Golf GPS Range Finder Buying Guide (Part One)
A golf GPS unit relies on communicating with satellites in orbit above the earth to pinpoint the device’s exact location on the surface. Many GPS gadgets , such as the Golf Buddy Tour GPS rangefinder can auto detect the course and hole you are playing on. Pre-mapping of the course is essential and the data pre-installed or downloaded into the device . The unit can then calculate how far it is to different targets such as the pin (flag), a bunker or hazard.
The range of GPS units on the market can be bewildering . When selecting one to buy take into account the following points.
Size and Weight of the unit.
Most devices are palm sized, rather like a cell phone. There are also golf GPS watches such as the stylish Garmin S1 GPS watch, worn on the wrist leaving your hands free and they function as a stylish watch off the course.
Ease of Set Up.
Some golf GPS devices need to be connected up to a computer, software downloaded and an account or subscription opened before they can be used. Others such as the Golf Buddy range simply need to be charged prior to use | before ] using. The Callaway uPro comes with introductory videos pre-loaded on the device, together with a set of headphones to listen to the audio to provide extra support.
Screen.
Screen size varies, but as with cell phones, there is a trend for screens to be getting larger. Check out a SkyCaddie SGX review to find out more about it’s vivid 3” display sceen. The GolfLogix GPS-8, has a grayscale screen and simply displays the distance to particular points on the hole. These are often clear and easy to read and interpret. Increasingly golf GPS [units | devices] have touch sensitive, full color screens that show both yardage and detailed pictures of hazards, tee bxes and greens. Whether you prefer the touch screen or to have buttons to operate the unit is a matter of personal preference . Some golfers prefer not to have the screen obscured by fingers and smudges . The Sonocaddie V500, one of the most advanced Golf GPS units on the market offers full color aerial flyovers of the holes for all of its premium mapped courses. Back lit and screens that reduce glare are much easier to read at dusk or in bright sunlight.
This is part one of a two part article. The second part covers other aspects of choosing a golf GPS device. Click on the following link to read the full article with more links to golf GPS range finder reviews .
This article is intended to give a general introduction to the factors to consider when buying a golf GPS device. Please remember to research thoroughly and ensure the product you purchase meets your needs.