Get the Best Golf Rangefinder for Your Game

Updated 2/12/2024
If you're looking for the best golf rangefinder, you're in luck. There are some very affordable state-of-the-art golf rangefinders available on the market today. If you're a golfer, you know that a high-quality golf rangefinder can make an enormous difference in picking the right club. It's just as important as the clubs you choose, the ball you hit, or the golf course you play.

Let's get right down to it. The Bushnell Pro XE is my top pick for the best overall golf rangefinder. My tests have shown it is incredibly accurate and has a number of features that make it perfect for high and low handicappers alike. It has the best combination of capabilities that you can find on the market today, and it is from one of the top manufacturers of optics and launch monitors on the market.

You can make the right choice with a little research - we're here to help you with a rundown of the best-rated golf range finders. The list below includes a wide array of rangefinders, from top-of-the-line to a wide array of budget rangefinders.

Best Golf Rangefinders

Top 10 Golf Rangefinders

1. Bushnell Pro XE **Best Overall**
2. Bushnell V5
3. Nikon Coolshot Pro
4. Precision Pro NX10
5. Cobalt Q6 Slope
6. Tectectec Klyr
7. Blue Tees Series 3 Max
8. Precision Pro Nx7 **Best Budget Golf Rangefinder**
9. Garmin Approach Z82
10. Precision Pro R1

1. Best Overall Golf Rangefinder – Bushnell Pro XE
Forget the hype, forget the endless reviews – the Bushnell Pro XE isn't just another rangefinder, it's your secret weapon to lower scores. My rigorous testing proves it: this laser-sharp marvel delivers unmatched accuracy, packed with features that empower both beginners and seasoned golfers.

Imagine this: Confidently striding up to the tee, armed with precise yardages that account for elevation, temperature, even barometric pressure. The intuitive interface guides you effortlessly, while Visual JOLT confirms target lock with a satisfying flash and vibration. No more second-guessing, just pure shot-making confidence.

But the magic doesn't stop there:

  • Industry-leading range: Reach targets 500+ yards away with pinpoint accuracy.
  • Unbeatable versatility: Slope mode helps you conquer tricky inclines and declines (tournament legal when disabled).
  • Built to last: Rugged metal housing and waterproof design withstand the elements.
  • Effortless convenience: Magnetic mount keeps it handy, bright display shines in any light.

This isn't just a rangefinder, it's an investment in your game. Ready to unlock your true potential? Dive deeper into my review and discover why the Bushnell Pro XE is the undisputed champion. Remember, precision is power, and the Pro XE puts it in your hands.

My Opinion After Using Bushnell Pro XE

Bushnell's Slope-Switch toggle lets me easily switch the Pro XE in and out of Slope mode. That means the Pro XE is legal during tournament play when Slope is disabled. While testing the products, I’ve discovered finding pins is even easier as a pulsing red ring now compliments JOLT vibration to reinforce I have locked onto the flag.
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The Bushnell Golf App provides additional value as I can find useful information like hole layouts with distance, 3D flyovers with distance, and wireless course updates. It comes with a two-year warranty. It has the ability to read slope, temperature, wind, and barometric pressure. It has a range of up to 1,300 yards.
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Common Problems

I was a bit disappointed about the fact that although some of the newer rangefinders use a USB charging port, the Pro XE requires a three-volt lithium (CR-2) battery.
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Pros
Cons
  • Best rangefinder of 2023
  • Fully waterproof, rugged housing
  • Magnetic golf cart attachment
  • 7x magnification
  • Exceptional optics and visual clarity
  • Quickly acquires and locks onto target with Jolt technology
  • Adjusts for climate and temperature
  • Slope toggles on and off easily
  • Two-year warranty
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  • Not rechargeable if that is important to you
  • A bit on the pricey side

Final Verdict

No more magnetic case add-ons are required as it has an integrated magnetic mount that makes attaching the Pro XE right on a cart bar easy. High-quality optics deliver superior clarity and resolution, complemented with 7x magnification to allow quick and easy focus on your target. 

