1. Stalker Radar Pro II
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Specifications:
- Readings memory: 10
- Accuracy +/- 1% of reading
- Measure speeds from : 1 to 890 MPH
- Range: 300 ft.
, Up to two miles away
- Battery type: Rechargeable 7.2 Li-Ion battery
- Battery life: Rechargeable – 2 hours per charge
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph, knots, m/s
- Highlights: 2 Active Speed Windows
, Stopwatch function
- Warranty: 2-year
In case you never used a radar gun for pitch-speed measurements, you could start with this device that is particularly intuitive. It’s
a bi-directional measurement means that captures the release speed and the roll-down speed of a ball, but also the speed of a batted ball coming from the opposed direction. The display shows all three measurements at the same time.
Comprehensive design
The gun-like shape makes it very easy to maneuver so it can be carried without effort during a game. The housing is made of hard plastic so it can resist shocks and bad weather. It can even be used underwater, at a maximum of 2-feet depths due to the rugged metal case that is highly hard-wearing. It boasts a hefty display with clear lights that make it easy to read. For the highest comfort in use and transportation, it comes in a padded suitcase along with all its accessories.
Versatile speed monitoring
It’s among the most effective in showing accurate velocities not only for baseball but also in 3 other modes available:
- Vehicle: monitor car speeds on ground or water without being distracted by other moving vehicles coming from the opposed direction;
- Carnival: attach it to the side of a backdrop and monitor the speed of midway balls only a few feet away;
- Tennis: the wide beamwidth can process both the serve speed and the decelerating live speed.
The range between 1 and 890 mph promotes it as the most heavy-duty radar designed for professional baseball players. On a single charge, the included battery lasts for up to 2 hours and you will be announced when the level is low. With a long-range of up to 300 feet, it is by far one of the most effective radars accessible in the market. It can recall the previous 10 readings and it displays in tenths or whole units. It’s essential to mention that it is not a Bluetooth enabled device so it can’t send notifications on your smartphone about the detected speed or other data information. Such an investment requires some coverage from the manufacturer, which is why this item is protected for 2 years starting from the moment of the purchase.
PROS
- It provides accurate measurements
- Instant results through the app
- Low battery indicator
- It displays in mph, kph, knots, m/s
CONS
- It’s a bit heavy
- The battery doesn’t last for long
VERDICT
Although it is one of the most expensive products available in the current market, it is a popular choice among professional players, its price being a match for its performance. It is legal in tournaments and in spite of its lack of Bluetooth connectivity, it is rated as one of the most efficient baseball gadgets out there.
2. Jugs Gun
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Specifications:
- Readings memory:
- Accuracy +/- 0.5 mph
- Measure speeds from : 5-140 mph
- Range: 300 ft.
- Battery type: 6 NiMH
- Battery life: Rechargeable batteries – they can be recharged in just 2 hours
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Highlights: Trigger mode and Continuous mode, Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology, FAST function
, LAST function
, FAST/LAST function
- Warranty: 2-year
With a 0.5 mph accuracy, this is one of the most trustworthy gadgets used to measure ball speeds in a plethora of sports like baseball, golf, and tennis. The distance range of 300 ft. ensures you can capture the velocity even when standing further from the thrower. The speeds it can detect range
from 5 to 140 mph and the readings can be displayed in MPH or KPH, allowing you the option to pick the one that seems most comfortable for you.
There are two modes to choose from: the Trigger and the Continuous. When selecting the first, with one trigger pull, the speed measured will remain on the screen for as long as you set it, the default duration being 5 seconds. In the second mode, two trigger pulls will read the speed of the pitch and clear itself so it can read the next speed.
It also has three different functions:
- FAST captures readings at the release point.
- LAST captures readings at the plate.
- FAST/LAST captures both.
The gun works on a rechargeable battery that can last for up to one week in normal usage conditions and it requires only 2 hours to fully recharge. The package includes the batteries, the recharger, and two different power cables so it can be plugged into an AC outlet or a car cigarette plug. There is a data port included so it can be linked to a computer for more detailed game observation. We close the list of benefits with the 12-month assurance that accompanies it.
