With so much choice on the market, it's understandable that picking the best laser rangefinder can be a daunting decision for golfers looking to buy for the first time. Shot Scope are one of the best tech brands in the business, making a range of the best golf GPS devices, watches and lasers to suit any budget. The new Pro X sits somewhere in the middle of the rangefinder category, priced and loaded with features that make it not quite an entry-level option but not a premium laser either.
It's worth talking about the standout customisation options early in this review, as this is something that sets this device apart from the crowd. There are various designs to choose from as stock options, as well as the ability to order in bulk for your company or an event/trip, leaving the options endless (within reason) for what you want on the side panel of the device. So, whether it's the flag of your country, a customised gift for your dad or your company (see my Golf Monthly logo device below), the Pro X has a nice differentiation from the often dull, grey rangefinders that dominate the market.
Out on the golf course, this is a practical and solid rangefinder that does all the basics to an ideal standard. It has slope-adjusted distances, which can be easily turned on and off when you're playing in competition, a built-in magnet for use on a ride-on cart, and target lock vibration. I was impressed with how quickly the Pro X locked on to the pin or other target I was pointing at. Coupled with the vibration, you can zap the pin and get your accurate yardage incredibly quickly with the Pro X, which I enjoyed.
The device also has 6x magnification and a huge 800 yards of range. The view on the pin down the rangefinder is clear, and that added level of magnification versus some other devices is very useful. However, the actual display of the numbers is a little duller than some other devices. Another Shot Scope device, the Pro ZR, has a much brighter display that can be displayed in black or red depending on the light conditions, while something like the Zoom OLED has an incredibly bright display that shows the numbers you've zapped to the pin in crystal clear brightness. The Pro X lacks a little firepower in this particular area, but this is my only serious criticism of the device.
Perhaps this is to be expected for a device that retails at under $200/£200. The way the rangefinder market is heading, under $200/£200 can be considered a mid-priced option, and therefore the Pro X isn't as feature-packed as its more expensive rivals. It also feels a little more plastic than its sibling, the Pro ZR, while being a bit more lightweight, too. That being said, the carry case is one of the more premium ones I've tested and looks smart hanging off the accessory hook of your bag.
All in all, this is a very solid and reliable option for a laser rangefinder. The customisation adds a nice differentiation to the rest of the market while, on pure functionality alone, the Pro X fulfils its job efficiently, allowing you to get on with your golf seamlessly and, most importantly, arm yourself with accurate distances on the golf course.