The Pro XE comes with rubber-armored metal housing and is IPX7 fully waterproof. That means it can be submerged up to 1 meter in water for 30 minutes - taking the Pro XE way beyond being merely water resistant, which I really appreciate!
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My rating: 5/5

2. Bushnell Tour V5
While using this product, I noticed the Bushnell Tour V5 laser rangefinder construction was compact and easy to fit into the palm of my hand. In addition to a number of improved capabilities over prior models, the Tour V5 is even lighter and smaller than the V4, which was 30% smaller than the V3. This makes it easier to grip, aim, and point my device to get your reading.

My Opinion After Using Bushnell Tour V5

It comes with Jolt technology which lets me know when the rangefinder has locked onto the pin and has read the distance. Jolt technology makes it easier to know when I have an accurate distance. The V5 has 6x magnification, making it easier to pick out the pin from a distance and to see other features I might miss. I also like the fact it comes with magnetic bite technology that lets me easily attach it to the cart.
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While this model does not come with compensation for temperature, wind, and barometric pressure, it can adjust for slope.
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Common Problems

The Tour V5 requires a three-volt lithium (CR-2) battery. I would also love to see this rangefinder upgraded to a waterproof model.
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Pros
Cons
  • A lot of features for the price
  • Magnetic golf cart attachment
  • Quickly acquires and locks onto target with Jolt technology
  • Range of 1300 yards
  • Slope toggles on and off easily
  • Compact design
  • Two-year warranty
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  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not waterproof
  • Not rechargeable (you must replace the CR-2 battery)

Final Verdict

The rangefinder comes with the Bushnell Golf App that provides additional functionality as I can find useful information like hole layouts with distance, 3D flyovers with distance, and wireless course updates. It comes with a two-year warranty.
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It has a range of up to 1,300 yards (almost twice that of the blue tees rangefinder). This model is on my list of the best golf rangefinders as it is a great option with many features at a reasonable price.
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My rating: 5/5

3. Nikon COOLSHOT PROII Stabilized
The COOLSHOT PROII is Nikon's flagship golf rangefinder, and it is packed with advanced technologies. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and competition compliant.

My Opinion After Using Nikon COOLSHOT PROII Stabilize

It’s easier to find your target, and it’s easier to lock onto it. The Nikon golf rangefinder has a slope adjustment they call ID (incline/decline) that you can toggle on and off during tournament play. It also boasts near-instant measurements and a bright OLED display. The Nikon has 6x magnification and dual indicators that you've locked onto the pin with an echo vibration and a visual queue.
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Common Problems

As with previous rangefinders, this one is not rechargeable and doesn’t adjust for climate and temperature.
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Pros
Cons
  • Continuous measurement mode
  • Five-year warranty
  • Water-proof and fog-proof
  • Slope toggles on and off easily
  • Compact design
  • 6x magnification
  • Stabilization (vibration reduction)
  • 1,200 yard-range
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  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not rechargeable (you must replace the golf rangefinder battery)
  • Does not have a magnetic cart attachment

Final Verdict

The most innovative feature of the Nikon Coolshot that I use a lot is continuous measurement. Press and hold the power button for continuous measurement mode to see distances in real time as you survey your surroundings for up to 8 seconds. 

This can let me know the exact distance of trees, water features, sand traps, front and back of the green as well as other hazards. It also comes with a 5-year warranty on new products.
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My rating: 5/5

4. Precision Pro NX10
After testing this device, I can say the NX10 is an affordable rangefinder that includes the ability to customize the look with different graphics. It has skins that can be applied to the rangefinder in a wide variety of designs

My Opinion After Using Precision Pro NX10

I like the fact that the NX10 comes with an extra-strong magnetic cart grip that allows you to store it on the golf cart bar. Moreover, the NX10 includes several important features that include: Adaptive Slope Technology, Tournament Legal Slope on/off Switch, Magnetic Cart Grip, Accurate Distances, HD Optics, 999 Yard Range, Pulse Vibration Technology, 6X Magnification, and a 2-Year Warranty.

