Best Golf Rangefinders 2026 - Our Top 12 Picks Tested And Reviewed
A rangefinder can make a significant difference to your golf game and we have collated our favorite models to help you choose
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Golf is really hard, so equipping yourself with one of the best golf rangefinders is a quick and easy way to make it that little bit easier. Knowing your exact yardage for an approach shot is vital sticking it close, so equipping yourself with a reliable distance measuring device is one of the best ways to help your game. Anything that makes life a little easier for us out on the course should be welcomed with open arms so help comes in many forms - it might be a pair of the best shoes to keep us comfortable on that four hour walk, or perhaps one of the best lightweight golf bags to make carrying easier.
WATCH: Dan Parker runs through the best golf rangefinders on the market
Rangefinders used to be pretty pricey when they first arrived on the scene, but now more budget options than ever have appeared meaning they aren't even expensive if all you are looking for is something that does the basics.
If you want something more high end with various bells and whistles, those are available too. In fact, when it comes to rangefinder models golfers are spoilt for choice and that can make choosing quite difficult. Fear not we're here to help. In this guide, we have tested and taken a look at the best. Whether it's the best budget rangefinders, or the best golf rangefinders with slope, we have you covered!

Dan joined the team in 2021 after completing his Masters degree in International Journalism. He now uses those skills to head up rangefinder testing for Golf Monthly and has quickly become an expert in the field when it comes to reviewing lasers out on the course. He also oversees golf shoe, bag and cart testing as well. The resident lefty of the brand, Dan plays to a 6.5 handicap index and plies his trade at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands.
The Quick List
The Tour Hybrid laser gives you the best of both worlds: pinpoint accuracy to the flag and instant GPS yardages to the green. As you lock onto the pin, you’ll see the front, center, and back distances right on the screen - a game-changer of a feature.
The Inesis Golf 900 is the ultimate budget-friendly laser, delivering the same precise yardages as the leading brands but at a much more accessible price. Featuring a compact design, slope functionality and a trusty carry case, there is little to fault here.
For golfers who want a high-performance laser that stands out from the crowd without breaking the bank, the Pinned Prism+ is a great balance of fashion and function, available in a wide range of colors to allow you to express yourself a bit.
Shot Scope has truly leveled up with the Pro L5, featuring their first ever ultra-clear OLED screen. It makes picking out the flag effortless, providing a much brighter view than previous models like the Pro L2.
While it’s a significant investment, the unique full hole map overlay on the Z82 makes it worth the cost. It’s the only device that puts a detailed GPS map right inside your viewfinder, letting you plan layups and avoid hazards with precision.
If you’re looking for a rangefinder that’s smarter than the average laser, we'd recommend the Precision Pro Titan. Its MySlope technology is impressive, while the Find My Precision Pro feature ensures you’ll never lose your laser on the course.
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Built with a dependable DuraShield Hardshell and a high-contrast Dual-Optics display, the Series 4 Ultra delivers a top-tier user experience without the typical flagship markup and is another impressive Blue Tees product.
While most lasers simply measure distance, the i4 acts as a digital caddie by utilizing FlightScope’s massive trajectory database to tell you not just how far it is, but which club you should actually hit ahead of your shot.
Its extremely compact body doesn’t take up much room in the bag and provides a comfortable hold, while the clarity of the screen is excellent. The Coolshot 20i has all of the features and range you could ever need.
As Bushnell’s smallest laser ever, the A1-Slope successfully shrinks reliable accuracy into a palm-sized chassis that fits comfortably in a pocket mid-round. Although other Bushnell rangefinders have clearer displays, the versatility of the A1-Slope makes up for it.
If you want the most advanced laser in the game, the Pro X3+ is it. The big story here is the clever new wind feature, which pulls live data from the Bushnell app to show you exactly how strong the wind is and from where it is blowing.
