Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Laser rangefinders are devices that you can add on your golf game. It uses a laser to find out the distance to a certain target. Because of this technology, this particular device is accurate in providing distances. They are available in binocular and monocular styles and are high-maintenance devices.
A number of golfers actually find the laser rangefinder more convenient to tote along. One can just take the device out of his or her bag or pocket, zero in on the target and the user will acquire a nice reading about the object.
However, these devices do not come cheap. There are affordable models available, but are they worth the purchase? Read on and find out.
Advantages
Laser rangefinders are always compared side by side with golf GPS watches and devices. Both devices are convenient, handy, does not take up much space in your bag and both tools almost employ the same features. Like the laser rangefinder, the golf GPS can determine distances without the help of markers.
Some of the most significantly praised golfers in the world use rangefinders, thus golfers felt the need they should try out the device too. If the best in the game relied on such a device, then there’s no doubt that it works. The unit’s fast, precise and comprehensive yardage data will make golfers feel more confident in their club selection and eventually with the results of their game.
It’s also a helpful device to take along with you especially on uncharted courses. The device does not require maps, and as mentioned earlier, users do not have to download courses or insert those courses manually when required. There’s also no need to get a frequent subscription every year.
Disadvantages
The laser technology for this device is beneficial but for several golfers, using it can be a bit of a bother. To fully understand how the whole device works, users actually have to spend enough time and take some effort to take in the unit’s intricate manuals and safety guidelines.
A reading can be affected even by the slightest human error. Users have to stand still and not move an inch while using the device. A slight gesture and the rangefinder will give you an erroneous reading, thus this is not a very user-friendly device.
Cheaper rangefinders are also known for sometimes giving away dubious, if not unreliable readings as compared with the more high-priced ones. To add, low-priced units cannot get hold of longer distances. You have to invest more on those big-ticket models if you want an accurate reading.
Several golfers also remarked that it can be difficult to get a reading on ice-covered surfaces, on long grass and during foggy days. It is high-maintenance and needs careful handling because the lens can get easily scratched.
As discussed before, golf rangefinders are not exactly the most affordable among additional equipment. Prices range from a hundred dollars up to $700 for superior-quality golf range finder models.
Making Your Decision
Golf rangefinders are nifty equipment for those who take their game seriously. Investing on a model might not be something that’s right up your alley if you are a casual golfer. The cheaper ones aren’t actually on par with the more expensive models so before making that investment, it is best that you think through how often you are going to use the device.
Earnest golfers will truly get their purchase’s worth by investing on something high-end and praised by golf critics, but it is certainly not the same for those who only join a game once or twice a year. However, if you are serious with your game and you definitely want to see some improvement, it may be high time for you to start saving up and invest on an excellent model that you can rely on during games.
In case you need one of your own, you can hit up online stores for the best deals on affordable golf range finders. Check out our overview of laser range finders because we are known for offering great deals on all golf equipment available.
If you’re strapped for cash, you can also go and look for secondhand golf rangefinders. Ask your fellow golfers whether they know of someone who is willing to part with their trusty unit. Especially if somebody just bought a brand new golf range finder, he might be willing to sell his ‘old’ model. Secondhand devices are often cheaper than brand new ones, and some are even sold as good as new.
The internet is also an excellent place to look for secondhand devices. eBay is a treasure trove of great second hand finds and has all sorts of golf equipment and apparel. But before purchasing that lucky find, be sure to ask the seller questions and look at pictures of the device before closing the deal to guarantee that you’ll indeed receive the item as advertised.