Garmin LiveScope vs Lowrance ActiveTarget 2
Garmin LiveScope Plus vs Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 compared on image clarity, views, display compatibility and total system cost for forward-facing sonar buyers.
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The short answer
Garmin LiveScope Plus is the pick if you want very sharp target separation and you already run, or plan to buy, a Garmin display. Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 is the pick if you want a lower total system cost and you run an Elite FS or HDS PRO. Both are excellent; your display brand should decide it.
Our top picks
- Pick LiveScope if… you run Garmin: LiveScope Plus system with GLS 10 and LVS34. Check price on Amazon
- Pick ActiveTarget 2 if… you run Lowrance: ActiveTarget 2 kit with module and transducer. Check price on Amazon
- Garmin display bundle: ECHOMAP Ultra 2 10-inch LiveScope Plus bundle. Check price on Amazon
- Lowrance display: Elite FS 9 head unit. Check price on Amazon
| Factor | Garmin LiveScope Plus | Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | LVS34 transducer + GLS 10 black box | Transducer + ActiveTarget 2 module |
| Views | Forward, Down, Perspective | Forward, Down, Scout |
| Compatible displays | Networked Garmin ECHOMAP and GPSMAP models | Elite FS, HDS PRO and other listed Lowrance models |
| Larger option | LiveScope XR | ActiveTarget 2 XL |
| Ice fishing kits | LiveScope Plus Ice bundles | Ice kits available |
| System cost | Premium | Mid-to-premium, often lower |
How we built this guide
We compared both systems using Garmin and Lowrance specs, display compatibility charts, published owner comparisons and long-term reviews from tournament and recreational anglers. We have not tested them on the water, so we rely on documented features and common owner reports.
Which shows a clearer picture?
Many owners say LiveScope Plus has slightly better target separation and less noise. Many others say ActiveTarget 2 closed most of that gap and is easier to tune.
Honestly, both are good enough to watch a crappie rise to a jig. Image quality depends a lot on settings, water clarity and how you mount the transducer. If you are buying your first live sonar, either one will change how you fish.
Garmin LiveScope Plus (GLS 10 + LVS34)
The full system includes the black box and transducer. It needs a compatible networked Garmin display. Garmin lists Forward, Down and Perspective modes.
Check the Garmin LiveScope Plus system on Amazon →
Lowrance ActiveTarget 2
This kit includes the module, transducer and mounts. It works with Elite FS and HDS PRO. Lowrance lists Forward, Down and Scout views, with Scout giving a wide top-down view.
Check the Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 on Amazon →
Which is cheaper overall?
ActiveTarget 2 is often the cheaper system, especially when you add a display. But the true cost is the display plus the sonar plus mounting.
Live sonar really wants a 9-inch or larger screen. So budget for the screen, the sonar, a pole or trolling motor mount and possibly a second display. Many anglers end up running live sonar on its own screen.
Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 10-inch LiveScope Plus bundle
This bundle pairs a 10-inch ECHOMAP Ultra 2 with LiveScope Plus. It is a simple way to buy a matched setup in one box.
Check the Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 LiveScope Plus bundle on Amazon →
Lowrance Elite FS 9
The Elite FS 9 is a common ActiveTarget 2 display. It is a cost-effective way to get a 9-inch networked screen.
Check the Lowrance Elite FS 9 on Amazon →
Who it’s for / who should skip it
- LiveScope is for: Garmin owners, anglers who want top-tier target separation and Perspective mode for shallow scanning.
- ActiveTarget 2 is for: Lowrance owners and anglers who want strong live sonar at a lower system cost.
- Skip both if you have not mastered side imaging and charts yet, or your budget cannot cover a large screen. See is forward-facing sonar worth it.
What actually matters when buying
- Display compatibility: check the exact model number, not just the product line.
- Screen size: 9 inches or more for comfortable live sonar.
- Mount: trolling motor shaft, pole or ice mount, each changes how you aim it.
- Power: live sonar adds draw. Plan battery capacity, especially on kayaks.
- Marketing noise: max range claims matter less than clarity at the 30 to 80 foot ranges most people use.
Watch-outs
- Live sonar has a learning curve. Owners often say the first few trips are confusing.
- Cables are long and expensive to replace. Route them carefully.
- Some tournaments and states have discussed restrictions on forward-facing sonar. Check your local rules.
- The transducer is exposed on the trolling motor. Stumps and docks can damage it.
Which should you choose?
- Choose LiveScope if you run Garmin electronics or a Garmin trolling motor.
- Choose ActiveTarget 2 if you run Lowrance or want lower cost.
- Choose by display first if you are starting from zero, since the screen is the bigger long-term choice.
Common questions
Can I run LiveScope on a Lowrance screen?
No. LiveScope needs a compatible Garmin display, and ActiveTarget 2 needs a compatible Lowrance display.
Is ActiveTarget 2 as good as LiveScope?
Many owners consider them close. LiveScope is often praised for separation, ActiveTarget 2 for value and ease of setup.
What is the XL or XR version?
These are larger transducer versions designed for longer range and wider views. They cost more and are mostly for anglers who scan open water.
Can I use live sonar for ice fishing?
Yes, both brands offer ice setups. See our best ice fishing electronics guide for full rigs.