PROS
- Extended distance range
- Durable battery life
- Comprehensive for beginners
- It provides two operational modes
CONS
- It weighs more than similar guns
- It comes at a high price
VERDICT
This is one of the most efficient radar guns with the highest accuracy and distance range. It provides multiple modes but it’s still stress-free to use by players of any level, although the price recommends it for the professional league. Overall, it’s a highly qualitative gun that does its job to perfection.
3. Stalker Sport 2 Radar
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Specifications:
- Readings memory: 5
- Accuracy +/- 1 to 3 mph
- Measure speeds from : 5-150 mph
- Range: 300 feet
- Battery type: 6AA NiMH
- Battery life: 3-hour
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Operating temperature: -20F to +120F
- Highlights: 2 Active Speed Windows
, Stopwatch function
, Two transmit modes
, Recall Previous
- Warranty: 1-year
This product ranked very well on customer reviews online, so we had to put it on our list. It stands out because of its impressive range, being able to identify speeds at distances up to 300 feet away. The accuracy index is +/- 1 mph and it
can determine speeds from 5 to 150 mph. We admit the fact that it is a bit pricey than its competitors, but since it is a model that all Major League Baseball teams use, you can trust both its accuracy and efficiency. It can recall the previous 5 readings so you can make a comparison between multiple speeds.
What we really like about this gadget is its ability to capture both release and plate speed at the same time and display them on the generous screen. It uses 2 active speed windows to identify pitching and running speeds. It works on batteries that can be recharged so you will always have it ready to be used, and it contains a protective hard case for easy transportation. The included batteries last around 3 hours and there is a Low Battery indicator to tell you when you should connect the charger. To ensure you of the quality of their product, the manufacturer delivers a 1-year protection period and additional 30-day money back so you can get a refund in case you are not happy with how it performs.
PROS
- Used by players at all levels
- It can detect balls speeds very far away
- Shows very accurate results
- Great warranty provided by the manufacturer
CONS
- A bit slow in displaying the speed
- It only memorizes 5 readings
VERDICT
In terms of performance and quality, this will not disappoint. It’s very accurate and straightforward so you can use it even if you have never handled a radar before. It has a good battery life and is accompanied by a convenient warranty so your investment will be worth it.
4. Pocket Radar Smart Coach SR1100
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Pocket Radar Smart Coach SR1100
Specifications:
- Readings memory: 25 or endless in cloud memory
- Accuracy +/- 1 mph
- Measure speeds from : 25 to 130 MPH
- Range: 120 ft.
- Battery type: 2 AAA Alkaline batteries
- Battery life: over 1,500 button pushes
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Highlights: Constant-ON function
, Bluetooth Connectivity 4.0 and above, Wireless Display on Mobile Device (App), Hands-Free Capabilities
- Warranty: 2-year
If you’re looking for a smart model, this is the right choice for your needs. It brings to the table
smartphone connectivity so you can pair it with your iOS or Android-operated phone. This will enable you to create short videos with the embedded speed and import data from an external source. Details like pitching speeds, shooting speeds, or serving speeds can be displayed on your phone in bright red LED and announced via a speaker. The
built-in memory enables it to recall 25 speeds or you can connect it to a phone and enjoy unlimited speed memory. You can send videos through email or social media using the Smart Coach device via Bluetooth.
The design resembles a remote so it’s incredibly lightweight, allowing you to carry it anywhere in your pocket and use it for hours without any hand fatigue. It can measure any speed from 25 to 130 mph from distances up to 120 feet, with an accuracy of 1 mph. The battery lasts for 1,500 readings in Manual mode and over 1 hour of readings in the Continuous-On mode. If you switch to alkaline or rechargeable batteries, the performance will double. Unfortunately, the package doesn’t include the rechargeable batteries, only the regular ones.
PROS
- You can record speeds and share data with others
- Instant results through the app
- The memory can be extended without limit
- Suitable for different sports
CONS
- The Bluetooth often disconnects
- The batteries are not included
VERDICT
Without a doubt, this is one of the smartest models that are currently on the market as you will receive instant readings, track old speeds, and you can also export data as CSV files. Also, you can connect to it through your smartphone or through Bluetooth.
