Best Golf Rangefinders In 2021 (In-Depth Reviews)

Flimsy construction

When you first pull the VPRO500 out of the box, it feels a bit like a light, cheaply made plastic toy. I have no faith that this will survive even a medium-height drop onto a paved cart path.

So I’d suggest buying a protective sleeve for it. However, the protective sleeve will run you an extra $15-20, and it makes the operation of the rangefinder a little clunkier.

Battery cover

A less noticeable but still problematic aspect of the VPRO500 is that the battery cover is just a sliding piece of plastic. Other, more expensive rangefinders have battery compartments that are locked and sealed (generally requiring unscrewing with a coin or similar) to protect against water entering the battery compartment.

There’s no such protection here, so you’ll need to be careful about keeping your VPRO500 dry. Don’t drop it into dewy grass, and use it under an umbrella if it’s raining. If you do get it wet, make sure you dry it off quickly with a towel, and if it gets submerged I’d suggest removing the battery entirely and letting it air dry.

The good

The good thing is that, for half the price of a comparable Bushnell or Leupold rangefinder, you can get exact yardages to your targets with speed and precision. The VPRO500 has a pinsensor tech that helps ensure that you get the flagstick, even against a tree-filled backdrop.

The scan mode, which gives you a consistent reading while you move the reticle from target to target, is very effective as well — if you can see the numbers, which sometimes show up just out of sight and require a bit of tilting to display properly.

For the occasional golfer who doesn’t want to spend an arm and a leg on an elite rangefinder, the VPRO500 is an acceptable, if slightly flawed, option.

Long range vision

The Callaway 300 Pro advertises that it provides yardages for targets up to 1000 yards away, and I was able to pick things up from about 500 yards — longer than anyone will probably ever need during a round of golf. This is an impressive feat, but it’s somewhat marred by the fact that once you get outside of about 100 yards, the picture gets fuzzier and fuzzier.

No matter how much I tried to adjust the focus to crisp up and clarify the image, it just wouldn’t quite resolve into the crystal-clear images found in some of the top-tier options. While this wasn’t an issue for a typical iron shot, it became difficult on par 5s and long par 3s to be sure that I was shooting the correct target.

Chirp

Another feature that seems minor but might cause problems is that the 300 Pro features a “Pin Acquisition Technology” that chirps when it’s locked onto the pin. Instead of a silent vibration that only the user of the rangefinder knows is happening, the 300 Pro chirps loudly and proudly when it gets a lock.

So what’s the problem? Well, imagine you’re at the top of your backswing when you hear a weird chirping sound from your playing partner five yards away. It’s potentially distracting enough to affect someone’s swing, so be sure you’re shooting your yardage when no one is swinging nearby.

Slope

The Callaway 300 Pro offers a slope measurement, which it immediately uses to calculate an “actual” yardage for your shot. However, on more than one occasion, the slope calculation under-represented the slope, applying only 2 degrees when other of the best golf rangefinders gave 3 degrees or more.

More often than not, it was correct, but it underestimated enough to give me pause. If it spits out a number that doesn’t quite pass the eye test, trust your instincts and take a little bit extra.

Ergonomic Design

If you play in tournaments, don’t worry because the slope function can be turned off to make the rangefinder legal. The rangefinder is also lightweight and features an ergonomic design for comfortable holding.

Multicoated Lens

The lens is also multicoated for scratch resistance and to dampen light. From anywhere inside 650 yards, you’ll get a clear look at upcoming targets with quick measurement readings.

The rangefinder comes with a canvas carrying bag, microfiber cleaning cloth, and strap to keep it tied to your bag.

Pin Locking Mechanism

Our major complaint with this rangefinder is that the pin locking mechanism only works from inside 150 yards, but frankly, most weekend warriors don’t need this function over that distance. Regardless, you’ll see the yardage to all upcoming targets such as the front and back of the green and any water or sand you are looking to avoid.

If you are in the market for low-cost, high-performing laser rangefinders, then the Gogogo Golf Rangefinder will undoubtedly delight and entertain you on the course.