The Shot Scope PRO X is a reliable, high-utility rangefinder that ticks the on-course essential boxes while introducing a level of personalization we've been urging brands to tap in to for years.
Best Golf Rangefinders 2026
Top pick
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The Tour Hybrid brings together the best features of Bushnell’s top rangefinders with a built-in GPS that shows yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green directly in the viewfinder. This innovative feature is sure to set a new standard in the rangefinder marketplace, giving golfers exactly the information they need before each shot to choose the right club, improve approach accuracy, and potentially lower scores. Not only is the Tour Hybrid the best Bushnell rangefinder that we've ever tested, it also takes the crown of being our top pick for this guide.
Players no longer have to chose between one of the best golf GPS devices or a rangefinder as the Tour Hybrid combines the best of both perfectly whilst keeping things simple and easy to use.Knowing precise yardages is especially valuable on courses without pin sheets or color-coded flags, giving players confidence in their club selection and approach shots.
Despite all the bells and whistles, its worth praising the fact that the Bushnell Tour Hybrid is remarkably intuitive, offering a seamless user experience that avoids the faff of over-complicated setups. It eliminates the need for third-party apps or manual course selection - instead, its internal GPS activates instantly to identify your location with impressive speed. We really do believe this device represents a significant shift in rangefinder design in relation to features and could well serve as the blueprint that will likely force competitors to rethink their own hybrid strategies for years to come.
- Read our full Bushnell Tour Hybrid Rangefinder Review
Best budget
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Budget rangefinders used to be a waste of time years ago, but now the vast majority of golfers seem to be shopping nearer the bottom end of the price scale and given some of the best budget golf rangefinders we've tested in recent years, it's understandable as to why. Inesis are a fairly new name in the golf market but we are big fans of their gear due to the excellent combination of quality and value on offer. The 900 Rangefinder is a perfect example of this as it offers excellent value for money. It sits towards the bottom end of the price scale, but the performance belies that and I thought the overall value for money on offer was excellent.
In testing I found that it performed valiantly against the likes of the Bushnell Tour V5 Shift, as the 6x magnification gave me a clear view when looking through the viewfinder. The 900 is very user friendly and I found that the weight and sturdiness really allowed it to hold up well in the strongest conditions.
The 900 also uses a First Target Priority system to rapidly pinpoint the flagstick from background clutter like tress and bushes, with each successful lock confirmed by a subtle vibration in your hands. During our testing it proved extremely accurate, maintaining a +/- 1-yard accuracy standard, while the integrated Slope Compensation switch provided crucial adjustments for elevation changes and is a feature rarely seen in devices at this side of the price scale. All in all, these features work toward cementing the 900 as a standout value for golfers seeking professional-grade features on a budget.
- Read our full Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder Review
Best for style
Specifications
Reasons to buy
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Everything about this device feels modern and, frankly, pretty cool. If it were a person it would be a cool 20-something year old who is really good at surfing (and let's you know about it). The rangefinder market has become very crowded in recent years so brands have to put a lot of effort into making their product unique - Pinned have done just that, and done it brilliantly.
There are plenty of reasons to love the Pinned Prism+, but its standout design is the best place to start. It breaks the mold with seven color options, like my top pick and favorite color of green, along with navy, red, pink, and more, making it the most stylish rangefinder you can add to your bag. Even the font choice feels fresh and high-end. In the hand, the device has a satisfying, premium weight, and the included magnetic-closure case is genuinely one of the best on the market (something I value highly with rangefinders), offering quick access and a fit that matches your chosen color perfectly.
The Pinned Prism+ is more than just a pretty face - in fact it’s a very high-performance device without the massive price tag. The 4K OLED screen is a standout and features bright red graphics that are easy to read, even in direct sunlight. With 7x magnification (most devices in this guide only have x6) and a reliable slope mode, it gives you every bit of data you need on the course. You won't find a 'scan mode' here which is a little disappointing, but for around $200, its combination of top-tier optics and modern, stylish look offers some of the best value on the market.