5. Bushnell Speedster III
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Specifications:
- Readings memory:
- Accuracy +/- 1 mph ; +/- 2 kph
- Measure speeds from : 10 to 110 mph
, 10 to 200 mph
- Range: 90 ft.
, 1,500+ ft.
- Battery type: 2 C
- Battery life: up to 20 hours
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Operating temperature: 32-104 F / 0-40 C
- Highlights: RF technology
, DSP (digital speed processing)
, Continuous mode
- Warranty: 2-year
Next in line, we would like to introduce you to a truthful gadget that helps you define the speed of moving things, including baseball balls. It’s extremely accurate, detecting speeds between 10 and 200 mph with an index of +/- 1 mph, but its distance range isn’t as impressive as the previous models; it can only
read from a maximum of 90 feet away. You can either pull the trigger to get a reading or use the Continuous mode for automatic readings. It’s also optimized to work with the Bushnell SpeedScreen wireless display so you can share your measurements easily at any time with no setup required.
It can be used for many sports and it’s compatible with a tripod so you can use it as a standing radar gun. If you decide to hold it, know that it has a good grip and is very lightweight so your hands won’t get tired. As expected from such a popular manufacturer, a 2-year warranty is provided.
PROS
- Easy to navigate with
- Extremely detailed readings
- The speed range is extended
- Automatic reading in continuous mode
CONS
- It often shows incorrect readings
- It doesn’t memorize readings
VERDICT
Although it lacks certain features, it still is an option worth taking into deliberation. It is precise, easy to handle, and affordable. It can seem hard to use in the beginning but once you get the hang of it, it will become of great help when training.
6. Sports Radar Tracer SRA3000
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Sports Radar Tracer SRA3000
Specifications:
- Readings memory:
- Accuracy +/- 1 mph
- Measure speeds from : 3 to 199 mph
- Range: 60 ft.
, 1,000 ft.
- Battery type: 6 standard AAA alkaline batteries
- Battery life: 100 hours
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Highlights: Quick mode
, Continuous mode
, Auto shutdown feature, 3 digit display, Point and Shoot technology, Low battery indicator
- Warranty: 1-year
On the field, this gun can
detect speeds within 10 and 199 mph range and from a 60’ distance. Aside from ball speeds, a special “Quick” mode reads bat and pitch speeds for complete game monitoring. The other modes are “Trigger” and “Continuous” and they refer to how you decide to operate it, either manually or standalone as you can mount it on a tripod. Due to the
Point and Shoot technology, the readings are displayed within seconds after having pulled the trigger.
It has an unsurpassed battery life of 100 hours offered by the 6 included batteries and the auto shut-off feature that helps save energy in case you forget to turn it off after you stop using it. Also, a battery life indicator will announce to you when the level is running low. The gun comes with 1-year protection and an attractive price, enough reasons to make customers buy it.
PROS
- It operates in two modes
- It can be attached to a tripod
- It uses advanced technology
- Fairly priced
CONS
- No memory option to recall readings
- The distance range is smaller than its competitors
VERDICT
With a 1-year warranty and an attractive price, we had to put it on our list because it’s very popular among baseball players. It is a quality radar gun that provides precise and fast results, although it’s not the most reliable or advanced model.
7. Pocket Radar Ball Coach PR1000-BC
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Pocket Radar Ball Coach PR1000-BC
Specifications:
- Readings memory: 25
- Accuracy +/- 1 MPH; +/- 2 KPH
- Measure speeds from : 25 to 130 MPH
- Range: 120 ft.
- Battery type: 2 new alkaline AAA batteries/ 2 new NiMH
- Battery life: Manual Trigger Mode
, Continuous Mode
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Operating temperature: -60 to 600C/ 200 to 1,400F
- Highlights: Multiple modes
, Constant-On / Personal Training Mode
- Warranty: 2-year
Similar to the previous Pocket Radar model we have presented, this one has the ability to
define speeds between 25 and 130 mph, with a precision of 1 mph. It can be placed at a maximum 120 ft. distance and it will still manage to detect the highest speed in sports like baseball, volleyball, softball, tennis, or golf. It can be operated manually using the button or it can be attached to a tripod or a bracket and set to the Continuous mode where it will record distances on its own.
