Radar Guns for Pitch Speed Tracking: Top Picks for Baseball Coaches

Baseball has long captivated fans with its mix of strategy, skill, and raw power.

One element that never fails to excite is the blazing speed of a well-thrown pitch.

To accurately measure these speeds, radar guns have become an essential tool in the sport.

These devices use Doppler radar technology to track the velocity of baseballs as they zoom towards home plate.

We’ve seen radar guns evolve from bulky, expensive equipment used only by professional teams to more compact and affordable options available to coaches, scouts, and even enthusiastic amateurs.

They provide instant feedback on pitch speeds, helping pitchers improve their performance and giving batters valuable information about what they’re facing at the plate.

When choosing a radar gun for pitch speed tracking, accuracy is paramount.

We look for models with a proven track record of consistent readings.

Ease of use is another crucial factor, as you’ll want to focus on the game, not on operating the device.

Battery life, durability, and range are also important considerations, especially for those planning to use the radar gun frequently or in various weather conditions.

Best Radar Guns for Pitch Speed Tracking

We’ve compiled our top picks for radar guns to track pitch speeds on the diamond.

These devices help players and coaches measure throwing velocity accurately, allowing for more targeted training and improvement.

Our list covers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets.

Bushnell Velocity Radar Gun

We recommend this radar gun for its accuracy and versatility in measuring pitching speeds and more.

The Bushnell Velocity Radar Gun is a game-changer for coaches and players alike.

Its ability to measure speeds from 10 to 110 mph for baseball, softball, and tennis makes it an invaluable tool for tracking player performance.

The gun’s digital signal processing technology ensures accuracy, giving us confidence in the readings we get during practice or games.

One of the standout features is its user-friendly design.

The point-and-shoot pistol grip feels natural in hand, and the large LCD display makes it easy to read speeds at a glance.

This means less time fiddling with equipment and more time focusing on player development.

While primarily designed for sports, this radar gun has applications beyond the diamond.

Its extended range for measuring vehicle speeds up to 1,500 feet away adds to its versatility.

We appreciate how this feature allows us to use the gun for multiple purposes, making it a worthwhile investment for schools, clubs, or enthusiasts who want to get the most bang for their buck.

Markwort Speed Sensor Ball

We think this innovative baseball is a fun training tool for players looking to improve their pitching speed, though it may not be durable enough for younger users.

The Markwort Speed Sensor Baseball offers a unique way for pitchers to track their throwing speed.

It’s designed to look and feel like a regulation baseball, weighing 5 ounces and measuring 9 inches in circumference.

This familiar size and weight make it a comfortable choice for players of all ages.

One of the standout features is its ability to measure pitch speeds up to 120 MPH.

The ball uses GripSense technology to start recording as soon as it leaves the pitcher’s hand.

After impact, the speed is displayed on the built-in LCD screen.

This immediate feedback can be a great motivator for players working to increase their velocity.

We appreciate the versatility of this training aid.

It can be programmed for various pitching distances, ranging from 20 to 80 feet.

This allows players to practice at different positions on the field.

However, it’s important to note that the ball is intended for pitching practice only and shouldn’t be used with a bat or on hard surfaces.

Pocket Radar Smart Coach

We believe the Pocket Radar Smart Coach is an excellent investment for baseball enthusiasts seeking accurate pitch speed tracking.

The Pocket Radar Smart Coach impresses us with its remarkable precision in measuring pitch speeds.

Its advanced technology ensures reliable data tracking, making it a valuable tool for both amateur and professional baseball players.

Portability is a standout feature of this radar gun.

Its compact size means we can easily carry it to any baseball field or practice session.

The device’s user-friendly interface, featuring a clear LED display, makes it simple to get instant speed readings in mph.

We’re impressed by the Smart Coach’s versatility.

It’s not limited to just pitching speeds – it can also measure exit velocities and even adapt to other sports like hockey and tennis.

The ability to export data to CSV files for comprehensive analysis is a game-changer for coaches and serious players looking to track progress over time.

PLAYAPUT Baseball Speed Gun

This versatile radar gun offers accurate speed tracking and useful features for baseball players of all levels.

We found the PLAYAPUT Baseball Speed Gun to be a solid choice for players looking to improve their pitching or hitting speeds.

Its wide range of 3 to 150 mph covers everything from beginners to pros, with two modes to accommodate different skill levels.

The dual display system caught our eye.

The side LED is perfect for solo practice, while the back LCD lets coaches or partners easily track progress.