- Read our full Pinned Prism+ Rangefinder Review
Best clarity
Specifications
Reasons to buy
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Shot Scope's Pro L5 marks a turning point for the brand, addressing the primary feedback from earlier models by introducing their first-ever ultra-clear OLED display. We have enjoyed Shot Scope products in the past but always felt that the display wasn't as clear as rival devices - until now. While the Pro X (launched in early 2025) focused on customization, the L5 prioritizes premium visual performance at an accessible price point.
OLED technology is increasingly common among top-tier golf rangefinders, with models such as the Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra and Zoom OLED Pro offering brighter, clearer views through the lens. When precision and clarity are crucial, having the sharpest possible view on every shot can make all the difference to give you the confidence before a shot that you have shot the correct yardage.
Priced around the £200/$220 mark depending on where you shop, the Pro L5 offers impressive value for money. Few rangefinders combine an OLED display, 7x magnification, and rapid distance readings as effectively as this model. It’s perfect for golfers of any skill level seeking a feature-rich, easy-to-use rangefinder without overspending and sits right on the verge of what we'd consider when ranking the best budget golf rangefinders.
- Read our full Shot Scope Pro L5 Rangefinder review
Best for features
Specifications
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If you like your bells and whistles when it comes to golf gadgets, look no further than this offering from the highly respected Garmin brand. So much more than a laser rangefinder, when it comes to innovative features the Garmin Approach Z82 is out on its own. It comes packed with much of the functionality you'll find on the best Garmin golf watches, meaning this is much more than a 'point and shoot' laser. It actually combines the best GPS technology with the capabilities of a laser, giving you the best of both worlds.
Using the Garmin Z82 is like having a digital yardage book built into your lens. The viewfinder features a split-screen effect with the right side shows your actual view of the course at 6x magnification and the left side displaying a vibrant 2D map of the hole which is easy to digest and highlights hazards and layup points you might not even be able to see with your eyes. Once you’ve surveyed the layout, just point the laser at the flag and the device will buzz to confirm your distance, just like a standard rangefinder, but with A LOT more context.
One of our favorite tools on the Z82 is the 'Laser Range Arc' which is a small red arc that appears once you zap the flag successfully, showing you on the 2D hole map exactly where that distance falls on the green so you’ll always know if the pin is front, middle, or back - a particularly useful feature for those who play a lot of different golf courses rather than their home course over and over again. It works for hazards, too, showing you everything else in play at that specific range as well as from the tee box with 'Driver Arc', based on your personal average distance, helping you spot trouble before your shot.
- Read our full Garmin Approach Z82 Laser Rangefinder Review
Most cutting edge
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Reasons to buy
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Gone are the days in which rangefinders are simply small telescopes that pump out a number when you aim at your target and press a button - now the best devices come with some cutting edge technology that can take your pre-shot planning to another level. The Titan Elite from Precision Pro integrates with the Precision Pro Golf app to provide the user access to a multitude of cool features. One of these features is a slope mode that can actually sync up with MySlope to personalize the slope measurement to your particular ball flight. This is really high end tech and this is a truly unique rangefinder that has cutting edge technology at its core.
Its Visual Target Lock provides a lag-free pulse and a unique 'ripple' effect on the reticle, making it dead easy to know when you've nailed the flag and not the trees or bushes behind the green, an issue that has plagued many rangefinders we've tested over the years. Though it sticks to the standard 6x magnification, the crispness of the display and premium aluminum shell make it feel like a pro-level tool.
This next feature could be very useful to those certain people who seem to lose things all the time, be that their keys, phone or even rangefinder. If you're a bit forgetful like myself, you'll be grateful for the Find My Precision Pro feature which, you guessed it, helps you find your device if you drop it out on the course. This is invaluable as it will save you a lot of time retracing your steps and will lead you right to it. On that note, the connection to the app itself is probably the most simple we have experienced on a device of this type.
