Shot Scope vs. Arccos: Ultimate Stat Tracking Showdown

If you're serious about improving your golf game, tracking your stats is non-negotiable. But with so many options on the market, which GPS and shot-tracking system is best?

Two of the biggest names in the space are Shot Scope and Arccos Golf—both offering GPS functionality, performance analytics, and data-driven insights to help golfers shoot lower scores.

But which one should you choose?

In this comparison, I’ll break down the key differences between Shot Scope and Arccos, their strengths and weaknesses, and which system is the best fit for your game. Plus, I’ll share an alternative golf app that helped me become a plus handicap. 

Whether you're a high handicapper looking to improve, a competitive golfer trying to optimize course strategy, or just someone who loves tracking data, this guide will help you make the right choice.

Shot Scope vs. Arccos

To figure out which is right for you, let’s review each in detail before comparing them. 

Shot Scope Overview

Shot Scope is a comprehensive golf GPS and shot-tracking system designed to help you analyze your game without the hassle of ongoing subscription fees. Unlike Arccos, which requires a monthly or yearly subscription, Shot Scope provides lifetime access to its mobile app and performance dashboard after a one-time purchase.

How Shot Scope Tracks Stats

With multiple ways to track your shots, Shot Scope caters to a wide range of golfers based on their preferences. Whether you prefer wearing a GPS watch, using standalone sensors, or a handheld device, Shot Scope has an option for you.

Here’s how they track your data throughout the round: 

• Shot Scope GPS Watches (V5, X5, and More): Provides seamless shot tracking and GPS with full-course mapping and real-time yardages. The V5 and X5 models automatically track shots without needing a phone. All data is recorded on the watch and synced post-round for easy review.
• Shot Scope CONNEX Sensors (No Watch Needed): A sensor-based system that screws into each club’s grip, similar to Arccos. These sensors sync with your phone via Bluetooth to track shots and deliver performance insights. They are ideal if you want a minimalistic tracking experience without wearing a watch.
• Shot Scope Rangefinders (PRO L2, PRO LX+): Combines GPS and rangefinder technology for highly accurate distance control. The PRO LX+ model includes tracking sensors, making it a hybrid device for both precision yardages and performance tracking. More affordable than premium competitors like Bushnell, making it a great value option.

They also have handheld devices like the Shot Scope H4 GPS if you prefer them vs. rangefinders. All of them include access to the app too. 

Shot Scope App (Free)

One of the biggest advantages of Shot Scope is its free access to their performance dashboard and mobile app. This allows you to track and analyze data with no extra costs, here's how:

• Easily compare your stats to golfers of different handicap levels to see where you need to improve.
• View strokes gained data across different areas of your game (driving, approach shots, short game, and putting).
• Break down club distances, shot dispersion, and on-course tendencies to make smarter decisions.
• No manual tagging required—Shot Scope's tracking system automatically detects shots, with minimal editing needed post-round.

Who is Shot Scope Best For?

Shot Scope is an excellent option if you want shot tracking, GPS distances, and performance analytics without a subscription. If you like the idea of automatic stat tracking but don’t want to rely on a phone in your pocket (like Arccos requires), Shot Scope’s GPS watches or H4 device are great solutions.

Additionally, budget-conscious golfers who want affordable tracking will appreciate the lifetime access to performance data without paying extra fees.

Arccos Golf Overview

Arccos is a leading golf shot-tracking system that provides powerful analytics to help golfers improve their game. Unlike Shot Scope, Arccos does not offer GPS watches or rangefinders—instead, it focuses on delivering a seamless, data-driven experience through club sensors and its industry-leading mobile app.

While Arccos does require a subscription after the first year, many golfers find the insights well worth the cost. The system automatically tracks every shot, provides in-depth analytics, and even offers AI-powered club recommendations to help you play smarter.

How Arccos Tracks Stats 

Arccos is designed for golfers who want an easy, automated way to track performance without manually inputting stats. The system revolves around lightweight sensors that attach to the grips of your clubs and sync to your phone.

Here’s how they track your game throughout the round:

• Arccos Smart Sensors & Smart Grips: These sensors attach to the top of each club and automatically track every shot. No need to tap or tag shots—Arccos records everything in real-time and syncs with the app. Or, you can get the grips installed as well but this is a lot more work in my opinion. 
• Arccos Caddie Link (No Phone in Pocket): One drawback of Arccos is that it requires your phone to be in your pocket to track shots. However, with the Arccos Caddie Link, you can clip a small device to your belt and leave your phone in the cart or bag while still capturing every shot. Or, you can download the app on your Apple Watch too. 
• Arccos App & AI Caddie: Arccos’ mobile app is one of the best in the game, providing GPS yardages, strokes gained insights, and AI-powered club recommendations based on real data from your rounds.

Arccos Dashboard (Subscription-Based)

One of Arccos' biggest advantages is its advanced data visualization tools, which many of my mental golf coaching students use to analyze their game and pinpoint areas for improvement.

