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The best golf rangefinders of 2025 can help you eliminate the distance guessing game and help you focus on your next swing.
Year after year, golf rangefinders evolve in capability and technology. Gone are the days of just getting a simple distance. Today’s rangefinders are pulling out all the stops and some take into account weather elements or even make club recommendations based upon your personal launch monitor data. The choices and capabilities are endless.
What rangefinder is right for you? An honest assessment of your needs, budget and technological savvy will help steer you in the right direction.
Our expert staff spent hours on and off the course testing 35 models to delve into the plethora of models available to help narrow your selection process.
The best rangefinders of 2025 will not only provide you with the yardage you can trust but can help you with club selection, course management, confidence and pace of play. It’s time to eliminate the distance guessing game or pacing off yardages from stakes and sprinkler heads or relying on yardage books.
We’ve tested and analyzed rangefinders for years to find the best of the best. The best golf rangefinders always has four key specifics: accuracy, speed, clear optics and an uncomplicated display. In addition, many rangefinders will have additional features that help you determine the right club and shot to hit, show you hole layout, link to your mobile device, keep score and even take photos/video.
First and foremost, a rangefinder needs to deliver accurate and repeatable distances you can trust. If you have a rangefinder that is hit or miss, maybe it’s time for an upgrade. Don’t let your equipment hold you back from your full potential.
Best Overall
Bushnell Pro X3+LINK
Review Score
9.8
Price
$529.99
Buy This If
You obsess over every variable prior to the swing.
With slope and elements' compensated distances, LINK-Enabled technology to give you personalized club recommendations, and Bluetooth capability to connect to the Bushnell Golf app, the Bushnell Pro X3+LINK will deliver. The rest is up to you.
You want consistency and repeatability.
The Bushnell Pro X3+LINK delivers repeatable accuracy time and again regardless of the background or angle. Shoot the pin, pull the club and then swing with confidence.
Don't Buy This If
You depend on the magnet to keep your rangefinder at the ready.
The Bushnell X3+LINK is a literal heavyweight when it comes to the various rangefinders. While it does have the "integrated BITE magnetic mount that allows you to easily mount your laser right on the cart bar", be mindful sheer forces are working against you.
The Bushnell Pro X3+LINK is the “Best Overall” golf rangefinder of 2025. On the heels of last year’s X3+, Bushnell did not rest on its laurels and added more market-leading innovation to an already precise rangefinder.
Tester Feedback
One tester praised, “It’s a Bushnell. What do you expect?” Not only did this tester rave about Bushnell historic success in the rangefinder market but lauded the X3+LINK’s crystal-clear optics. Many testers did note that they felt it was the heaviest of the rangefinders tested.
Expert Take
On the heels of the Bushnell Pro X3+, the Pro X3+LINK got an upgrade. Bushnell has “partnered with Foresight Sports to offer LINK-Enabled technology, taking your stock club yardages provided by your launch monitor to give you personalized club recommendations right in your laser rangefinder’s display.” Additionally, the Pro X3+LINK leverages wind speed and direction when connected to the mobile app, elements and slope compensation and a host of other advanced features to get you on target quickly and deliver precise distances.
Runner-Up
Garmin Approach Z30
Review Score
9.7
Price
$349.99
Buy This If
You're looking for a rangefinder to pair with your Garmin smartwatch or other compatible devices.
The Garmin Approach Z30 will "sync the ranged distance to the pin with the Garmin Golf smartphone app or your compatible smartwatch or handheld — plus see a laser range arc that reveals everything in play."
Need to know the distance to the pin, as well as, the carry distance to and throughthe green.
When paired with a compatible device, the Garmin Approach Z30 will let you see through the viewfinder the distance from the pin to the front and back of the green.
Don't Buy This If
You're looking for a rangefinder with a chargeable power source.
Even though the Garmin Approach Z30 does not have a rechargeable power supply, Garmin says you "can get up to 1 year of play with a replaceable battery".
The Garmin Approach Z30 is the “Runner-Up” for best golf rangefinder of 2025. Not only is the Z30 accurate, but it will pair with a multitude of smartwatches and other compatible devices to make your experience on the links all the more enjoyable.