- Read our full Precision Pro Titan Elite Laser Rangefinder Review
Best display
Specifications
Reasons to buy
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Whether it's delivering some of the best golf GPS devices or even the best golf speakers, Blue Tees have really made a name for themselves in the golf gadget marketplace. I've really enjoyed testing some of their products over the past few years so were naturally excited when their latest distance measuring device reached us ahead of testing.
In fitting with all the other Blue Tees products I've been able to get our hands on, this product feels premium the moment you take it out of the box. That doesn't stop with the aesthetics of the product, though, as this feature-packed laser packs a real punch in functionality. The main talking point compared to the previous model Series 3 laser is the new OLED display. There is an instant visible improvement down the viewfinder on this new version, with the course and pin coming into an even clearer view than ever before. The graphics are clear and bright, too, making it easy and quick to read once you have your number.
While the Series 4 Ultra isn't the fastest device for target acquisition, which might be an issue for those who want an ultra-fast pre-shot routine, it compensates with high quality optics that all but ensure you're getting the yardage to your desired target and not something in the distance. Its standout Auto-Depth Filter is a unique innovation that blurs background distractions to keep your focus strictly on the pin. Additionally, its user-centric design includes a 10-second display memory (which, speaking from personable experience as a very forgetful person, is a great feature) by keeping the yardage on-screen long after the flag is zapped, it provides a perfect safety net for those who tend to forget their number before they even reach their bag.
There are plenty of features to do justice to the $300 price tag - Slope adjusted yardages can be easily toggled on and off with a physical button on the side of the device, useful for those who play a lot of competition rounds. Whilst for the more casual players who tend to use carts, a built-in magnet is ideal to use as storage on the side of your vehicle. Finally, the pulse vibration through the device gives a nice feedback when you've eventually zapped the top of the pin.
- Read our full Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Laser Rangefinder Review
Best unique feature
The TecTecTec KLYR rangefinder on a cart
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
For FlightScope, a company better known for making some of the best golf launch monitors, this is its first foray into trying to compete with the best golf rangefinders, so it had to impress - and it very much did.
The FlightScope i4 leverages the FS Golf App to provide a level of detail rarely seen in rangefinders through personalized club recommendations. It requires your knowledge and input of baseline launch, spin, and ball speed data from just a few of your key clubs before the device’s A.I. Gapping Engine calculates a full-bag profile, predicting carry distances for every club you own. While some users may be skeptical of AI-driven data, our testing confirmed that the algorithm's outputs for the remaining clubs were remarkably accurate. This proved that the underlying physics engine is exceptionally well-calibrated, offering a reliable digital caddie experience that simplifies club selection.
On the course, the FlightScope i4 consistently delivered club recommendations that were accurate roughly 95% of the time. For those moments when you're caught between clubs, having the device cast the 'deciding vote' adds a layer of confidence that standard lasers simply can't provide. This tech comes at a price of course, but this is a device that earns a tip of our proverbial hat for incorporating ai to bring genuine benefit for the user.
- Read our full FlightScope i4 Rangefinder Review
Best lightweight
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
Gone are the days of bulky, heavy rangefinders that weigh down your bag. Nikon's Coolshot 20i GIII is easily one of the most compact units we’ve ever tested - barely larger than a credit card and weighs next to nothing, which is why it earns our label of 'Best Lightweight' device. Whether you're a traditional walker like the majority of the team here at Golf Monthly or a cart-based player who can't be bothered with the bulky devices, the 20i GIII offers the perfect balance of portability and pinpoint Nikon precision.
We really enjoyed putting the Nikon 20i GIII through its paces. The standout feature is definitely the display, which is maybe unsurprising given the brand we're talking about here and their history of making some of the best cameras you can get your hands on. Nikon’s multilayer coating makes the display incredibly sharp, so the flag pops out clearly whether it’s a bright midday round or a late sunset finish. The Locked On Quake vibration gives you a quick buzz the moment you lock on to your target, giving you total peace of mind that your yardage is spot-on and is another nice touch.
