Our SkyCaddie SX400 review took place at Formby Ladies and Huddersfield. So how did I find it?
SkyCaddie SX400 review: First impressions
As soon as this product arrived in the post I was really excited to get out and do some testing. The big story here is the new more compact size of the device and I have to say SkyCaddie have done a great job – it really is a perfectly sized hand-held device.
Having not used a SkyCaddie before, the first thing I instantly noticed was just how vibrant the screen is. It’s just like looking at your smartphone.
SkyCaddie SX400 review: The technology
The SX400 offers the same powerful features we saw in the successful SX500 but in a more compact package.
The main visual is from a four-inch HD touchscreen. As well as the traditional measurements to the front, middle and back of greens you can also input the day’s pin positions (if you have them) for the most accurate yardages.
It’s not just distances to the green and hazards you can view – there are dozens of geo-referenced targets per hole.
The device connects directly to wifi allowing you to download or update any courses you are playing – although there are already 35,000 pre-loaded onto the device.
There is also the added benefit of being able to use the device as a digital scorecard as well as being able to track key stats such as fairways hit and total putts.
SkyCaddie SX400 review: NCG verdict
This was my first time using a SkyCaddie GPS and it definitely didn’t disappoint. First off, the visuals are excellent. The screen is easy to see in all lighting conditions but also the graphics and yardages are really clear to understand.
You may think such high-quality visuals and brightness would affect battery life but I could easily get 36 holes out of this in a day with plenty of juice left in the tank.
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Traditionally, I have always used a laser. My frustration with GPSs often stems from the fact I want more in-depth information. There was no data I needed that the SX400 wasn’t providing. In fact, I found that not long into my round I had stopped reaching for my laser completely.
The touchscreen gave me the wealth of information I crave – not only just giving me distances to the hazards, fairways and greens but also run-out distances on my line of play. You can also zoom in on any area to get a more detailed view and additional yardages.
The device automatically rotates the hole view so you can see the distances and hazards from your line of approach with multiple yardage arcs to help you make easy club selections.
A great feature is the ability to enter in pin positions before your round. When I play in national events these are made available every day so I look forward to getting out and using this feature in a competition.
Overall, I really enjoyed testing this device. Honestly, I couldn’t really find anything to fault. Some may not like the annual subscription for the updated course GPS maps but I think for the information you’re getting it really is worth the money.
SkyCaddie SX400 review: The Details
Available:Â Now
SRP: £299.95
More information:Â SkyCaddie website
If you have any questions about the new SX400 feel free to leave a comment or send me a tweet.
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