Tester Feedback
Some testers reported they didn’t know Garmin made rangefinders in addition to GPS devices. The surprise quickly faded as each noted the Z30’s bright optics, the Garmin app compatibility and red crosshair and display. One loved that the fact that the Garmin Approach Z30 would also communicate with his Garmin GPS golf watch. He felt he had the best of both worlds.
Expert Take
Besides GPS devices and maps, Garmin does in fact make golf rangefinders, too. The Garmin Approach Z30 is one of two currently available and “and is the perfect companion to your Garmin golf smartwatch or handheld.” When paired with a compatible smartwatch or handheld, the Garmin Approach Z30 will display not only the distance to the pin, but to the front and back of the green, too. Armed with plays like distances and green measurements, the Approach Z30 will have you pulling a club with confidence.
Staff Pick
Mileseey GenePro S1
Review Score
9.6
Price
$639.00
Buy This If
You find yourself in precarious places or limited to cart path only.
With "Ball-to-Pin Tech", the Mileseey "GenePro S1 allows golfers to easily measure between any two points from any location on the course."
You want clear optics.
The Mileseey GenePro S1 is equipped with state-of-the-art optics offering a wide field of view with no haze around the edges to ensure optimum viewing experience and allow you to pick up your target quickly and easily.
Don't Buy This If
You're looking for a lightweight rangefinder.
The Mileseey GenePro S1 is among the heaviest of the rangefinders tested. If ounces count, you may want to look elsewhere.
The Mileseey GenePro S1 is the “Staff Pick” for best golf rangefinder of 2025. The self-proclaimed “first-ever AI-powered golf rangefinder” with pin-seeking technology offers precise and reliable yardage readings with vibration feedback to boost confidence.
Tester Feedback
The Mileseey GenePro S1’s simple display and small circle aiming point stood out among testers. They further noted that the 7.5x magnification and uncluttered display made finding the target and ranging faster. Lastly, the S1’s “ball-to-pin” technology was a hit for those cart path-only days, being able to shoot their ball and then the pin to get the yardage and pull a club.
Expert Take
Even though Mileseey may be one of those brands you never heard of, the GenePro S1 stood out amongst its well-known competitors. The GenePro S1 is a premium-priced offering that may turn some away. While the price is steep, this self-proclaimed “First-Ever AI-Powered Golf Rangefinder” won’t disappoint. Its ball-to-pin technology “allows golfers to easily measure between any two points from any location on the course.” Furthermore, the S1 can deliver putt length measurements to those who are so inclined. The Mileseey GenePro S1 may not be a household name but the optics, display and advanced functions can keep up with many of the more prominent brands.
Best Hybrid
Garmin Approach Z82
Review Score
9.5
Price
$599.99
Buy This If
You play a round with both a rangefinder and GPS and are looking to pare down your equipment, but like the information each provides.
The Garmin Approach Z82 is a rangefinder and GPS in an all-in-one package. This unit is capable of providing accurate distance measurements and hole layout through the viewfinder.
You're tired of subscription-based mobile phone apps for GPS maps of the courses you play.
With over 43,000 preloaded courses, the Garmin Approach Z82 may be the answer you're looking for. Now you can put away that smartphone that dies halfway through your round and rely on the Z82 to give you the information you need.
Don't Buy This If
You're looking for a ultra-clear through the lens display.
The Approach Z82's unique video display may be off-putting to some as it can appear more like a home movie than a clear heads-up display.
The Garmin Approach Z82 is the “Best Hybrid” golf rangefinder of 2025. With through the viewfinder ranging, GPS maps and a host of other functions, the Z82 is a do-it-all device that will have you taking your best shot.
Tester Feedback
Each testers’ first view through the Garmin Approach Z82 was met with nearly the same response. One summing up all the responses in saying “that’s different, its almost like looking at a movie screen”. While the testers took some time to warm up to the display, they quickly got over the phenomenon and raved about the accuracy, views, maps and tech.
