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

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.

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.

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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