In terms of accuracy, this Bushnell Tour V5 model is very precise, offering yardage that is correct up to within one yard. Ranges vary from five yards to over 1,300, with yardage accuracy to the flag up to 400 yards.

With a magnetic cart mount, the Bushnell Tour V5 attaches easily to your cart for quick access without the need to place the rangefinder back in your bag after every shot. The magnet is strong, providing stability for the rangefinder while you ride in the cart.

One more outstanding feature is that the Bushnell Tour V5 works with Bushnell’s advanced app for smartphones. Golfers can see distances, hole overlays, and 3D flyovers for even more information to help them strategize the best way to attack the golf course.

A couple of negatives about the Bushnell Tour V5 include the lack of a slope function, the need to replace actual batteries, and might be too sophisticated for beginning golfers.

A wonderfully advanced best golf rangefinder that offers exciting perks outside its similarly-priced competitors, the Bushnell Tour V5 Rangefinder is an absolute stunner.

Target acquisition

The biggest difference between a golf and a hunting rangefinder is that a golf rangefinder is designed to find a very thin object (flagstick) out in the open. A hunting rangefinder is supposed to find a large object (a deer, say) through a bunch of small obstacles like twigs and branches. So a hunting rangefinder won’t grab a skinny target like a flagstick. When a company like Wosports tries to make one rangefinder to perform both tasks, they run into issues.

Even though the Wosports rangefinder offers separate modes for golf and hunting, it seemed to only do an approximation of each instead of excelling at one or the other.

Nearsighted

From shorter yardages inside about 130, I had no issues picking up the flag quickly. As we got to 150 yards or so, I’d need to shoot it 4 or 5 times to get anything at all. And sometimes, what I was able to pick up wasn’t the flagstick.

This performance (or lack thereof) will negatively affect the pace of play and could have you playing the wrong yardages as well.

Blur and slope issues

The optics also suffered outside of 200 yards, as I struggled to find a crisp focus at that distance. With poor optics and poor reliability, I can’t suggest this for anyone who regularly hits shots outside of 200 yards.

And when I attempted to engage the slope function, it simply returned bad numbers. Steep hills read as small inclines, while mostly flat shots would sometimes read as 3-4 degrees of incline and suggest an extra, unnecessary 15-20 yards.

If you find the low price tag appealing and are only looking for good performance up to 150 yards, the Wosports will fit the bill. But if you’re looking for a full-function rangefinder, I’d move on.

Is it worth it?

The performance is undeniable: the Bushnell ProX2 is as accurate and fast as the Leupold rangefinder, and adds on an incredibly accurate slope calculation option. It has an on/off slope switch to make it tournament legal when necessary. It’s solid metal case with rubber grips is tough and fully waterproof.

The ProX2 picks up yardages nearly immediately, and the JOLT technology locks onto targets with a nice vibration. Slope measurements are clearly displayed. The optics are spot-on, looking like High-Definition TV through the top-quality lens.

Lasers are delicate

But here’s the thing: the internals are very similar to all the other rangefinders tested. Which means that there are delicate lasers and lenses and wiring and everything inside the housing. The average life for a rangefinder, even one as well-built as the Pro X2, is just over two years.

So while this will survive drops and tosses, it won’t survive them forever. Is it worth spending twice as much for an item you’re still likely to have to replace in a few years? When you can buy three rangefinders that still give really good readings for the price of one of these, is it worth it?

Ultimately, that’s going to be up to you. But I’d rather spend my money on a better value and have more left over for greens fees and lessons.

Dual Display

One feature that I love that I hope will be implemented into lower-priced models soon is the “dual-display” option that Bushnell provides. With a single press of the Mode button, you can switch from a deep black to a bright, popping red display.

With many other best rangefinders focusing on accuracy and under-delivering on seemingly essential things like clear yardage readings on displays, Bushnell has provided multiple display options. This ensures that you’ll be able to easily see the yardages no matter the light conditions.