Expert Take
Think of the Garmin Approach Z82 as an electronic pocket caddie. With more than 43,000 preloaded courses, green and hazard view, green contour data, “plays like” distance, wind speed and direction measurement and much more, you’re armed with all the data points you need to make a well-informed decision and club selection. Just beware of the phrase “paralysis by analysis.” Let the Garmin Approach Z82’s advanced technology aid you in your decision-making process but realize you still need to make the swing yourself. The Approach Z82 is up to its task. Are you?
Best Under $300
Shot Scope ZR
Review Score
9.4
Price
$299.99
Buy This If
You're looking for a rangefinder and GPS application to enhance your round at a fair price.
The Shot Scope Pro ZR won't break the bank and it's also accurate to boot. Furthermore, Shot Scope claims "golfers can access GPS Aerial Maps of any course in the world, via the free Shot Scope mobile app." Accuracy and subscription-free GPS maps of courses are surely a winning combination.
You can't be bothered with information overload.
The Shot Scope Pro ZR is truly point-and-shoot. The Pro ZR features adaptive slope technology, dual red/black display and enhanced target lock to help you get the distance quickly and keep you on task.
Don't Buy This If
You're looking for a rangefinder that takes every environmental factor into account when shooting the distance.
Even though the Shot Scope Pro ZR may not take into the account the wind, humidity, atmospheric pressure, etc., it will give you accurate and repeatable distances time and again. The rest is up to you and your experience and observation. Sometimes simple is better.
The Shot Scope Pro ZR is the “Best under $300” golf rangefinder of 2025. However, don’t let the price fool you as the Pro ZR is made with premium materials and sports features and performance found in rangefinders costing hundreds more.
Tester Feedback
Testers were drawn to the Shot Scope ZR’s ultra-clear LCD display combined with red/black dual optics for varying light conditions. Furthermore, testers appreciated the ZR’s rapid-fire detection and enhanced target-lock vibration feature found on rangefinders costing hundreds more.
Expert Take
The Shot Scope Pro ZR is a “laser rangefinder made with premium materials designed for golfers who want a robust and high performing rangefinder” well under $300. While sometimes you get what you pay for, the Shot Scope Pro ZR will handle whatever you throw at it and give you the distances you can rely on. With target-lock vibration, built-in cart magnet, adaptive slope technology and FREE GPS aerial maps available on the Shot Scope app, the Shot Scope Pro ZR punches well above its weight class and at a price point most can easily live with.
Best Value
GoGoGo Sport GS91BL
Review Score
9.1
Price
$139.99
Buy This If
You can't see shelling out $500-600 for another top-of-the-line piece of golf equipment.
At under $150, the GoGoGo Sport GS91BL is a true value in the golf industry. It locks targets quickly, features a clear LCD interface, has switchable slope capability and accuracy, too.
You're looking for a rangefinder to use across various sports.
With multi-unit capability and display, the GS91BL will deliver in yards, feet, meters. The GoGoGo Sport GS91BL is at home on the golf course, disc golf course or in the field.
Don't Buy This If
You frequently forget to charge your mobile devices and let them die more often than not.
Even though the GoGoGo Sport GS91BL features a lithium-ion battery that delivers 80-plus rounds per charge and fast-charging USB-C port that reportedly will take it from zero to 80 percent in around 30 minutes, it's still up to you to plug it in from time to time.
The GoGoGo Sports GS91BL is the “Best Value” golf rangefinder of 2025. If you’re on a budget or just tired of spending hundreds on golf equipment, the GS91BL will deliver in accuracy and precision.
Tester Feedback
In regards to the Gogogo Sport GS91BL one tester said it all noting, “If you want the basics with precision and accuracy for just over $100, this thing is it.”
Expert Take
Laser golf rangefinders can range from $100 to over $600. At around $140, the Gogogo Gs91BL is a value-based offering that can go the distance. If all you need is slope and accurate distances without other technological advances, the GS91BL has you covered. It also has a built-in magnet, rechargeable battery via USB-C and is tournament legal with an on-off slope switch. Looking for barebones and accurate at a value price? The GoGoGo GS91BL may be your answer.
Other Top Performers
If you have something specific in mind as far as features or specifications go, here are a few other top rangefinders to consider.
Best for shaky hands or windy conditions: The image stabilization feature helps you lock onto the target even if you struggle with holding it steady.
