As an avid golfer I’m always looking for ways to improve my game and ultimately scoring better. The VoiceCaddie SL3 is like having a really smart local caddie who can provide course knowledge like distances, hazards and overall lay of the land in the fairways and on the green. What sets the SL3 apart from many of its competitors is that it provides two gadgets in a single device. There is the laser range finder mode, simply point it at the flag or a tree to know exactly how far it is. If additional course information is needed, turn on the GPS mode and the SL3 provides a map of the hole and tells you distances to important spots along the way, like sand traps, water hazards and how far to the pin.
Unboxing & Set Up:
The VoiceCaddie SL3 came well packaged and includes the rangefinder, a leather carrying case, a USB-C charging cable, cleaning cloth and a user’s manual. There’s also a VoiceCaddie app available, although the user’s manual does not call it out or provide any details. I came across it trying to find the list of supported golf course. I would definitely recommend downloading the app as it provided an update to the software on the SL3 device and also prompted me to update the list of supported courses. Outside of that it provides hole descriptions for the course being played, setting the distance unit measure, an electronic version of the user’s manual and a supported course list based on GPS location. It seems a bit daunting on first pass, but really it sets up easily and is ready to use within minutes.
The SL3 itself feels like a range finder that was put in a time machine as its aesthetics are a bit on the vintage side with a metal case wrapped in leather. The overall build quality is top-notch, and it feels sturdy yet not too heavy in hand. The included case is more on the modern side in white leather with red graphics, a magnetic closure, and a carabiner for connecting it to your bag or the golfcart.
Operation:
For the laser range finder mode, just turn the SL3 on by hitting the well positioned power button on top of the device and aim it at the flag or any other object. Hold the power button until the laser locks on its target, with a little haptic notice, the laser locks and provides the distance to that target. There is a slope feature which can be toggled on/off, but due to the hilly nature of the course in my area, I use the slope adjustment. Once locked on, the SL3 will provide the actual yardage to the object as well as the slope-adjusted yardage based on whether you are hitting up or downhill.
The brightness is adjustable by clicking the “sun” button next to the power button on top of the device. Even in total sunshine, the display is easy to read at any of the brightness settings. Overall, the SL3 seemed to be very quick to lock on the target and provided accurate yardages. There also the ability to magnify the view by 6X with the adjustable viewfinder.
The GPS mode is very similar to what some golfcarts at higher end courses provide. It’s like having Google Maps for the course you’re playing. To access the GPS mode, there is a small LCD touchscreen on the frontside of the SL3. You heard that right, there is a touchscreen display built into the SL3. When powered on there is an option for settings and for golf mode. Settings provides a demo mode, language and measurement selection, and an “about” page for software version, etc.
To get the course information, toggle into the “golf mode” and the GPS satellite will connect and provide courses in the area. Select the course being played and step into the tee box area to get started. The options available are:
- Course View: See the whole hole from above. Like a bird’s-eye view.
- Green View: Know how far to the front, middle, and back of the green.
- Putt View: Helps you read the greens (like a golf whisperer).
- Yardage View: Shows key distances.
- Flyover: Get a cool flyover view of the hole. Pretend you’re in a golf video game.
The GPS mode is fantastic for courses that you haven’t played before as it provides so much detailed information about the fairway, hazards, and the putting surface. Again, it’s like having that local caddie providing course secrets. As you begin to play the hole, the GPS will automatically reset your position and show the updated yardages to certain points. For putting, the SL3 provides green undulation and distances which again are such a plus on a course that isn’t played often.
Pros:
- Dual Functionality of a laser range finder and GPS yardages and views
- Easy to use – simply point and click for yardage
- Pin Tracer Mode – ideal for flags with trees or obstacles behind them
- Well-built and a cool vintage feel aesthetically
- Leather carry pouch for protection on the course
- GPS course and hole overview is a game changer
- 6X lens magnification for those long par 5 holes
- Quick battery recharge with standard USB-C cable
- No subscription fees to use, and the course list is updated regularly
Cons:
- Not all courses are included in the GPS Golf Mode – my local course is not supported
- Bit pricier than some options, but you get 2 devices in one with the SL3
Overall Impressions:
The VoiceCaddie SL3 is a remarkable golf rangefinder that seamlessly combines laser accuracy with GPS functionality. Golfers seeking precision and accuracy will appreciate its strategic course planning features. It won’t fix your slice, but it’ll definitely help you pick the right club. I would recommend the SL3 to any golfer looking to improve their game and scoring.