How to choose a golf rangefinder

A rangefinder tells you how far it is to the flag, so you can pick your club with confidence. We'll walk you through the features that matter, from slope readings to flag lock, so you choose one that suits your rounds.

Which rangefinder suits you?

Options from our rangefinder range, plus the gear that carries it round the course.

Black handheld golf laser rangefinder
SLOPE SWITCH

Options with a switch to turn slope off.

What to prioritise
Club friendly

Golf Rangefinders

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Small handheld golf rangefinder with a rear screen
MINI SIZE

Ultra-compact options with a rear display screen.

What to prioritise
Pocket friendly

Golf Rangefinders

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Compact golf rangefinder with a carry case
MAGNETIC MOUNT

Options with a built-in magnet for easy mounting.

What to prioritise
Within reach

Golf Rangefinders

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Slim golf rangefinder with a matte finish
FLAG LOCK

Flag lock options that pulse when they find the pin.

What to prioritise
Pin confidence

Golf Rangefinders

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Navy, black and red lightweight golf stand bag
CARRY IT ALL

Stand and cart bags with pockets for your gear.

What to prioritise
Pocket space

Golf Bags

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Folding three-wheel golf push buggy
WALK THE COURSE

Push and electric buggies to carry your bag.

What to prioritise
Easier walking

Golf Buggies

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What to look for in a rangefinder

Slope, and when you can use it

Slope readings adjust the distance for uphill and downhill shots, which helps on hilly courses. Many competitions don't allow slope, so check whether your competition or club allows slope mode. A slope switch or tournament mode lets you play by the rules without a second device.

Flag lock you can feel

Flag lock picks out the pin rather than the trees behind it. Models with pulse vibration give a little buzz when they've locked on. It's reassuring when your hands aren't perfectly steady.

A size you'll actually carry

Mini rangefinders slip easily into a pocket or bag. Our RF-3 Mini also has a rear screen that shows your reading after you measure. A case with a carabiner keeps it close to hand.

Easy charging

The rangefinders we checked in our range use a built-in rechargeable battery, charged by USB cable. Top it up before a round so you're not caught short on the back nine. No spare batteries needed in your bag.

Who it's for

Weekend golfers

Quick, reliable distances help you choose a club and keep the round moving.

Competition players

A slope switch or tournament mode keeps your device in line with your club's rules.

Golfers learning their distances

Checking yardages on the range shows how far each club really goes.

Rangefinder features at a glance

OptionBest forGood to know
Slope on/off switchSocial and competition roundsTurn slope off when your competition requires it.
Mini rangefinderGolfers who travel lightFits a pocket, with a carry case and carabiner.
Magnetic mountBuggy and cart usersKeeps the rangefinder within easy reach between shots.
Flag lock with vibrationMeasuring to the pinA pulse confirms you've locked onto the flag.
Golf push buggyWalking 18 holesCarries your bag so your rangefinder is always at hand.

Look after your rangefinder

  • Wipe the lens with a microfibre cloth rather than your shirt to avoid scratches.
  • Charge it fully before each round and store it at room temperature.
  • Keep it in its case between holes so it isn't knocked about in the bag.
  • Never look at the sun through the lens, and follow the maker's safety guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a golf rangefinder in competition?

Many clubs and competitions allow distance-measuring devices, but some don't, and slope readings are often not permitted. Check whether your competition or club allows rangefinders and slope mode before you tee off. A model with a slope switch or tournament mode makes it simple to stay within the rules.

What does slope mode actually do?

Slope mode adjusts the straight-line distance to allow for the rise or fall between you and the target. An uphill shot plays longer and a downhill shot plays shorter, so the adjusted figure can help you pick a club. It's great for practice rounds and learning your course, even if you switch it off in competition.

What's the difference between a rangefinder and a golf GPS?

A rangefinder measures the distance to whatever you aim it at, such as the flag, a bunker or a tree. A GPS device uses mapped course data to give distances to the front, middle and back of the green. Rangefinders are handy for exact pin distances, while GPS needs no line of sight.

How do I get a steady reading?

Hold the rangefinder with both hands and tuck your elbows in to your body. Aim at the flag and use flag lock, which picks out the pin rather than the background. If your model vibrates when it locks on, wait for that pulse before you read the number.

Is a mini rangefinder as good as a full-size one?

Mini models trade a little bulk for easier carrying, and our RF-3 Mini still has slope reading and flag lock with vibration. A larger body can feel steadier in bigger hands. Choose on how it sits in your hand and where you'll carry it.

Know your distance, trust your club

A rangefinder takes the guesswork out of club choice and helps rounds flow. Find everything else for your next round in our golf range.

Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.

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