Best for low-light or variable light conditions: Includes a dual black/red or red-illuminated display, which enhances visibility in various lighting conditions.
Best for triangulation: On those cart path-only days or when dealing with obstructions, allows you to shoot your ball’s position and then the target to obtain the playing distance.
Buying a new rangefinder doesn’t have to be hard. As confusing as it might seem, we’ve narrowed it down to the most important features to make your decision as easy as can be.
Not only do we want to make it easy but we want you to get what you pay for. While rangefinders can be expensive, there are models for every budget and one that may be right for your game.
Here’s what you should look for when you’re on the hunt for a new rangefinder.
Accuracy
Accuracy should be the key factor in your decision-making process.
Precise distance measurements will only help your game improve. Inaccuracy could be the difference from playing your next shot from a greenside bunker trying to get up and down for par or on the green attempting a putt at birdie. Any high-quality rangefinder will have reliable and repeatable accuracy as part of its advanced technologies.
We found rangefinders with “pin-sensing” and/or image-stabilizing technology were more efficient at capturing the distance quickly. Furthermore, many of the rangefinders let the golfer know the distance was captured through audio, visual or haptic (vibration) feedback.
If you’re worried about pace of play, the Flightscope i4, Garmin Approach Z30 and Bushnell line were all very fast. Each provided confidence-inspiring visual and vibratory feedback with target lock.
Optics
If you look through the rangefinder’s viewfinder and can’t identify your target, what good is it?
Rangefinders with good optics should be crystal clear, offer good field of view and provide magnification to identify the details and layout of the golf course during play. Features such as dual optics and assistance in low light conditions should give you a clear view of the target.
While the best golf rangefinders featured auto-adjusting displays, others featured different font and reticle colors, making them easy to see. Other displays, however, may have reticles that obscure the target or washed-out fonts that are nearly impossible to see, let alone read. However, a good option is the Flightscope i4 reticle that is fine and sharp allowing for easy/quick target pick up.
If an orangish-red font and reticle sound appealing, then the Garmin Approach Z30, Cobalt Q6 Slope and Leupold Gx-6c may fit the bill. If these are not to your liking, there are others above in the “Best for Low-Light or Variable Light Conditions” section that may be more appealing.
Additional Features
Golf laser rangefinders are constantly evolving. You’ll notice changes like increased battery life, improved durability, the addition of GPS technology and more.
For some golfers, it’s not enough to simply have an on/off slope adjustment in a rangefinder. Today’s rangefinders are replete with enough technologic advancements to make your head spin.
While most of the best golf laser rangefinder options are reliable, accurate and simple to use, many offer advanced premium features that relay environmental factors, green contours, elevation change, slope compensation, hole/course layout, and other measurements meant to aid the golfer in executing their next shot.
The rangefinder is not the only option you have when looking for distance-measuring devices. The golf GPS or golf watch can also work. How do you decide if the rangefinder is the right choice for your game? It all really comes down to the type of information you want.
Most players who like the rangefinder enjoy just having a single number to the pin or to a hazard.
They don’t want extra data and aren’t necessarily concerned with score or stat tracking using their distance-measuring device. These players are also OK with not knowing the exact distance to the pin. If you think the extra data would benefit you and you are fine with estimating the distance to the pin based on front/middle and back yardages, look at our Best Golf GPS andBest Golf Watchguide. However, if you’re looking to link a compatible golf watch and rangefinder together, you may want to look into the Garmin Approach Z30. On the other hand, if you’re interested in a rangefinder/GPS hybrid, you may want to consider the Garmin Approach Z82 and the Voice Caddie SL3 Hybrid GPS.
How We Test Rangefinders
Rangefinders are tested by our expert staff in our state-of-the-art facility and on the course. Here, rangefinders undergo a series of rigorous tests, using strict protocols to ensure each rangefinder meets our standard before receiving a final score.
Rangefinders are scored based on the following criteria.
Accuracy: The goal is to test the consistency of the distances provided with multiple, serial measurements at targets of various distances and backgrounds. While minor variations of +/- one or two yards were common across all models, some models varied significantly more or failed to pick up the flagstick at all. This was further complicated by flags with busy backgrounds.
