What Makes a Good Golf GPS Unit?

What Makes a Good Golf GPS Unit?
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Ever since its invention GPS has gained in widespread use and innovative applications. The use of GPS is very diverse considering the many different areas that it is used in, from tracking vehicles, to tracking pets… and even in golf. The use of GPS in golf is not a new trend; it has been around for some time. GPS is used in golf mainly as a rangefinder to determine the distance of the golfer to the green and other important points. A golf GPS device typically has data about golf courses to provide correct and reliable information to the golfer that can improve the pace of play as the golfer doesn’t have to consult a yardage book for the course.

There are many golf GPS products available in the market today on offer from various manufacturers. But too many available devices also make one thing difficult for the consumer, and that is “to choose the right product”. So how do you choose the best golf GPS device? What should you look for in a golf GPS device, so it proves worth the money you spend on it? Well, though it mainly depends on your requirements, there are certain common factors that we can look for to decide if a golf GPS device is worth buying. Let’s take a look.

User friendly: Some advanced devices can be tricky to use, especially for non-technically minded users. You should look for a device that has most of the needed features and is easy to operate. Also, you should go with the interface you are comfortable with e.g., if you are comfortable with touch screen interface then look for a touch screen device.

Course Maps: Free preloaded course maps are a must for a good golf GPS. It saves you the extra costs of buying course maps later.

Portability: Portability is a very important factor when it comes to golf GPS. The device should be comfortable enough in size and weight so you can carry it around easily. The display size must be large enough to view easily and small enough to fit your pocket.

Quality receiver: A golf GPS must have a highly sensitive receiver so it can pin point the exact position and distances.

Waterproof: So that you don’t have to worry about it if you accidentally drop it in water or get wet in the rain. Weather-resistant GPS devices are a huge plus.

Battery Life: Enough battery power to last for the round. Wouldn’t you hate it if your battery dies while you are still in play?

Reflective Screens: Direct sunlight can make it very difficult to read a GPS device’s screen. Devices that come with a reflective coating are more readable in bright sunlight.

Other features: There are also other features that you can look for in your golf GPS, like a digital scorecard that keeps track of your score and also allows you to download and review the scorecard on your computer, an USB interface, ability to manual pin position etc. Some golf GPS even lets you see a detailed preview of the course, which is a great and useful feature.