2021 Best Laser Rangefinder Buyer’s Guide
Are you a laser rangefinder aficionado or a GPS golfer? If you’re the former, this is your lucky day.
Whether you’re looking to buy a new laser rangefinder today, seeking buying advice or just want a closer look at what’s on the market, this guide will help you find the right laser rangefinder to fit your needs
Each year, there is more technology packed into each unit. For example, Bushnell and Precision Pro have units that take into account temperature, altitude and wind to provide you an actual “play-like” yardage that others don’t.
Some can provide GPS measurement readouts on the unit itself for quick feedback. Also, some OEMs have an application that provides more information about the specific hole you’re on.
What’s most impressive about this year’s group of laser rangefinders is that accuracy has improved dramatically across the field. Nearly every rangefinder in the test is accurate within five yards.
Winner: Bushnell Pro XE
If you want the best laser rangefinder that will get you dialed in, go for the Bushnell Pro XE. It comes with adjusted slope and takes into account temperature, barometric pressure and distance to provide an accurate “play-like” yardage. It has a magnetic mount to attach to the cart so it is easily accessible. Throw in a two-year warranty and you have the winner of the 2021 Most Wanted Laser Rangefinder Test.
- 1st in accuracy
- 4th in speed
- 1st in optics
- 4th in display
- 3rd in features
BEST RANGEFINDER FOR SHAKY HANDS - Nikon CoolShot Pro Stabilized
If you have shaky hands and struggle to lock onto targets, give the Nikon CoolShot Pro Stabilized a try. Integrated Vibration Reduction technology that is in their cameras helps you lock onto targets quickly and efficiently. Many golfers will find it’s the one feature they absolutely can’t do without.
Features That Matter
Accuracy
A laser rangefinder is useless if it’s not accurate. By and large, the rangefinders we tested read within five yards of each other. Lasers that consistently give the same number every time provide much-needed confidence that the reading can be trusted. We test each laser rigorously to verify that the numbers provided are both accurate and consistent.
There are no more consistently accurate laser rangefinders than those from Bushnell. In 2021, the Pro XE, Tour V5 Shift, and the Tour V5 were at the top of the accuracy list. The Cobalt Q_6 Slope also performed well in this category.
Optics and Display
When we talk about the optics of laser rangefinders, we’re focused on the clarity of the viewfinder and the digital display. The simpler the display, the easier it is to understand. Ideally, you want to look for a display that provides clear and concise information so you know you’ve got the correct yardage every time. Most units include a diopter adjustment to improve focus.
The best laser rangefinder optics in the 2021 test belong to the Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized. The clarity of the lens allows you to easily lock on a target and get an accurate yardage.
If you prefer to have the most amount of information available on a single display, the Garmin Approach Z82 employs a GPS-generated hole flyover visual, yardage to front, middle and back pin positions, distances to all hazards, and slope. Precision Pro R1 Smart also has GPS numbers on the display along with an app to tell you what club you should hit based on your club numbers.
Locking indicator
There are a number of different ways laser rangefinders can use to lock on to a target. Some work better than others. Jolt technology, pulse and visual indicators are all examples of alerts that serve as notification that you’ve found your intended target. It’s personal preference but, in our experience, a combination of these alerts, as well as a distinct yardage read-out, tend to be the best.
The Bushnell Pro XE gives you a flashing red visual indicator in addition to a jolt technology alert.
BEST TECH - Precision Pro R1 Smart
Do you want a rangefinder that has all the bells and whistles? If so, look no further than the Precision Pro R1 Smart. It comes with GPS readouts, wind direction, slope to name a few. However, MySlope takes temperature, wind, barometric pressure and provides you with what club you should hit based on your individual launch data. Trust me, this rangefinder app combo is a game changer.
EXPERT TIP-Slope
If you play on a course with considerable elevation changes, a rangefinder that calculates slope will give you the most accurate yardage readout. It takes the elevation changes into consideration and generates both the actual yardage as well as adjusted yardage.