It can memorize 25 speeds but, unlike its “brother”, it can’t be connected to a smartphone or another device. The battery provides 2,000 readings in the manual mode or 1 hour or functioning in the constant mode. If you choose a rechargeable battery, it will last twice as much. Moreover, it has an automatic turn-off setting that turns it off after 30 seconds of standby in the manual mode and 5 minutes of no-speed in the continuous mode. For 2 years after the acquisition, you will be covered by the included warranty.
PROS
- Small size for effortless use
- It can memorize 25 readings
- It has a good distance range
- Its Constant-On Mode enables you to focus on coaching
CONS
- It takes a bit of practice to get used to it
- It sometimes shows incorrect readings
VERDICT
It is a compact-size radar that provides truthful readings. It can even record up to 25 speed measurements. It can be attached to a tripod, so you have the ability to go hands-free and focus on the game.
8. Bushnell 101911 Velocity
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Specifications:
- Readings memory:
- Accuracy +/- 1 MPH; +/- 2 KPH
- Measure speeds from : 10 to 110 mph
, 10 to 200 mph
- Range: 90 ft.
, 1,500+ ft.
- Battery type: 2 C
- Battery life: 2-hour
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Operating temperature: 32-104 F / 0-40 C
- Highlights: Easy-to-read LCD, point-and-shoot pistol grip
- Warranty: 2-year
Bushnell is renowned for the quality of the sports gizmo they design, so it comes as no surprise that we have another one of their products in our chart. The Velocity is highly efficient in showing
distances between 10 and 110 mph during a game, and with incredible precision. All the data is displayed on the hefty LCD, making it easy to keep track of the progress of a player.
Standing at approximately 90 feet from the thrower, just pull the trigger and it will instantly show the recorded speed. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer a continuous mode so it can’t be used as a standalone measuring device. It also lacks a memory for storing readings. It requires batteries to operate and they are not included, so make sure you have some at hand. However, the good news is the 2-year protection period provided by the manufacturer.
PROS
- It shows truthful numbers
- Comes at a very good price
- Extended warranty
- Ideal for beginners
CONS
- Not the most challenging for professional players
- It doesn’t have a continuous reading mode
VERDICT
This is an ergonomic baseball radar that provides accurate readings. It comes with an LCD readout screen that allows you to see the readings. It is compact and very simple to handle, but it lacks some of the features found in the previous models, which is why it didn’t rank in a higher place.
9. NET PLAYZ Smart Baseball Trainer
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NET PLAYZ Smart Baseball Trainer
Specifications:
- Readings memory: 10
- Accuracy: +/- 3 mph
- Measure speeds from : 0 to 150 mph
- Range: 29.5 feet
- Battery type: 5AA batteries
- Battery life: N/A
- Readings displayed in: MPH, kmph
- Highlights: LED indicators, LED display, Voice notifications, Adjustable tripod
- Warranty: 90-day limited
The design of this radar is atypical, as it’s not a handheld gun but
a standing device that doesn’t require manual operation. It comes with a tripod so you can set it to record speeds while you get to focus on your game. It provides great readings from 3 to 150 mph and it can store 10 readings so you can later compare them. To ensure precise speed readings, keep your target’s direction in a direct line with the speed gun, as you won’t be able to alter its position during the shot. The distance between you and the radar shouldn’t exceed 29.5 feet if you wish to obtain the most precise results.
A mention-worthy feature that we didn’t see in many types of radar is the voice notification that clearly calls out the readings so you won’t have to go and read them on the screen. Note that the screen is very large and shows the numbers in bright red light so it can also be noticeable from a distance. The radar doesn’t include the necessary batteries but it does come with the handy tripod and the carrying case so you can effortlessly take it with you while training. The warranty offered lasts only 90 days, which is considerably less than what is offered for all the other models on our list.
