The SkyCaddie SX400 is a handheld golf GPS device that provides golfers with a ton of features to make your golf game more enjoyable while tracking stats to help you improve. It comes with a 4†touchscreen paired with incredible graphics and a very accurate GPS chipset.
The SX400 also comes with over 35,000 preloaded courses that have all be ground-verified. With features such as Intelligreen Pro and Dynamic HoleVue, you will find yourself with access to everything you need to hit the right shots.
If you are in the market for a handheld golf GPS device, the SkyCaddie SX400 is a great option.
There are a few drawbacks to the SX400 (such as a subscription plan) and we will cover that in detail along with some suggestions and alternative devices for you to consider.
Let’s get started!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Overview
In this post, we are going to do an in-depth review of the SkyCaddie SX400. We will cover how a GPS device works, compare it to rangefinders, and then cover all the details of the SkyCaddie SX400 (including some of the drawbacks).
In addition, we will help you decide if this is the right golf GPS device for you, or if you would be better matched to a different option.
The goal is that you come away with a thorough understanding of the SkyCaddie SX400, and whether it is the right device for you or if there is something better that matches your needs.
About SkyGolf
SkyGolf is the company that makes SkyCaddie products, and they are based in Ridgeland, Mississippi in the United States. They specialize in the development of golf positioning systems, course mapping processes, performance fitting programs, swing analysis apps, practice and play systems, and related technology products designed to help golfers play better and have more fun.
There products include the award-winning SkyTrak launch monitor, GPS handhelds, watches, and game trackers.
How Golf GPS Devices Work
A golf GPS device uses global positioning system (GPS) technology to determine its location on the course and provide the user with information about the distance to various points on the course. The device receives signals from GPS satellites orbiting the Earth and uses these signals to calculate its position with a high degree of accuracy.
How Accurate is GPS?
Consumer GPS devices (such as those found in smartphones and portable navigation devices) are generally quite accurate and reliable for a variety of applications, including navigation, location tracking, and mapping.
These devices use a network of satellite-based positioning systems, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) operated by the United States, to determine their location.
The accuracy of a GPS device is typically measured in meters or feet, and most consumer GPS devices are accurate to within a few meters or feet under normal conditions. However, there are several factors that can affect the accuracy of a GPS device, including the quality of the device, the number of satellites it can receive signals from, and the presence of obstacles or interference that can block or distort the signals.
Occasionally, your device will show inaccurate readings or struggle to pickup a signal. This typically only lasts for a few minutes.
How Accurate Are Golf GPS Devices?
There are several factors that contribute to the accuracy of a golf GPS device:
Quality of Course Maps
Accurate course maps are essential for a golf GPS device to provide accurate distance measurements. The quality of the maps can vary depending on the device and the sources used to create them and some companies actually walk the course and map it out for the highest accuracy.
Satellite Signal Strength
Golf GPS devices rely on satellite signals to determine their location and calculate distances. Good weather conditions, line-of-sight, and a good GPS chipset all contribute to signal strength.
Quality of the Device
The quality of the device itself can also affect its accuracy. Look for a device that is well-made and has a reputation for reliability.
Golf GPS Devices Vs Laser Rangefinders
Whether you want a GPS device or rangefinder, there is no wrong answer as to which device is better. Many players carry both devices to get the advantage from each.
There are a few key advantages that each device offers:
GPS Golf Devices
First, GPS devices can be attached to your bag, or worn on your wrist providing real-time yardage updates. With GPS, you always see a visual of the hole with yardages to hazards, the green and any target you wish.
In addition, the top GPS devices can show you the greens complex along with false fronts, contours, and ridgelines.
Laser Rangefinders
Laser rangefinders are generally more accurate than GPS devices. This is because they use laser technology to measure distance, while GPS devices use satellite technology.
This means that laser rangefinders can be more accurate in measuring distances to the flag, hazards, and other objects on the course.
Also, laser rangefinders don’t require a satellite connection to function. This means that you can easily carry a laser rangefinder with you on the course, and don’t have to worry about losing a GPS signal.
