Technology really does offer convenience, and with the game of golf, the best golf rangefinders serve to save you walking to the hole to measure the distance you need to make when you swing your golf clubs.
There are two types of modern rangefinder: GPS, and laser. GPS golf rangefinders use GPS information in order to calculate your position and distance from the hole to give you pretty accurate readings with regards to how far you need to hit your golf ball.
As for laser rangefinders, these use laser technology to bounce off an object, the flag most likely, to measure the distance. So the more powerful the laser, the more accurate the reading which also includes measuring the slope, which is simply the elevation of the distance.
What To Look For In A Golf Rangefinder
For amateur golfers, picking out the right rangefinder can be an overwhelming experience, since there is such a wealth of variation with regards to features. There is a lot that can be accounted for: what sort of ground will you be playing on? for instance. Is a GPS or a laser more suitable? Do I need to have a slope? These questions are all relevant, but if you are just starting out, there’s really only one question you need to ask: can your rangefinder find the target?
The purpose of any golf rangefinder is to effectively and accurately locate your target and measure the distance between it and yourself, allowing you to select the best golf club for the job and swing it with the right technique. Some golf rangefinders do this better and more accurately than others, but all will ultimately fulfil this role, making it an essential out on the course.
So, now you know what to look out for, it now comes down to which brands and which models will act as the best possible assistant when you’re out on the green. We like to think we know a thing or two about golf here at DMARGE, and so have put together this definitive list of the best golf rangefinders available to buy right now.
Callaway Tour S Rangefinder
Among its features is Pin Acquisition Technology (P.A.T.) which delivers a short vibrating burst confirming the correct distance to the pin, Slope technology that measures the angle of the incline and decline then calculates the slope adjusted distance and Prism mode that can lock onto flag mounted reflectors for exact distances.
Garmin Approach Z82
You won’t just get the distance from the front, as the Z82 also measures the distance to the middle and the back of the flag, and also takes into account the wind speed and direction making your club choice for that shot a confident decision. It can also be used alongside the Garmin app to make the experience even more user-friendly.
Leupold GX-4i3
Inside is a Digitally Enhanced Accuracy engine, (D.N.A) that is combined with PinHunter laser technology and 6x magnification to give precise readings with high resolution and in any weather, making this golf rangefinder ideal for those cloudy days.
GolfBuddy aim L10
Other unique features include a wider LDC for better visibility and a 15-second automatic shut off when left unattended so you don’t have to worry about battery life.
Bushnell Pro XE
They have added temperature and barometric pressure to their Slope Technology, delivering some of the most precise compensated distances, and 7x optics that deliver superior clarity and resolution with state of the art visual cues that allow you to lock onto your target with accuracy. Looking for one of the best golf rangefinders? Look no further.
Blue Tees Series 2
There’s no complexity when it comes to features, as it will do exactly what you need it to do, with its pulsing flag lock system, HD display with EZ Optic Focus, a maximum distance of 800 yards and a durable, water-resistant shell.
Voice Caddie SL1 Active Hybrid
With a high clarity, 6 scale lens that improves long-range distance measurements, full-colour LCD screen, GPS pin assist, continuous scan mode and a special OLED for play in low light, are among the many features that deliver a seamless and precise experience.
TecTecTec ULT-X
This technology compensates for slopes thanks to PinSlope technology and a diopter adjustment function that is designed to assist users whether they are short or far sighted.
Precision Pro NX9
With a crystal clear LCD display that boasts 6x magnification, adaptive slope technology, pulse vibration to let you know you’ve locked on and a magnetic grip that can stick to your golf bag and even your clubs.
Caddymatic XR-7
With a slope switch allowing it to be used for tournament play, 6x magnification for those long ranges of up to 500 yards, and a flag lock pulse for when you find that target, it's a highly capable little box of tricks.
MacGregor Golf Deluxe
It has everything you need to deliver the right information needed to make the right club selection in order to make your shot. Such features include slope adjustment technology, distance tracking of up to 500 yards of range, a pulsing flag lock-on, and all shelled within a protective, durable case.
Callaway Hybrid Laser/GPS
The combination of GPS and laser allows it to offer up to 6x magnification, distance tracking of up to 950 yards (and up to 300 in order to place a pin), a wide scan in order to pick up multiple targets including slope and any other environmental hazards that may hinder your shot and cased within a sleek, ergonomic shell.