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The 6 Best Golf Rangefinders of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best Overall Rangefinder

Garmin Approach Z30

Approach Z30

Pros
  • Range Relay uses Bluetooth for accuracy
  • Magnetic strip lets you attach it to a cart for easy access
  • Tournament mode indicator light
Cons
  • Requires another device for advanced features
  • Not the most stable
  • Takes some advanced setup to maximize use

The Garmin Approach Z30 rangefinder is our absolute favorite rangefinder, offering excellent range of up to 1,300 yards, 400 yards to a flag, and an easy-to-view display that provides up to 6x magnification. Its clever tournament mode indicator light makes it easy to comply with tournament regulations and let your playing partners know you’re following the rules (if you’re into that sort of thing). It works exceptionally well within Garmin’s ecosystem, but is still one of the absolute best on its own.

The most impressive and beneficial feature of the Garmin Approach Z30 is its Range Relay feature. It pairs with your compatible Garmin smartwatch, Garmin launch monitor or mobile phone’s Garmin Golf app via Bluetooth to provide precise pin locations on each green, allowing you to dial in your yardage with unmatched accuracy. Not only can it tell you exactly where the pin is located on the green, Range Relay utilizes real-time course data and factors like wind, elevation, and temperature to deliver accurate distances, helping you make informed shot decisions and improve your overall game. Setup requires a few extra steps, but the process is simple and the results are well worth it.

Read more: Best Golf Simulators

Range 1,300 yards to reflective surface, 400 yards to a flag
Magnification 6x
Protection IPX7

Best Upgrade Rangefinder

Bushnell Pro X3+

Pro X3+

Pros
  • Top-tier distance adjustments (slope, wind, temperature, altitude)
  • Pin-lock up to 600 yards
  • Slope lock to confidently lock into tournament mode
Cons
  • Can be complicated for those new to rangefinders
  • Has features that aren’t needed by beginner golfers
  • One of the more expensive golf rangefinders on the market

The Bushnell Pro X3+ rangefinder is the ultimate upgrade for golfers seeking precision and elevated features that most rangefinders do not provide. Bushnell is one of the absolute best in the game and utilizes its state-of-the-art technology to offer lightning-fast readings and unparalleled accuracy, ensuring you have the most thorough yardage information at your fingertips.

The Pro X3+ boasts an impressive pin-lock distance of up to 600 yards, allowing you to lock onto the flag with confidence, even in challenging conditions and under grey skies. Its advanced slope compensation feature automatically calculates the angle and distance to the target, providing you with accurate readings that take the guesswork out of your shots. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an aspiring amateur, the Bushnell Pro X3+ is the ultimate tool to elevate your game and take your performance to the next level.

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Range 600 yards to a flag
Magnification 7x
Protection IPX7

Best Budget Rangefinder

RedTiger Golf Rangefinder with Slope

Golf Rangefinder with Slope

Pros
  • Super affordable
  • Magnet for easy use during a round
  • Accuracy down to .5 yard
Cons
  • You have to remember to charge it
  • Focus and targeting isn’t as good as competitors
  • Susceptible to inaccurate readings

The RedTiger Rangefinder with Slope is a budget-friendly option that packs a lot of features for its easy-to-stomach price. It offers a range of 1200 yards to reflective surfaces and a magnification of 7x, providing accurate distance measurements and a clear view of the target.

It also includes features like slope compensation, a magnet for easy attachment to your golf cart, and a vibration function for pin-lock confirmation, keeping you from playing a guessing game with your distances. The RedTiger Rangefinder is an excellent choice for beginner golfers looking for their first rangefinder or experienced players searching for a reliable backup.

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Range 1200 yards to reflective surface
Magnification 7x
Protection IP54

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Best Mid-Tier Rangefinder

Callaway Golf 300 Pro Slope Laser Rangefinder

Golf 300 Pro Slope Laser Rangefinder

Pros
  • Great ratio of features to price
  • Very well reviewed by users
  • Frequently discounted
Cons
  • Not the furthest pin-lock distance
  • Not waterproof
  • Focus isn’t super reliable

The Callaway 300 Pro rangefinder is a mid-tier option that offers a great balance of features and price. With a range of 1000 yards to a reflective surface and 300 yards to a flag, it provides accurate distance measurements for most golfers. It also features 6x magnification for a clear view of the target.

