Best Golf Rangefinders With Slope: Quick Menu
1. The list in brief
2. Top pick
3. Best budget
4. Best magnetic
5. Best lightweight
6. Best for style
7. Best accuracy
8. Most cutting edge
9. Best GPS-enabled
10. Best features
11. Best display
12. Specifications table
13. How we test
14. How to choose
15. FAQs
When it comes to a yardage device, users are spoilt for choice, with there being multiple options available on the market. One of those options is a rangefinder, which has become one of the most important pieces of equipment in the golf bag over the past few years. Like any piece of golf equipment, technology has come on in leaps and bounds and, it's the same story with the rangefinder, as multiple new models feature something called 'Slope Functionality', an addition which helps compensate for changes in gradient and adjust the distance to the flag or object accordingly.
Essentially, if you are hitting uphill, the shot is actually playing longer and a Slope distance will reflect this, whilst a shot hit downhill will travel further. Currently, Slope Functionality is banned in competition play, but that doesn't mean you can't get some use out of it, with it being extremely handy for practice and sociable rounds on hilly courses, when elevation and drops play a huge part in the overall layout.
The majority of the best golf rangefinders feature Slope functionally and, because it isn't legal for tournament play, they have a quick and easy toggle to turn it on and off depending on the round you taking part in. What's more, some even account for the environmental elements like temperature and altitude as well, which also make a difference to how the ball will travel.
With so many models available on the market, it can be difficult to work out what rangefinder is best for your golf game. Perhaps you don't want to break the bank and are after one of the best budget golf rangefinders, or maybe you want one of the best Bushnell golf rangefinders, either way, there are a lot of options which use Slope.
In this guide, we at Golf Monthly have tested the very best golf rangefinders with Slope currently available, with all of these rangefinders being reviewed by our team. However, if a rangefinder isn't appealing to you, then why not also check out our guides on the best golf GPS devices or even the best golf watches.
The Quick List
A simple to use, highly-accurate rangefinder with bright and clear optics, seamless slope functionality and convenient carry options which will appeal to all golfers.
A rangefinder that compares to the more premium models on the market, the Inesis 900 is a great value option that offers incredibly accurate yardages with Slope on and off.
Compact, stylish, and functional, the TecTecTec KLYR laser rangefinder is a revelation at its highly competitive price point, with the KLYR providing fast and accurate yardages.
The features and ease of use of the Laser Lite 2 makes this rangefinder superb value for money. What's more, it's excellent at providing yardages with both slope on or off.
A premium looking and performing laser rangefinder without the punchy price. The user experience was near faultless with the display showing accurate distances quickly.
A golf rangefinder aimed at the avid, competitive golfer seeking best-in-class accuracy that plays a lot on elevated courses. The user-experience of the X3 is near faultless.
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A supremely accurate rangefinder that provides genuine wow factor with its unique styling and cutting-edge features. We feel there’s nothing else like it on the market.
An interesting combination of features that on the whole work well together to provide laser-like accuracy, GPS distances and shot tracking with performance analysis.
You certainly get what you pay for with this feature-packed laser rangefinder, with the full hole map a unique feature that stands out from anything else currently on the market.
The new SL3 Active Hybrid Laser Rangefinder combines laser and GPS functionality, with the technology surprisingly easy to use and accurate in testing.
Best Golf Rangefinders With Slope
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Top pick
Bushnell are a brand synonymous with the best golf rangefinders and the Tour V6 Shift continues that trend. Aesthetically, we thought it looked better than its predecessor, the Tour V5 Shift, with the extra weighting meaning that didn't wobble in the wind when we were shooting the flagstick.
The display is very clear and bright, which certainly helps the pick out the flag from far away in dim light conditions and, whilst there is a focus toggle, we felt like the focus was somewhat automatic, as we have never had to change it since putting the Bushnell into play.
Given the lengthy feature list, ease of use, accuracy and access to the excellent Bushnell GPS app, which provides 3D hole maps and flyovers as well as scoring functionality, we feel the Tour V6 is a reliable companion on the course for any level of golfer.
- Read our full Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Review
Best budget
After lots of testing we have become big fans of Inesis gear and the same can be said of this rangefinder. Competitively priced, this budget unit boasts a Slope Compensation toggle that turns on and off slope-adjusted distances easily, for practice and competition play.
In testing, we put this model up against a more expensive rangefinder and the results were extremely interesting, with the Inesis more than keeping up in terms of accuracy and ease of use, both huge factors when reviewing a laser.
It's extremely simple, as a First target priority function isolates the flag, while measurements are confirmed by vibration. It is also accurate to +/- 1 yard and can measure in yards or meters. Along with the First target priority function, there is also a 6x magnification, so you get a very clear view through the viewfinder and, what's more, it's really nicely made as it sits well in the hand with the right weight to it. We also like the case which is nicely made, and it comes with instructions, a cloth, battery and a clip for your bag.
