The TOP GOLF RANGEFINDER FEATURES TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING

The TOP GOLF RANGEFINDER FEATURES TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING

The lasers in golf rangefinders are actually similar, with almost identical power outputs. The real differences of Key models for Golf rangefinders are the following features.

1. Optics

The two considerations here are magnification and lens quality.
Magnification should be between 5x and 7x (from five to seven times as large as the eye normally sees). Less than that and you’re probably not getting the focus you need down the range.
Lens quality is difficult to judge. Coated lenses are generally better than uncoated lenses. Although there are many different coating possibilities, not all manufacturers are aware of this. Good optical components are very expensive, so it is reasonable to assume that one of the main factors that distinguish cheap golf rangefinder from high-end brands is lens quality.

2. Range

It’s important to be meticulous when checking range parameter. Some rangefinders claim 1,000 yards or more, but then give a much-reduced distance for actual pin measurement. The headline figure is an indication of how far the laser will travel, the actual pin measurement is how far it can maintain accuracy. One professional we consulted was of the opinion that no golf rangefinder was really accurate beyond about 300 yards, but that’s actually plenty. How far can you hit the ball?

3. Accuracy

Even cheap golf laser rangefinders are usually accurate to within one yard. Good ones are accurate to within half a yard.

4. Slope and elevation

There are two golf-specific features in particular that are available in better rangefinders. There’s considerable difference between an uphill or downhill target, so better rangefinders offer the additional benefit of slope and elevation calculations. However, these features aren’t allowed in tournament play, so it’s important to be able to switch them off.

5. Display

Most rangefinder displays are either LCD, LED, or OLED. If you’re playing in poor light conditions, OLED displays are brighter and therefore easier to read by virtue of the fact that each individual pixel is lit rather than using a backlit array.

Target acquisition or target lock technology uses terms like “pinseeker,” “flag lock,” “jolt,” or “pulse” to describe enhancements that help you focus on the target more quickly and then receive physical feedback through the device to let you know you’re successful.

6. Battery

Although the power consumption of these devices is relatively low, we prefer lithium batteries over alkaline counterparts because of their longevity.

7. Waterproof

Several golf rangefinders we have seen claim to be waterproof and shockproof. This sounds good, and may be true, but without the actual Ingress protection (IP) level – the international standard for water and dust prevention – it is impossible to judge their degree of protection and compare.

Golf rangefinder performs well in low light conditions, but it will encounter difficulties if the weather worsens. Some will compensate to some extent, but water droplets – especially fog – will deflect the beam and cause random readings. As a general rule, if it is difficult for you to see a pin, so is your rangefinder!

8. xtras

• Protective case: This is a must in our opinion.
• Replacement batteries: All golf rangefinders require batteries, and they’re often supplied, but not always, so you need to check. One company will supply you with a free battery every year for the life of the unit.
• Cleaning cloth
• Lanyard: A lanyard is occasionally provided to enable you to attach your rangefinder to the outside of your golf bag.
• Warranty: We would expect a two-year warranty, which is fairly standard with these devices.
• Mounts or holders: Various golf cart mounts and holders are available at additional cost. Some are from third-party vendors, so you need to check compatibility with your unit.