Best Golf Rangefinders 2025 - 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

Best rangefinders
(Image credit: Future)

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

No longer do golfers have to search for the sprinkler heads or the 150 yard marker and then try to estimate distances by pacing out steps or just using their eyes. 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
Dan Parker

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

Best Golf Rangefinders

Best Overall

Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder

(Image credit: Future)
Bright and clear optics make the V6 standout

Specifications

Range: 1,300 yards
Magnification: 6x
Protection: IPX6
Battery life: N/A

Reasons to buy

+
Exceptional optics
+
Highly accurate
+
Easy to shoot the flag

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited improvements over prior model
-
Carry case elastic strap can be fiddly to rehouse

The Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder is my top pick and earned the full five stars in our review. Bushnell set the standards in the rangefinder market in a lot of people's eyes, mine included, so we were naturally excited to get our hands on the V6 Shift when it was released in 2023. Given that is it two years old now and still our top pick is a testament to how good it really is.

When it comes to locating the flag, improved electronics and an upgraded algorithm provide enhanced accuracy and consistency over its predecessor. Like the best Bushnell rangefinders, it has Jolt technology and the flashing red ring, which combine to provide reassurance that the target has been picked up correctly. It also features Slope Switch technology, and a clearer and brighter display than ever before. The structural integrity of this device is great too - it isn't too heavy but has enough weight to it that it feels very premium as you use it. Bushnell's now patented BITE magnetic technology is featured on the side of your device, allowing you to clip it to the side of golf carts or on your electric trolley during rounds. Like all Bushnell devices, it comes with a robust carry case that will keep your device safe and dry, although we did find the elasticated strap is a little fiddly to replace when doing it in a hurry.

IPX6 protection means the V6 will perform even in the worst of the elements and this, combined with the upgraded looks, is why for us it sits top of the pile in terms of quality and performance.

Best Budget

Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Undoubtedly one of the best value for money rangefinders you can buy

Specifications

Range: 5-1300 yards (flag 350 yards)
Magnification: 6x
Protection: Certified IPX2 (can handle light rain)
Battery life: 5000 measurements

Reasons to buy

+
Superb distance accuracy
+
Comes with slope functionality that can be easily disabled
+
Excellent value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Lacks the premium appeal of others visually

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 Rangefinder features a First Target Priority function that isolates the flag quickly, and then measurements are confirmed by vibration. In our testing, I found it was accurate to +/- 1 yard, whilst the Slope Compensation switch allowed for undulations. I should stress that this is a rare feature in rangefinders at this price-point, which is why it's such excellent value.

Best For Style

Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder Review

(Image credit: Future)
A premium model with excellent performance that won't break the bank

Specifications

Range: 1200 yards
Magnification: x6
Protection: Water resistant
Battery life: 3,500 - 4,000 actuations

Reasons to buy

+
Ultra-clear display and graphics
+
Brightness control is ideal for changing light conditions
+
Premium device and carry case

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't grab the pin as quickly as some others

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.

I must mention that the Series 4 Ultra wasn't quite as quick in terms of delivering the yardage as some of the other devices on this list, which may bug a few ready golfers out there. That being said, the Series 4 Ultra has a clever auto-depth filter which automatically adjusts the focus to blur out any background distractions, which is a unique and helpful way of seeking out the pin. What I really enjoy is that the yardage stays on the display for 10 seconds after you've zapped the flag - helpful for those (like me) who shoot the flag and then immediately forget the yardage I was shown!

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.

Best For Features

Garmin Approach Z82 Laser Rangefinder Review

(Image credit: Future)
Seamlessly combines GPS hole maps with fast and accurate functionality

Specifications

Range: 450 yards flag
Magnification: 6x
Protection: IPX7 Waterproof
Battery life: 15 hours

Reasons to buy

+
Unique full hole maps let you see what lies ahead
+
Factoring in environmental factors enhances accuracy
+
Genuine wow factor

Reasons to avoid

-
Complex functionality takes some getting used to

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.

How does it work? Well as you look through the viewfinder of the Z82 you will see 2-D overlays for both full-color Course View and Green View. These maps are displayed on the left-hand side of the lens view, showing distances to hazards and the green. From there, you can just use it the way you would a standard laser by pointing at the flag and allowing the flag finder feature to lock on.