- Read our full Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder Review
Best magnetic
When we first picked up the KLYR (pronounced clear), we instantly loved how compact and light it was. To begin with, this device is about 30 percent smaller than most of its competitors and, what's more, it weighed less than 600g. Although it is lightweight and compact, we felt it was extremely sturdy in hand, when testing.
In terms of accuracy, there were no issues at all and, when using the slope functionality, the adjusted yardages were all on the mark as well. This, added to the visual display that does a great job of differentiating between actual and adjusted yardages, provided us with confidence to commit to our golf shots.
Price-wise, it is less expensive than many of its competitors, with the performance comparing favorably with the more premium models that are available. Also, the KLYR offers some other features that add to its overall value as well. For example, it comes in a nice carrying case that you can easily attach to your bag, and there’s a magnet on the device that allows it to be secured to a riding cart during play. Additionally, a magnetic belt clip is included so you can keep the KLYR attached to your belt during your round,
- Read our full TecTecTec KLYR Laser Rangefinder Review
Best lightweight
There's a lot to like about the GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 rangefinder, with its range now measuring 800 yards to 880 yards and the overall design slightly more compact than its predecessor.
In testing, we found the new textured area on the bottom, as well as the top, helped us keep a firm grasp of the device when in use and we also felt it was slightly quicker to give us yardages when shooting the flag.
Accuracy-wise, the numbers were similar to more premium models, with the non-slope adjusted figures very close to the likes of the best Bushnell golf rangefinders. It was a similar story when going uphill, with the numbers similar, but the yardages going downhill were slightly longer than the more premium models. It must also be said that this is one of the lightest models out there which some will like, but it does hamper stability a bit.
- Read our full GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 Review
Best for style
Another model, from perhaps a lesser-known brand, to make this list is the Series 3 Max from Blue Tees. Available in three nice colors (navy, black, pink), you can really get a model that stands out and offers a bit of style.
One of its best features is the crystal clear display. There is also a lock and vibration feature, which assures the user that they have the correct target, which means less guesswork and time spent on reshooting for distances.
Additionally, a feature that really stood out for us in testing was the speed at which the distance was displayed - there really is no delay in getting the number you need. Talking of speed, the slope function can be easily turned on or off with the button on the side. Our only slight criticism was that the magnetic strap on the case could be improved.
- Read our full Blue Tees Series 3 Max Laser Rangefinder Review
Best accuracy
The second Bushnell on the list is the Pro X3, which doesn't just include Slope Functionality, but also a Dual Display button which changes the graphics from black to red to make them more visible in duller conditions. There's also an elevation change feature, which can be accessed via the app. As such its accuracy really is the star of the show.
Talking of the Bushnell Golf App, that you pair via Bluetooth, you’re able to alter the settings far more easily, as well as save stats, games and course information, and update the firmware. The app, which is free when you purchase a Bushnell product, also provides full color GPS hole maps with a moveable pointer and flyovers, helping you out on blind shots or if you’re unsure as to what lies ahead.
We enjoyed just about every element of this laser in testing, with the only minor point against it being the heavy feel. But then again, to some, this will be a benefit as well because it can be easier to lock onto targets with a heavier model.
- Read our full Bushnell Pro X3 Golf Rangefinder Review
Most cutting edge
The stand-out feature on the CaddyTalk Cube rangefinder is Caddy Mode, which incorporates three-dimensional measuring. If you're unsure as to what this is, then picture the scene - you’re at your cart waiting for your buddy to hit but you can’t get your yardage because, if you went to your ball 30 yards down the fairway, you would be in the way of their shot.
Because of this, you have to wait in order to get the distance and pull the right club but, with the CaddyTalk Cube, you’re able to shoot your ball from where you are standing and then pan to the pin - the Cube then calculates and displays the right distance, just like if you were stood right beside your ball. In testing, we found this feature to be really easy to use and, also, supremely accurate.
This isn't the only feature you get with this model, as the Cube also has a display on the side of the device that shows the distance you’ve zapped as well as the distance unit. What's more, the ‘Slope’ icon is displayed in three different colors - red for no slope (tournament legal), green when e-Slope is activated and blue when Magic Slope is in use. It will also display when the Caddy Mode is in use - and it’s worth noting that this is completely legal for competition play as long as all slope functionality is disabled.
- Read our full CaddyTalk Cube Rangefinder Review
Best GPS-enabled
The Shot Scope Pro LX+ is the first of its kind as it offers three-in-one functionality that combines the pinpoint accuracy of a laser rangefinder, the convenience of a handheld golf GPS device and shot tracking performance analysis.
While the GPS and shot tracking functionality goes through the H4 GPS, which is a very compact device that magnetically attaches to the front of the Pro LX laser rangefinder, the laser features Slope mode and the option of a red or black display depending on the light conditions.
The speed at which the distance is displayed is much faster than on the Pro L1 rangefinder, but it did struggle at times when the flag was set against a busy background.
- Read our full Shot Scope Pro LX+ Review
Best features
Our top pick when it comes to overall features it the Z82 from Garmin. It provides 2-D overlays for both full-color Course View and Green View detail through the lens. When looking through the viewfinder, a full-color 2-D Course View mapping is displayed on the left-hand side of the lens view, showing distances to hazards and the green, while the flag finder feature will lock on the flag and give precise distances to the pin.