The customization kits cost $20 for the limited edition sets and $10 for some of the plain colors. It is a durable rangefinder that feels solid in my hands.
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Common Problems

Similar to its competitors, Precision Pro NX10 doesn’t recharge or adjust to the climate.
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Pros
Cons
  • Customizable look
  • Adaptive Slope distance adjustments
  • Visual Slope on/off Switch
  • Magnetic Cart Grip
  • Pulse Vibrations – vibrates when the laser hits the target
  • 999 Yard Range
  • 6X Magnification
  • Water Resistant
  • 2-Year Warranty
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  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not rechargeable (you must replace the CR-2 battery)

Final Verdict

The optical quality is good, and the distances are precise. In my opinion, the NX10 is a great choice for anyone looking for a quality and affordable rangefinder.
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My rating: 5/5

5. Cobalt Q6 Slope
The Q6 comes with a lifetime warranty, premium optics, and fully waterproof (IPX7) aluminum housing on a magnesium chassis. It is built for those looking for the ultimate golf rangefinder.

My Opinion After Using Cobalt Q6 Slope

PinSense and Surge technologies effectively distinguish the pin from background information, automatically filtering out obstructions, eliminating false readings, and providing you with a visual target lock-on. Once the lock and distance have been acquired, Surge gives a haptic response in the form of a vibration. Together, these features provide visible, physical, and audible feedback so I can be confident in my range.    

The Q6 comes with a lifetime warranty and premium optics and has fully waterproof (IPX7) aluminum housing on a magnesium chassis. 

Featuring the SmartSwitch, the Q-6 Slope easily toggles Slope Mode on and off. SmartSwitch lets me use the precise slope-compensation calculations during normal play and allows me to easily disengage the Slope Mode to conform to USGA regulations during tournament play.
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Common Problems

I haven’t discovered any significant disadvantages, apart from the device not being rechargeable but having a more or less short range.
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Pros
Cons
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Slope compensation and easy on/off toggle
  • Pulse Vibrations – vibrates when the laser hits the target
  • 7X Magnification
  • Fully waterproof, rugged housing
  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not rechargeable (CR-2 battery)
  • No magnetic cart attachment
  • 600 Yard Range (more than enough for a shot, but lower than most on the list)

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a Slope feature that is easy to use - I’d say consider Cobalt Q6. With 7x magnification and pulse vibrations, it’s a competitive device on the market.
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My rating: 4.5/5

6. Tectectec Klyr Rangefinder
The Tectectec Klyrion Golf Rangefinder is a high-quality, feature-rich rangefinder that is perfect for golfers of all levels of experience.

My Opinion After Using Tectectec Klyr

This rangefinder is extremely easy to use, and it provides accurate measurements to help me improve my golf game. It also features a scan mode that allows you to quickly measure the distance to multiple targets.
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Common Problems

One of the biggest issues I had with this rangefinder is the shorter-than-usual range.
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Pros
Cons
  • 30% smaller than the average rangefinder
  • Belt clip and magnetic cart attachment
  • A slope that toggles on and off to be tournament-legal
  • Target lock vibration
  • Two-year warranty
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  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not rechargeable (you must replace the CR-2 battery)
  • Shorter range than most competitors
  • Not waterproof

Final Verdict

I like the fact that Tectectec KLYR is pocket-sized and has a belt clip for convenience. It has slope capability, a ball marker, a case, and a two-year warranty. The KLYR is accurate up to 250 yards.
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My rating: 4.5/5

7. Blue Tees Series 3 Max
Probably one of the most stylish rangefinders out there, the Blue Tees Series 3 Max golf rangefinder is one of the best on the market if you ask me. It is able to provide accurate readings up to 1,000 yards, making it perfect for use on a variety of courses.