Speed: A fast rangefinder almost seems like it knows what you’re shooting prior to triggering the measurement button. A stopwatch was used to to see how long it takes to lock onto the target or flagstick. Some were so fast that it was immeasurable. Others were noticeably and measurably slower.
Optics: The best rangefinders offer a level of clarity, magnification and visual field necessary to easily see the course’s topography and details. Each rangefinder was put through the paces to identify these attributes. While most offered satisfactory to stellar performance, some languished with a small field of view, haze around the periphery, poor light transmission and yellowing of the image.
Display: Golfers first and foremost are utilizing a rangefinder to capture a distance. We evaluated each display to see how prominently the distance was displayed and whether the font and color helped or hindered the effectiveness of the display. We further explored the layout of the display to determine whether is was too simple or overly complicated.
Additional Features: Rangefinders can be as simple as “point and shoot” or so advanced as to give you the slope of the hole, contours of the green, shape of the hole, wind speed/direction, front/middle/back green measurements and temperature, to name few. Each rangefinder was explored to see how these features help the golfer determine the right club/shot to hit. While we appreciate these features, users must be careful of “paralysis by analysis.”
Rangefinder Tips and Tricks
To optimize performance/light transmission, clean your optics/lenses clean regularly.
If you have a feature-laden rangefinder, practice with it before taking it out onto the course and risk holding up the pace of play.
Do you walk? Consider a replaceable battery-powered option and carry an extra battery. If you predominantly ride, you could consider one of the rechargeable models and be sure to take a charging cable if the carts you use have charging capability. Want dual power? The Gogogo Sport GS33C has you covered.
Don’t rely on your rangefinder too much. It may not take into account wind, lie, terrain, bunkers, hazards, etc. Remember you still need to make the swing.
Do you need a top-of-the-line rangefinder with the latest technology and bells and whistles? Price matters and it depends upon the golfer. Some thrive with the extra information and others are paralyzed by information overload. You know who you are.
Take note of key technologies which aid in providing the best accuracy. This includes stabilization or anti-shaking, slope switch technology and general ease of use.
Size should also be a consideration for a first purchase. Looking for a compact, pocket-sized rangefinder? The MGI Sureshot SlimPRO should be a first look.
Best Golf Rangefinders 2025 – Four Key Findings
1. Don’t rely on your magnet.
Most rangefinders have built-in magnets for attaching them to the steel riser on a golf cart. Beware, however, that the steel’s properties/finish and sheer forces are working against you. It’s been proven that “it is five times easier to slide a magnet than to pull it away from the surface it is attracting to.” The next time you go rumbling down the course or cart path be mindful that a sudden jolt could send you rangefinder for a tumble, something probably not covered under a manufacturer’s warranty.
2. Optics and accuracy go hand-in-hand.
While repeatable distances are important, the ability to pick up the target through the viewfinder is paramount. You can’t shoot what you can’t see.
3. Target acquisition and lock.
Rangefinder target acquisition/lock speed vary amongst the models. Most people try to range a flagstick by holding directly on it. However, some models actually work faster by panning to the flagstick. Experiment with yours to see what works best.
4. Features vary immensely.
In looking for a new rangefinder, carefully consider/balance your wants/needs. Today’s rangefinders are capable of more than just accurate distances. Some are full-blown GPS units and some even have applications to make through-the-lens club recommendations. Do you really need all the bells and whistles or is something in between much more suited to your game? Be honest with yourself and your budget.
Best Rangefinders: FAQs
How accurate are golf rangefinders?
Most accurate rangefinders can provide distance measurements within +/- 1 yard and can increase accuracy to +/- 0.2 yards for distances under 100 yards. Can your swing match this level of accuracy?
Do you need a top-of-the-line rangefinder with the latest technology and bells and whistles?
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Are rangefinders weatherproof?
The range of weather proofness can vary from water-resistant to waterproof. Some feature sealed optics making them dustproof, too. If you play rain or shine and in varying environments, do your research and purchase wisely.
What is scan mode?
Scan Mode allows for continuously ranging multiple targets at different distances.