Occasionally satellite reception might be limited which leads to inaccurate yardages.
How To Choose A Golf GPS Device
Below are a few tips to keep in mind when looking at the specs/features of a GPS device.
Course Coverage
Make sure the device has maps of the courses you regularly play on, or that you can easily download maps for those courses.
Accuracy
Look for a well-known brand & avoid buying the cheapest GPS units available. These may look appealing, but won’t have accurate and stable signals/measurements which is the core function of a golf GPS device.
Features
Consider the features that are important to you, such as hazard information, enhanced greens info, scorekeeping, shot tracking, and other performance metrics.
Device Quality
The quality of the device itself can also affect its accuracy. Look for a device that is well-made and has a reputation for reliability. Also note how important the screen resolution and size is for you. If you wear reading glasses, you may want a larger screen.
SkyCaddie SX400 Features
The SkyCaddie SX400 comes with a 4†touchscreen paired with incredible graphics and a very accurate GPS chipset. With features such as Intelligreen Pro and Dynamic HoleVue, you will find yourself with access to everything you need to hit the right shots.
Accuracy
The SkyCaddie SX400 features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that provides accurate and reliable distance measurements. SkyCaddie’s are very accurate in general (Garmin however, may get the slight nod here for accuracy).
SkyCaddie does not provide specifics on their GPS chipset other than to note it has “Multi-constellation navigation satellite capabilityâ€.
Course Maps
Preloaded course maps – The SkyCaddie SX400 comes preloaded with maps of over 35,000 golf courses around the world, allowing golfers to access accurate and up-to-date information about the course they are playing on without the need for a subscription or data connection.
Hand-surveyed course maps – Per SkyCaddie, “ONLY SkyCaddie sends professional mappers to walk EVERY golf course with professional-grade survey equipment to create original course maps, accurate within 1 yard. Each mapper has been trained using the reliable methods created by Mark Long, one of two yardage book authors in the world that produces yardage books for the PGA TOUR. The result is that SkyCaddie has walked over 100,000 miles to provide the most complete, most reliable and most precise course maps in the game.â€
Auto course recognition – The SkyCaddie SX400 automatically recognizes the course you are playing on and displays the relevant course information, making it easy to get started right away.
Distance Measurements
The SkyCaddie SX400 can measure the distance to various targets on the course, such as the green, bunkers, and fairways, helping golfers to make better decisions about club selection and shot execution.
Simply double tap or pinch & zoom to reveal critical distances to all hazards, carries and layups. Move the cursor to select your intended target and line of play & IntelliPath technology provides the distance to hazards and to the end of fairway
IntelliGreen Technology
With SkyCaddie’s patented IntelliGreen technology, the exact shape of the green automatically rotates to match your angle of approach to provide all the distances you need to hit more green.
This proprietary feature gives you front carry and back distances, depth of green, and distances to any other point on the green — simultaneously.
IntelliGreen Pro
IntelliGreen Pro is an enhanced version of IntelliGreen that adds the ability to display major tiers, contours, false fronts, and mounds from your angle of approach to the green on selective courses.
By moving the IntelliGreen crosshairs to the ridge lines on the image of the green, you can find instant distances and depth information for major tiers and false fronts.
In conformance with USGA regulations, SkyCaddie does not factor slopes or gradients into distance calculations.
SkyCaddie Pinpoint Technology
SkyCaddie PinPoint provides the ability to get distances to the pin. Simply enter pin sheet or zone information into the SkyCaddie SX400 to get distances to the front, back, pin location or zone PLUS the depth and true shape green.
All of this information is on one screen that changes automatically based on your current position and angle of approach from anywhere on the course…whether you can see the flag or not.
With the SX400, you get more information, from more places, easier and faster and without having to aim a rangefinder.
Shot Tracking
The SkyCaddie SX400 can now track each shot you play (which clubs you used, how far you hit them, and where you hit them from). Activate Shot Tracking on the SkyCaddie to track rounds, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and find out which clubs are helping or hurting your game.
