Best Golf Rangefinders 2024

A rangefinder can make a significant difference to your golf game. Here, we take you through the best currently available

Best Golf Rangefinders
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)

When it comes to distance measuring devices you have have three options. There are golf GPS', watches or, like we are looking at in this piece, rangefinders, with the latter heavily increasing in popularity over the last few years.

The reason for their rise in popularity is that they provide golfers with the most accurate reading to the flag or the desired target. Gone are the days where players need to scramble to find sprinkler heads or check course guides, now they can simply pick up their rangefinder, scope out the target and zap it, before a yardage is displayed. It's really that easy! You don't have to necessarily use them for identifying the yardage of the flag either, with a rangefinder also being useful when working out the carry of hazards like ditches and bunkers. If you know how far the targets are, it will help you avoid mistakes and lower your scores out on the golf course. The best golf rangefinders with slope also take into account change in elevation to make sure you get the right numbers as well. However, it's not just accuracy where a rangefinder must perform, they must also have ease of use, waterproof protection, longevity, durability and some degree of value too.

There are many reasons as to why many golfers favor rangefinders over the best golf watches and best golf GPS devices, with players preferring the convenience and speed you find in the device. What's more, rangefinders run on batteries, which means they can be left in your golf bag between rounds and therefore provide a much more hassle-free user experience compared to GPS units, which often need regular charging.

As is the case though when it comes to technology in golf, you are truly spoilt for choice when deciding on a new rangefinder. Are you after a model used by those on the professional circuit? Or perhaps you are looking for one of the best budget golf rangefinders that won't break the bank. Thankfully, Golf Monthly are here to help and, after extensive testing, we've picked out the best and our favorite models, ranging from the cheapest to the most expensive. 

The Quick List

Best Golf Rangefinders

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Best Overall

Bushnell Tour V6 Shift RangefinderGolf Monthly Editor's Choice

The Bushnell Tour V6 Shift laser

(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

Sitting atop the tree for us is the Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder, which offers enhanced accuracy and consistency over the previous Tour V5 model. This is thanks to improved electronics and an improved algorithm for finding the flag, whilst the Slope Switch technology carries over to ensure slope adjusted measurements.

We also think it is a step up in the looks department as well, the grey and white color scheme with flashes of orange certainly looks slicker and more modern. It has a decent weight to it, less so that the Pro X3 rangefinder, but enough that it doesn't wobble about in the wind.

Locking on to the flag was a seamless experience here, it pretty much always is with Bushnell products. That being said the Jolt technology, along with the flashing red ring combine to give that extra bit of reassurance if you should need it. We loved the new display which seemed clearer and brighter than most of the best golf rangefinders, and it is worth mentioning that the V6 also IPX6 protection which should ensure performance even in the elements. Finally we need to mention the price because it is at the top end of the spectrum. This will put many off, but for those who want our top all-round laser rangefinder, then it is worth it.

Best Budget

Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder lying on grass

The Inesis 900 Laser Rangefinder

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

As our other equipment guides have proven, we have become fans of Inesis gear of late and the same can be said of the 900 Rangefinder. Not only is it at the budget end of the laser rangefinder price spectrum, but the performance is very solid too, meaning the value is significant.

We actually put this model up against a more expensive model (the Bushnell Tour V5 Shift) and we found it more than kept up with accuracy and ease of use. It features a First target priority function that isolates the flag, while measurements are confirmed by vibration and, rather importantly, it is accurate to +/- 1 yard and can measure in both yards or meters. This unit boasts a Slope Compensation switch so you can toggle on and off slope-adjusted distances. 

You also get 6x magnification, so you get a clear view when looking through the viewfinder and we also liked the weight, durability the way it sits well in the hand. Additionally, you also get a very sturdy case which is really nicely made, along with some instructions, a cloth for cleaning the lens of the rangefinder, a CR2 battery and a clip that allows you to attach the rangefinder to your bag.

