GolfBuddy LR4 laser

How does the LR4 stack up against the rest of the laser rangefinders?

Golf Buddy LR4
Golf Buddy LR4
Golf Monthly Verdict

Offering accuracy, ease of use and a variety of functions at an extremely competitive price, the GolfBuddy LR4 is a serious player in the laser rangefinder market. Add in stylish looks, and its appeal knows no bounds.

Reasons to buy
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    A serious contender in the laser rangefinder market, the LR4 boasts three simple modes that assist you in all on-course situations you may call upon it.

Reasons to avoid
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    The lack of battery meter means you’ll need to ensure you have a spare battery in your bag for when the time comes.

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Golf Monthly's GolfBuddy LR4 review, a laser rangefinder with three operational modes and a new ergonomic shape to make swift use much easier.

Key technology The LR4 laser’s outer casing has been reshaped to fit more snugly in the golfer’s palm. The top grip section has been flattened slightly and the finger locators redesigned to make it even easier to find and press the power button. The eyepiece is easier to grip and smoother to turn. Finally, the GolfBuddy LR4 is equipped with three operational modes for different on-course scenarios.

GM Review A boxier shape seemed to fit just as well in the hand as other, more slimline lasers. While it has three modes, the Scan and Flag modes will be most popular, picking out continuous points and the flag respectively from the background.

Overall, it’s a joy to use. It’s slightly heavier than most other lasers but that doesn’t affect the usability, and the grippy texture of the casing helps you keep a firm hold. Switching modes using your thumb is a doddle. It picked out the flag quickly and the focus was easy to adjust. The smart case that’s included was the icing on the cake.

The boxier shape may not suit golfers with smaller hands, while the absence of a battery meter could catch you out at a crucial moment on the course. Those who play in glasses or sunglasses will be pleased with the user-friendly eyepiece. Overall, the LR4 offers everything a golfer needs at a competitive price.

 

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