Weighing just 4.5oz and the size of a smartphone, the 20i GIII is designed to disappear into your pocket or golf bag between shots. It sits naturally in your palm, and takes up very little room wherever you choose to store it, proving that you don’t need a chunky device to get pro-level accuracy.
- Read our full Nikon Coolshot 20i GIII Rangefinder Review
Most compact
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
The A1 is Bushnell’s smallest rangefinder in the current lineup. At first glance, I worried it might look a bit basic once I took it out of the box, but holding it in-hand revealed a sturdy, well-built device. Its compact size doesn’t compromise performance - yardage readings are both fast and accurate, whether slope is enabled or not. While the display could be a touch clearer (I struggled a little when there was shrubbery behind the green), the JOLT vibrations provide reliable tactile feedback when locking onto the flag.
It features an effortless slope toggle and a 350-yard flag-lock range, making it versatile enough for any shot you're about to hit (unless you're a world long drive champion). Plus, with an IPX6 weather-resistant rating its ready for any elements that could be thrown at you on the course and even in those conditions it delivers consistent, lightning-fast yardages. Despite the lack of size, it provides sufficient grip whether your hands are damp from the rain or from sweat on a hot summers day.
The BITE magnetic attachment, seen on most Bushnell devices, is a feature worth praising in terms of how much convienience it will provide as well. This is paired with an exceptionally robust battery life, resulting in a highly dependable and versatile rangefinder that sets the standard for compact rangefinders in 2026.
- Read our full Bushnell A1-Slope Rangefinder Review
Best for accuracy
The Bushnell Pro X3 laser on the ground
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
If price wasn't a factor in determining these labels, the Pro V3+ would likely be our top pick as it really does set the standard for how good a rangefinder can be. A seriously impressive model, this rangefinder factors in elements like distance, slope, temperature and barometric pressure (elevation), ensuring you can get the most accurate yardages every single time.
When I tested the brand-new wind speed and direction feature, I did find it was a bit of a faff to calibrate it properly and pair correctly with the app, but that doesn't take away from the superb performance on offer from the X3+.
It's packed with the same technology you'd find within other top Bushnell rangefinders and, when paired with the Bushnell Golf app, you are able to save stats and receive relevant course information. Additionally, it's waterproof and has a solid weight to it, making it ideal for golfers with shaky hands as it will provide good stability, especially in windy conditions.
- Read our full Bushnell Pro X3+ Laser Rangefinder Review
Best customization
Specifications
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid
A reasonably-priced rangefinder that will appeal to a wide range of players. It has slope-adjusted distances, which can be easily turned on and off when you're playing in competition, a built-in magnet for use on a ride-on cart, and target lock vibration. Coupled with the vibration, you can zap the pin and get your accurate yardage incredibly quickly with the Pro X, which is exactly what we want from a top-level rangefinder.
The unique selling point of this device is the customization options - there are a range of stock options to choose from like country flags and other graphic designs. There is also the option to order in bulk and get a personalized design on there - we got the Golf Monthly logo on ours. It's a nice differentiation from the often dull, grey rangefinders that dominate the market.
The display isn't the brightest when compared to other options on this list or sister options from the same brand like Shot Scope's Pro ZR rangefinder which features a much brighter display - The Pro X lacks a little firepower in this particular area, but this is the only serious criticism of the device we could make.
