Rangefinders have been a game-changer for amateur golfers across the globe. The best rangefinders allow a golfer to find out the distance to the hole and other significant course areas with just the push of a button and a look through the lens.

With such a variety of makes, models, and features on the market, however, choosing the best rangefinder for you can feel like a daunting prospect. Finding a rangefinder to suit will vary from person to person, with everything from budget to skill level being a factor.

In this guide, Golfsupport will cover the key considerations when buying a rangefinder so you can find the perfect one to suit your game.

What are the benefits of having a golf rangefinder?

Rangefinders have transformed the course experience for swathes of amateur golfers and club players.

Whereas previously, an amateur player would’ve had to go through the tedious process of locating distance markers before attempting to work out the yardage for their next shot, this modern accessory can instantly provide you with all the information you need.

This means that you’ll have more time than ever to focus on perfecting your swing and performing your best.

What are the different types of golf rangefinders?

Golf rangefinders can be divided into two different categories: GPS and laser. Below, we’ll cover each in detail.

GPS Golf Rangefinder

As with other GPS devices, a GPS golf rangefinder uses a network of satellites to determine the distance between your current location and your intended place on the course. The best GPS rangefinders will be able to lay the entire course out before you, providing yardages to bunkers and other hazards on the course.

These rangefinders tend to be cheaper to buy than their laser equivalents and can provide a useful guide for the distance of your shots.

Although GPS rangefinders come with many benefits, they are less accurate than laser options, where the device is beamed directly onto the intended target. Initially, as GPS rangefinders rely on a satellite signal, they can be prone to cutting out in certain areas when the signal has been compromised.

Before using a GPS rangefinder, you should make sure that your course route is uploaded to the device. Luckily, many GPS rangefinders on the market come with thousands of preloaded courses to take that burden away from you.

These rangefinders are also available as GPS watches, which can be a convenient alternative to removing a device from your bag every time you take a shot.

Laser Golf Rangefinder

Laser rangefinders are probably what comes to mind when you imagine a golf rangefinder.

Unlike GPS devices, laser golf rangefinders use a laser beam to determine distance, with the laser shining on the target before being reflected back to the rangefinder. From here, the rangefinder measures the amount of time it takes the laser to return to calculate the distance to the target.

These devices give a more accurate reading than GPS tools, with many laser rangefinders able to provide readings comfortably within a yard of the intended target. Additionally, because there is no reliance on signal, these rangefinders are more dependable than GPS devices, which can be taken out of action should your signal fail.

With their ability to be beamed directly to the pin, laser rangefinders make navigating long-distance shots easier than ever. This should increase your knowledge of any issues you may face before hitting that opening drive off the tee.

Depending on the brand and model, laser rangefinders are shaped either like a vertical or horizontal pair of binoculars. By looking through the lens, you can hone in on your chosen target, such as the flag, to see how far it is from your ball. This will help you judge which golf clubs to select.

It can also be used to determine how far hazards are, such as trees, bunkers, and water, to help you avoid those disastrous shots.

How far can you see with laser rangefinders?

Not all rangefinders can read the same distance.

Some of the more economical options can measure up to 400 yards, while the best rangefinders on the market can measure distances as high as 1000 yards.

Given that most golfers can’t hit the ball further than 250 yards, it’s likely that most laser rangefinders will be able to provide sufficient magnification to assist you with your shot.

At Golfsupport, we have an array of high-calibre rangefinders available from esteemed brands including Garmin, Callaway and Bushnell.

Are golf rangefinders with slope worth it?

Different types of golf courses offer different challenges in terms of terrain. Equally, the same course can differ wildly from one hole to the next, with some being relatively flat and others defined by steep, punishing slopes.

An uphill shot will require the ball to travel further, shortening the downward trajectory meaning you will require a longer club. Conversely, a downhill shot will travel further and require a shorter club.

Fortunately, golf rangefinders with slope angles are also available on the market, to help you add an even greater level of accuracy to your measurements. These rangefinders factor the slope into your measurements so you can adjust your shot based on the steepness of the hole.

While the slope feature can be an invaluable tool for honing your skills on the course, it’s not usually permitted in competition play.

How do I decide on the best golf rangefinder for me?

Choosing the best rangefinder for you will depend on several factors.

Though GPS rangefinders lack the accuracy of their laser equivalents, they’ll nevertheless serve as a valuable guide for beginner players looking to achieve a degree of accuracy in their shots. This may be limiting for advanced golfers, however, who seek the pinpoint measurements required to help them reduce their already impressive handicap.

Laser rangefinders can be an exceptional tool for golfers of all levels. For less advanced players, the lower-priced options are still likely to cover more than enough distance to accommodate your shots and help you improve your accuracy on the course.

For avid golfers striving towards that single-figured handicap, premium laser rangefinders can provide you with the vital edge to take your game to the next level. With distances of up to 1000 meters, and features accounting for slope and steepness, these devices provide you with the vital information required to reach your potential.

If you’re a course regular looking to update your wardrobe, then why not check out Golfsupport’s excellent range of golf shoes and other golf clothing.

Why choose Golfsupport for your rangefinder and other golfing accessories?

Any regular golfer knows how much accessories can enhance both their enjoyment and performance on the course.

Whether it’s an electric trolley to reduce the strain of carrying your clubs, a high-calibre glove to enhance your grip, or a trusted umbrella to protect you from the elements, these accessories are essential to ensuring you get the most out of your hobby.

Rangefinders are no exception, with these modern tools capable of providing you with the vital fine margins to take your game to the next level.

Thankfully, Golfsupport is stocked with rangefinders from some of the finest brands around. With best-in-class options from the likes of Shotscope, Motocaddy, and Skycaddie to name but a few, you’re sure to find the best rangefinder for you.

If you require any further assistance, then please don’t hesitate to contact our team who would be delighted to help you find that perfect rangefinder.