My Opinion After Using Blue Tees Series 3 Max

The Series 3 Max also features a 6x magnification, making it easy to get an accurate reading no matter where you are on the course. Additionally, I’ve noticed the device is able to provide fast readings, so I can get back to my game as quickly as possible.

Its main features include an auto-ambient display, magnetic card attachment, and target-lock vibration, among others. 

All this for an affordable price makes the Blue Tees a rangefinder worth consideration in my opinion.
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Common Problems

The few issues I encountered while testing the product were the same as for previous models: no rechargeable battery and no adjustment for climate and temperature.
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Pros
Cons
  • Auto-ambient display
  • Magnetic cart attachment
  • 6x magnification
  • A slope that toggles on and off to be USGA tournament legal
  • Target lock vibration
  • Two-year warranty
  • Trade-in program to get credit for trading in older models
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  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not rechargeable (you must replace the CR-2 battery)
  • Not waterproof

Final Verdict

The Blue Tees Series is a very popular model with hundreds of reviews on some of the most popular online golf retailers. One really innovative feature I particularly liked about the Blue Tees Series 3 is the auto-ambient display technology. It senses the lighting and conditions to adjust the color of the display to create the maximum contrast and clarity for the user.
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My rating: 4/5

8. Precision Pro Nx7 - Best Budget Rangefinder
With nearly 3,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.5-star rating, the Precision Pro Nx7 Golf Rangefinder is a very popular golf model. It is a great budget golf rangefinder and is incredibly affordable, given the list of features it provides. It has been redesigned with a more ergonomic shape.

My Opinion After Using Precision Pro Nx7

The entry-level model for this brand has a focus adjustment that allows you to better see the pin. After testing this product, I can see that the redesign also improved the laser speed for faster distance assessment. Given its strong brand and low price, I've rated it the best budget golf rangefinder in my golf range finder review.
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Common Problems

I haven’t encountered any significant problems with this model, but I would personally appreciate having a cable-charged rangefinder.

Pros
Cons
  • Water-resistant
  • Adaptive slope technology
  • Target lock vibration
  • Accurate up to 650 yards
  • Two-year warranty
  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Not rechargeable (you must replace the CR-2 battery)
  • Not waterproof

Final Verdict

Precision Pro Nx7 is very accurate and has a jolt feature to let me know when I have hit your target. It has a very durable design, and many owners report dropping it and having no issues with it after. 

Overall, I think it is an affordable model that packs the key features you want in a rangefinder, though it may not have every bell and whistle there is on the rangefinder market.
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My rating: 5/5

9. Garmin Approach Z82
The Garmin Approach Z82 is a golf rangefinder that is perfect for those who are looking for an easy-to-use and reliable device. This rangefinder is simple to use, and it can be easily operated with just one hand.

My Opinion After Using Garmin Approach Z82

When paired with the Garmin Golf app, this GPS rangefinder feels like having a supercomputer for a caddie. It can give me all sorts of data besides the distance to the target. For example, the map overlays show the hole layout, so I know the distance to the back, middle, and front of the green. 

Another example is the laser range arc. The Laser Range Arc feature draws an arc on the 2-D CourseView map at the distance the laser ranges, so I can see everything in play at that distance.
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Common Problems

I’ve mentioned a lot before that I would like to have a rechargeable rangefinder, but it actually backfired. Sadly, Garmin Approach Z82 had to be recharged way too often, so I wished to have a durable battery instead.
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Pros
Cons
  • Accurate to 10 inches from 450 yards
  • Compatible with the Garmin Golf app
  • Find my Garmin feature to help you locate a lost device
  • 6x magnification
  • "Plays like" slope feature that you can toggle on and off for tournaments
  • Target lock vibration
  • Wind detection
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  • Rechargeable, but needs to be charged frequently
  • A bit steeper learning curve with the GPS and app compatibility

Final Verdict

The Garmin Z82 is touted as the most accurate rangefinder on the market. My tests have also shown the Z82 also has a fast focus system, which makes it easy to get a clear image of the target. Plus, the rangefinder is waterproof, making it perfect for use in all weather conditions.
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My rating: 4/5

10. Precision Pro R1
After having tested the product, I can tell the Precision Pro R1 is an excellent golf rangefinder for the price. It is very accurate, measuring distances to one yard, and it is easy to use. It also has a slope feature that gives me an accurate reading based on the slope of the terrain.