- Read our full Shot Scope Pro X Rangefinder Review
Specifications table
Model | Range | Magnification | Protection | Battery life |
Bushnell Tour Hybrid Rangefinder | 1,300 yards | 6x | IPX6 | Replaceable CR-123 Battery |
Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder | 5-1300 yards | 6x | Certified IPX2 | 5000 actuations |
Pinned Prism+ Rangefinder | 1000 yards | 7x | Water resistant | 70 rounds |
Shot Scope Pro L5 Rangefinder | 1300 yards | 7x | Water resistant | 5,800 measuring times – replaceable battery |
Garmin Approach Z82 Rangefinder | 450 yards (flag) | 6x | IPX7 Waterproof | 15 hours |
Precision Pro Titan Elite Laser Rangefinder | 999 yards | 6x | IP67 Dust/Waterproof | USB-C Rechargeable |
Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder | 1200 yards | 6x | Water resistant | 3,500 - 4,000 actuations |
Flightscope i4 Rangefinder | 1000 yards | 6x | Waterproof | 15,000 clicks |
Nikon Coolshot 20i GIII Rangefinder | 800 yards | 6x | IPX4 water-resistant | Approximately 10,000 times |
Bushnell A1 Slope Rangefinder | 350+ yards | 6x | IPX6 weather-resistant | 12+ hours |
Bushnell Pro X3+ Golf Rangefinder | 600+ yards | 7x | IPX7 waterproof | 40+ rounds |
Shot Scope Pro X Rangefinder | 800 yards | 6x | Water resistant case | 5,800 actuations |
How we test for the best golf rangefinders
At Golf Monthly we have a comprehensive testing procedure around rangefinders that involves using different models out on the course over a number of rounds to get a really in depth feel for the product. We are ultimately driven by our goal to give our readers to best informed buying advice possible, a goal we strive towards more than ever given the fact amateur golf has never been more popular - or as expensive.
We pride ourselves in the trust we have built between us as a brand and our loyal readership over a decade of testing the best (and sometimes worst) golf products on the market. Due to this, we want to reiterate that all of our reviews are completely free from bias, instead conducted and written by experienced testers who have a passion for the game of golf and work towards the same goal as the brand. This means no brand can ever 'buy' a good review, nor will we ever give preference to one manufacturer over another. Instead, we simply call it how we see it based on our extensive knowledge of the game, the equipment and our experience in testing and reviewing.
Dan Parker testing the Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder
In terms of our laser reviews, they are headed up by Staff Writer Dan Parker. Dan knows a thing or two about the best golf gadgets and co-hosts Golf Monthly's golf gear podcast - Kick Point. With the helping hand of a few trusted colleagues including Deputy Editor Joel Tadman, former Division One College player Sam De'Ath and Conor Keenan, a former caddie at Royal County Down, the team deliver detailed, thorough reviews of the latest laser rangefinders to hit the market.
Due to the fact we test a lot of golf equipment, be that some of the best golf shoes, best golf drivers or even the latest golf gps - it means our testing team are spending a lot of time out on the golf course. If we are out on the course testing a product, it likely means we're also using a rangefinder to do so. This means rangefinders might just be the most thoroughly tested products out of all that we review. They are tested across multiple rounds of golf in different settings and in different conditions - we aim to use over around a dozen rounds to see how they truly perform.
Deputy Editor Joel Tadman testing the Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder
We also focus in on specific selling points with each laser rangefinder and test out these features to see if they work - for example, if a device says it is waterproof then one of our brave members from the review team will tackle the elements to see how the rangefinder held up in the adverse conditions. We also put each rangefinder on the scales to see if they are as lightweight as the brand says they are!
For even more information, check out our piece on how Golf Monthly tests products.
How to choose the best golf rangefinder
Accuracy
Accuracy is and always will be the number one reason to buy a quality rangefinder. Using an unreliable 'cheap' model from Amazon (there are more now than ever before) is a gamble that usually ends in the wrong club and a missed green. The tried and tested models in our list are chosen specifically for their ability to deliver pinpoint, repeatable yardages from respected and trustworthy brands, something the generic brands simply can’t match.
