Sign In or Start your 14-Day Free Trial!

How to Compare Handheld GPS

Email Share
By Mike Camunas
How to Compare Handheld GPS
Handheld GPS devices are becoming very popular with amateur and professional golfers. With newer, faster and better technology coming out just about daily, these GPS handheld devices have adapted to be as portable as cell phones and as visual as a laptop. From color screens to downloadable content in the palm of your hand, there are various models and options available to any avid golfer. Keep in mind that some models can be expensive, but it's also important to be able to compare GPS devices to find the model that fits your golf game the best.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy
Step 1
Determine what exactly you are looking for in a GPS device. Do you want a color screen or satellite images? Do you want one that can give directions as well as distances on the course? There are many features on various GPS devices, so it's good to have a list of specific options in mind. It's also wise to have in mind how much money you're willing to spend because some can get rather pricey and certain options might not be available in your budget.
Step 2
Do plenty of research. Most brands of GPS devices will have their own websites with facts and details of the devices. Golf shopping websites also will have GPS device sections, listing each product by brands, prices and features. It's important to know what each feature can and can't do so you know what you're looking at when comparing the devices.
Step 3
Go to the store and ask to see the devices. Many golf stores, either chain or local ones, should have a wide variety of handheld GPS devices and have them on display for inspection. Some even charge them and let you try them out. There should be an salesman available to answer your questions or allow you to handle the products.

Tips & Warnings

Ask golf friends or playing partners if they have GPS devices that you can borrow and try out. Of course, not everyone will have one handy, however, it's a good way to give the product a test run, helping you compare if you are lucky enough to try more than one. Consult a PGA teaching pro at your local course or range. They'll be able to give you more information on GPS devices that are best for courses, as well as information on the most commonly used.
Ask golf friends or playing partners if they have GPS devices that you can borrow and try out. Of course, not everyone will have one handy, however, it's a good way to give the product a test run, helping you compare if you are lucky enough to try more than one.
Consult a PGA teaching pro at your local course or range. They'll be able to give you more information on GPS devices that are best for courses, as well as information on the most commonly used.
If you go to golf product fairs, take salesmen's words with a grain of salt. Those individuals are working for the company, so they're going to compare GPS models and say theirs is the best. The bottom line is that your opinion and comfort with the product is all that matters when purchasing a GPS or any golf product.

About The Author

Mike Camunas is a free lance reporter, covering local golf in the Tampa Bay area, from events to golfers hitting hole in ones, to even covering the professional events that hit town. He has been playing golf for about 11 years and has never seen his handicap lower. Perhaps one day. He attended the University of South Florida.
Not a Member?
Member Sign In
Keep me logged in
Forgot your password?

Nearby Tee Time HOT Deals!

Sunday, May 27 to Friday, Jun 01

Related Articles

Article Image How to Buy GPS Tracking Devices

Golf uses all kinds of modern technology, even GPS tracking devices. Us...

Article Image How to Read GPS Maps

Some golfers like to use GPS maps when playing a round. Whether it's on...

Article Image How to Compare Golf GPS Systems

Golf GPS systems have evolved significantly since they were first intro...

Article Image How to Buy a GPS

Golf GPS systems have become increasingly popular since their legalizat...

Article Image The Best Golf GPS Devices

GPS golf devices have become common-place in recent years. They are han...

View All Related Articles

Video of the Day

The Ben Hogan Arm Drill
By Jim McLean

Making mini swings with your elbows glued to your body will give you the correct sensation of the large torso muscles swinging ... Watch the Video Now

Article of the Day

Why Do I Top the Ball in My Golf Swing?
Why Do I Top the Ball in My Golf Swing?

When the club head hits the top half of the ball, the shot never gets airborne and the result is...

Read full article

Top Blog Post

Bay Hill Proves Tough Test

Arnold Palmer is known to prefer a thorough test of golf. As host of the invitational that bears his name, Palmer, like Jack Nicklaus at the Memorial, is the guiding influence over the course set up at Bay Hill and he wasn’t disappointed in giving players a fair dose of what the average hack sees ... More