Best For Style

man holding the Blue Tees Series 3 Max Laser RangefinderEditors Choice 2022

The Blue Tees Series 3 Max Laser

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

Specifications

Range: 900 yards
Magnification: x7
Protection: Water resistant
Battery life: 3,500 - 4,000 actuations

Reasons to buy

+
Exceptional clarity and speed
+
Premium aesthetics
+
Excellent value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Magnetic strap on case often comes loose

Blue Tees Golf is a relatively new name in the industry and it has a simple strategy - To create premium, great-looking products at an affordable price. On the whole, we think the Series 3 Max stuck to that ethos, especially in the aesthetic department. Available in three colors - navy, pink and black - the laser looks sleek and stylish with a thin profile. But performance is not limited to looks though. 

One of our favorite features is the crystal clear display, which is beautifully sharp and crisp, whilst the lock and vibration features assures the user that they have the correct target, which means less guesswork and time spent on reshooting for distances.

Another feature that really stood out to us in testing was the speed at which the distance was displayed - there really is no delay in getting the number you need. All in all, and aside from the magnetic strap which could be improved, this is an eye-catching device that is competitively priced and performs well.

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

The TecTecTec KLYR rangefinder is a standout at its price point, and it also recently made our list of the best budget golf rangefinders. It's compact design is easy to handle and it weighs less than 1.25 pounds. 

Given its lightweight nature, it also offers clean, vibrant display optics and retrieves yardages quickly. It also proved to be extremely accurate in our testing and it has many of the features that golfers look for in a rangefinder, including slope functionality, which can be disabled during tournament play, and target lock vibration. In fact the KLYR definitely stood out in terms of how fast it captured yardages and its range. It was noticeable how the yardages were illustrated in the display almost immediately.

It's range measures up to 800 yards and fares well when shooting from longer distances. It also has an excellent magnet on its exterior, that allows the device to be secured to a riding cart during play, and it comes with a magnetic belt clip that allows golfers to essentially wear the device when they're not using it during round. The KLYR is also available in three stylish colors: yellow, black, and white.

Best For Accuracy

Bushnell Pro X3 Golf Rangefinder lying on the grass

The Bushnell Pro X3 laser on the ground

(Image credit: Future)
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

Another Bushnell model to make this list is the latest X3, which has accuracy at its core. This is a rangefinder that can factor in elements like distance, slope, temperature and barometric pressure (elevation), to make sure you can get the right yardages every single time. In testing we also found the laser picked out the flag almost immediately, with the vibrating technology and flashing red ring giving confirmation. We also really liked the Dual Display button which changes the graphics from black to red to make them more visible in duller conditions.

The last impressive initiative is that you can pair the Pro X3 device with the Bushnell Golf app (make sure you download the new version) via Bluetooth. From there, you’re able to alter the settings, 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 and flyovers so you aren't ever caught out by blind shots. The X3 is also waterproof and feels weighty which will suit those using a laser in windy conditions, but finally we should say all this performance comes at a premium price. Like the V6 model above, if money is no object, this is an outstanding model, but if you want a budget option, look elsewhere.

Best For Features

Garmin Approach Z82 Rangefinder in hand, man using Garmin laser

The Garmin Approach Z82

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

The Approach Z82 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. The flag finder feature meanwhile, will lock on the flag and give precise distances to the pin.

Other features include a Laser Range Arc, which 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. The arc can also be used to see what else is in play when ranging other targets on the course.

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. This is undoubtedly one of the very best golf rangefinders you can buy. While it's premium priced, the user experience is second to none and the way GPS technology and hole maps have been incorporated into a rangefinder is extremely impressive. 

