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Best Golf Rangefinders in 2023
A golf rangefinder is pretty much designed to do one thing: tell you how far away you are from a specific object, primarily the pin.
Considering it is just one relatively simple task, it’s surprising at how many different models and price points there are out there. You would think it would be pretty straight forward.
However, these models vary greatly.
They all do produce accurate yardages, however, they perform different in different conditions. Some struggle in the rain and fog.
This review of the best golf rangefinders was updated in January of 2022 and will continue to be updated and added onto as new technology comes out.
When we set out to test all of these rangefinders, we wanted to be sure we were testing on the same variables. We focused on three – performance, price and the features/accessories offered.
We figured these aspects were what general golfers were considering when looking for a rangefinder.
My Top Pick
Bushnell Tour V5 Shift (Slope) Golf Laser Rangefinder
The Tour V5 Shift is one of the best offerings from Bushnell golf.
This golf rangefinder packs an unbelievable features set into a compact, more efficient form factor. Change your gameplay with the ever-accurate and easy-to-use Bushnell Tour V5 with Slope-Switch Technology!
The Tour V5 Shift is loaded with all the golfing features you can find on the standard version including the PinSeeker with Visual JOLT, BITE Magnetic Mount, and vivid display – but with added tour-trusted distances enhanced by the slope algorithm
Features
- PinSeeker with JOLT Technology
- Accurate Ranges from 5 – 1,000 yards
- 6x magnification
- BITE Magnetic Mount
Bushnell Tour V5 Shift (Slope) Golf Laser Rangefinder Patriot Pack PlayBetter Bundle | with Carrying Case, Divot Tool, PlayBetter Microfiber Towel, Two Batteries | Pinseeker Jolt, 6X Mag | 201911P
- [BUSHNELL TOUR V5 SHIFT (SLOPE) PATRIOT PACK RANGEFINDER BUNDLE] - Bushnell Tour Shift V5 Golf Laser Rangefinder, Bushnell Golf Divot Tool, Two (2) CR2 Batteries, Bushnell Carrying Case & PlayBetter Microfiber Towel
- [SLOPE TOGGLE + PINSEEKER WITH JOLT TECHNOLOGY] - Turn Slope readings on/off with the simple Slope Toggle button! Plus the Bushnell PinSeeker feature allows the Tour V5 to zero in on the target and isolate the flag. As soon as the Tour V5 is locked on the target, the rangefinder's JOLT technology shoots off short, vibrating bursts to let you know the flag has been found.
- [REDEFINED CLARITY & 6X MAGNIFICATION] - With this rangefinder, not only do you get an accurate reading, but you can also get a much better view with its improved magnification, definition, and color. Objects appear up to six times closer with clear magnification.
- [TOURNAMENT LEGAL & 2-YEAR WARRANTY] - The Tour V5 Shift is completely legal during tournament play with the Slope functionality is disabled AND it comes with a 2-Year Bushnell Warranty!
- [PERFECT BUNDLE] - The PlayBetter Microfiber Towel will keep your Tour V5 lens clean while the extra battery will make sure you're always in action, even after long weekends of golf!
Best Golf Rangefinders On The Market
Golf Buddy Laser Lite Rangefinder
GOLFBUDDY Lite 2 Golf Laser Rangefinder, Faster Measurement Speed, Pin Finder & One Click Scan Mode, 880 Yards Putting Range, Accurate Measurement with Vibration, 6X Magnification, Water-Resistant
- The GOLFBUDDY LASER LITE - This compact and sporty golf laser rangefinder has slope compensation with on/off functionality and clear measurement with bright 6X magnification viewfinder.
- Faster & Accurate Measurement Speed with ZST Technology: Zero Second Technology makes it possible to measure the distance range between 2 to 880 yards in 0.2 seconds with the Pin Finder Mode button.
- Slope ON/OFF Mode - The slope feature provides slope-adjusted distances based on elevation and the improved user mode also includes standard, scan and pin mode.
- Special Features – Thinner and more Compact Design for Optimal Grip, Bright LCD, IPX4 Water-Resistant
- USGA / R&A compliant - legal for handicap & tournament play
GOLFBUDDY LASER Lite Rangefinder with Slope The GB LASER Lite includes maximum features at a fraction of the price.
This compact and sporty golf laser rangefinder has slope compensation with on/off functionality making it legal for tournament use.
The jolt vibrates ensure you are picking up the flag rather than the landscape behind and the 0.5-second one-click measure makes it extremely fast at picking up your targets.