After you play, just Wifi Sync and use the in-depth tools to explore your round in detail at SkyGolf 360.
Scorekeeping
The SkyCaddie SX400 provides scoring options for Stroke and Stableford with handicapping and tracks total putts and fairways hit.
Turn the SX400 to the left or right and the AutoView feature displays a full 9-hole Digital Scorecard instantly in landscape mode.
SkyGolf 360
The SkyGolf 360 Cloud brings all golf-related performance data together in one place. It is a web-based suite that provides a central place for golfers to collect, analyze, track and share their rounds and performance data.
You can use the in-depth tools on the site to identify strengths and weaknesses in your game based on the data you have uploaded.
Size, Weight, & Construction
The SkyCaddie SX400 is small and lightweight. It measures 5″ x 2.4″ x 0.7″ inch (127 mm x 60.96 x 17.78 mm) and weighs only 6.6 ounces (200 grams), making it easy to carry with you on the course.
The SX400 is built to withstand the rigors of the golf course, with a rugged design and water-resistant construction.
Display
The SkyCaddie SX400 features a 4†color LCD display with a resolution of 540 x 1080 resolution.
The display has great resolution making it easy to read in all conditions.
SkyCaddie is known for having great displays and the SX400 is no exception.
Water Resistant
The SkyCaddie SX400 is water-resistant, but it is not waterproof. This means that it can withstand exposure to light rain and other wet conditions, but it is not designed to be fully submerged in water.
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system is used to classify the degree of protection provided by an electronic device against various types of environmental conditions, such as water and dust.
The SkyCaddie SX400 does not have an IP rating, as it is not a fully waterproof device.
Battery Life
The SkyCaddie SX400 has a hi-capacity rechargeable Li-Polymer battery good for 12-14 hours continuous use.
This means that you can use the device for multiple rounds of golf without having to worry about the battery running out.
Wifi Connectivity
The SX400 includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n which can be used to upload your scores, statistics or shot tracking data to the SkyGolf360 cloud
Other Features
- Auto-Course Selection finds and loads your course
- Auto-Hole Advances displays the next hole before you get there
- Auto-Zoom provides the best view of the hole as you proceed from tee to green
- Auto-Distance updates yardages continuously from your location without aiming
- Auto-Green Depth calculates the green’s depth and the distance to the front, back and any number in between, all from your angle of approach
- Auto-View displays scorecard in landscape view with a simple turn
- On Demand download for latest course updates via WIFI
- Measure the distance you hit any shot and learn your club distances
- North Indicator
- Tee Box Selection & Gender
- Dual Green Support
- Yards & Meters
- Target List View
- Simple Front Center Back View with ultra-large numbers
- Digital Scorecard
- Stat Tracking
Subscription Plans
The SkyCaddie SX400 comes with a 4†touchscreen paired with incredible graphics and a very accurate GPS chipset. With features such as Intelligreen Pro and Dynamic HoleVue, you will find yourself with access to everything you need to hit the right shots.
They are structured on a tier level, for example courses within your state, all courses in the USA and Canada, and all international courses.
Each subscription includes the following:
- Golf Magazine (1 year)
- Access to SkyGolf 360
- SkyCaddie Mobile (Scoring)
- Boxgroove private course play
- Golf Pipeline tee time booking
A subscription plan is required to use the device! Below are the different plans:
- $29.95 per year (Birdie) – Access to Statewide course maps only
- $49.95 per year (Eagle) – Access to Nationwide course maps
- $59.95 per year (Double Eagle Plus) – Access to Worldwide course maps
What Is Included In The Box
- SkyCaddie SX400 handheld GPS device
- USB charging cable
- Wall Charger
- Quick Start guide
How to Decide if the SkyCaddie SX400 is Right For You
There are really only (2) premium brands of handheld golf GPS devices: Garmin & SkyCaddie. To be fair, there are other GPS devices out there (Bushnell for example), but none that have the display quality of these brands.
So to decide if the SkyCaddie SX400 is right for you, here is some assistance.