Best Display

Voice Caddie SL3 Active Hybrid GPS Rangefinder ReviewGolf Monthly Editor's Choice

Testing the Voice Caddie SL3 Active GPS Rangefinder

(Image credit: Mike Bailey)
A stunning blend of aesthetics, GPS technology and functionality

Specifications

Range: 1,000 yards
Magnification: x6
Protection: N/A
Battery life: Laser mode 45 hours, GPS mode 20 hours

Reasons to buy

+
Very fast and accurate
+
Can measure all sorts of course features
+
Will help you read greens
+
Comfortable to hold

Reasons to avoid

-
Requires regular recharging in golf mode

We love the Voice Caddie SL3 Active Hybrid GPS Rangefinder, in fact we like it so much, we selected it for our Editor's Choice List. Just like the previous version, the SL2 Active Hybrid rangefinder, the SL3 has both an accurate and easy-to-use laser rangefinder and a color touch LCD screen under the eyepiece where you can change settings and most importantly see maps of the holes and the greens with the ability to glean all sorts of information. In fact this GPS functionality and display really sets the SL3 apart from the competition.

It’s fast, accurate, and the display is easy to read. You can adjust the brightness of the OLED two-color display with a button on top. We also found it very easy to get our target with the help of the new Pin Tracer which is a pin-filtering feature. The slope element also worked well. Finally, the SL3 is sleek and easy to handle. It fits in the hand easily and comes with a leather carrying case with magnetic closing flap. A complete performer worthy of five stars.

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 was a favorite of ours because it combined a budget price with good performance, so we had high hopes for the Laser Lite 2 as well. To start, it is definitely light, weighing three grams lighter than the previous model, and it is also thinner and more compact too.

But this isn't then compromising on other factors that are important in a laser. No, in terms of accuracy, the Laser Lite 2 produced similar numbers to the Bushnell Tour V6. The non slope numbers were pretty much identical, as were shots going uphill, but there were larger differences on downhill shots it has to be said.

Another feature we liked was the Scan mode which proved useful when assessing tee shots in particular. This feature allows you to hold down the main button and scan surroundings, and then the distance number changes as you scan. Finally the Laser Lite 2 is only IPX4 water resistant, which should keep light showers at bay but probably not deluges of rain. 

Most Cutting Edge

CaddyTalk Cube Rangefinder ReviewGolf Monthly Editor's Choice

The CaddyTalk Cube laser on the ground

(Image credit: Future)
Provides genuine wow factor

Specifications

Range: 1,100 yards
Magnification: x6
Protection: IP55 Water Resistance
Battery life: 10,000 shots

Reasons to buy

+
Very accurate
+
Nifty Caddy Mode saves time
+
Premium carry case

Reasons to avoid

-
Side display could be more readable
-
Industrial look may not please all

If you want a truly unique rangefinder, then the Cube from CaddyTalk is a model to consider as we were bowled over by it in testing. First the device itself is notably lightweight (140g) and compact versus most other rangefinders plus it’s very boxy and industrial in its looks as you can see above. 

It includes features like Magic Slope, e-Slope and Pin Finder which all help to provide more accurate yardages for you on the course (we explain what they are more specifically in the in-depth review). But the standout feature is you can actually get yardages despite not standing next to your golf ball. Say your ball is 30 yards away, you can shoot the ball and then shoot the pin, and the Cube gives a yardage. Using this time-saving feature is really easy and having tested it thoroughly on the course, supremely accurate. 

You also get a Caddy Mode, significant battery life, water-resistance and put simply, we’ve never tested a rangefinder like this, on a unit that is so compact. 

Best GPS Enabled

man holding the Shot Scope Pro LX+ rangefinderEditors Choice 2022

Holding the Shot Scope Pro LX+ laser

(Image credit: Future)
A cutting-edge, 3-in-1 piece of golf equipment

Specifications

Range: 900 yards
Magnification: x7
Protection: Water resistant case
Battery life: Approximately 5800 measures

Reasons to buy

+
3-in-1 functionality
+
H4 GPS is an excellent, compact device that enables shot tracking
+
Laser/GPS combination improves strategy

Reasons to avoid

-
Pro LX laser sometimes struggled to pick out the flag from a busy background

The Shot Scope Pro LX+ is another model that really looks to differentiate itself with the three-in-one functionality. How does it do this I hear you ask? Well it combines the accuracy of a standard laser, with the convenience of a handheld golf GPS device, whilst you also get shot tracking performance analysis. 