The carry case easily attaches to your golf bag and can be used without zipping it up. Just lock the elastic toggle and when out on the golf course quickly grab your rangefinder without having to unzip the case all the time.
Great for all types of golfers, especially ladies and juniors with its small, light, and compact design.
Fits perfectly in your hand making it even easier to find your target.
The three different modes also give you a varied option when searching for your target including:
NORMAL – with a click of the button while aiming at the target, the distance will show in the display with vibration.
SCAN – useful when measuring various targets. Click the measurement button once to see the distance to each target. It can be scanned for 10 consecutive seconds and it takes one short click to start.
PIN – when there are a lot of obstacles behind the pin, you can use this mode to get an accurate distance. Once aimed towards a specific target, click the measurement button, and move the unit toward the pin to display the distance.
Pros & Cons of the Golf Buddy LR7S
Pros
- Accurate up up to +/- 1 yard
- Water and dust resistant
- Best value rangefinder
Cons
- Water resistant – not waterproof.
Leupold 119088 GX-4i2 Digital Golf Rangefinder
Leupold GX-5C Golf Rangefinder (181270)
- FLAG LOCK: Quickly identifies the pin from the obstacles around it, like trees and bushes, and uses the information to accurately locate and lock on to the pin.
- TRUE GOLF RANGE (TGR): Calculates the true strike-to-pin distances based on inclines, declines, and other conditions, simplifying your shot selection on even the most technical courses.
- PINHUNTER 3: Improved laser pulses eliminate false readings caused by background obstacles like bushes and trees, making zeroing in on the flag fast and easy.
- DIGITALLY ENHANCED ACCURACY (DNA): Lightning-fast ranging engines that deliver quick and accurate readings for +/- 1-yard accuracy out to 700 yards.
- SCAN MODE: Gives continuous readings with one press of the button, making it easy to plot your strategy off the tee.
The GX-4i2 offers a rugged aluminum body, vivid OLED display and line-of-sight only measurement.
This golf rangefinder also includes updated features while conforming to USGA rules. With two face plates, the GX-4i2 allows golfers to choose the best features on the course.
The yellow Smart Key face plate that comes attached to the rangefinder activates the True Golf Range and Club Selector features, providing accurate ranging information that matches your personal striking distance. It then suggests which club to use.
The chrome Smart Key face plate disables those features to make the GX-4i2 permitted for use in tournaments while still giving you access to other features that make the Leupold GX-4i2 one of the best rangefinders in golf.
Pros & Cons of the Leupold 119088 GX-4i2
Pros
- Fog mode
- Two easy to change face plates to activate different features
- Accurate in all conditions
Cons
- A little expensive
Callaway 300 Pro Golf Laser Rangefinder with Slope Measurement
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Callaway Golf 300 Pro Slope Laser Rangefinder
- Precise Slope Measurement: Our highly accurate laser rangefinder accounts for elevation changes and measures the angle of incline/decline, then calculates the slope adjusted distance
- Maximum Magnification: Equipped with 6x magnification, our rangefinders for golfing feature a range of 5-1000 yards with +/- 1 yard accuracy and even measure in both yards and meters
- Pin-Locking Technology: Our precise laser measure with Pin Acquisition Technology (P.A.T.) allows you to lock onto a pin up to 300 yards away
- Pulse Confirmation: Our range finder will emit a short vibrating "burst" when the laser locks onto the pin to confirm you have the correct distance
- External Slope On/Off Switch: Legal for tournament play
The Callaway 300 Pro Golf Laser Rangefinder offers advanced pin-seeking precision in a sleek, sophisticated design.
The exclusive Pin Acquisition Technology (P.A.T.) lets you lock onto the pin from up to 300 yards away, ensuring accuracy even when trees and other objects are in the background.
The exclusive birdie provides an audible ‘chirp’ to confirm distance acquisition to flag stick.
The slope measurement technology measures angle of incline or decline and then automatically calculates the slope to adjusted distance. The slope function can be turned off with the click of a button, which makes the Callaway 300 Pro legal for tournament play.
This golf rangefinder is accurate up to +/- 1 yard. Feel confident in your yardage and take dead aim with the superior accuracy of the 300 Pro Golf Laser Rangefinder to measure from 5 – 1000 yards.
Scan the landscape to acquire distances to multiple targets, like greenside bunkers and water hazards at once.
Pros & Cons of the Callaway 300 Pro
Pros
- Pin acquisition technology (P.A.T.) quickly locks onto the pin from up to 300 yards away
- Great value for the technology
- Water resistant
Cons
- Some customers have complained about inaccurate measurements.