Other features of the Callaway 300 Pro include rain/fog resistance, a slope switch, and a scan mode. The slope switch allows you to compensate for elevation changes, while the scan mode lets you quickly measure multiple targets. We think it is a great choice for avid golfers who want a reliable and affordable rangefinder.

Range 1000 yards to reflective surface, 300 yards to a flag
Magnification 6x
Protection Rain/Fog Resistant

Most Stable Rangefinder

Nikon Coolshot ProII Stabilized Rangefinder

Coolshot ProII Stabilized Rangefinder

Pros
  • Crystal clear view and display
  • One of the most stable rangefinders available
  • Very fast measurements
Cons
  • Waterproofing could be better
  • No pin-lock distance listed

The Nikon Coolshot Pro II Stabilized rangefinder is a premium tool designed for professional golfers and serious amateurs. With a stabilized image viewfinder, it eliminates blur caused by hand movement, making it easier to lock onto the flag or other targets. The rangefinder has a long range of 1200 yards to a reflective surface and 6x magnification for precise aiming. It also features water-resistant construction for use in all weather conditions, a fast measurement speed of 0.3 seconds, and ID (incline/decline) technology that calculates the horizontal distance to the target.

It provides improved accuracy and reliability for better shot selection and club selection, leading to increased confidence in your golf game. By eliminating the need to pace off distances, it speeds up play and reduces frustration by avoiding penalty strokes due to inaccurate distance measurements. The rangefinder is the perfect tool for the less steady-handed golfers among us who are looking for optimal accuracy and performance.

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Range 1200 yards to reflective surface
Magnification 6x
Protection IPX4

Best Value Rangefinder

Blue Tees Golf Series 3 Max

Series 3 Max

Pros
  • Solid range and magnification
  • Good water- and weather-resistance
  • Great value for the price
Cons
  • Can take a couple of tries to really dial in distance
  • No extra stabilization aids
  • Relatively new and unproven brand

The Blue Tees S3 Max+ Rangefinder is one of our favorites for golfers of all levels. Packed with impressive features, it offers exceptional accuracy up to 1,000 yards, which is plenty for any golf course. Its advanced Slope technology delivers precise distance measurements that take into account elevation changes, helping you choose the best club for each and every shot, regardless of where you are on the course. The S3 Max+ also features 6x magnification, allowing you to pinpoint targets with ease. Additionally, its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around during your round.

For those seeking value, this is an exceptional choice. Its combination of advanced features, pinpoint accuracy, and palatable price tag makes it an excellent investment for golfers looking to improve their game. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the S3 Max+ provides the tools you need to elevate your performance on the course.

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Range 1000 yards to reflective surface
Magnification 6x
Protection IPX7

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What Is the Most Important Feature to Look for In a Rangefinder?

Accuracy is the most important feature. You want a rangefinder that can give you consistent, accurate readings so that you can make informed decisions about your shots. Clear displays and exceptional down-range distances are great, but if the rangefinder isn’t accurate, no amount of bonus features will make a difference.

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How Do I Use a Rangefinder?

To use a rangefinder, simply point it at the target you want to measure and press the button. The rangefinder will then display the distance to the target. It really is that simple.

Some rangefinders, though, will be more stable than others, while other rangefinders provide more detailed information based on the conditions you’re playing in. These features help you get faster, more accurate readings, but in the end, it’s as simple as a point-and-shoot camera.

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What Are the Different Types of Rangefinders?

There are two main types of rangefinders: laser rangefinders and GPS rangefinders. Laser rangefinders use a laser beam to measure the distance to a target, while GPS rangefinders use satellite signals to determine the distance to a target. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but generally, if you play in standard, well-lit conditions, a laser rangefinder will easily do the job. If you frequently play in bad weather or in the fog, you may want a rangefinder that incorporates GPS. Better yet, pick one up that does both, like the Garmin Approach S30.

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