5 Best Golf Rangefinders
best golf rangefinders
Ready to buy now? Shop the best:
- Best of the Best: Callaway Golf 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder
- Best Bang for the Buck: REDTIGER Golf Rangefinder
- Simple Yet Solid: GoGoGo Sport Vpro GS03 Laser Golf/Hunting Rangefinder
- Best for its Accuracy: Bushnell Golf Tour V6 Shift Laser Rangefinder
- Affordable & Easy to Use: REVASRI Golf Rangefinder
A golf rangefinder is a tool that resembles binoculars and works similarly. They have a lens for zooming into objects far away, primarily pin flags. However, the main caveat is that rangefinders provide a distance measurement, giving you a better sense of what kind of shot you need to execute to get your ball as close to your target as possible.
Golf rangefinders are compact and lightweight, fitting easily in a golf bag pocket. They’re relatively easy to use, and many have advanced technologies that help you locate your target quickly. Some even account for incline and decline to provide an accurate distance.
We’ve tested one of the top rangefinders, the Callaway Golf 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder, for its accuracy and performance and narrowed down the best ones so that you can find one, no matter your skill level.
Editors’ picks for 2025
Range: 5 to 1,000 yards | Magnification: 6x optical zoom | Slope Compensation: On/off switch for slope-adjusted distances | Pin-Locking Distance: 300 yards
The Callaway 300 Pro Laswer Rangefinder with Slope does exactly what you need it to. It locks onto the flag quickly, even with trees or other distractions in the background, and the little buzz when it locks on gives you confidence before every shot. The slope feature is useful when you’re judging uphill or downhill lies, and turning it off for tournament rounds is simple.
The built-in magnet is surprisingly useful. Just slap it on the side of the cart and grab it when you need it. It’s compact enough to carry in your pocket too.
Accuracy is spot-on, and it competes well with models that cost quite a bit more. For most golfers, this gets the job done cleanly without overcomplicating things.
Range: 5 to 1,200 yards | Magnification: 7x optical zoom | Slope Compensation: Toggle on/off for tournament legality | Mounting: Built-in magnet and included belt clip
The REDTIGER GolfVue Series 1 is a reliable option for golfers who want features without the high price tag. It’s simple to set up and delivers quick, easy-to-read measurements on a clear LCD screen.
The magnet is strong and convenient, sticking securely to carts or clubs, and the included clip gives you another way to carry it during a round. Mode switching is straightforward once you get the hang of it. The device feels lightweight but sturdy, and the battery lasts for multiple rounds without needing a recharge.
Accuracy is generally solid, though a few users have noticed occasional slow readings or inconsistent distances at longer ranges or in bright sun. For players looking for a versatile, user-friendly rangefinder with slope and solid accessories, this one is worth considering.
Range: Up to 1,000 yards | Magnification: 6x with upgraded ultra-clear optics | Slope Compensation: Includes on/off toggle for tournament legality | Pin-Locking Distance: 300 yards
The GoGoGo Vpro GS03 is a lightweight rangefinder that keeps things simple but functional. The display is easy to read, and the single-button operation makes mode switching fast. It’s compact enough to slip into your pocket or hang from your bag without adding bulk. On the course, it works best inside 300 yards, especially when locking onto a pin.
The slope function and vibration feedback add a layer of confidence to your club choice. While the optics are surprisingly clear for the price, getting repeatable readings past 250 yards can be hit or miss depending on lighting or hand steadiness. Some users noted battery life could be better, so it’s smart to carry a spare.
The construction feels light, maybe too light for some, but it gets the job done. If you’re after an affordable rangefinder that covers the basics with a few extras, the GS03 is a solid place to start.
Range: 5 to 1,300 yards | Magnification: 6x with fully multi-coated optics | Slope Compensation: Slope-switch with USGA tournament legal mode | Target Locking: Visual Jolt with red ring and vibration feedback
The Bushnell Tour V6 Shift feels like it was made for serious golfers who want fast, dependable yardage. Locking onto the flag is quick and satisfying thanks to the Visual Jolt system. When that red ring flashes and the unit buzzes in your hand, you know you’re dialed in.
The clarity of the viewfinder and the precision of the readings stand out immediately. Its slope feature gives accurate adjusted distances for uphill or downhill shots and can be toggled off for tournament play.
The magnetic mount is strong and secure, sticking easily to the cart frame without slipping during bumpy rides. Durability is solid too, with weather resistance rated at IPX6, which makes it ready for wet or unpredictable conditions. It’s definitely a premium option and priced accordingly, but for golfers who value precision and speed over budget, it’s a worthwhile investment that holds up over time.
Range: 5 to 1,000 yards | Magnification: 6.5x with multilayer coated lens | Slope Mode: Toggleable for tournament legality
The REVASRI Golf Rangefinder delivers a lot of functionality in a compact, lightweight package. The readings come fast, usually within half a second, and the built-in vibration feature gives a nice bit of feedback when you’ve locked onto the pin.
The slope toggle on the side is a welcome addition for competitive players who want to keep things tournament legal without diving into menus. And its performance in normal conditions is pretty solid for the price. It’s accurate enough for most casual and mid-level players, though locking onto flags beyond 200 yards can sometimes take a few tries.