My Opinion After Using Precision Pro R1

The R1 includes GPS, so I can get every distance. I was happy to see distances to the front, center, and back of the green.

It also has wind assist technology that lets you measure the wind with every shot. Wind Assist™ calculates the effect of the wind on every shot, displaying the number of yards to add or subtract from your distance.
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Common Problems

I appreciated the fact that the Precision Pro R1 is water resistant, but it would make it even more durable if it was waterproof.
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Pros
Cons
  • Slope technology toggles on and off
  • Wind assist technology
  • GPS tech to see the front, middle, and back of the green distances
  • Magnetic cart mount
  • Target lock vibration
  • Rechargeable
  • Durable shockproof design
  • Two-year warranty
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  • Does not adjust for climate and temperature
  • Water resistant, but not water-proof

Final Verdict

With GPS technology, Wind Assist™, and other features, you will aim for every shot accurately and without much effort. I felt I could rely on the features entirely, and the rangefinder didn’t let me down during tournaments.
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My rating: 4/5

Summary of 10 Best Rangefinders for Golf

Model
What I Liked the Most ​
Bushnell Pro XE
I am a big fan of this model as it has the clearest optics. Topped with the best mix of features, this rangefinder offers a lot of convenience to a player.
Bushnell Tour V5
I picked this rangefinder because of its compact design and a number of features other competitors don’t have. In addition, I was surprised at how light it was, and it was even smaller than the other model on my list. As for the accuracy, it was on point, too.
Nikon COOLSHOT PROII Stabilize
Just like Nikon cameras, the clarity of optics met my expectation. The device is also suitable for use in good and bad weather conditions and offers handy features to help you win the game. With this mode, I enjoyed getting near-instant measurements without much effort.
Precision Pro NX10
I wanted to have a rangefinder that would be different from other models, and Precision Pro NX10 fulfilled my wish. I could customize the design and stand out from the crowd of golfers with my unique rangefinder. Apart from it, the device has great features, including slope technology and pulse vibration.
Cobalt Q6 Slope
This is a model that comes with a lifetime warranty - not many brands can offer that. The device is waterproof and overall sturdy, packed with PinSense and Surge technologies
Tectectec Klyr Rangefinder
This rangefinder is suitable for beginners and advanced players. It’s easy to learn and provides accurate measurements. What sets it apart is the scan mode that measures the distance to multiple targets.
Blue Tees Series 3 Max
This is another reliable model that is simple to use and provides accurate reading from anywhere on the course quite fast. With all the necessary features, it makes quite a useful rangefinder. 
Precision Pro Nx7
This rangefinder is very popular among golfers for a good reason - price. For an affordable price, you get access to the most essential features needed during golf play.
Garmin Approach Z82
The device by itself is quite basic, but when connected with an app can provide a lot of important information.
Precision Pro R1
Quite a simple device but still a handy rangefinder filled with essential features for the game. If you are looking for a simple-to-use rangefinder, consider this

What to Look for In a Golf Rangefinder
Ever since the laser rangefinder was invented in the 1960s, they've continued to advance. There are many factors you should consider when purchasing a golfing rangefinder. Top-rated golf rangefinders come with a wide array of capabilities. Paying attention to key specifications, some of the key features in the best golf rangefinders include:

Ease of Use
The best rangefinders are easy to use and allow you to get the information you need quickly. This includes getting a read on the distance to the pin quickly and consistently. If this is your top concern, you may also want to check out a GPS Golf Watch.

Accuracy
Accuracy is important when trying to determine the right club to hit to be on the green or to clear a hazard. Specifications of the most accurate range finders are to within half a yard at over 500 yards distance.

