The Swing Caddie SC4 has emerged as the new champion in the realm of $500 launch monitors. Whether you’re practicing indoors or hitting balls on the range, this device offers a wealth of data and features that cater to golfers of all levels.
Ease of Use-
One of the standout features of Swing Caddie’s launch monitors is their simplicity. Here’s how it works:
Charge the SC4: Once fully charged, you’re ready to go.
Positioning: Place the SC4 about five feet behind your hitting area.
Onboard Display: The SC4 boasts an onboard display, eliminating the need for a connected device. No hassle, just straightforward usability.
Calibration: To ensure accuracy, adjust the tilt until the displayed number reads zero. For precise horizontal launch angles, align the unit with your target (an alignment plate is available separately).
Using the Launch monitor at the range was great. Here I used the App on my phone and connected a set of Bluetooth ear buds. This way I could here my distance through my ear instead of the unit itself which may have bothered nearby golfers.
App –
App was easy to set up on my android phone.
You can choose from three view options in Practice mode;
Driving Range – Shows basic shot data and a small map of where your shots land
Pro – Lots of data
Video – Love this one. You can set up your phone on a tripod and it will record your every shot. Nice to review to evaluate what I need to improve on with body motion.
The E6 simulator: set up was a bit challenging. Not real great instruction on finding the software package download I eventually headed over to the E6 Support Page on their website. Here I found a link to the E6 Connect Software download (Ver 1.14.1.6 at the time of this writing). You will have to enter your Key number that is supplied on a small card in the box.
Once set up, I simply had to connect the SC4 to my laptop via Bluetooth and I could then use the practice range and even golf 18 holes. In this simulator mode I did notice a short delay between hitting your shot and seeing the result on the screen. Pretty common on simulators, just a little longer than pro level simulators I have gone to.
One in a while I get a false reading when I hit a real bad shot. But mostly this works great.
Note, to my knowledge you cannot putt using this device, you simply hit onto, or up to, the green and the software will give you a ‘Gimmie’ and automatically putt you out. Not a big deal breaker for me as I don’t have a set-up, nor do I need to practice putting on artificial surface anyway.
All-in-all it is great to have an in-home simulator at this price point. I simply hit into a practice net while using a laptop.
With this unit I received the Practice course and 1 golf course (Aviara Golf Club). Basic subscription to purchase more:
BASIC:
$300/YR
This Subscription provides access to Online Events, Peer-to-Peer, and 39 pieces of rotating Course Content throughout the year.
EXPANDED:
$600/YR
This Subscription provides access to Online Events, Peer-to-Peer, and all non-premium course content available in E6 CONNECT throughout the year.
Data Metrics-
The SC4 provides an impressive array of data:
• Swing Speed
• Ball Speed
• Carry Distance
• Launch Angle
• Apex (Max Height)
• Smash Factor
• Spin Rate (displayed directly on the screen, unlike its predecessor, the SC300i)
Accuracy & Effectiveness
To validate its accuracy, I’ve extensively tested the Swing Caddie SC4. Here’s what I found:
• Consistent Data: Across various scenarios (indoors with premium balls and outdoors with range balls), the SC4 performed admirably. Its data closely matched that of other high-end launch monitors. The only two exceptions I noticed was the Spin factor and short pitching shots.
The SC4 indeed reports spin rate, which can be crucial for shot analysis. However, myself and some users have noted that its spin numbers may not align precisely with other high-end launch monitors. Keep this in mind if spin data is critical to your practice routine. (Hopefully addressed in a software update). See pictures attached for comparison between my local Indoor Simulator that also uses E6, but with the TruGolf set up.
Shot Recognition Under 10 Yards: The SC4 occasionally struggles to recognize shots within this short distance. If you’re working on chip shots or delicate pitches, be aware of this limitation. I noticed great improvement if you make sure you select the Wedge you are using before hitting.
Launch Direction: While launch direction occasionally deviated, it consistently pointed in the correct direction.
Professional Fitting vs. Practice Tool: While not suitable for professional club fittings perhaps, the SC4 is more than accurate enough for practice sessions.
Conclusion
The Swing Caddie SC4 is a versatile companion for golfers seeking both practice and simulation experiences. Whether you’re fine-tuning your swing or virtually playing iconic courses, the SC4 delivers. Plus, its voice output, rechargeable battery, and compatibility with E6 Connect enhance the overall experience.
In summary, the SC4 is the go-to launch monitor under $600 for those who value accuracy, ease of use, and a touch of simulation magic. Enjoy improving your game, rain or shine!