Do you want a Dedicated GPS Golf device?
If yes, the SkyCaddie SX400 is a great choice. If you like the features but want a larger screen you can go with the SkyCaddie SX550.
5.5" LCD Color Touch Screen provides more viewing screen with a super responsive vivid display. Full HD golf course graphics from the tee to the green and all the hazards in between. Preloaded with more than 41,000 detailed color golf course maps, water resistant, auto course, auto zoom, scoring, statistics and up to 14 hour battery life.
Do you want a Dedicated GPS Golf device, But don’t want a subscription?
If you still want a dedicated GPS golf device but don’t want a subscription, Garmin the Approach G80. This device does NOT require a subscription and even includes a limited launch monitor.
Garmin Approach G80
Features 3. 5†sunlight-readable touchscreen display and slim design. Integrated launch monitor tracks club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, swing tempo and estimated distance. Preloaded with more than 41,000 detailed color golf course maps worldwide. Practice and game modes allow you to test your skills and work to improve your game.
The Garmin Approach G80 costs more up front, but there is no subscription. It is the equivalent of pre-paying 5 years of the Eagle subscription in advance. If you will keep your device for more than 5 years, the Garmin makes sense if you like its features better.
It is important to note that the Garmin display is not even close to the quality of the SkyCaddie though (if that is a big factor for you).
Do you want Something Different than a Dedicated GPS Golf device?
If yes, see, the next section for some alternatives.
Alternatives to the SkyCaddie SX400
Above, I listed (2) great alternatives–actually the only real alternatives I would consider. But, if you still are not sure you can go in a few different directions.
A Hybrid Laser Rangefinder/ GPS device
See the section below for some really interested hybrid devices that have both GPS functionality and a laser rangefinder (with slope) built in.
A GPS Golf Watch
This is another great option. Garmin makes some incredible dedicated golf GPS watches. They are lightweight, offer a ton of features, and you can even add shot trackers (CT10) to them.
Features new virtual caddie, golf performance stats, full-color mapping, green contours, slope-calculated distances, and a battery life of up to 20 hours.
What Makes this Watch Unique?
- Greens contour data
- PlaysLike distance (using slope)
- Wind & direction
- Larger watch face (47 mm)
- 1.3″ display size
- Transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display
- Touchscreen & buttons
- 14 days battery life
- Customizable watch faces
- (29) Swappable bands in different colors
WHo Is This For?
The golfer who wants the best dedicated Garmin golf GPS watch loaded with golf technology that can learn how you swing your clubs and provide a virtual caddie, but does not need the advanced activity & health features of the more advanced Garmin watches.
The Garmin Approach S42 has a slightly smaller screen and does not include the Virtual Caddie features.
Top Features
Virtual Caddie that learns how far you hit your clubs, wind speed and direction, PlaysLike distance that takes into account slope, green contour data with arrows depicting slope, smart notifications, sleep tracking, activity tracking. heart rate and more!
Hybrid Laser Rangefinder/GPS
Manufacturers also realized the tradeoff between GPS devices and laser rangefinders so they came up with an innovative idea; laser rangefinders with GPS functionality built-in.
These rangefinders incorporate GPS in (2) different ways:
- External display built into the rangefinder
- Internal display with overlaid visuals in the viewfinder
External Display
This innovative design incorporates an external display built right into the rangefinder body.
You get the benefits of a GPS unit and rangefinder with slope. This means hole overviews, hazards, layup distances, green views and more.
Some units also include the undulations on greens.
Units incorporating this design are:
Internal Display
This approach is different in that the GPS features are seen when looking through the viewfinder.
The visuals are overlaid on the actual hole you are looking at.
This shows you what hazards are in play around where you are aiming (via the range arc).
Units incorporating this design are:
Conclusion
GPS golf devices are an invaluable tool to understanding what type of shot to hit on the course. Hopefully, we were able to help you understand the technology, narrow down your requirements, and make a choice.
If you have an interest in rangefinders, please see our post on Best Golf Rangefinders with Slope.