The Laser Range Arc will be drawn on the green at the distance ranged to the flag, so the golfer can see if the pin is in the front, middle, or back of the green. There's also a PlaysLike Distance feature that accounts for slopes and also a Pin Pointer feature, which points to the middle of the green on blind shots. Given its overall performance in our testing, we are confident this is one of the best rangefinders currently on the market. It does have a premium price, but the features available make this understandable because the way GPS technology and hole maps have been incorporated into a rangefinder is extremely impressive.
- Read our full Garmin Approach Z82 Laser Rangefinder Review
Best display
The Voice Caddie SL3 Active Hybrid GPS Rangefinder combines both a laser and GPS in one superb package. We loved the SL3 that much we actually selected it for our Editor's Choice Awards, with an accurate and easy-to-use laser rangefinder also featuring a color touch LCD screen under the eyepiece where you can change settings and, most importantly, see maps of the holes and the greens.
Yardage-wise, the SL3 is fast, accurate, and the display is easy to read. We found that you could adjust the brightness of the OLED two-color display with a button on top, with it being very easy to find out target, both manually and with the help of the new Pin Tracer, pin-filtering feature with GPS assist.
As mentioned, it is crammed with features and the SL3 is sleek and easy to handle. In testing, it fitted in the hand easily and also came with a leather carrying case and magnetic closing flap. If you use the GPS feature, you’ll want to recharge every two or three rounds but, fortunately, if the battery life gets low, the LCD display shuts off to enable the use of the laser rangefinder to complete the round.
- Read our full Voice Caddie SL3 Active Hybrid GPS Rangefinder Review
Specifications table
| 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 |
| TecTecTec KLYR Laser Rangefinder | 800 yards | 6x | Water resistant case | 40-50 rounds |
| GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 Rangefinder | 2-880 yards / 2-800 metres | 6x | IPX4 light rain | 3,000-5,000 actuations |
| Blue Tees Series 3 Max Laser Rangefinder | 900 yards | 7x | Water resistant | 3500-4000 actuations |
| Bushnell Pro X3 Golf Rangefinder | 600+ yards | 7x | Rubber-armored metal case | N/A |
| CaddyTalk Cube Rangefinder | 5-1,100 yards | 6x | Carry case with magnetic closure tab and suede-like inner lining | 10,00 shots from a full charge |
| Shot Scope Pro LX+ | 900 yards | 7x | Water resistant case | 5800 actuations |
| Garmin Approach Z82 Rangefinder | 450 yards flag | 6x | IPX7 Waterproof | 15 hours |
| Voice Caddie SL3 Rangefinder | 1,000 yards | 6x | N/A | Laser mode 45 hours, GPS mode 20 hours |
How we test rangefinders
It is an obvious statement to make but the best way of testing rangefinders is to use them at every opportunity on the golf course, and at Golf Monthly we do just that, over a number of rounds and in different conditions too because if a rangefinder only works in the sun then it is half as useful as it should be right?
As the entire team are regular golfers, rangefinders usually get a thorough testing and often get compared to one another side by side to test for things like accuracy, waterproofing, durability and other features. That way we can give honest and insightful feedback to you, the reader. One last thing about our testing ethos, no manufacturer can buy a good review. We make our opinions on how the testing goes, nothing else.
How to choose the best golf rangefinder
So you have decided you want a laser rangefinder, but what are some of the things you should be aware of before buying? Let's take a look.
Accuracy
This is the most important factor when buying a laser. If it isn't accurate, it is pointless because 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, and the ones you can find on Amazon, so be wary of how inconsistent and unreliable some very cheap models can be.
Slope
Do you want your model to offer slope measurements too? If so check out the technical specifications of certain models but all the models featured in this guide offer slope functionality, compensating for changes in gradient.
Waterproofing
A good laser 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.
Strength
Linking with the above point, good lasers have to be able to sustain a drop or two because we all drop things every now and again. Here check out which models have some degree of impact resistance, and 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, lasers 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. To work this out, we would often recommend trying out some models in retailers and pro shops.
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.
FAQs
Are golf rangefinders with slope legal?
Yes, but only in social play and not competition play. Rangefinders that have Slope Reading – This gives you the degree of elevation of the shot you are playing and will show you the actual yardage and ‘plays like yardage’ and Weather Conditions, are allowed in casual play with your friends, but must be disabled for competition use. If they are not, then you will be disqualified.
Are rangefinders worth it?
Yes! We believe so! Firstly, they save a lot of time, 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 find a sprinkler, or guess yardages, because you can simply zap the flag or hazards to help you plot your way around the course.
What is Slope mode on a rangefinder?
A slope edition rangefinder gives you the distance to the flag and the degree of elevation to the target. The change in elevation (Slope) will give you a yardage to play for, so you can calculate the right club for the shot based on the yardage and slope.
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