Range/magnification
Don't get distracted by massive distance numbers when comparing rangefinders. While a 1,000-yard range might look good in the specs, when will you ever be hitting a shot or need a yardage over 250-300 yards? What actually matters is Magnification, or ultimately how well you can see what is in front of you through your lens. A higher zoom (like 6x or 7x) allows you to enlarge the flag or general target in your viewfinder, making it much easier for the laser to lock on and give you a dependable number. In our view, a clear, high-powered lens is always more valuable than a long-distance range you’ll never use.
Display
How clear is the display and how easy is it to read? Ultimately, and because we have tested most rangefinders on the market, we think we can give good insight here with models like the Zoom OLED Pro offering outstandingly clear visuals. There are also several other models on this list that have good displays so be sure to have a read of our in-depth reviews as well.
Battery Life
Before you buy, check what powers the device - is it a disposable battery or a rechargeable one? Traditional battery-powered models are great because they last nearly an entire season and take seconds to swap out. Rechargeable rangefinders are becoming the new standard in 2026 and a quick USB-C charge can last you for 50 rounds or more, meaning you never have to hunt for a specialty battery again. Just keep an eye on the charge cycles for a quality rechargeable unit should last for years before the internal battery shows any sign of wear.
Slope
If you intend to use a slope-equipped rangefinder in competition, tournament legality is your most important specification. If I may, I'll put on my nerdy glasses and refer you to the USGA and R&A Rule 4.3 which states that while Distance Measuring Devices (DMDs) are allowed, the use of slope-adjusted yardages in competition remains a disqualification offense. For transparency, it's worth noting before you buy not only if your desired device has this feature, but also whether there are any physical sliders or bright indicator lights that show your playing partners you are not using slope so you can focus on your game without worrying about a rules dispute on the course.
Waterproofing
A great rangefinder should work just as well in a downpour as it does in the sun. However, don't be fooled by the labels for there is a huge difference between water-resistant and waterproof. Water-resistant models are fine for a light drizzle, but if you're a hardcore golfer who plays in the rain, you need a fully waterproof device. Look for the IPX7 gold standard found in the likes if the Garmin Approach Z82 or Precision Pro Titan, especially those golfers like the majority of the Golf Monthly team who play a lot in wet weather.
Convenience
Convenience is the name of the game: you want to grab your laser, get your number, and get it back in the case in one fluid motion. Once you've narrowed your shortlist, have a read of our individual reviews for each device to see if we praise or critique on how easy they are to use and how convenient they are to live with while out on the course.
Looks
Some of you may not care in the slightest what your rangefinder looks like and that's fine. Others want to show off a bit of personality on the course and your rangefinder is one way of doing this - the Pinned Prism+ is an example of a top quality device that looks great as you use it. Weigh up how important this is to you and go from there.
Magnetic Mount
Thankfully, as the quality of rangefinders gets better and better with each passing year, more and more rangefinders have very helpful magnetic mounts which allow you to stick them to the frame of your golf cart with ease. I for one don't play much golf with a cart, so the magnetic mount isn't as important to me as it will be to many others, but much like when I spoke about looks above, weigh up how important this feature is before deciding on a device (and make sure you check if it has it if it is important!)
Budget
Be aware of how much you are willing to spend on a laser because there are good models at every price point these days. For example the Inesis 900 is one of the cheapest on this guide and we thought it offered excellent performance, whereas if you want to spend more and go towards the premium end of the spectrum, you can also do that with models like the Garmin Approach Z82.
Glossary
Slope
Slope is a recent addition to the features list of many golf rangefinders, specifically built to help players diagnose real yardages when dealing with variation in altitude from hole to hole. Depending on your device, you should receive two numbers when you successfully shoot the flag - one the raw distance number and the other the slope adjusted number. If you are hitting downhill, the slope adjusted number will be smaller to counter for the undulation, whilst the number will be greater when hitting uphill as the shot will play longer due to the elevation to the green. f you play golf courses that are very hilly, this can be very useful, but be aware the use of the slope feature is prohibited in competition play.
