Fishing becomes a lot easier with the use of a transducer. You can quickly identify and see the available fish around you with a high-quality transducer.
Two neck and neck choices are GT54 vs. GT56 transducer. The main difference you see between these two is the frequency imaging of the transducers. GT56 has a better frequency range than GT54.
Some other factors get into play and make them unique in their usage. That’s what I will portray below with an in-depth comparison. So, stick to the end to find out more about the transducers.
A Quick Comparison Table
| Specifications | GT54 Transducer | GT56 Transducer |
| Usable range | Lower | Higher |
| Frequency Imaging | Decent | Better |
| Power | 350w | 500w |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Key differences between GT54 And GT56 Transducer
- Usable Range
The significant difference between the two transducers is the usable range.
The results and effects you get from the two options are pretty substantial.
With the GT56 transducer, you won’t have any trouble fishing, even if you do it in more than 75′ water.
You will still end up with images that can give you the desired results you want from the transducer.
On the other hand, GT54 isn’t capable of doing that. However, if you don’t have to use the transducer for such shallow water, then GT54 is still a viable option for you.
So, it’s straightforward to pick one here. If you plan to fish in an area with a 75′ water depth, then GT56 is your only choice. Otherwise, you can go with either one of them.
Also Read: Is Garmin Echomap UHD 73cv Ice Fishing Bundle Worth It?
- Frequency Imaging
The next big difference is the imaging. The quality of imaging, as well as the frequency, is very much different from the two transducers.
In the GT56, you will get better imaging quality and three different imaging frequencies to work with. The transducers give you significant frequencies for side imaging and down imaging.
You can work with 455, 800, and 1000Khz imaging frequencies on the machine. Also, the image quality you receive from the transducer is impressive.
Comparatively, the GT54 falls a bit short in quality and frequencies. It gives you two frequencies with side imaging and down imaging. You get 455 and 1120Khz of frequencies to work with. The quality is not as sharp or as detailed as the GT56.
The difference in this factor is very little between the two options. Most of the time, you can get past the GT54. But if you intend to use the transducer in very shallow water and want the best imaging quality, then GT56 might be a better pick.
- Power
Another noticeable difference between the two transducers is the power.
Both of them are pretty powerful. But one is just more potent than the other option.
Regarding power, GT56 will have the upper hand over the GT54.
With the higher power of 500w, you can expect better image quality, and the performance is also slightly improved.
GT54, with its 350w of power, isn’t a bad option either.
You still get decent quality and performance. It falls a little short when you compare it with the GT56.
- Pricing
This factor is what concerns a lot of people out there about the two transducers. They always think about whether the GT56 is worth the extra money.
Well, it all comes down to your preferences. If you want the best quality and performance with the upgraded features, then the GT56 should be your clear pick regardless of the price.
But if budget concerns you, GT54 is still a good choice, and you can make it work.
Which Transducer Is Better For You?
The simplest way to decide that is to go through both pricing. Anyone who doesn’t care about the price and wants the best quality will choose the GT56 without thinking.
But if the price is a concern, GT54 is the way to go without compromising.
Also Read: Differences Between Vexilar FL 12 And 18 Fishing Sonars.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
The Garmin GT56 has a better frequency and imaging quality than the GT54. It gives the GT56 a more usable range than the GT54. They also differ in price, where the GT56 is a bit more expensive than the GT54.
GT54 is a high-quality UHD transducer with an all-in-one feature. They bring you top-notch quality image details where you can see the fish underwater without any interruptions or problems.
The GT56 transducer is 8.6″ in size.
Conclusion
To conclude, the decision of GT54 vs. GT56 transducer is about quality vs. pricing. For better performance quality, you go with GT56. For better affordability, you go with GT54.
Another way to choose is based on the type of fishing.
If you plan to fish in shallow water, choose GT56 because of its better range. But if the water isn’t too shallow, GT54 should get the job done.