BEST LASER RANGEFINDERS 2021 - FEATURES
Product | Magnification | Reticle Color | Range | Lock Indicator | Slope | Warranty | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blue Tees Golf 3 Max Check Price | 6X | RED | 5-900 | PULSE | YES | 2 Year | |
Bushnell Pro XE Check Price | 7X | RED | 5-1300 | JOLT | YES | 2 Year | |
Bushnell Tour V5 Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1300 | JOLT | NO | 2 Year | |
Bushnell Tour V5 Shift Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1300 | JOLT | YES | 2 Year | |
Caddytek CaddyView V2 Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-800 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Callaway 350TL Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1000 | PULSE | YES | 1 Year | |
Cobalt Q 6 Slope Check Price | 7X | RED | 5-2500 | SURGE | YES | Lifetime | |
Garmin Approach Z82 Check Price | 6X | RED | 5-450 | LASER RANGE ARC | YES | 1 Year | |
Golf Buddy Aim L10 Check Price | 6X | RED | 5-880 | BLACK SQUARE | YES | 1 Year | |
Inesis 900 Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1300 | BLACK CIRCLE | YES | 2 Year | |
Leupold GX-5i Check Price | 6X | RED | 5-450 | RED TRIANGLE | YES | Lifetime | |
Nikon CoolShot 50i Check Price | 6X | RED | 6-1200 | RED CROSSHAIRS | YES | 5 YEAR | |
Nikon CoolShot Pro II Stabilized Check Price | 6X | RED | 8-1200 | GREEN CIRCLE | YES | 5 Year | |
Precision Pro NX2 Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 4-400 | BLACK CROSSHAIRS | NO | 2 Year | |
Precision Pro NX7 Pro Slope Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-400 | PULSE | YES | 2 Year | |
Precision Pro NX9 Slope Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-400 | PULSE | YES | 2 Year | |
Precision Pro R1 Smart Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-400 | PULSE | YES | 2 Year | |
Shot Scope Pro L1 Blue Check Price | 6X | RED/BLACK | 5-875 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Sureshot LaserPinloc 5000IP Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1000 | PULSE | NO | 1 Year | |
Sureshot LaserPinlock 5000IPS Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1000 | PULSE | YES | 1 Year | |
Tour Trek Signal Slope Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1000 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Voice Caddie EL1 Check Price | 6x | BLACK | 5-1000 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Voice Caddie L5 Check Price | 6x | BLACK | 5-1200 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Voice Caddie SL2 Check Price | 6x | RED | 5-1100 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Zero Friction SM Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-1000 | BLACK CROSSHAIRS | YES | 1 Year | |
Zoom Focus Tour Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-800 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year | |
Zoom Focus X Check Price | 6X | BLACK | 5-800 | VIBRATION | YES | 1 Year |
FASTEST RANGEFINDER - Sureshot LaserPinlock 5000IPS
No time for BS? If not, get the fastest rangefinder on the market. The SureShot Pinloc 5000iPS Laser quickly locks on to your target. The highly ranked accuracy, optics and display features allow you to get a clear picture of what obstacle you need to overcome. This one is worth your consideration.
More Tips
- You don’t need both a GPS and a laser rangefinder. The Garmin Approach Z82 and Precision Pro R1 Smart combine both technologies into one device.
- We’ve found that ease of use in laser rangefinders has to do with the individual golfer, or user, error. For example, it’s easier to stabilize a larger device than a smaller one if you have large hands. We’re advocates of trying before buying to see what fits you.
- Many rangefinders have additional features that make life easier. Magnetic mounts, sensors that integrate weather conditions into yardage numbers, vibration reduction, integrated GPS functionality … the list is long. Before buying, decide what features you have to have and those you can do without.
- Golfers with shaky hands will benefit from the Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized. Integrated Vibration Reduction technology helps you lock onto targets quickly and efficiently. Many golfers will find it’s the one feature they absolutely can’t do without.
- Some laser rangefinders use standard disposable batteries while others use charging ports and store power, much like a cell phone. Again, it’s personal preference. Battery life varies widely between each model. If you prefer models that uses disposable batteries, Precision Pro will provide you with an unlimited supply of free replacement batteries for life.
