Best Golf Rangefinders in the UK: What to Look For

A rangefinder gives you a distance, and a distance helps you choose a club. That is the whole idea, although choosing one is harder than it sounds. The hard part is choosing between laser units, GPS handhelds and watches, and knowing what the Rules of Golf allow. This guide covers the points that matter before you buy.

We have not tested any rangefinders, and we do not rank products or quote prices. Specifications and prices change, so check the maker’s own spec page for any model you are considering. For example, Bushnell Golf and Garmin publish their own product information. This page contains Amazon affiliate links, which are marked as sponsored. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Laser, GPS handheld or watch

Laser rangefinders measure the distance to whatever you aim at, such as a flag. They are direct, so you see the distance to the target you choose, while GPS relies on maps. You must hold them steady and find the flag, which takes practice.

GPS devices use maps of the course to show distances to the front, middle and back of the green and to hazards. They do not need you to aim, although they depend on the course map being available and up to date.

Watches are GPS devices on your wrist. They are convenient and light, although the screen is small.

You can browse laser rangefinders and golf GPS watches on Amazon to compare the styles.

Accuracy and how you use it

Because makers describe accuracy in their own terms, so read the specification on the maker’s page and note the conditions it assumes. A laser works best when you can see the target clearly. In rain, mist or on a windy day, aiming at a flag can be harder. A GPS unit does not have that problem, but it relies on course data.

Slope and elevation

Some laser units can show a slope-adjusted distance. This helps you judge uphill and downhill shots, which matters on hilly courses. However, slope features may not be permitted in competitions. A good model lets you switch slope off. Check the maker’s description for how to do that.

The rules

Under the Rules of Golf, distance-measuring devices are generally allowed, although unless a Committee adopts a Local Rule that prohibits them. Measuring other conditions, such as elevation or wind, is generally restricted in play. The rules are published by The R&A, and your club’s competition conditions may add detail. Always check before a competition. Our golf rules guide for beginners covers the basics, and our guide to getting a handicap explains how competition rounds count.

Battery and durability

Laser units use small batteries, while watches use rechargeable ones. Check the stated battery life and whether the battery is replaceable. A device that dies on the 14th is not much use. British weather is also hard on kit, so check what the maker says about water resistance.

Display and ease of use

A clear display makes a difference, especially in low light, because squinting wastes time. Check the size of the display and how easy it is to read in sun or gloom. Look at the controls too. Large, simple buttons are easier to use with cold hands. Our winter golf kit guide covers cold-weather kit.

Features worth having

• A clear, steady view of the flag.
• Slope that can be turned off.
• A secure case or magnetic mount for the trolley or bag.
• Good battery life.
• A carry case or strap.

However, features you may not need include shot tracking, extra hazards and complicated apps. Choose the features that solve a problem you have.

Mounting on a trolley

If you use a trolley, a magnetic or clip mount puts the rangefinder within reach. Check the mount against the trolley frame, as with any accessory. Our trolley accessories guide covers compatibility.

Where to use it

Since a rangefinder is most useful on courses you do not know, it suits visitors and holiday golfers. Our guides to championship courses and golf in Ireland cover places where distances can be hard to judge, and the Northern Ireland guide does the same. You can browse clubs on our course finder, or use the nine-hole course finder for a short round to learn the device. For practice, see our driving range guide.

A quick checklist

1. Choose laser, GPS handheld or watch.
2. Read the maker’s accuracy statement and conditions.
3. Check slope can be switched off.
4. Compare battery life.
5. Check the display in poor light.
6. Read the Rules of Golf and your club’s local rules.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming it is allowed. Always read the competition conditions, because a device fine in a friendly round may not be allowed in a medal. A device that is fine in a friendly round may not be in a medal.

Paying for features you will not use. A simple unit that does one job well often beats a complex one you never learn, since features add cost.

Trusting one reading. Take a second reading if the first looks odd, because trees behind the flag can confuse a laser. Trees behind the flag can confuse a laser, so aim carefully.

Forgetting the case. A rangefinder in a loose pocket gets scratched, so use a case. Use a case or a mount.

Using distances well

A distance is only one input, yet it is easy to rely on it too much. Wind, slope, lie and your own carry distances all affect club choice. Learn how far you actually hit each club by using a driving range or a quiet course. Our driving range guide explains how to practise. Then use the rangefinder to confirm the number, and trust your own judgement about the shot.

Try your kit on a course near you

Once your kit is sorted, find somewhere to use it. Our directory lists golf courses near York, golf courses near Norwich and golf courses near Cambridge, and you can browse every course we list in England by county.

Where to compare

These links go to Amazon search results:

• Golf laser rangefinders
• Golf GPS watches
• Handheld golf GPS devices

Our terms page explains how affiliate links work on this site. They never change which courses we list or how we describe them.