I have had both (lowrance Ifinder H20 - handheld, and lowrance sonar/gps 520 - actually I have the 480, monochrome version of the 520). If I were buying a new one - I would definitely go with color. I like the sonar/gps much better. You really sacrafice screen size with the handheld - even a handheld with a larger screen. They both operate very similar - but it seems the 520 operates a little quicker. I don't think you will be disapointed with the 520 - sonar is great, gps is great. I know I had the plan of using my handheld in the boat and the occasional car - but it wasn't as good for car trips as I had hoped. Handhelds don't offer turn by turn directions when driving - and basically ends up being a little more complicated to use than a road map or AAA trip tic. I ended up selling it when I got a newer boat with the lowrance in it. I don't think you will be let down by the lowrance 520, but if you get a handheld - I think you will always be wanting a little more and second guessing your purchase as I did.