A feature I really enjoyed was Laser Range Arc. This is an arc displayed on the green at the distance ranged to the flag, allowing the golfer to see if the pin is in the front, middle, or back of the green. The arc can also be used to see what else is in play when ranging other targets on the course. Similarly, when on the tee you can look at the map in the viewfinder and there will be an arc displaying where your drive is likely to end up based on the number you enter for your average driving distance. This makes it much easier to see if hazards are in range off the tee, as well as allowing you to more easily pick out the best spots for layups.

Most Cutting Edge

Precision Pro Titan Elite Laser Rangefinder

(Image credit: Future)
Provides genuine wow factor

Specifications

Range: 999 yards
Magnification: x6
Protection: IP67 Dust/Waterproof
Battery life: USB-C Rechargeable

Reasons to buy

+
Super speedy response time
+
Switching in and out of GPS mode is very easy
+
Packed with features

Reasons to avoid

-
I’m clutching at straws here but maybe could have a slightly more premium aesthetic

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.

The display is impressive and features a visual target lock feature that gave us lightning quick feedback with no lag times. The zapping process was easy, largely due to the pulse vibration and ripple effect around the reticle. The Titan has 6x magnification, which seems to be pretty standard with the top models these days.

Another useful feature is the Find My Precision Pro, which will send you a notification if you happen to leave your rangefinder behind or lose it 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 simplest we have experienced on a device of this type.

Best Magnetic

TecTecTec KLYR Laser Rangefinder attached to a cart, magnetic KLYR rangefinder

The TecTecTec KLYR rangefinder on a cart

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Compact, stylish, and highly functional at a great price

Specifications

Range: 800 yards
Magnification: 6x
Protection: Premium water-resistant case
Battery life: 40-50 rounds

Reasons to buy

+
Vibrant display optics
+
Compact, lightweight design
+
Tremendous value at its price point

Reasons to avoid

-
Device is not waterproof

Featuring in our best budget golf rangefinders the TecTecTec KLYR rangefinder really is a top model for this price point. A compact design makes it very easy to handle and it's lightweight too, coming in at less than 1.25 pounds. That isn't always a good thing though, and if you have shaky hands you might want to look at something with a bit more weight to it.

It performed very well in testing. We were impressed by how quickly it retrieved yardages and we liked the clean, vibrant display. We found the accuracy to be impressive and the KLYR boasts many of the features that you would want in a rangefinder, including slope functionality (which can be disabled during tournament play) and target lock vibration.

It has a maximum range of up to 800 yards which is more than you'll ever need, while a strong magnet on its exterior allows the device to be secured to a riding cart during play. If you are someone who walks the course, then it also comes with a magnetic belt clip so you can wear the device for handy access whenever needed.

Most Compact

Photo of the Nikon Coolshot 20i GIII Rangefinder

(Image credit: Future)
A compact and yet powerful model from a recognizable brand

Specifications

Range: 800 yards
Magnification: 6x
Protection: IPX4
Battery life: Approximately 10,000 times

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely clear screen
+
Quick, accurate readings
+
Really neat and compact aesthetic

Reasons to avoid

-
The velcro bag attachment strap would worry me long term

A new feature of some of the best golf rangefinders is smaller sized devices. The days of most devices being on the large and chunkier side of things are gone, with brands releasing new mini-sized devices for the easiest of use. There was plenty of competition for the title of best compact, including the Bushnell A1-Slope and the MGI Sureshot SlimPRO, but I've opted for the Nikon Coolshot 20i GIII - a device packed to the brim with useful features that really enhance the user experience and featured as an Editor's Choice pick in 2024.

This is a product I really enjoyed testing. Firstly, the multilayer-coated 6X magnification and super clear display really stood out for us and made it very easy to pick out flagsticks in all light conditions. Along with the ‘Locked On Quake’ feature, this meant we had full confidence when zapping the flag from any distance.

It is one of the more compact lasers on the market, measuring 3.6" x 2.9" x 1.5" and weighing only 4.5oz, but in our opinion the sleek design really compliments the dimensions and make this one of the cleanest-looking rangefinders we've seen. It's virtually the same size as a smartphone (just a fraction larger), so it sits very well in the palm of the hand.

Best Lightweight

GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 Rangefinder Review

(Image credit: Future)
For golfers that prefer a lightweight laser rangefinder

Specifications

Range: 5-880 yards
Magnification: x6
Protection: IPX4 light rain.
Battery life: 3,000 - 5,000 actuations

Reasons to buy

+
Quick to display distances
+
Slope enabled
+
Scan mode useful off the tee
+
Excellent value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Turning slope on/off is time consuming
-
Lightweight design limits stability

The original Laser Lite combined a budget price with an impressive performance, making it a real favorite of ours. It's fair to say then that I had high hopes for the Laser Lite 2, and we were not disappointed. As you would expect based on the name, it is certainly light, actually coming in at three grams lighter than the previous model, although the thinner and more compact design may divide opinion.

