SkyCaddie Pro 4X: Big Features in a Small Package

By Troy Giljohan at Wisco Golf Addict

SkyCaddie has become my go-to GPS device for any course situation. After experiencing the power of the SkyCaddie Pro 5X last season I was officially hooked. The Pro 5X is SkyGolf’s flagship device and I found myself using it every round. There was only one thing I would change – the size. The engineers at SkyGolf must have been listening because the SkyCaddie Pro 4X debuted this year featuring all of the same functionality but in a smaller package.

After a season of use I am happy to share my experience with the Pro 4X and why it may be worth the investment.

Getting Started

Whether you are new to the SkyCaddie ecosystem or have used their products before, the Pro 4X 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. Check the “videos” section of the Pro 4X page.

A feature that I did not setup or take advantage of until after my first round was the club distancing. You are able to 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 4X. 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’re like me, you’ll want to use your new gadget right away. When you start the device on the first tee you will need to have a clear view of the sky and within about 1-2 minutes you will get a prompt to select a nearby course. The SkyCaddie library is one of the most comprehensive I’ve seen, with over 35,000 mapped courses available.

The size and shape of the The SkyCaddie Pro 4X has really made this a convenient companion throughout the round. Slip the Pro 4X 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.

Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 18 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. USB C charging makes finding a cord to charge the unit with ease.

The Pro 4X 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. A new feature that I used to really dial in my game this season was the IntelliGreen Pro.

IntelliGreen® Pro

IntelliGreen® Pro has 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. With IntelliGreen Pro, you’ll always know what’s ahead, no matter where you are on the hole, even if you can’t see the green!

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 Wishlist

While I did think the Pro 4x was just as 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. I am actually thinking of gluing a magnet on the back for next season so I can mount it on the cart for easy access. Second, there are some settings like club distances that can only be updated via your online profile and then synced to the unit. Third the black color is nice and sleek but I left the unit it the cart cupholder on two occasions. It blends in really well with the typically black dashboard of a golf cart. Finally, the startup and course locating can take some time (it was about 2 minutes when I averaged my rounds) so plan accordingly and don’t fumble with it when it’s your turn to tee off.

GameTraX 360

SkyCaddie has also released GameTrax 360 SuperTags which will allow you to take your Pro 4X to the next level. I had the opportunity to test these at the PGA show 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. These will work great for indoor practice for anyone stuck in a simulator waiting for snow to melt.

Key Features Summarized

• High-Resolution Touchscreen: The 4X 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 4X 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 4X 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.

Final Thoughts

The SkyCaddie Pro 4X is a top-tier GPS device in the SkyGolf lineup. I found that it delivers on both functionality and performance with its small size making it so much more convenient. 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 GPS units have become indispensable for my game and I personally equate it to having a Caddy on call. The Pro 4X’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 4X should definitely be on your radar.