I hope this type of design innovation catches the eye of other manufacturers and makes its way into their offerings.

Tournament Ready

The GX3i2 is as straightforward as it gets: shoot target, get yardage. The bright red reticle and yardage displays are a breeze to read, much easier than the dull black of other brands that can sometimes fade into the background or get washed out in the sun.

With no slope readings, the GX3i2 is legal to use in tournament conditions.

Rugged Construction

The sturdy aluminum enclosure really sets the Leupold apart from other rangefinders. While it’s still lightweight, the strong metal case feels great in your hands and will withstand a good deal of abuse.

While the laser optics contained inside are still delicate, you can drop this on a cart path and be confident that it’ll still work just fine.

Minor Details

The battery life is impressive, lasting for over two months of regular play. There are a few different modes, including “scan mode”, which i’m a big fan of. Instead of locking on one target, it sends a steady laser that gives a constant readout of whatever you’re looking at. This way you can ensure that you’re picking up the pin — start the readout at a tree behind the green, and when you get to the pin you’ll see the number change.

Advanced Flag Acquisition Technology

The Advanced Flag Acquisition Technology focuses the rangefinder to lock in on the pin. Rather than measuring everything that rests behind the flag, the 6 Pro provides an accurate measurement within one yard to your screen in mere seconds.

Slope Compensation

Slope compensation gives the golfer the ability to factor in elevation changes on the course for precise yardages to all targets in front of them. If you are playing a shot from 200 yards uphill, the 6 Pro will take into account the slope and provide an accurate reading that allows you to find the ideal club for your upcoming swing.

Swith Off Slope Compensation

If you play in tournaments, it is worth noting that the slope compensation feature has been ruled as an illegal aid. PeakPulse factoring this wrinkle into the design, has included a disable switch to shut off the slope compensation.

Minor downside

During our time with the rangefinder we missed a progressive scan feature that locked in targets regardless of how shaky our hold was on the device. While it really is not a deal breaker, you should know that you’ll need to steady the rangefinder as you press the button to engage the reading for accuracy.

Value for money

Measuring just 4.6 inches and delivering outstanding accuracy, the PeakPulse 6 Pro Rangefinder remains as one of the best rangefinders to buy in the rangefinder market.

JOLT Technology

JOLT technology is Bushnell’s term for the vibration you get when the rangefinder locks on its target, which is usually the flagstick. It works great right out of the box, but I’ve noticed as the rangefinder ages it jolts less and less.

However, the yardages are still accurate so that’s really a minor quibble; it’s just nice to get that confirming vibration and when you don’t get it, you need to look elsewhere to make sure that the distance you’re reading makes sense.

Silicon protection

One part the Bushnell golf laser rangefinder falls short is in the sturdiness of its housing. It’s lightweight plastic and doesn’t feel like it offers sufficient protection for the jostling and drops than can happen during a round of golf. It’s certainly much less rugged than the Leupold housing.

But they do include a nice silicone sleeve to provide extra protection for the Tour V4, which goes a long way to help. Much like an effective cell phone case, the silicone sleeve gives that extra layer of shock absorption and protection for the inevitable drops and abuse that the rangefinder will take. It’s a necessary addition for an underwhelming housing.

Customer support

If there’s one strike against Bushnell, it’s in their customer support reputation. Occasionally we’ve had trouble getting a response from them at all, and sometimes their responses are inadequate or unsatisfying.

If you have trouble with your Bushnell rangefinder, you’ve got mixed chances at successfully obtaining warranty service or replacement. So I advise you to be gentle with a Bushnell, especially outside the 2-year warranty period.

Overall, however, the Tour V4 is a great no-slope, fully tournament legal option that’ll give you reliably accurate readings.

Sliding Faceplate

If you want to turn the slope measurement on, just pull the faceplate out from the body of the rangefinder. A bright yellow stripe will appear, indicating that the slope measurement is activated and the rangefinder isn’t tournament legal.