This flexibility extends to its use – you can hold it or mount it on the included tripod for hands-free operation.

We appreciate the speed recall feature, which stores the last 10 readings.

It’s a handy tool for analyzing performance trends over a practice session.

The gun’s accuracy is generally good, though some users noted it had trouble with lighter balls like wiffle balls.

PLAYAPUT Baseball Speed Radar

We think this radar gun offers a good mix of features for baseball players, but its accuracy might not meet everyone’s expectations.

The PLAYAPUT Baseball Speed Radar boasts an impressive speed range from 3 to 150 mph, making it suitable for tracking various baseball activities.

Its dual display system, featuring both LED and LCD screens, allows for convenient viewing whether you’re practicing solo or working with a coach.

One of the standout features is the ability to store the last ten speed readings.

This function can be incredibly helpful for players looking to analyze their performance and track improvements over time.

The versatility of this device is also noteworthy – it can be used handheld or mounted on a tripod for hands-free operation.

While many users find this radar gun helpful for general practice, some have reported inconsistencies in accuracy.

It’s worth noting that the device offers two modes: SS for speeds below 25 mph and MS for speeds above 25 mph.

This dual-mode system might contribute to some of the accuracy variations users have experienced.

Despite these concerns, the PLAYAPUT radar gun remains a popular choice for baseball enthusiasts looking for an affordable speed-tracking solution.

Buying Guide

When choosing a radar gun for pitch speed tracking, we need to consider several key factors.

Let’s explore the most important features to look for:

Accuracy

The primary purpose of a radar gun is to provide precise speed measurements.

We recommend selecting a model with an accuracy of ±1 mph or better.

Range

A good radar gun should be able to detect pitches from a reasonable distance.

Look for devices that can measure speeds from at least 100 feet away.

Speed Range

Ensure the radar gun can measure speeds across a wide range, typically from 20 mph to 150 mph, to accommodate various pitching levels.

Display

A clear, easy-to-read display is crucial.

LCD screens with large digits are ideal for quick readings.

Battery Life

Long battery life is essential for extended use during practice sessions or games.

Opt for models that offer at least 20 hours of continuous use.

Portability

A lightweight, compact design makes the radar gun easy to carry and use on the field.

Ease of Use

We prefer models with simple, intuitive controls that don’t require extensive setup or complicated operations.

Durability

Baseball fields can be tough environments.

Choose a radar gun with a rugged construction that can withstand occasional bumps or drops.

Data Storage and Connectivity

Some advanced models offer data storage and connectivity features, allowing us to track and analyze pitch speeds over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Radar guns play a crucial role in baseball for measuring pitch speeds.

Let’s explore some common questions about these devices and how they’re used in the sport.

What are the top-rated radar guns for accurately measuring pitch speed in baseball?

We recommend the Stalker Pro II and Pocket Radar Ball Coach for their precision and reliability.

The Stalker Pro II is favored by MLB scouts for its long-range capabilities.

The Pocket Radar Ball Coach offers excellent accuracy in a compact, user-friendly design.

How do baseball scouts use radar guns to assess a pitcher’s performance?

Scouts use radar guns to measure pitch velocity, a key factor in evaluating pitchers.

They track speeds across multiple pitches to gauge consistency.

This data helps scouts assess a pitcher’s potential and compare them to other prospects or professional players.

Can a radar gun be used to measure the speed of a baseball bat swing?

Yes, some radar guns can measure bat swing speed.

The Pocket Radar Ball Coach and SwingSpeedRadar are designed for this purpose.

These devices help players and coaches analyze swing mechanics and power.

What is the maximum pitch speed that a baseball radar gun can reliably detect?

Most quality radar guns can accurately measure speeds up to 150 mph.

This range comfortably covers even the fastest MLB pitches, which typically max out around 105 mph.

Some high-end models claim accuracy up to 200 mph.

Are there any smartphone apps that can serve as reliable radar guns for tracking pitch speed?

While several apps claim to measure pitch speed, their accuracy is generally not comparable to dedicated radar guns.

The Pocket Radar app, when paired with their Smart Coach device, provides reliable readings.

Standalone apps may be fun but aren’t suitable for serious training or scouting.

How do Pocket Radar devices compare with traditional radar guns in terms of accuracy and usability for coaches?

Pocket Radar devices offer comparable accuracy to traditional guns in a more compact, user-friendly package.

They’re easier to operate and less conspicuous, making them ideal for coaches during practices or games.

While they may have a shorter range, their portability and affordability make them a popular choice for many teams and coaches.