A big appeal of golf is that it is the perfect escape from our tech-driven digital society. A chance to put away the screens, get outside, and be social. That being said, no sport can escape technology, and while purists may disagree, gadgets have become a significant part of golf. Golf gadgets have enabled players of all abilities to develop different aspects of their game and get around golf courses much easier. If you are serious about getting better and lowering that handicap, then you should look to make some key investments. The good news is that there are golf gadgets for every budget, and you can easily shop around for the best deals. Below, we have listed the 5 digital golf gadgets we feel you should consider if you want to improve your game.
Range Finder
Range finders have become a universal part of golf, and if you are determined to improve your game, you should invest in one. A range finder will give you an exact distance to the green from the tee and anywhere on the fairway, removing all guesswork on how hard you should hit the ball. If you know your club distances, a range finder will allow you to make better decisions when choosing which club to use for each shot, especially if you need to avoid a hazard. If you want an even more accurate range finder, look for a slope rangefinder. These calculate how much longer an uphill shot or how much shorter a downhill shot will play, giving you an even better chance of hitting a low score.
Golf GPS Watch
Smart technology is transforming golf, and none more so than the golf GPS watch. The best golf watches come with thousands of preloaded golf courses that can aid golfers in several ways. A golf watch will give users an accurate map of the course and will be able to provide the distances to not just the green but also bunkers and water hazards, both back and front. After you hit the ball and find it, the watch will give you an accurate distance of how far it traveled. Your golf watch can also act as a virtual caddie and recommend which club you should use for the next shot based on previous data. As an added bonus, a golf watch can also be used to keep score.
Swing Analyzer
Improving the golf swing is the never-ending goal of every golfer, and a swing analyzer is the best way to do this, aside from working with a pro. There are different types of swing analyzers available, ranging from devices that clip onto your golf glove or strap to your arm to those that clip onto your club. Each analyzer is connected to an app that will give you an accurate reading of every swing. The feedback you will receive will include your swing tempo, swing speed, and your attack angle. An analyzer that attaches to your arm will be able to measure your wrist angle and how it changes during your swing. If you are still struggling to achieve a consistent swing, an analyzer will tell you why.
Portable Launch Monitor
Just like a swing analyzer, a launch monitor is one of the most effective tools for analyzing your ability as a golfer. As the name suggests, a launch monitor will provide feedback on the ball after you have hit it. There are many different versions available depending on your budget, and a good launch monitor will provide feedback on ball speed, direction, and spin. All this information can be viewed immediately, giving you an accurate way to improve your striking. The more advanced models also have added AI features that can act as a virtual trainer and provide instant feedback.
Indoor Virtual Simulator
The ultimate golf gadget is an indoor virtual simulator. This setup is frequently seen in golf tutorial videos and is one of the most effective ways to improve every aspect of your game. Using a launch monitor, projector, and screen, you can recreate the driving range and some of the world’s most famous courses in your own home. An indoor virtual simulator allows you to practice at your own convenience while providing a wide range of data on every shot. Do note that an indoor virtual simulator can be expensive to set up and you will need to ensure you have enough space. If a golf simulator is out of your budget, don’t worry; you can still take advantage of the benefits through our two GolfX locations in San Juan and BGC.
If you want to improve your golf game or eliminate the guesswork of getting around the course, consider investing in a golf gadget. These tools will help you find and improve any faults in your game to become a better golfer.