Lowrance Elite-7 Ti Downscan vs Totalscan

Tax refund inbound and I have the house CFO approval to upgrade my electronics.

There is about a $100 difference between the Downscan and the Totalscan.

I have never used either. Is the side scan worth the $100 price difference?

Also, I'm not afraid to install it myself but is there anything I need to know? I'll be pulling out a 15-year old Lowrance Elite-4.

Just installed a Elite 9 ti. Installing is not a big deal if you can read carefully and follow instructions. I have never had trouble or had to redo anything I have installed. Do you consider yourself handy and have a mechanical mind. It is not rocket science. You can read installation guides on Lowrance web site before you buy.
I am new to the side scan and have only used it 4 times. There is a learning curve
to use it; but, I think the potential is there for it to be a great tool. I am tired of looking just under the boat. How many times have you wondered if the fish are a few feet away?
I think you would be sorry very shortly if you didn't get total scan.

Thanks, I think you're right - I will regret not getting the side scan.