Precision Pro Golf NX7
Precision Pro Golf NX7 Pro Slope Rangefinder, Golf Rangefinder, Golf Accessories, 6X Magnification, Tournament Legal, Weather Resistant, Adaptive Slope, 600 Yard Range
- NEW MODEL GOLF RANGEFINDER WITH SLOPE SWITCH : The Precision Pro Golf NX7 Pro Slope Golf Range Finder has been re-designed with a tournament legal slope switch, and faster laster. The NX7 Pro provides fast, accurate distances. NX7 Pro Slope is easy to use, reliable and helps you play better golf.
- ADAPTIVE SLOPE TECHNOLOGY: Our NX7 Pro Slope golf laser rangefinder is infused with Pro Slope technology that provides a “play as” distance to make club selection simple. The slope function can be easily turned off for legal tournament play.
- CLEAR, QUICK, PRECISE: Built with crystal clear optics, 6X magnification, and precise technology, the NX7 Pro Slope Golf Rangefinders for Golfing produces quick yardage of a golf ball’s distance to the hole and is easy to use, even for golfers with shaky hands.
- 650+ YARD RANGE: This rangefinder golf laser rangefinder has a 650 yard range capacity, is water-resistant, displays 1-yard measurements, and can be set for meters or yards. It is accurate to one yard and delivers a short vibration when you shoot the target.
- PRECISION CARE PACKAGE: Any company can give you exactly what you paid for. Our goal is to give you more with 90 day no questions asked returns, 2-Year Warranty, guaranteed trade-in allowance, Fast, Industry Leading Customer Service & More!
The Precision Pro Golf NX7 Pro Slope has been designed to provide the most accurate distances on sloped or flat surfaces.
The Pro Slope technology makes it user friendly and helps you select the correct golf club on each shot. The NX7 Pro Slope golf laser rangefinder is infused with Pro Slope technology that provides a “play as” distance to make club selection as simple as possible.
The slope function can be easily turned off for legal tournament play.
Built with crystal clear optics, 6X magnification, and precise technology, the NX7 Pro Slope Golf Rangefinder produces quick yardage of a golf ball’s distance to the hole and is easy to use, even for golfers with not so steady hands.
This rangefinder has a 400-yard range capacity, is water-resistant, displays 1/10-yard measurements, and can be set for meters or yards. It is accurate up to one yard and delivers a short vibration when you shoot the target.
This golf rangefinder comes with a lifetime battery replacement service, with product registration.
Pros & Cons of the Precision Pro Golf NX7
Pros
- Lifetime battery replacement
- 6x magnification
- Pro Slope technology
Cons
- Some customers experienced issues locking onto targets during play.
Callaway EZ Scan Golf Laser Rangefinder
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Callaway 350TL Laser Golf Rangefinder with Slope Mode, 5X Magnification, 800 Yards Range
- Precise Slope Measurement: Our highly accurate laser rangefinder measures the angle of incline/decline then calculates the slope-adjusted distance
- Maximum Magnification: Equipped with 5x magnification, our rangefinders for golfing feature a range of 5-800 yards with +/- 1 yard accuracy
- Pin-Locking Technology: Our precise laser measure with E mode and pin acquisition technology (P.A.T) allows you to lock onto a pin up to 275 yards away
- Magnetic Hold: Our range finder with an easy-to-read LCD display features powerful, integrated magnets designed to easily attach to any cart frame for ultra-convenient access
- Manage Multiple Targets: Enhanced with specialized scan functionality, our golf distance finder allows golfers to acquire distances to multiple targets at once in yards or meters
The Callaway EZ Laser Rangefinder is a fantastic rangefinder. It is easy to use, well designed and performs phenomenally. The laser rangefinder features P.A.T. (Pin Acquisition Technology) where it delivers precise distance measurements while being simple and convenient to use.
EZ Mode allows the user to scan the flags tick to quickly acquire accurate distances without having to be completely steady when aiming. Simply press the EZ Button and begin scanning to lock onto the pin!
Pros & Cons of the Callaway EZ Scan Golf Laser Rangefinder
Pros
- Great design
- Strap is not very high quality
- Exterior LCD display.
Cons
- Hard to hold
Bushnell Pro X2 Golf Laser Rangefinder
Bushnell Pro X2 Golf Laser Rangefinder
- Ranges 5 1, 300 yards; 450+ yards to Flags
- Pin Seeker with JOLT technology.Eye Relief:16 millimeter Exit Pupil:3.5 millimeter
- IPX7 Fully Waterproof
- Class 1 laser with less than 0.5 mW average power output
The Pro X2 is the premier model of Bushnell rangefinders.
