As the pockets of my golf bag slowly fill with gadgets in the quest for conquering the course, one device has become the first I reach for: The SkyCaddie Pro 5X.

I was first introduced to this device at the 2024 PGA Merchandise Show and after a quick demo I knew this would be a cheat code for most golfers. I was already a believer in the benefits of SkyCaddie after using the LX5 GPS Watch last season, but the Pro 5X is next level. After a season of use I am happy to share my experience with the Pro 5X and some of its key features.

Getting Started

Whether you are new to the SkyCaddie ecosystem or have used their products before, the Pro 5X is very easy to setup. I would start by setting up an online account on the SkyCaddie website. There is a membership requirement to use any of the SkyCaddie products. If you purchase a device it will come with one year of membership and then plans start at $29 a year (well worth it, in my opinion).

To get the actual unit setup there are several instructional videos which I would highly recommend watching. SkyCaddie has done a great job with their print and digital instructions so even those who are not tech savvy will have no issues.

A feature that I did not setup or take advantage of until after my first round was the club distancing. You are able configure your SkyCaddie profile with your average shot length for each club in your bag. This process must be done on your phone or computer and then synced with your Pro 5X. You can see in the picture below how this distancing can help you plan shots throughout your round. I found myself making 10+ shot adjustments per round based on this data. Note this is a non-conforming feature for any tournament play.

Out on the Course

If you are like me you are going to want to use your shiny new toy as quickly as possible. When you start the device on the first tee you will need to have a clear view of the sky and within about 60 seconds you will get a prompt to select a nearby course. The SkyCaddie library is one of the most comprehensive I have seen with over 35,000 courses available.

The size and shape of the The SkyCaddie Pro 5X is similar to a large phone so you could slip this in your pocket or keep it in the cart easily. The sides and back are protected with a rubber coating which gave me the instant impression of ruggedness but the screen is exposed glass so be cautious. The unit is also water resistant for those who are venturing out in the rain. After a season of use and storage in a bag pocket it still looked brand new.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 14 hours on a single charge. I would typically charge mine after two rounds just to be safe. I did experience battery drainage like most electronics if it sat in the bag for a longtime between rounds so be sure to check it before you start.

I checked accuracy by comparing rangefinder readings and like previous SkyCaddie devices I found the Pro 5X to be spot on. Front middle and the back of the green readings were all within 1 to 2 yards when compared to manually sighting with a separate rangefinder.

The Pro 5X packs a lot of capabilities so don’t let that distract you while you are playing. Take your time and figure out what settings work best for you and how you want to use everything to your advantage. Even after an entire summer, I am still discovering new options with some of my favorites being the Target List View and Interactive HoleVue.

Another notable feature is the shot tracking capability. It helps you track your shots and distances, providing valuable insights into your game and helping you identify areas for improvement. At this time your shots and clubs must be manually noted on the device as you play. While I personally did not use this feature much, a player that is looking to analyze their shot performance and club metrics would find this very useful. The summarization via your online profile was easy to interpret.

The video below gives a great overview of some additional Pro 5X features.

The Wishlist

While I did think the Pro 5x was easy to setup and use there are a few things I would change. First, I wish it had a built-in magnet for mounting instead of needing a separate device holder. Second, there are some settings like club distances that can only be updated via your online profile and then synced to the unit. Finally, the startup and course locating can take some time so plan accordingly.

GameTraX 360

SkyCaddie has released the new Super Tags which will allow you to take your Pro 5X to the next level. I had the opportunity to test these at the PGA show last year and was immediately impressed. I have had tracking tags before but these are next level. Besides tracking your club data they are providing swing analysis both on and off the course. The putting feedback alone makes these tags worth it as you can see your stroke, alignment and impact.

Key Features Summarized

• High-Resolution Touchscreen: The 5X features a vibrant, easy-to-read display that allows for seamless navigation through its intuitive interface, even in bright sunlight.
• Preloaded Courses: Access thousands of meticulously mapped golf courses worldwide, with no annual fees. The SkyCaddie team walks each course to ensure the most accurate and up-to-date information.
• Dynamic Hole Views: Get detailed hole layouts that change as you move, providing real-time distances to hazards, greens, and other critical points.
• Smart Rangefinder Technology: The Pro 5X includes advanced features like IntelliGreen® and Digital Scorecard, helping you make informed decisions on the course.
• Shot Tracking and Statistics: Analyze your game with detailed statistics and shot tracking features, helping you identify areas for improvement.
• Durable and Waterproof: Built to withstand the rigors of the golf course, the Pro 5X is both rugged and weather-resistant, ensuring reliable performance in various conditions.
• Long Battery Life: Enjoy extended usage on the course with a powerful battery that lasts for multiple rounds without needing a recharge.

The SkyCaddie PRO 5X is a top-tier GPS device that delivers on both functionality and performance. Its advanced features, including detailed course mapping, pin placement adjustment, and shot tracking, make it a valuable tool for golfers looking to enhance their game. The SkyCaddie Pro5X has become indispensable for my game and I personally equate it to having a Caddy on call. The PRO 5X’s accuracy and feature set make it a worthy investment for serious players.

If you’re in the market for a high-quality golf GPS device that offers precision and reliability, the SkyCaddie PRO 5X should definitely be on your radar.

Shop the SkyCaddie PRO 5X on SkyGolf’s website

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