Need to use it in a tournament? Just slide the faceplate back flush with the body, hide the yellow stripe and you’re good to go! This versatility and clever design makes the ULT-X a great option for elite players who want to shoot slope ratings during a practice round and still use the same rangefinder in the tournament proper.

I’m Picking Up Good Vibrations

The ULT-X boasts extreme accuracy, especially on tough-to-shoot pins over 150 yards away. With its proprietary “TGT (Target Lock Technology)” system, the rangefinder vibrates when it locks on the flagstick.

This is very reliable, but always double-check if there are trees surrounding the green, as there were a few instances where I thought I’d shot the pin but it turned out to be a tree. Most courses have 150-yard markers at the very least, so use common sense to make sure that you’re actually locked on the pin.

6x Magnified

The ULT-X also has impressive resolution at 6x magnification. This can be especially useful in match play when you may not be quite sure if your opponent has hit the green or fairway — you can use the rangefinder as a binocular of sorts to get a better idea of where a ball might be.

The only issue I ran into with the display was that the yardage numbers were displayed quite high on the screen and became difficult to read at times. They’re black, so if displayed against a dark background like dirt or brown trees, they don’t exactly jump out.

Overall, the TecTecTec ULT-X represents a solid value and one of the best rangefinders on the market.

USB Charging

Instead of a disposable CR2 battery like of the best rangefinders use, the BOBLOV has a rechargeable lithium battery permanently installed. It comes with a charging cable, so you can just plug that into your cell phone charger, USB outlet, or computer to charge the rangefinder. It lasts an impressive 7-10 rounds on a single charge, and has a fairly reliable battery life indicator.

The battery life drops off significantly once it hits 50%, so when you see it approaching that number make sure you take it home with you to charge it.

I’m a bit torn on the rechargeable battery aspect. I love that it creates less waste and that you don’t have to shell out big bucks for pricey CR2 batteries. But if you’ve got an early tee time to make, it’s very easy to forget that your rangefinder is plugged into the wall. You may find yourself arriving at the golf course and realizing your rangefinder is still at home, charging on your kitchen counter.

And if the battery does run out mid-round, you can’t simply replace it with a backup battery. You may want to buy a portable battery charger to keep in your bag for emergency mid-round charging.

Performance

The BOBLOV rangefinder is acceptable within 200 yards. The margin of error was about 2 yard from 100 yards out, and about 3-4 yards from 175. That’s worse than more expensive rangefinders, but it’s better than most GPS units.

However, outside of 200 yards, I found it hard to get it to lock onto anything at all. It definitely had trouble picking up flagsticks even on clear days, and more often than not would give me a measurement to something farther off in the distance.

If you’re a shorter hitter, the BOBLOV will work for you. But if you need to know whether it’s a 210-yard 4-iron or a 225-yard hybrid, it’d be wise to look for a better unit that works from longer distances.

Unacceptable variance

The vibration PinSensor technology in the VPRO500S was all too happy to buzz away when I tried to shoot the flagstick. But then I’d shoot the same flagstick again and the reading would be 5 yards different. Then I’d shoot it with a Bushnell, and it would be 15 yards off! It turns out the Bushnell was right, while the VPRO500S was only giving an approximate range instead of a laser-accurate reading.

This level of variance just isn’t acceptable at any level of golf. 1 or 2 yards difference? I’m ok with that, especially if it saves you a few hundred dollars. Five yards difference won’t affect high-handicappers too much, but good players will find that unacceptable. The VPRO500S was closer to 5-15 yards of variance, which isn’t even good enough for high handicappers.

The slope reading

Strangely, the VPRO500S seemed to get more accurate when reading with slope that it was without it. At that point, the variance from a top-tier rangefinder was only a yard or two.

So if you plan to use it only in slope mode, it’s acceptable. But I don’t trust that it’ll stay that way, because of the flaws of the non-slope-enabled mode.

Durability

Aside from the slope function, this has the same minor durability issues that I raised in the VPRO500 review, so if you do wind up with this rangefinder, make sure you grab a protective silicone case and keep it dry. However, I think it’s worth it to spend a few extra dollars and grab a better model.