Pocket Radar Smart Coach vs Ball Coach
Short answer: the radar is the same, and the $100 difference buys you the app. If you'll use video, call-outs or saved history, get the Smart Coach. If you just want the number, get the Ball Coach.
Get it for the app
Pocket Radar Smart Coach (SR1100)
Best for: Most players, parents and coaches who want video and an app
| Accuracy | ±1 mph |
|---|---|
| Range (baseball) | Up to 120 ft |
| Speed range | 25–130 mph |
| App / Bluetooth | Yes (iOS 15.8+, Android 10+) |
| Power | 2 AAA batteries (USB power pack optional) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
$399.99 at pocketradar.com (checked Oct 24, 2026)
Full Smart Coach guide →Get it for simplicity
Pocket Radar Ball Coach (PR1000-BC)
Best for: Anyone who just wants a number, no phone
| Accuracy | ±1 mph |
|---|---|
| Range (baseball) | Up to 120 ft |
| Speed range | 25–130 mph |
| App / Bluetooth | No (not compatible with the app) |
| Power | 2 AAA batteries |
| Warranty | 2 years |
$299.99 at pocketradar.com (checked Oct 24, 2026)
Full Ball Coach guide →Get it for the app  $399.99 at pocketradar.com (checked Oct 24, 2026) | Get it for simplicity Pocket Radar Ball Coach (PR1000-BC)$299.99 at pocketradar.com (checked Oct 24, 2026) | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Most players, parents and coaches who want video and an app | Anyone who just wants a number, no phone |
| Full guide | Smart Coach guide → | Ball Coach guide → |
Smart Coach: Photo: Pocket Radar Inc. via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Side by side
| Smart Coach (SR1100) | Ball Coach (PR1000-BC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price at pocketradar.com | $399.99 | $299.99 |
| Accuracy | ±1 mph | ±1 mph |
| Range on a baseball | 120 ft | 120 ft |
| Speed range | 25–130 mph | 25–130 mph |
| Exit velocity | Yes | Yes |
| Hands-free mode | Yes | Yes |
| Memory clear | Yes | Yes |
| Auto-on | Yes | No |
| Pocket Radar app (Bluetooth) | Yes | No |
| Remote control and wireless display on your phone | Yes | No |
| Spoken speed call-outs | Yes | No |
| Speed embedded in video | Yes | No |
| CSV data export | Yes | No |
| Connects to the Smart Display | Yes (cable) | No |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Source: Pocket Radar's own comparison chart and store, read Oct 24, 2026.
Who should buy the Smart Coach
- You want video with the speed on it, for mechanics or recruiting.
- You want a record of every session (CSV export) instead of a notebook.
- You train alone and want the phone to call speeds out loud.
- You want a big display later. Only the Smart Coach connects to the Smart Display ($299.99, or $899.99 bundled with the radar).
Who should buy the Ball Coach
- You want one button, one number, no pairing at the field.
- You're buying for a parent or grandparent to use from the stands.
- You want a second radar for a staff that already has a Smart Coach.
- $100 matters more than features you won't use.
What neither one does
Neither measures spin rate or bat speed, and neither has more than 120 ft of range. For spin, see the Stalker Pro 3s. For range and LED signs, see the Stalker Sport 3 Connect and our Pocket Radar vs Stalker page. For bat speed, see how to measure bat velocity.
Where to buy
Smart Coach
Ball Coach
Buying direct from Pocket Radar includes a 30-day money-back guarantee.
See both next to the Stalker, Bushnell and more in our best baseball radar guns guide →
FAQ
Is the Smart Coach more accurate than the Ball Coach?
No. Pocket Radar rates both at ±1 mph with the same 120 ft baseball range and 25–130 mph speed range.
Can I upgrade a Ball Coach to work with the app later?
No. The Ball Coach has no Bluetooth, and Pocket Radar says it does not work with the app. If you think you'll want the app, buy the Smart Coach.
Which one do I need for recruiting videos?
The Smart Coach. Its app can embed the speed in video clips and show video and speed at the same time.
Do both measure exit velocity?
Yes, per Pocket Radar's comparison chart.