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How can you omit the Costco rangefinder? At just over $100. it is a true bargin.
I used it today and found it bright, accurate, with a buzz locking feature and slope.
I have 3 range finders ranging in price from $35 to $100. All are accurate to within a 2 or 3 yards. I question the need to spend $400 or $500 for the features the high end range finder offers, especially for anyone who can not reliable hit there irons within a 2 yard window.
I have one, but I’m not a big fan. I can laze the flag multiple times in a row and get different readings. Sometimes, it locks on an object behind the flag. This week, I was probably 100 yards out when I lazed the flag. It will tell me 27 yards, so I’m pretty much given up on this rangefinder.
Another year of the “Best Golf Rangefinders” list, same old problem. Without any data provided, at least in terms of accuracy, this list is not very helpful. I see that you note “Most accurate rangefinders can provide distance measurements within +/- 1 yard and can increase accuracy to +/- 0.2 yards for distances under 100 yards,” which is helpful to know. However, what is the difference between the most accurate and least accurate at 100 yards? 150 yards? 200 yards? At 200 is the most accurate telling me I’m 203 and the last accurate 205? Or is the most accurate at 203 and least accurate is at 217? This is what we really want to know. Please, please, please show us the data, at least for accuracy. You have the Bushnell Pro X3+ Link with a score of 9.8 as your best and the TecTecTec USA KLYR as your worst with a score of 8.1. What does that score mean? I see it is based on 5 categories, but how are they weighted?
As Duane commented previously, for most golfers the difference of a yard or two is not going to have any real impact for us. But if your data shows that the most accurate rangefinders are accurate to within a couple yards, even from 200+ yards from the pin while the least accurate is more than 10 yards off, that can make a huge difference regardless of skill level. For example, if I’m 102 yards from the pin what yardage does the Bushnell show? What yardage does the TecTecTec (or whichever is the least accurate) show? How about at 148? How about at 206?
What about the accuracy of the most expensive versus the cheapest? Golf is an expensive sport and if a rangefinder that costs <$200 performs comparably to the $599 Bushnell, is the Bushnell really worth it for the majority of players? Again, showing the accuracy data here is key.
Of all the products you do a "Best Of" for rangefinders should have the least subjectivity in their scores. As you mentioned accuracy is the most important feature for a rangefinder. Without any data provided for accuracy the rankings you've compiled aren't very helpful.
Glad you wrote this all out so I don’t have to. This review especially just comes off like a comparison of the stats on the packaging as opposed to an actual “review”. Some of the subjective things are nice to know, but at the end of the day, the job of a rangefinder is to find the range. I need to know the difference in accuracy I’m paying for if I spend those extra hundreds of dollars on a top of the line Bushnell or Garmin vs some no-name brand.
Also, very frustratingly, they talk about some of the units tested really struggling to pick up the pin, but don’t say which ones exactly. Aside from accuracy, by far the most important feature is the ability to quickly and accurately grab the flag. Nothing is more frustrating than having to take 10 different readings to make sure you’re not getting the trees 10 yards behind the green. Accuracy for distance and pin speed should be front and center in these tests.
I decided to check out the Garmin Z30. Each of the sites listed have the device for a smooth $50 MORE than the price listed, That’s not insignificant. If it’s a typo by MGS, that’s one thing, but assuming the retailers knew this article was being published for the first time today, the price is disgraceful.
Spending $300, $400, $500 or $600 for a rangefinder is nothing more than an ego/look at me thing. They are useless if you are blocked by trees or other objects. Most (99%?) golfers aren’t accurate enough to need to know the yardage within 1 yard. Also, if you can’t figure out what club to hit based on yardage and conditions you probably shouldn’t be playing golf.
I’m old (some may say cranky also) single digit handicap and I find a GPS showing front, back and middle yardages is adequate. Use the middle and back yardages and if you hit it straight you will be on the green. That’s what you want. GPS devices , watches or handheld, can be had for under$200.
Allen Doran
3 weeks ago
How can you omit the Costco rangefinder? At just over $100. it is a true bargin.
I used it today and found it bright, accurate, with a buzz locking feature and slope.