Real fishing enthusiasts know just how good Humminbird’s SOLIX series is. However, if we compare the previous G3N with the latest G4N, the differences come down to display quality, imaging, and some extra features that make the user experience more convenient.
Catching more fish is not always about skill or experience. Sometimes, using the right fish finder can make all the difference. On the market, Humminbird is arguably the most popular fish finder manufacturer.
Below, I have compared their G3N and the upgraded G4N to determine the differences and decide which one has a better price and value.
Quick Comparison Table
| Specifications | Humminbird G3N Fish Finder | Humminbird G4N Fish Finder |
| Display Pixel Matrix | 800 H x 480 V | 1024 H X 600 V |
| Sonar Frequencies | 50/83/255/400 kHz | 50/83/255/400/800 kHz |
| Range-Side Imaging | 480 ft. (455 kHz), 75 ft. (MEGA) | 800 ft. (455 kHz), 250 ft. (MEGA) |
| Wi-Fi | No | Yes |
| Memory Card Slot | Single Micro SD | Dual Micro SD |
| Mega Live Compatibility | No | Yes |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
Key Differences Between Humminbird G3N And G4N Fish Finders
- Display Pixel Matrix
The display on the fish finder is crucial to overlook all the information and data.
So, the G4N comes with an upgrade in this segment with a pixel matrix upgrade.
G4N has a better pixel matrix, meaning there are more pixels on display, which leads to a higher resolution.
As the screen size is the same on both models, more pixels will improve image quality and display clarity.
Also Read: Differences Between Choppo And Whopper Plopper.
- Sonar Frequencies
Sonar frequencies are the main technology that is always a fish finder to look for fishes in the depth of water. The lower the frequency range, the wider the search area and angle.
Previously, the G3N offered sonar frequencies of 50, 83, 255, and 400 kHz. The newer G4N now provides a frequency range of 50, 83, 255, 400, and 800 kHz options. With 800 kHz, you can now go beyond thousands of feet of shallow water.
- Range-Side Imaging
If you are wondering what side imaging is, it’s a part of Humminbird MEGA Imaging. MEGA offers a more detailed search for fish in deep water, and the side imaging allows you to see both sides of your fishing vessel.
With the previous G3N, the regular side imaging only worked up to 480 feet and 75 feet for MEGA side imaging.
- Wi-Fi
Humminbird G3N and G4N are both famous for their convenient control and user experience. However, the G34 takes it to the net level by adding Wi-Fi and wireless connectivity. Previously, the G3N was limited to Bluetooth, limiting the connection quality, range, and seed.
With Wi-Fi on board, G4N will allow you to connect the fish finder conveniently with other devices.
- Memory Card Slot
This is one of the smallest yet most beneficial upgrades that G4N brings. The previous G3N had only one SD card slot; now two in the G4N.
Because of that, you can transfer and store more data in your fish finder at once without changing between cards.
- MEGA Live Compatibility
MEGA imaging technology is one of the best-selling points of Humminbird fish finders.
This time, Humminbird has taken this technology to the next level by adding MEGA live imaging.
Now, you can enjoy the search result with much more clarity and details in real-time.
This live imaging is provided by an accessory transducer, which is only compatible with the G4N.
- Cost
Due to the massive popularity and demand of Helix series fish finders, it’s pretty hard to get one at the original price on the Humminbird website.
However, you can purchase fish finders from third-party sellers and websites where prices fluctuate.
The price difference is minor between both models. So if you purchase a Hummingbird fish finder for the first time, you should get the G4N. However, if you own a G3N, you can work it out perfectly without replacing it.
Which Fish Finder Is Better For You?
After the discussion about the differences, it’s clear that some updates are coming in on G4N. While the upgrades are major or worth upgrading, that’s definitely up for debate; it’s undeniable that both G3N and G4N bring stunning performance and value through Humminbird’s patented MEGA image technology.
So, if you are in the market for a new fish finder, you cannot go wrong with the newer G4N, with better features, display, connectivity, and live imaging.
Also Read: Vexilar FL 12 Or FL 18 Fishing Sonar?
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
If we look closely, there is not much difference between Humminbird Helix G3N and G34. The display got a little upgrade, and G4N has useful features like Wi-Fi and a dual memory card slot. The biggest difference here has to be the inclusion of MEGA live compatibility of G4N.
If you are considering an upgrade, let me tell you there is nothing new in G4N. Better display, the introduction of Wi-Fi, and dual SD card slot are most notably the MEGA live compatibility, the newest stuff in Humminbird G4N.
Yes, any models of the Humminbird Helix series are compatible with one another. However, compatibility doesn’t mean it’ll upgrade the performance or the new features introduced in Humminbird G4N.
The extra “N” in G3N stands for networkable. This networkability means connecting the unit with another via the Ethernet cable. The G3, on the other hand, is a standalone unit with no networking option.
Final Words
That’s a wrap for today. I hope my comparison between Humminbird G3N and G4N fish finder will help you figure out the differences between these models and decide which model is the better purchase for you.
So far, the MEGA imaging has been the key selling point for these fish finders as it’s a Humminbird patented technology. So, if you are looking for an advanced fish finder that has convenient features at a reasonable price, you can go for either of these fish finders.