PROS
- Large bright red LCD
- Deluxe carry bag
- Voice notification
- Hands-free speed reading
CONS
- The voice is not very audible in noisy surroundings
- It often shows misinterpreted speeds
VERDICT
As a standalone radar, it offers the benefit of using it while training alone. It’s very well-priced compared to the other models in its category and it is fairly accurate. The voice notification is a useful feature and it can even memorize 10 speeds to help you monitor your progress.
10. Sports Sensors GR360SKG
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Specifications:
- Readings memory:
- Accuracy +/- 1 mph
- Measure speeds from : 20 to 120 MPH
- Range: N/A
- Battery type: 3 Volt, 160 mAh, Lithium CR-1/3N, DL-1/3N, 2L76BP
- Battery life: Over 30 hours of continuous use; over 5,000 transmission cycles
- Readings displayed in: MPH
- Operating temperature: 40-110 degrees F
- Highlights: 2-1/2 Segment LCD
- Warranty: 6-month limited
What really sets this model apart is its design, which doesn’t resemble the previous models. It’s
a glove radar that attaches to the back of a baseball glove for the most precise and instant readings. It is a great training tool capable of helping any player develop their throwing skills. Also, it is useful for catchers and pitchers. It offers consistent readings from 20 to 120 mph with 1 mph precision. Unlike other models, this one only shows the speed in miles per hour.
It operates on a small Lithium 3-volt battery that gives over 30 h. of continuous use. This means it provides over 5,000 transmission cycles. The gun comes with an attachment that consists of a 40 1/8-inch diameter, weather-resistant, durable nylon cord. Remember that it is covered by a “peace of mind” limited warranty of 6 months.
PROS
- Portable and easy to maneuver
- Small design
- Great cost
- Great for personal practice monitoring
CONS
- No memory function
- It doesn’t secure tightly to the glove so it keeps coming loose
VERDICT
Take a look at this model and you will be surprised to discover how well it works. It uses a 3 volt Lithium CR-1 battery thanks to which it can work continuously for 30 h. It is easy to operate, affordable and it comes with a 6-month warranty. All in all, it is a good option to consider.
Buying Guide
Since radar guns are important tools that every coach should have, there are several things to consider before buying one. In regards to the baseball game, these significant tools help every coach or athlete evaluate the speed of a baseball ball in a quicker manner. There are hundreds of models available today, so it could be quite complicated to find a specific one that will offer exactly what you need. We hope to simplify things with the following buying guide.
-
Evaluate your level
An important thing to do before making a purchase is to evaluate your skills. Determine the level at which you are training or playing and choose a device that suits your needs. Also, take into account that some products use advanced technology that makes them a bit challenging to use. Thus, if you are new in this industry and you are using a radar gun for the first time, opt for an easy to handle model, equipped with entry-level features. The newest models have features that cannot satisfy a beginner’s needs. They are almost useless for beginners. For this reason, it is recommended to decide the level you are at and after choose a device that won’t cause headaches down the road.
-
Distance
This is another important feature to study when making a purchase. Choose a high-quality device that can measure a considerable distance. Determine at which distance you are going to be standing and opt for a model based on this. Major coaches need to measure ball speed from far away, while smaller league trainers will be standing behind home plate during practice.
-
Accuracy
The most accurate gadgets are the most expensive ones. Of course, there are some affordable devices that provide accurate results, but it is a bit hard to find something like that. However, the only method of knowing if a gadget is more precise than others is by comparing its performance. The latest gizmos are equipped with features that allow them to follow small balls much better than a standard model would ever be able to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do radar guns function in baseball?
When the ball comes toward the radar gun, the waves it sends back to the gun have a higher frequency. The radar detector inside the gun sends the change in frequency to an internal computer that calculates and shows the speed.
What radar gun do professional players use?
Expert coaches and athletes use forward-thinking devices like the Pocket Radar Smart Coach that enables them to monitor performance and progress.
How does it calculate speed?
The gun sends several signals toward an object that is moving. As the object approaches the gun, the return signal has a shorter distance to travel. The radar device will use this change in frequency to conclude the speed.