BEST LASER RANGEFINDER 2021 - RESULTS
Product | Accuracy | Speed | Optics | Display | Features | Total | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bushnell Pro XE Check Price | 1st | 4th | 2nd | 4th | 3rd | 94.5 | |
Nikon CoolShot Pro II Stabilized Check Price | 6th | 13th | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 94 | |
Precision Pro R1 Smart Check Price | 6th | 4th | 5th | 6th | 1st | 93 | |
Bushnell Tour V5 Shift Check Price | 1st | 4th | 1st | 15th | 5th | 92.5 | |
Voice Caddie SL2 Check Price | 11th | 11th | 11th | 2nd | 5th | 91.5 | |
Garmin Approach Z82 Check Price | 5th | 24th | 22nd | 1st | 3rd | 91 | |
Bushnell Tour V5 Check Price | 1st | 4th | 1st | 24th | 11th | 90.5 | |
Cobalt Q 6 Slope Check Price | 1st | 4th | 5th | 22nd | 11th | 90.5 | |
Precision Pro NX9 Slope Check Price | 15th | 13th | 5th | 6th | 5th | 89.5 | |
Sureshot LaserPinlock 5000IPS Check Price | 6th | 1st | 8th | 6th | 18th | 88.5 | |
Nikon CoolShot 50i Check Price | 6th | 13th | 8th | 4th | 16th | 88.5 | |
Precision Pro NX7 Pro Slope Check Price | 15th | 13th | 11th | 6th | 9th | 88 | |
Golf Buddy Aim L10 Check Price | 15th | 13th | 15th | 15th | 5th | 87 | |
Tour Trek Signal Slope Check Price | 11th | 1st | 13th | 15th | 18th | 86.5 | |
Blue Tees Golf 3 Max Check Price | 21st | 13th | 15th | 6th | 11th | 86 | |
Inesis 900 Check Price | 15th | 13th | 17th | 6th | 15th | 85.5 | |
Caddytek CaddyView V2 Check Price | 21st | 21st | 22nd | 6th | 9th | 85 | |
Shot Scope Pro L1 Blue Check Price | 11th | 24th | 17th | 6th | 11th | 85 | |
Sureshot LaserPinloc 5000IP Check Price | 6th | 1st | 8th | 24th | 25th | 85 | |
Callaway 350TL Check Price | 15th | 21st | 22nd | 15th | 16th | 83.5 | |
Precision Pro NX2 Check Price | 15th | 13th | 13th | 6th | 25th | 83 | |
Leupold GX-5i Check Price | 11th | 11th | 17th | 15th | 25th | 82.5 | |
Voice Caddie EL1 Check Price | 23rd | 4th | 25th | 24th | 18th | 81.5 | |
Voice Caddie L5 Check Price | 24th | 4th | 25th | 24th | 18th | 81 | |
Zero Friction SM Check Price | 25th | 23rd | 27th | 22nd | 18th | 78.5 | |
Zoom Focus X Check Price | 26th | 26th | 17th | 15th | 18th | 78.5 | |
Zoom Focus Tour Check Price | 26th | 27th | 17th | 15th | 18th | 77.5 |
The Best Laser Rangefinder of 2021 – FAQ
Q: Are more expensive rangefinders better?
A: Not for everyone. Keep in mind that a good bit of the cost associated with the most premium units is a result of features that not every golfer needs or even wants. If you’re looking for every bell and whistle the market has to offer, expect to pay more. That being said, there are several lower-cost units that, while not feature-rich, cover the basics every bit as well as the more expensive units. Brands like Inesis and Precision Pro offer excellent products that won’t break the bank.
Q: Do I need a laser with slope functionality?
A: It really comes down to use. For serious golfers, slope technology can help you make smarter decisions on the course. It can be an invaluable tool for tournament golfers looking to learn the nuances of a new course during practice rounds. Golfers who just want to know the yardage to the target and are happy to figure the rest out on their own should consider skipping the slope feature and saving some money.
Q: What’s the best rangefinder for a shaky hand?
A: If you struggle to hold a laser rangefinder steady, there’s really only one model to consider. The Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized “freezes” the lens and allows you to lock on to the target. While the Nikon is on the upper end of the price range, it is well worth the money if you have shaky hands.
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Mike
2 months agoWhat is the difference in accuracy from top to bottom? How many yards off are they?
Alex
4 months agoI bought an NX7 and it is a piece of junk. From more than 150 out it usually can’t pick up the flag. I returned it.
Stephen Brown
5 months agoDid you test any of the rangefinders measuring distance through the cart windshield? I’ve found some value rangefinders either don’t function or the accuracy is way off.
Thanks,
Stephen
Bruce
7 months agoYou missed the mark. Bushnell rangefinders are VERY DIFFICULT to install a battery – starting the threads on the cap is difficult. Long term this will lead to worn or ruined threads and a useless unit. I returned a Bushnell, and bought a unit with a rechargeable battery. VERY HAPPY NOW
Susan
12 months agoI totally agree. I’ve used a tek tek tek scope for the past 3 years. It’s accurate and includes slope.. Not the fastest at pinning down the flag but I know I can count on the distance.
Will A.
12 months agoI’m surprised the warranty wasn’t given more consideration. In my experience with optics in the hunting space, Leupold’s lifetime warranty is a no-hassle, no-questions-asked policy. That alone makes me seriously consider their offering compared to the competition.
