwitchFire ensures optimal performance and adaptability to varying fishing scenarios.
Power and Battery
Power Output
The Helix and Solix units are designed to deliver ample power to support the advanced features and functionality they offer. With high power outputs, these units can generate strong sonar signals and provide reliable GPS positioning. The powerful performance ensures accurate and detailed imaging, allowing you to make the most of your fishing or boating adventures.
Power Consumption
Despite their robust capabilities, the Helix and Solix units are designed to be energy-efficient and to minimize power consumption. The units are equipped with optimized circuitry and technology to ensure long battery life and efficient power usage. This energy-saving design allows you to enjoy extended usage time without worrying about quickly draining your battery.
Battery Life
The battery life of the Helix and Solix units may vary depending on usage and settings. However, both series are designed to provide extended battery life to support your fishing or boating activities. With efficient power management and battery-saving features, you can expect reliable operation and ample usage time while on the water. It is always a good idea to carry spare batteries or have a power source available to ensure uninterrupted use.
Power Options
To accommodate different power requirements and operating conditions, the Helix and Solix units offer various power options. These options include the ability to connect to external power sources, such as a boat’s electrical system or a portable power pack. Additionally, both series can utilize rechargeable batteries or standard disposable batteries, providing flexibility and convenience in powering your unit.
Size and Weight
Physical Dimensions
The Helix and Solix units come in different sizes and physical dimensions to cater to different installation setups and preferences. Whether you need a compact unit for limited mounting space or a larger unit for a more prominent display, there is a Humminbird model that suits your needs. The physical dimensions of the units are designed to provide a balance between screen size and usability, ensuring optimal visibility and operation.
Weight
The weight of the Helix and Solix units also varies depending on the model and display size. The weight considerations are important, especially for boaters who may be concerned about the impact on their boat’s stability. While the units are designed to be lightweight and portable, they still offer a sturdy and durable construction that can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities. The weight of the units is carefully designed to offer a balance between portability and ruggedness.
Price
Price Range
The price range of the Helix and Solix units varies depending on the model and the features it offers. The more advanced and feature-rich units are typically priced at a higher range, while the more basic models may be more affordable. However, it is important to consider the value and benefits that each unit brings to your fishing or boating activities when assessing the price range. Investing in a higher-end unit with advanced features can significantly enhance your overall experience on the water.
Value for Money
Both the Helix and Solix series provide excellent value for money, considering the numerous features and capabilities they offer. These units are packed with advanced technologies that provide invaluable benefits to fishermen and boating enthusiasts. From the high-resolution displays and advanced sonar capabilities to the GPS functionality and mapping options, the value for money provided by the Helix and Solix units is undeniable.
Available Bundles
Humminbird often offers bundles that include additional accessories or charts with the purchase of a Helix or Solix unit. These bundles provide added value and convenience, as they may include items like transducers, mounting hardware, or specialized mapping options. Bundles can be an excellent choice for anglers or boaters who want to ensure they have all the necessary components for their specific needs right from the start.
Target Users
Professional Anglers
The Helix and Solix models are ideal for professional anglers who require advanced features and cutting-edge technology to gain an edge in their fishing endeavors. The high-resolution displays, advanced sonar technologies, and mapping capabilities enable professional anglers to make precise assessments of their fishing spots and locate fish-holding structures with ease. The networking and connectivity options further enhance their ability to gather and analyze data, providing a competitive advantage.
Recreational Fishermen
Recreational fishermen can also benefit greatly from the Helix and Solix units. These models offer user-friendly interfaces and a range of features that cater to the needs of casual anglers. The mapping and GPS functions help recreational fishermen navigate and discover new fishing spots, while the sonar capabilities allow them to identify fish and underwater structures. The Helix and Solix units are designed to provide an enjoyable and effective fishing experience for anglers of all levels of expertise.
Boating Enthusiasts
Boating enthusiasts can take advantage of the many features of the Helix and Solix units to enhance their overall boating experiences. The GPS and mapping functionalities ensure accurate navigation and provide detailed information about the waterways. The networking and connectivity options allow for seamless integration of various devices, creating a unified and streamlined boating setup. Whether cruising to new destinations or exploring familiar waters, the Helix and Solix units bring convenience and reliability to boating enthusiasts.