This golf rangefinder is tour-trusted with advanced slope switch technology that engages Bushnell Golf’s patented slope technology to give the you the best distance based the hole’s incline or decline.
You can turn this feature off to make this device USGA-conforming rangefinder when needed.
Included in this premium rangefinder is the pinseeker JOLT Technology to eliminate any doubt that you may not be locked onto flag. All of this is wrapped in fully-waterproof metal housing to give the golfer the ultimate golf laser rangefinder.
Simply put, this rangefinder has everything you could ask for in one device. The X2 gives you the ability to avoid all display issues with varying weather by being able to toggle between an LED and LCD screen. This is the ultimate rangefinder.
Pros & Cons of the Bushnell Pro X2 Golf Laser Rangefinder
Pros
- Completely waterproof
- Feature packed
- Sleek design
Cons
- Expensive
TecTecTec VPRO 500 Golf Rangefinder
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TecTecTec VPRO500 Golf Rangefinder with High-Precision, Laser Range Finder Binoculars with Pinsensor and Battery, Golf Accessories for Golfing and Hunting - Black
- 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐔𝐏𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐑: Our VPRO500 Laser Rangefinder is a premium product, measuring up to 540 yards with continuous scan mode, advanced Pinsensor technology, and a durable, water-resistant body. This high-precision laser range finder is sure to provide you with a seamless experience and reliable performance for golfing, hunting, and other professional application.
- 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐃 𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐄𝐂𝐇𝐍𝐎𝐋𝐎𝐆𝐘: Designed with precision to provide fast measurement with 1-yard high accuracy, integrated with enhanced Pinsensor technology to accurately measure overlapping subjects and continuous range readings, perfect for measuring golf flags, hazards, and wooded areas.
- 𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐖𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄: Measures just 4.09 x 2.83 x 1.61in and weighing just 6.52 oz. Compact in design yet lightweight and portable. This handy laser range finder added extra convenience and confidence, perfect for carrying while golfing or hunting, or for measuring and surveying without extra weight or bulk.
- 𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐑𝐀-𝐂𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐑 𝐎𝐏𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐒: Advanced ultra-clear, multilayered optics with easy read, through the lens display ensuring best viewing experience with exceptional clarity and sharpness, and continuous measurement mode for fast, convenient measurements; what's more; it is an eye-safe rangefinder for visual comfort with class 1 laser and <0.5mW average power output.
- 𝐅𝐔𝐋𝐋 𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐀𝐆𝐄: Packed with everything you need, complete rangefinder package for quick setup, including premium carrying pouch, CR2 battery, wrist strap, microfiber cleaning cloth, quick start guide, TecTecTec 2 Years Happiness Guarantee (online registration required), and lifetime customer support to fulfill your core distance measurement needs to maximize your game.
The TecTecTec VPRO500 uses the latest technology in range finding. It is more accurate and flexible than any other measuring device on the market.
It perfectly measures distances quickly, letting you improve your game like a tour pro.
This laser golf rangefinder even has diopter adjustment functionality to provide the perfect view. Whether you’re near or farsighted, you’ll be able to see the flag and measure it clearly to find its distance using this rangefinder.
The VPRO500 has three different scanning modes that are suitable for every situation on the course. It’s advanced pin sensor helps you accurately measure overlapping targets and is perfect for measuring the distance to pin location, layup to the nearest bunker, or and the distance to clear a water hazard!
It’s measurement locking function locks onto the pin to give you the most accurate information, each time.
Pros & Cons of the Tectectec VPRO 500 Golf Rangefinder
Pros
- Measurements accurate within+/- 1 yard
- comes fully equipped with a premium carrying pouch, CR2 battery, wrist strap, microfiber cleaning cloth
- Fantastic range finder for the price
Cons
- The plastic doesn’t feel the best.
Frequently Asked Questions Rangefinders
How do golf rangefinders work?
Rangefinders are some of the best tools you can have in golf. They give you accurate distances to anything that you have a clear line of sight on. However, you may be wondering – “how do rangefinders work?”
The answer is more simple than you might think.
Rangefinders first sends out a laser which will bounce off the target you’re aiming at and will return to your device. Then, the device will measure the amount of time it takes to send and receive that laser. Finally, using that data the device will calculate the distance to that target and will provide you with that distance in yards or meters.
Rangefinders can have a massive impact on your game when you have accurate yardages to specific targets. Some rangefinders can even take into account the change in elevation from you to your target and provide you with a number that accounts for that change. Some rangefinders can also take the wind into account and provide you with a yardage that will be accurate with the wind.