Magnification
The magnification of a rangefinder's display is essentially how many times bigger what you see in the display is compared to how big it looks to the naked eye. The best golf rangefinders will have 6x or more magnification so you can have a clear view of the green no matter how far from the green you are on a specific hole.
Range
The range on a distance measuring device is simply how far into the distance your rangefinder can accurately shoot a yardage. The longer the better of course, but us golfers only need roughly 3-400 yards of range given that is the typical length of most holes. Hunters, for example, will value a longer range device than us golfers.
Protection
When we mention protection for a rangefinder we are referring to how well it can cope against the elements, most notably rain. The best waterproof rangefinders will have IPX6 protection - a water resistance rating that signifies a device's ability to withstand powerful water jets from any direction.
OLED
OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode. OLED displays are becoming more and more popular in rangefinders as manufacturers strive to deliver the clearest display possible for users. In particular, OLED is the type of display technology used to show distance readings and other information. If you see us talking about a device with an OLED display like the Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder, it means it has a seriously good and crisp display.
FAQs
What does a rangefinder do?
Essentially the main function of a rangefinder is to give you as accurate yardages as possible. While some of them have many other features, primarily it's there to tell you how far away the flag is, or is that fairway bunker in range. Nobody wants to be out on the course and have no idea what distance a bunker or ditch is. Therefore, a rangefinder can help acquire yardages and build confidence.
How accurate are laser rangefinders?
Accuracy will be dependent on the model as some are better than others but we have found from our testing that most are accurate enough to give you a clearer yardage, which will then inform which club to use.
Are golf laser rangefinders worth it?
Yes, absolutely. We think laser rangefinders are definitely worth it as they speed up play, last a long time, are convenient and simple to use, offer in-depth detail of the shot you face, and can sit easily on your golf bag. With a laser no longer do you have to guess yardages because you can just zap the flag or hazards to help you plot your way around the course.
Should my device offer slope measurements?
More and more lasers these days offer the ability to measure yardages that take into account slope. It can be very convenient especially when faced with steep downhill or uphill shots and if this is very important to you we would always recommend getting a model that has a slope function that can be turned on and off as you are not allowed to use it in competition.
Should my laser rangefinder be waterproof?
Ideally yes we think a good laser rangefinder should offer some degree of protection from water and rain. After all, golf is an outdoor activity and the weather can change dramatically over the four hours we are on the course. We would therefore recommend taking a look at product specifications to see the level of waterproof protection on offer.
How much does a rangefinder cost?
Prices vary anywhere from under $100 to over $400. At the end of the day it depends how much information you want from your rangefinder. If you're not bothered about high end tech and detailed features then the cheaper ones will provide you with the basic information you need. If you do love your technology though then a more expensive model will likely fit that category and there are some great ones to choose from.
We hope you found this guide on the best golf rangefinders informative, and if you want more tech, check out our best golf simulator piece. We also recommend checking out our guides on the best golf GPS devices, best golf launch monitors and the best golf grips should you be looking to upgrade other areas of your bag.
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Dan has been with the Golf Monthly team since 2021. He graduated with a Master's degree in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and looks after equipment reviews and buying guides, specializing in golf shoes, golf bags, golf trolleys, and apparel reviews. Dan is also a co-host of Kick Point: The Golf Gear Show. A left-handed golfer, his handicap index is currently 7.1, and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands.
Dan's current What's In The Bag:
Driver: Cobra DS-Adapt X
Mini driver: TaylorMade R7 Quad Mini
Fairway: Ping G440 Max 21°
Irons: Titleist T250 (5), Titleist T100 (6-PW)
Wedges: Ping Glide Forged Pro (50, 56, 60)
Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour X
Ball: Titleist Pro V1x
Grip: Golf Pride Tour Velvet
Bag: Vessel Sunday III
- Joel TadmanDeputy Editor
- Conor KeenanGear & Ecommerce Writer