There are no concerns about accuracy, as our testing showed that the Laser Lite 2 produced similar numbers to more premium models. The non-slope numbers were pretty much identical, and when slop was activated shots going uphill also had virtually identical numbers to the high end models, but I did experience larger differences on downhill shots, so that's definitely something to keep in mind.

A feature I loved was the Scan Mode which is very useful, especially when assessing tee shots. The way it works is you hold down the main button and scan the surroundings slowly. The distance number changes as you scan, making this ideal for looking at hazards or spots to lay up. It's also worth mentioning that the Laser Lite 2 is only IPX4 water resistant.

Best Clarity

Photo of the Zoom OLED Pro Rangefinder

(Image credit: Future)
A solid rangefinder with crystal clear clarity

Specifications

Range: 1,200 yards
Magnification: 6x
Protection: Protective case
Battery life: Approximately 5,000 measurements

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely clear display
+
Very easy to use
+
Excellent features

Reasons to avoid

-
Protective case could be more premium

When I mention clarity in rangefinder reviews I am referring to how clear and crisp the display is - there is little point of creating a super accurate device if the display is blurry when I lock in and shoot the targets that I want yardages for. When it comes to clarity, this model really jumps out from the competition. The most impressive aspect of the Zoom OLED Pro is the use of OLED (Organic-Light-Emitting Diodes). As some of you may be aware, OLED is commonly found in high-end television sets, so unsurprisingly we noted that this laser had an incredibly clear display when we tested it on the course.

Boasting a compact feel and look, the OLED has a magnetic lock system that allows you to secure it conveniently to the cart or trolley, whilst the battery can last over 5000 measurements, which is an impressive number.

Another thing about the on course performance which impressed me was how smooth and intuitive the rangefinder is. Not only can the yards and meters and slope functionality be switched on and off via the flick of a button, but we found that the ‘Flagpole scanning’ mode and a free scan can also be used via the press of a single button. All in all, this is a fine product with the stand out feature being the crystal clear display.

Best For Accuracy

Bushnell Pro X3+ Laser Rangefinder Review

The Bushnell Pro X3 laser on the ground

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)
Bluetooth app connectivity provides best-in-class accuracy

Specifications

Range : 600+ yards
Magnification: 7x
Protection: Rubber-armored metal case
Battery life: N/A

Reasons to buy

+
Incredibly accurate
+
More secure Slope switch
+
Partnering app enhances ease of use

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavy, substantial feel

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.

Best Display

Voice Caddie Laser Fir Rangefinder Review

(Image credit: Future)
A minimalist but feature-packed rangefinder that comes in at an excellent price point

Specifications

Range: 800 yards
Magnification: 6x
Protection: Carry Pouch
Battery life: 40+ rounds

Reasons to buy

+
Minimalist, lightweight design
+
Triangulation feature is a useful and rare feature
+
Long battery life

Reasons to avoid

-
Not fully waterproof

This Laser Fit Rangefinder from Voice Caddie sits on the more affordable end of the price scale, coming in at under $200. It's one of the more compact and lightweight models on the market and it performed well for us in testing.

One thing I really liked was the ability to triangulate distance between the ball and the pin. What does this mean? Well you first zap the ball and then the pin to gauge a precise yardage. You might be wondering why you would need to do that when you can just stand over the ball and zap, but it's actually very useful if you're playing a cart path only round and don't want to have to walk to the ball to get a yardage and have to carry your device. You may never need to use that, but we thought it was a very thoughtful addition and shows great attention to detail.

While not fully waterproof, there is a lot to like about the Laser Fit, such as its superb functionality. It picks up the pins incredibly quickly, the bright graphics and haptic feedback added a more premium feel, whilst the graphics are bolstered by the dual display, which will show up in either black or red depending on the light conditions. This is a really useful tool and one you rarely see on more budget rangefinders.

Best Customization

Shot Scope Pro X Rangefinder Review

(Image credit: Future)
A solid rangefinder with unique customization options

Specifications

Range: 800 yards
Magnification: x6
Protection: Water resistant case
Battery life: Approximately 5,800 measures

Reasons to buy

+
Rapid detection
+
Customisable side panel
+
Works alongside the app to give aerial GPS maps

Reasons to avoid

-
A little dull down the viewfinder

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.

