Distance measuring devices

Distance measuring devices

GPS versus Laser

This is a growing market in the golf industry and one that I think some guidance on can be helpful. I am going to give you an overview of both the GPS units on offer and then also the Laser range finders with a comparison of the two.

GPS units:

These are hand held units that use satellites to measure distance from where you are to certain points on the golf course. The most common measurements will be to the front, middle and back of the green. Depending on the unit it will then also be able to give you measurements to water hazards, bunkers or trees. Some units now even have a function where you can touch the screen or move a cursor to get a yardage to a point you are interested in.

When looking at GPS units there are plenty on the market but I think there are some key things to consider.

How is the course measured? There are 2 methods that are used. The first is by using google maps and is measured remotely. The second is by walking the course manually and recording the GPS points.

I have ruled out stocking any units that are NOT walking the course to measure. Despite what some manufacturers may say I don’t think the measurements will be as accurate and will certainly not be up to date. An example of this is that google maps is not up to date with the changes that can be made on the course and so some units will not be updated until google maps decides to do it. Manufacturers that walk the courses to measure them are regularly checking for course changes and will then come and re-map the golf course.

Subscriptions. Some manufacturers will ask for an annual subscription. This is a good thing if you are getting plenty of updates for the unit.

What are the benefits?

Some of you may say “well I don’t really know how far I hit my clubs so it won’t help me”. Firstly it can be a great tool to help you learn how far you hit your clubs and secondly I bet you know within 10 or 15 yards.
Knowing the yardage can give you a lot more confidence when selecting your club.

I believe that GPS units can speed up play. Imagine if miss the fairway and are on another hole. One quick look at the screen will give you the distance to the green and you can go ahead and play without having to wander back and forwards trying to gauge the distance.

You can now use some GPS units to record scores and stats as you play. As someone who believes that being able to measure and compare what you are doing helps you improve this is a great tool.

Laser Units:

These are like binoculars. You fix a cursor on a target and it will register the distance for you. There are no subcriptions and nothing to download. They can be used to get distance to the flag, trees and lips of bunkers. Basically anything that you can see and it will bounce off can create a measurement.

So here is my own comparison as I have been testing both on the course.

GPS
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When using a GPS unit I find them very quick and simple to use and get yardages. I really like the fact that you can get an overview of the hole, particularly when playing a new course.
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I like being able to record my stats on the unit and then download them onto the website.

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You have to download the courses onto the unit and remember to do so before playing a new course
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The unit needs to be charged up. I should really buy an in-car charger for when I forget!

Laser

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I think getting obscure yardages can be easier i.e. the distance to carry a bunker.
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Getting yardages to the flag when inside 100 yards is more accurate

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I think you need a relatively steady hand or the readings can change
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It often feels like I have bought the dog and am wagging the tail myself!

Which one should I buy?

Firstly either will be a benefit because knowing your yardages will help to speed up play and also uncertainty is an enemy of good golf shots regardless of ability.

I think Laser units are only useful if you are looking for very specific yardages. This would lead me to say that Laser units may be better for low single handicap players

I think anyone can benefit greatly from a GPS unit from Professional to high handicapper. I certainly feel lost without mine when I play without it.
A GPS unit can really help you to learn about your own yardages. Many of them have a function where you can mark where you hit from and where you end up.

The GPS units get my vote over Lasers!

We will be producing more articles about the GPS and Laser units that we sell. If you want to do your own research then we are stocking the following and only recommend these:

Lasers:

Nikon Rangefinders
http://www.nealgranville-pga.co.uk/Pro/Equip/Default.aspx?Brand=Nikon&Category=Accessories&Product=main

GPS units:

SkyCaddie
http://www.skygolf.com/Default.aspx

GolfBuddy
http://www.golfbuddyglobal.com/

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If you are thinking of investing in a distance measuring device then we can offer ‘the best deal’.

Your first step is to come and speak to us. We can let you borrow either unit on the golf course and then help you make the best decision on which will be best for you.

Neal Granville PGA AA