GPS for golfers

UPDATE: Read my GolfLogix 2008 review

It seems like GPS is everywhere these days, and the golf course is no exception. There are two main types of golf GPS systems. One is owned by the course and integrated into your cart. The other is a handheld unit that golfers can carry along, no matter what course you play. Here are the four popular forms of the latter type (product descriptions are adapted from the manufacturer and / or Amazon):

• SureShot GPS (pictured at right) – The SureShot GPS is a compact, hand-held, easy to use GPS device specific to golf. With the option of attaching to your belt or golf cart, the SureShotGPS means never having to look for a distance again. Wherever in the world you play golf, the SureShot GPS will allow you to obtain distances from tee to green. Experience the difference with better club selection, speedier play and statistical information per round. There are thousands of courses available, and if by chance your's is not, it can be mapped for you within a few days. Official SureShot GPS web page.

• Sky Golf SkyCaddie – The SkyCaddie automatically calculates, as you move, distances to up to forty targets per hole simultaneously in less than a second. You will already have your number when you get to your ball. To use the SkyCaddie, a SkyPlayer membership must be purchased through SkyGolf. A SkyPlayer membership offers you a personalized SkyVault for easy access and safe storage of your SkyCourses. Memberships may only be purchased after your SkyCaddie has been activated. Official Sky Golf SkyCaddie web page. Also, here is an article on the SkyCaddie from the Joplin Globe in Joplin, Missouri.
• iGolf GPS Caddie – The GPS Caddie provides instant access to eleven points per hole. Subscribe to iGolf.com ($29.99/year) and download the front, center and back of the green, or easily map any golf course in the world using the included Map Course feature. Official iGolf GPS Caddie web page.
• GPS Golf Pro – GPS Golf Pro is a Pocket PC-based solution.  Download and add courses for free. GPS Golf Pro provides four essential functions on the golf course. First, using real time GPS satellite information, GGP will tell you how far away from the front and center of green you are at any given moment. It can also recommend a club if you use the shot by shot option. Second, GGP replaces your paper scorecard with an easy to use electronic version. Third, GGP can track each shot by up to four players on a given round, for later statistical analysis. Lastly GGP can give you live data as to how other golfers faired on the hole you are playing, longest drives, and many other interesting facts. Once you have played your round and the course uploads your data, you will receive your scorecard via email. After that you have the option of using the free website to analyze your game. Simply provide your email address before playing your round and all the details will be in your inbox when you arrive at home. From there you can login see how you rank against others who have played a particular course. You can also benefit from the club analysis, telling you how far you hit a particular club from a particular lie. This will shave valuable strokes off your score. The website can also calculate your current handicap. Viewing of each scorecard is also available through the free website. Official GPS Golf Pro web page.

Finally, here's another web page that compares and contrasts some of the above systems.

Comments

[Ian]

I recently bought a iGolf Caddie II from eBay Australia and i am very impressed with it. Got it at a bargain price and does everything you ask for really. You get alot of value for your dollar. Download hundreds of maps, map your own courses, set custom way points, know the distance to front, centre and back of green. Also a good thing is the shot distance feature, tells you how far you've hit the ball and helps you pick which club to use.

What's more it takes 2 AA batteries so you don't have to get to the course and find your lithium battery is dead and takes 15 hours for it to recharge. Huge bonus!

Very easy to use, also get hazards on it aswell. Great little gadget, no complaints, accurate within a meter.

If your considering buying a GPS golfing device, check these guys out on eBay Australia. Great product!