Specifications table

Swipe to scroll horizontally

Model

Range

Magnification

Protection

Battery life

Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder

1,300 yards

6x

IPX6

N/A

Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder

5-1300 yards

6x

Certified IPX2

5000 actuations

Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder

1200 yards

6x

Water resistant

3500-4000 actuations

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

TecTecTec KLYR Laser Rangefinder

800 yards

6x

Water resistant case

40-50 rounds

Nikon Coolshot 20i GIII Rangefinder

800 yards

6x

IPX4 water-resistant

Approximately 10,000 times

GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 Rangefinder

5-880 yards

6x

IPX4 water-resistant

3,000 - 5,000 actuations

Zoom Oled Pro Rangefinder

1,200 yards

6x

Protective case

5,000 actuations

Bushnell Pro X3+ Golf Rangefinder

600+ yards

7x

Rubber-armored metal case

N/A

Voice Caddie Laser Fit Rangefinder

5-800 yards

6x

Protective Case

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.

Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder Review

Dan Parker testing the Blue Tees Series 4 Ultra Rangefinder

(Image credit: Future)

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.

Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder testing

Deputy Editor Joel Tadman testing the Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder

(Image credit: Future)

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

This is without doubt the most important factor when buying a rangefinder. If it isn't accurate it will provide misinformation which could lead to you playing the wrong club and a bogey or two may ensue. Accuracy is what usually separates the models we have selected above with the ones you can find on Amazon, so be wary of how inconsistent and unreliable some very cheap models can be.

Range/magnification

Different models on the market have varying ranges so it is worth having a look at product specifications to see the numbers. Additionally, be aware on which models come with magnification as well because this really helps you zoom in and lock onto the target, which means you can get a reliable distance number. Range is less important than magnification as, while it might sound impressive being able to see something 1500 yards away, it isn't something you will actually need on the golf course.

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

We would recommend being aware of what kind of battery a particular laser uses. Additionally, have a think about these questions - how long does the battery last on a charge, is it rechargeable, and how many charge cycles is it good for? - We have found most rangefinders run on CR2 batteries which last 6-12 months and are often rechargeable which is good value.

Slope

Do you want your model to offer slope measurements? If so, check out the technical specifications of certain models. Always be careful here though, because if a model is not clear on whether it is in slope mode or not, if you use it in competition you could be in trouble.

Waterproofing

A good model will work just as well in the rain as it will in the sun, which makes waterproofing important. Here we would recommend doing research on which models offer full waterproof protection, and those that are only water-resistant as that can be a big difference especially if you play a lot of golf in the rain.

Protection

Be sure to check if the laser comes with a case because lots of models come with strong cases that conveniently clip onto your golf bag now.

Convenience

Speaking of convenience, rangefinders have to be quick and easy to use. Get it out, measure the flag, put it away in its case. If a laser is complicated or takes a while to display a measurement, then it adds time rather than saves it.

Looks

Admittedly this is not as important as other factors we mentioned above, but at the end of the day you should like the look of your rangefinder as well because nobody wants some big, bulky, ugly thing attached to the bag right?

Magnetic Mount

Do you want your rangefinder to have magnetic elements so you can just attach it to your cart rather than having to take it out of its case all the time? If so then there are models out there that have technologies to make this possible - two of the best are the Bushnell Tour V6 and KLYR from TecTecTec. Precision Pro also makes several models with this design feature.

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

There are few terms in this guide you may be unfamiliar with that you should know when attempt to gather which rangefinder is best suited to your game. Here are a few quick explainers to (hopefully) remove any confusion:

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.

Dan Parker
Staff Writer

Dan has been with Golf Monthly team since 2021. He graduated with a Masters degree in International Journalism from the University of Sussex and looks after equipment reviews and buying guides, specializing in golf shoe, golf bag, golf cart and apparel reviews. Dan has now tested and reviewed over 50 pairs of golf shoes and is an expert in the field. A left-handed golfer, his handicap index is currently 6.5, and he plays at Fulford Heath Golf Club in the West Midlands.

Dan's current What's In The Bag:

Mini driver: PXG Secret Weapon 13°Fairway: Ping G440 Max 16°, Ping G440 Max 21°Irons: Cobra King Tec Utility 19°, Ping i230 (5-PW) Wedges: Ping Glide Forged Pro (50, 56)Putter: TaylorMade Spider Tour XBall: Titleist Pro V1Grip: Golf Pride Tour VelvetBag: Vessel Sunday III

With contributions from