The rechargeable battery is a nice modern touch, but results vary. Some users report weeks of use per charge, while others find it drains faster than expected. This one’s not perfect, but for the price, it covers the basics well. It’s easy to carry, easy to use and works well enough to help keep your distances honest on the course.
How we tested
We’ve researched the best golf rangefinders and tested the Callaway 300 Pro Laser Rangefinder to determine how it performs in the following areas.
Ease of use
- Operation: We tested the rangefinder’s primary functions using the two buttons on the device.
- Instructions: We read the instructions front to back to determine how to tweak the rangefinder to suit personal preferences and perform at optimal conditions.
Quality
- Accuracy: We tested multiple targets several hundred yards away and compared readings with other rangefinders and cart GPS to determine accuracy.
- Build quality: We tested the water resistance in the rain and the temperature resistance in desert weather conditions.
Advanced features
- Slope technology: We tested slope technology on a Par-3 hole with an elevated tee box.
- Lock-on: We tested how quickly the rangefinder can lock onto a target 5 to 1,000 yards away and whether it takes multiple tries to accomplish it.
What to consider before buying a golf rangefinder
How golf rangefinders work
Every laser rangefinder works in the same way. A laser rangefinder doesn’t need an eyepiece, but to be of practical use to golfers, some viewing or targeting apparatus is required. An eyepiece and screen combination is mounted above the laser projector in the same compact, handheld unit.
To use a rangefinder, you only need to look through the eyepiece and line up the reticle with a target. Once you’ve done that, press a button to project a focused beam of light toward the target, which travels in a straight line, hits the mark and bounces back. A digital clock inside the rangefinder records the time, which is used to calculate the distance.
Optics
The two considerations here are magnification and lens quality. Magnification should be between five times and seven times. Less than that, and you’re probably not getting the focus you need down range.
Lens quality is difficult to judge, but coated lenses are generally better than uncoated, though there are many different coating possibilities and not all manufacturers clarify this. Good optics are expensive, so it’s reasonable to assume that the lens quality is one factor differentiating a cheap golf rangefinder from premium brands.
Range
It’s essential to be careful when checking range information. Some rangefinders claim 1,000 yards or more but give a much-reduced distance for actual pin measurement. The headline figure indicates how far the laser will travel, while the pin measurement is how far it can maintain accuracy. One professional we consulted believed that no golf rangefinder was accurate beyond 300 yards, but that’s sufficient for virtually all golf shots.
Golf rangefinder features
Accuracy
Even cheap golf laser rangefinders are usually accurate within one yard, but the best ones are accurate within half a yard.
Slope and elevation
Two golf-specific features, in particular, are available in better rangefinders. There’s a considerable difference between an uphill or downhill target, so better rangefinders offer the additional benefit of slope and elevation calculations. However, these features aren’t allowed in tournament play, so it’s essential to be able to switch them off.
Display
Most rangefinder displays are either LCD, LED or OLED. If you’re playing in poor light conditions, OLED displays are brighter and easier to read because each pixel is lit rather than using a backlit array.
Target acquisition or target lock technology uses terms like pin seeker, flag-lock, jolt or pulse to describe enhancements that help you focus on the target more quickly and then receive physical feedback through a haptic vibration through the device to let you know you’re successful.
Battery
Although the power consumption of these devices is relatively low, we prefer lithium batteries over alkaline counterparts because of their longevity.
Waterproof
Several golf rangefinders we looked at claimed to be waterproof and shockproof, but without an actual Ingress Protection rating, there’s no way to tell how well-protected they are or make comparisons between one model and another.
Tips
- Get a protective case: Although many rangefinders are shockproof or durable, a case protects them from accidental drops and the lens from scratching.
- Cleaning cloth: Dust and other debris resting on the lens can obstruct your vision, so it’s best to have a cloth to wipe it down and get a clearer view.
- Lanyard: A lanyard is occasionally provided to enable you to attach your rangefinder to the outside of your golf bag.
- Warranty: Look for a rangefinder with a two-year warranty, which is standard with most golf rangefinders.
- Mounts or holders: Various golf cart mounts and holders are available at an additional cost. However, some rangefinders have integrated magnetic stripes, so you can quickly attach them to a golf cart.
- Practice with your rangefinder. Like your swing or putting, using a golf rangefinder takes practice. You can pick any target at first to get used to the trigger action and hold the unit steady or try it on the driving range where distances are already known. Keep in mind that most inaccurate readings are caused by operator error.
- Always choose a golf-specific laser rangefinder for golf. Golf rangefinders prioritize the flag, while hunting rangefinders prioritize a distance target. However, there are versatile rangefinders that are suitable for golfing and hunting.
FAQ
Q. How much do golf rangefinders cost?
A. If you’re a novice golfer, you can find a basic golf rangefinder for $75-$300. Mid-tier and advanced rangefinders cost $300-$600 and typically have a more durable build, premium features and provide more accurate readings.
Q. I can get a GPS golf rangefinder app for my phone. Is there any reason I shouldn’t?
A. There are accuracy issues since golf rangefinder apps can’t see the flag. Also, rangefinder apps often require updating, and many demand a regular subscription payment. It’s best to have a golf laser rangefinder to know precisely how far it is from where you’re standing to the pin.
Q. Are golf lasers safe?
A. All golf rangefinders use a Class 1 device, as specified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. That means it’s safe under all regular use conditions and states that these devices are not an eye hazard.