With the Arccos dashboard, you can:

• Gain strokes gained insights for every aspect of your game—driving, approach shots, short game, and putting.
• Compare your stats against PGA Tour benchmarks and golfers of similar handicaps.
• See club distances and shot dispersion to make smarter decisions on the course.
• Use AI-powered club recommendations to select the best club for each shot based on past performance.

While there is a subscription fee after the first year, the wealth of data and insights make Arccos one of the best tools for serious players looking to improve.

Who is Arccos Best For?

Arccos is a great choice if you want data-driven improvement with AI-powered tools. If you’re someone who enjoys breaking down your stats, optimizing your course strategy, and making smart data-backed decisions, Arccos delivers incredible value.

Additionally, if you don’t mind playing with a phone in your pocket (or investing in the Arccos Caddie Link), this system provides some of the most advanced analytics available to amateur golfers. It’s especially useful for players working with a coach, as the insights can help refine practice routines and strategy.

Arccos is an excellent investment in long-term improvement. If you’re ready to get started, make sure to use the code “WICKEDSMART” to save 10% on your investment. 

Arccos vs. Shot Scope Comparison

Now that you know more about each stat tracking app, let’s break down some key differences.

• Subscription Fees:
• Shot Scope: No subscription fees—buy it once, and you own it for life.
• Arccos: Requires a subscription ($12.99/month or $155.99/year) after the first free trial period.
• Sensors & GPS Tracking:
• Shot Scope: Uses GPS watches with built-in tracking and small sensors (but they are not nearly as highly reviewed as Arccos in terms of user experience).
• Arccos: Uses small sensors on your clubs and a phone app for tracking (or optional Arccos Caddie Link).
• How They Track Shots:
• Shot Scope: No phone required—everything is recorded via the GPS watch.
• Arccos: Requires either your phone in your pocket or the Arccos Caddie Link to track shots hands-free. 
• Putting & Short Game Tracking:
• Shot Scope: More manual—requires you to confirm putts and short game shots post-round.
• Arccos: Automatically tracks putts and short game shots (but sometimes needs editing).
• Insights & Data:
• Shot Scope: Provides detailed strokes gained data but focuses more on post-round insights.
• Arccos: Uses AI-powered caddie recommendations and real-time strategy tools during the round.

• Battery Life & Convenience: 

• Shot Scope GPS watches last multiple rounds per charge.
• Arccos sensors don’t require charging, but they depend on your phone or the Arccos Link battery life.

Wicked Smart Golf Pick: DECADE Golf

Another option to consider is DECADE Golf - which is part stat tracking, practice app, and course management system (read my full review here). DECADE offers a course management system that teaches you how to think like a PGA Tour pro and make smarter decisions on the course. 

Unlike Shot Scope and Arccos, DECADE doesn't track your shots automatically—you enter your own stats manually. However, the tradeoff is immense as you gain elite-level strategy insights to shoot lower scores without changing your swing.

Why DECADE Golf?

• Course Management System for Smarter Golf: DECADE Golf breaks down course strategy in a way that helps you make data-driven decisions and avoid high-risk mistakes. PGA Tour pros use this system to pick smart targets, play high-percentage shots, and eliminate avoidable errors—now you can too.
• Master Your Mental Game & Focus: Unlike other golf apps, DECADE isn’t just about numbers. It trains your mind to approach each shot with confidence and clarity. The mindfulness and mental game strategies inside the app help you stay focused under pressure and avoid the common mental pitfalls that derail rounds.
• Practice with Purpose: DECADE Golf isn’t just a course strategy tool—it also transforms the way you practice. The app provides guided drills and stat-based feedback to help you practice efficiently, focusing on the areas that will actually lower your scores.
• Know Where to Aim (and Why): One of the biggest mistakes amateur golfers make is aiming at the flag too often (I used to as well). But DECADE helps you understand dispersion patterns and choose targets that maximize greens in regulation, leading to lower scores and fewer blow-up holes.
• Ideal for Tournament Golfers: If you play in competition, DECADE Golf is one of the best apps for tournament golfers. It’s helped me learn to stay patient, manage risk, and score better under pressure. 

If you're serious about lowering your scores with elite-level strategy and mindset training, DECADE Golf is one of the best investments you can make. Scott Fawcett has hooked wicked smart golf fans up with 20% off—just use code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout!

Closing Thoughts 

Shot Scope, Arccos, and DECADE Golf all offer unique ways to improve your game—whether you prefer automatic shot tracking, detailed performance analytics, or elite-level course strategy. Each system has its strengths, and the best choice depends on how you like to analyze and improve your game.

If you're looking for automated shot tracking, Arccos and Shot Scope are both great choices, with Arccos offering detailed strokes gained analytics and Shot Scope providing a one-time purchase with no subscription fees. But if you want to learn how to think like a Tour pro and master course management, DECADE Golf is the way to go.

No matter which system you choose, I’ve got exclusive discounts to help you save:

• 10% off Arccos – Use code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout
• 20% off DECADE Golf – Use code "WICKEDSMART" at checkout

Pick the system that fits your game best and start playing smarter, lowering scores, and making every round more consistent!