Range
Most rangefinders on the market can exceed the distance of any human golfer's driving distance. The range should allow you to determine the distance to the green from a variety of distances. You don’t want to be limited in the distances you can measure.

Slope Toggle
If you play in tournaments, you probably know you often can't use the slope settings during tournament play. You want to buy a model whose specifications include being able to turn off the slope so you can use yours during tournament play.

GPS
GPS allows you to see the front, back, and middle of the green, distances to hazards, and more for golf courses mapped in the software that comes with the GPS. If this is important, make sure your course is mapped in the GPS software.

Battery Life
The longer the rangefinders last, the less frequently you'll need to replace them. It is also worth looking at what kinds of batteries are used so you are ready with a replacement. You might even want to keep a spare battery in the pocket of your golf bag.

Water Proof
A range finder will get wet - either from rain or from damp grass when you set it down (you may not think you would do this, but I assure you that you will). Having a better degree of water resistance will ensure you don't ruin your investment in bad conditions.

Display Technology / Brightness Levels
Some rangefinders will display distances in the viewer you look through. They would be super-imposed on the item you are scoping. Others have LED readouts on the side of the rangefinder. This is a matter of personal preference and you can get the one that best suits your needs. You will also want to evaluate the brightness levels as it will make a difference in being able to see the data in bright sun.

Case and Clips
Rangefinders may have a storage case, a protective case, clips to secure them to your bag, or magnets to secure them to a cart post. The case will be particularly handy when you travel.

Zoom / Magnification
Range finders usually feature a small amount of magnification: between about 5 and 10x. Being zoomed in a bit makes it easier to range a specific target when it is slightly magnified - particularly when it can be over 200 yards away.

Stabilization
Shaky hands make it difficult to get an accurate distance with even the most high-quality range finder. Some of the new state-of-the-art devices come with picture stabilization to make it easier to get an accurate distance.

Rangefinder FAQs

How Do Golf Rangefinders Work?

Golf rangefinders work by emitting a laser and then measuring the time it takes for the laser to reflect back to the device. This time is then used to calculate the distance between the device and the target. Some models incorporate slope into the calculation and can give you slope-adjusted yardage.

What is the Difference Between Laser Rangefinders and GPS Rangefinders?

A laser rangefinder works by emitting a laser beam and measuring the time it takes for the beam to return to the device. 

GPS rangefinders work by using satellites to calculate the distance between the device and the object. Both types of rangefinders have their pros and cons, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference.

Are Expensive Rangefinders Worth the Money?

Some golfers feel that rangefinders are worth the investment, while others believe that cheaper options such as GPS devices or apps on phones, are just as good, if not better. The expensive units tend to be more accurate and reliable, but not always. They will also come with features like slope adjustment that you may not get in the lower-end models.

What is Flag Lock on a Rangefinder?

Flag lock is a feature on a rangefinder that helps you lock onto a flag to get an accurate yardage. This is a great feature to use when you are playing on a course with a lot of trees since it can be difficult to get an accurate reading when there are obstacles in the way. This is often part of the package for a golf rangefinder with vibrate alert.

Thanks for reading - you may also enjoy our golf simulator forum on Reddit:

Golf Simulator Forum
 
You may also find a couple of our other golf articles interesting and relevant:
 
Best Golf Hitting Mats
Build a Home Golf Simulator
Golf Impact Screens and Enclosures
Best Golf Simulator Software
Golf Simulator Man Caves
How to Use a Golf Rangefinder

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REID COLSON
Reid Colson is a seasoned data professional with a distinguished career at various Fortune 500 companies, including his recent role as Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Markel. With expertise in analytics, data warehousing, and business intelligence, Reid excels at coaching and people development. Alongside his professional pursuits, he is an avid golfer with over 40 years of experience, and his passion for the sport led him to share his knowledge through Yardstick Golf. When not on the golf course, Reid enjoys quality time with family and friends, boating, and listening to audiobooks and podcasts.