James
1 year agoAny thoughts on the accuracy of the MG rangefinder?
https://www.mggolf.com/gps-rangefinders/
Fran
1 year agoIs Nikon the only rangefinder with image stabilisation?
Brian
1 year agoNext range finder review you guys should include TecTecTec. Ive had their products for a few years now and no complaints. Good value and great customer service. Would be interesting to see where they stack up on a list like this.
Susan
12 months agoI totally agree. I’ve used a tek tek tek scope for the past 3 years. It’s accurate and includes slope.. Not the fastest at pinning down the flag but I know I can count on the distance.
Tony
1 year agoEnjoyed the review, well done.
However, “This rangefinder also considers climate. It accounts for altitude as well as temperature.”
Really ? Seems like you mean ‘weather’ … current barometric pressure and temperature are weather, altitude is geological.. “Climate” is a long term record of average weather.
Just sayin’.
Michael
1 year agoNo love for the Leupold? Lifetime warranty alone should count for a lot. I had a GX4i for about 7 years that just stopped working. A couple of quick email exchanges and the sent me a brand new one. Never experienced customer service like that before. Also curious as to how you rank “accuracy”. What’s the difference between 1st place and 11th place. A yard? More? Less?
Dave C
1 year agoYou had better luck than me. I have had a 3i2 for the last six or so years and after this winter, when I put the battery back in to use it for this season, the hundreds place stopped working and when I called Luepold I was told that it is not covered as my warranty expired (2 years) and that the rest of the digits would fade over time, too. They offered a discounted replacement, but will not be shipping until “Q3 of this year”.
I miss, I miss, I make
12 months agoI have an old GX1. I don’t really remember how long I’ve had it. When I play my home course I have a good idea what the number should be and I don’t ever recall getting a strange one. My guess is no more than a yard or two off. For a 6 handicap that is plenty good enough.
Whitey
1 year ago“Tells you what club to hit. Slope, wind, barometric pressure, temperature?” I thought deciding what club to hit was part of the skill required to play the game? Next we’ll be inputting type of ball, club model too, maybe an option to tell it how you’re feeling that day? Where’s the rangefinder that includes green reading? Necessity isn’t the mother of invention, Invention is the mother of necessity.!
Chris Nickel
1 year agoWhitey – quick question – If pulling a club is a required skill, why do we allow players to have caddies? And if we allow caddies, what’s the difference between human intelligence and artifical intelligence?
Anthony
1 year agoChris — Do you think players should be able to carry a device that reads the greens for them? After all we all caddies to read the green for players.
Dave C
1 year agoAnthony, great question
Terry
1 year agoThis is great info. I have the Bushnell Pro XE and love it for all the reasons noted. One suggestion I have for those with shaky hands is to press the button and then sweep across where the flagstick should be. I find it helps me on mornings when I have had too much coffee (is there such a thing?).
Kyle
1 year agoGreat info! In the future any chance you would consider putting a price range column in the product description table? Would make comparing product prices a little easier. Then we could click the affiliate link to see a more specific price if interested.
Sethro
1 year agoHow can the Z82 not have the “Best Tech” if it has built-in GPS with in-viewfinder mapping? That seems like a step above the R1.
Harry Nodwell
1 year agoYou need to look at the Precision Pro R1 Rangefinder.
Pat
7 months agoPrecision pro r1 is a good rangefinder the app is terrible it never works right and about a 3rd of the time I can’t find the course you’re on the rechargable battery sucks last about 27 holes then you have to recharge it should have been regular batteries hell the one in my other rangefinder lasted a year
Walter
1 year agoI’m curious to know what 21st or 23rd or 11th means in accuracy or should I say inaccuracy. How much are they off by, 1%, .1% or 10%? Saying a unit is ranked at any position does not tell anyone anything. Can you be a little specific on a very important metric like accuracy. Otherwise great review and thanks.
Kris
1 year agoAhree on this. First to last, how off were they? 1% at 200 yards is no big deal for most. 10% is huge and should have the laser thrown out.
Mike D
1 year agoDoes battery life factor into the ratings? Mostly curious about replaceable vs rechargeable on something like the Garmin. I went from the old Bushnell hybrid (all features rechargeable) to the newer model (standard functions replaceable, GPS rechargeable), and it’s been a game changer — the fully rechargeable version would not last 36, sometimes not even 18 as it aged.
Harry Nodwell
1 year agoIt does not factor into the ranking because, like you said, as it ages the battery life diminishes. Just like your phone. Everything being equal, a changeable battery will perform better over time than rechargeable unit.