Speaking specifically about the laser first, the immediate plus we noticed was the ergonomic shape so it fitted nicely in the hands. We also liked the accuracy of Slope mode and the speed at which the distance is displayed is much faster than on the Pro L1 rangefinder. That being said it struggled at times when the flag was set against a busy background. We also liked the option of a red or black display depending on the light conditions. 

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. In general we think the two devices worked pretty seamlessly together, especially when deciding on strategy on select holes.

Specifications table

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ModelRangeMagnificationProtectionBattery life
Bushnell Tour V6 Shift Rangefinder1,300 yards6xIPX6N/A
Inesis Golf 900 Laser Rangefinder5-1300 yards6xCertified IPX25000 actuations
Blue Tees Series 3 Max Laser Rangefinder900 yards7xWater resistant3500-4000 actuations
TecTecTec KLYR Laser Rangefinder800 yards6xWater resistant case40-50 rounds
Bushnell Pro X3 Golf Rangefinder600+ yards7xRubber-armored metal caseN/A
Garmin Approach Z82 Rangefinder450 yards flag6xIPX7 Waterproof15 hours
Voice Caddie SL3 Rangefinder1,000 yards6xN/ALaser mode 45 hours, GPS mode 20 hours
GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 Rangefinder5-880 yards6xIPX4 water-resistant3,000 - 5,000 actuations
CaddyTalk Cube Rangefinder1,100 yards6xIP55 Water Resistance10,000 shots
Shot Scope Pro LX+900 yards7xWater resistant case5800 actuations

How we test for the best golf rangefinders

At Golf Monthly we have a comprehensive testing procedure around rangefinders. As you would expect, this involves using different models out on the course, over a number of rounds and importantly in different conditions too because this gives us an idea on how particular models deal with sunlight, rain and wind. 

As the entire team are regular golfers, rangefinders 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. Technical Editor Joel Tadman oversees the entire technology section and he does a lot of the testing around these devices. The final thing we wanted to mention in this section is no manufacturer can buy a good review. Our testing team reviews golf equipment and makes its own opinion on how good or bad the product is. 

How to choose the best golf rangefinder

So you have decided you want a 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 rangefinder. 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.

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. Additionally you can also buy these on Amazon too. 

Finally, make sure that the rangefinder you’re interested in doesn’t require an unusual type of battery that is expensive or difficult to source.

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.

Display

How clear is the display and how easy is it to read? Ultimately because we have tested most rangefinders on the market we think we can give good insight here with models like the Cobalt Q6 Slope 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. Ultimately a good model should have clear, bright optics, magnification, and an easy to read display when contrasted with the background.

Slope

Do you want your model to offer slope measurements too? 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

Linking with the above point, good rangefinders 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, 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. To work this out, we would often recommend trying out some models in retailers and pro shops.

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? As such there are loads of different designs and cool finishes out there ranging from the ultra-premium (Voice Caddie SL2) to the more simple designs like the TecTecTec KLYR. Of course there are lots of different colors to choose from as well.

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 V5 and Bushnell Tour XE. 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.

FAQs

What does a rangefinder do?

A rangefinder is designed to give you as accurate yardages as possible. 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?

We think laser rangefinders are definitely worth it. 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. 

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, but it can be turned off. This is because you are not allowed to use it in competition.

Should my laser rangefinder be waterproof?

Yes we think a good laser rangefinder should offer some degree of protection from water and rain. This is because golf is an outdoor activity and as such 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 technological, then the cheaper ones will provide the basic information, but if you do love your technology, then a more expensive model will likely fit that category.

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. 

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Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.


One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.


Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x

With contributions from