Basic Function
The Global Positioning System (gps) is a worldwide system formed from 24 satellites, developed by the US Defence Department in the 1970s. A golf gps device uses simultaneous signals from a number of these satellites to pinpoint its position. It can then calculate accurately distances to defined targets on the golf course.
GPS v Laser Rangefinders
Golf gps range finders require a golf course map in order to function, and are therefore dependent of the quality of such a map. Better gps devices, such as the SkyCaddie range (see below) use surveyor-grade maps to negate this issue. Such units show all hazards and distances to front, back and middle of greens. In most circumstances, gps devices hold sway over their laser counterparts. The only exception is that, in very cloudy weather, golf gps rangefinders may not receive satellite signals effectively. Otherwise, a golf gps rangefinder can be used on any course in the world.
Laser rangefinders have their range limited by the strength of the emitted laser pulses, which must be safe for the human eye. Additionally, the size, orientation and reflectivity of the target may have an adverse effect on performance. Small, dark-coloured targets or those with angular surfaces may not reflect pulses back to the rangefinder, and sometimes cannot be measured. Performance is also impaired by bright sunlight, or inclement weather conditions, such as rain or fog.
Popular Golf GPS Models
Mapped Courses
Given that golf gps rangefinders rely on a stored course map for their functionality, support, in terms of mapped golf courses, is a critical consideration. SkyCaddie’s official website allows downloading of 17,000+ professionally mapped courses in the UK, Europe, USA, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. As the best-supported gps devices, it is no surprise that the SkyCaddie range is the most popular on the market.
Best Buy
The SkyCaddie SG2.5 and SkyCaddie SG5 are easy to use, with one-handed operation. The IntelliGreen® technology allows players to determine the shape and depth of a green from any angle. A compact design, weighing in at less than 4oz, it is the lightest gps rangefinder on the market. At a price less than most decent drivers, reviewers rated in the best value-for-money gps device on the market.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Sounds like a great idea, but I’m surprised that downloads of course info is in bulk rather than by state per subscription to maximize the potential and still create a good value for the golfer.
In terms of potential future sales, wouldn’t that make better sense since the number of golfers who play within their own state probably far exceeds the number who play outside it; and those that do play outside their residency state can probably afford the surplus cost for downloading the course of their choice.
Hi Pat,
Skycaddie actually has 3 subscription options for downloading courses:
1. BIRDIE – Sub-region (UK, etc)
2. EAGLE – Region (Europe, Africa, etc)
3. DOUBLE-EAGLE – (Worldwide)
We’ve covered the membership options in more depth in our review of the Skycaddie SG5.
I think from Skycaddie’s perspective they’re investing so heavily in professionally mapping courses and they need a sustainable revenue model to keep that going.