What is slope on a golf rangefinder?
Some golf rangefinders can account for the change in elevation from you to your target. This is also called accounting for the slope in your distances. For example, if you are hitting down hill your ball will fly farther just because of the topography change.
There are some rangefinders (for example, the Precision Pro R1) that can take this change into account and can provide you with a distance to the pin that will incorporate that change in elevation.
The slope function of a rangefinder is extremely helpful but is no allowed in tournament or competition play.
Most rangefinders are providing the ability to turn on or off the slope adjustment settings.
How to use a golf rangefinder?
Rangefinders are petty intuitive, so you shouldn’t have much trouble figuring yours out. Here are the few basic steps you need to follow to use you rangefinder.
- Pick a target that you want to know the distance to.
- Aim your rangefinder at the target and find your target through the eye-piece/sight.
- Click the button or activate your rangefinder
- Gather your yardage
- Shoot the target again to ensure you hit the proper target.
These are the basic steps on how to use a rangefinder. There may be some slight modifications needed depending on what type or what brand of rangefinder you are using.
Are rangefinders legal in golf or tournament play?
The USGA rules govern the use of laser rangefinders and various GPS devices in casual, competitive and tournament play. These rules have been in effect since 2006.
However, depending on the competition and tournament, the local rules can ban/outlaw the use of distance finding devices. This is why you will rarely see PGA tour pros using a rangefinder when on TV.
The one tournament that will allow rangefinders is the PGA Championship. They are still not allowed during competition rounds at PGA Tour events or at the U.S. Open and British Opens.
How accurate are golf rangefinders?
Rangefinders are accurate usually within +/- 1 yard. This is the primary benefit of a rangefinder over a GPS device. Every rangefinder on the market will be able to provide a precise measurement within +/- 1 yard.
It is very important to shoot the target a few times to ensure you are comfortable with the number you see from your device.
Do I need a golf rangefinder?
The simple answer is Yes.
You especially need a rangefinder if you are playing in any type of competitive play or if you are serious about improving your game. Golf is a game of consistency and of the best ways you can become more consistent is giving yourself the most information possible for each shot. A rangefinder can provide you with more than just the distance to the pin. You can find the distance to the bunkers, back of the green 0r anything that you can shoot your laser at. This information will help you become more successful because you can then start to gather more data and pick the best shot for your current situation.
Rangefinders are not a necessity to playing good golf, but they certainly do help.
How to attach a rangefinder to a golf bag?
Once you find out what is the best golf rangefinder 2022, you should pass on some technical steps you’ll sure be doing as a golfer, no matter if you’re an amateur or a pro. One of those steps surely is knowing how to attach a rangefinder to your golf bag. Here’s what you should do:
- First, grab a carabiner and attach it to a place on your bag that will face outward (think the outside when your bag is sitting on the back of a cart.
- Give the rangefinder something solid and secure to drape on to. You want the case to be secure and easily accessible.
- If a rangefinder comes with its own loop or strap, you can skip the carabiner idea and just attach it directly to your bag. Again, you want the case to be secure and easily accessible.
- Some rangefinders come with their own magnet, which is extremely helpful when riding in a cart -but we would not suggest using the magnet to attach your rangefinder to your bag. It will fall off too easily.
Can Your Smartphone Be Used as a Rangefinder?
May I use my phone’s GPS to measure golf distances?
Your smartphone is useful for more than just making tee times and getting you to the course. Using the built-in GPS in the smartphone with one of these fantastic apps, you can easily keep track of your position on the course, survey each hole from above, and figure out which club will give you the best chance of success.
Do Professionals Use Rangefinders?
Although rangefinders are still not permitted in most tournaments, professional golfers routinely employ them during training. When training and competition are closely related, athletes benefit more from the training and perform better in competition.
What Is The Best Golf Rangefinder For The Price?
If you want to have an accurate answer to a question like the best golf rangefinder for the money worth investing, know this can varies greatly. We believe that Bushnell offers the best overall rangefinders for the price. There are so many different options out there it is really easy to get confused.
The good news is that – there are a lot of rangefinders out there.
If you are wanting to explore getting a rangefinder, you may be investing $250 to get something that is going to perform well and not break the second it is rained on.
If you are wanting to upgrade to a better rangefinder, you may want to invest more money as this is a tool you will use for years to come.
A rangefinder is of of the best golf accessories a golfer can own. You may want to consider investing in a quality rangefinder that will help improve your scores today!
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