Do guns designed for baseball work on cars?
Modern devices normally measure the speed of vehicles within +/- 1 mph accuracy. They use the auto racing mode, so if the vehicle is in a direct line, they can record accurate readings. Although they are designed to measure the speed of moving objects, not all models can measure a vehicle’s speed. Hence, make sure it has this setting before purchasing it.
Are radar guns legal to use during a baseball game?
Yes. They are generally legal in tournaments across the US.
Do they have to be calibrated?
Modern devices use advanced technologies, so they don’t require periodic calibration. However, to provide accurate readings even the most advanced models have to be calibrated every three years by a professional.
What is the correct way for a radar to be positioned?
As long as it is close enough to the ball’s flight path, the device could be either in front or behind the pitcher.
How many speeds can a modern device recall?
Some of our reviewed devices can store up to 25-speed readings. Most of them can recall 10 readings and there are also some devices that allow you to store the data in your cloud account.
How far can it detect your speed?
It depends on the model. While some devices can detect objects from as far away as 500 ft. on baseball mode, others have a realistic range of 50 ft.
Can baseball radars measure the speed of a golf ball?
In general, it can measure almost anything that has a parallel trajectory. If the ball is going away from you in a parallel line, some guns can detect the speed. However, not all devices can measure small balls.
Conclusion
Since the market is stuffed with a wide range of different types and models of radar guns, picking up one that meets your requirements and satisfies your needs could be quite confusing. There are many factors to take into deliberation when making a purchase, but if you want good quality and accurate device without spending a fortune, we have the right option for you.
Best Overall:
Stalker Radar Pro II
In terms of precision and accuracy, this is, by far, one of the best options out there. The speed measured by this gun is from 5 to 150 mph with +/- 1 to 3 mph accuracy. It uses a 6AA NiMH battery that provides up to 3 h of continuous operation. It memorizes 5 readings and comes equipped with plenty of other interesting features, including the Stopwatch function or Active Speed Windows feature. Of all the revised radar guns, we guarantee that this is one of the most truthful and versatile models available in the marketplace.
Editor’s Choice:
Jugs Gun
This model was our favorite for many reasons, starting with the impressive distance range that enables it to read ball speeds even when standing 300 feet away from the thrower. The speeds measured vary between 5 and 140 mph, so it’s ideal for novice players and also for more experienced ones. It displays in miles and kilometers per hour, being worldwide user-friendly radar. Plus, it has two operating modes so it will turn out to be useful in any sort of game and even during practice. Take it with you on the course and rely on its durable batteries that last up to one week of normal use and recharge in only 2 hours so you can quickly get back to the game.
Best Baseball Radar Gun for iPhone:
Pocket Radar Smart Coach SR1100
Nowadays, people are always looking for devices they can connect to their phone because it has become indispensable in their lives. As such, no wonder it radar has an app integrated so it can be effortlessly connected to a smartphone. It works flawlessly with the iOS 10 and above operating system and it can show all the readings on the phone’s display, allowing you to record and memorize your entire progress. It detects speeds ranging from 25 to 130 mph at distances up to 120feet. It’s small, easy to maneuver, and incredibly accurate, being of great help while practicing baseball.
Best Baseball Radar Gun for the Money:
Sports Radar Tracer SRA3000
If you’re looking for a gun radar that comes equipped with multiple useful features but will not involve a huge expense, this could be exactly what you need. It can measure speeds from 3 to 199 mph, which is more than the average gun can. It is fairly accurate and comes equipped with a battery that lasts up to 100 hours. In addition, it comes with an easy-to-read display that allows you to select and set the desired mode or technology.
Best Baseball Radar Gun with Display:
NET PLAYZ Smart Baseball Trainer
Although it doesn’t have the shape of regular radar guns, it is a precise device that improves every player’s game. With it, you will be able to measure pitch velocity without using your hands. Just place it in front of you to provide the right measurements. It can measure speeds from 3 to 150 mph and it clearly calls out the readings so you can keep your head in the game, helping you became a better player.
