Austad's Golf Guide: Golf Rangefinder vs. GPS

Austad's Golf Guide: Golf Rangefinder vs. GPS

If you want to dial in your game to a new level, adding some tech to your equipment is a great idea.  Any tech you end up with will give you more accurate info so that you can make the best choices with club selection, shot type and more.  That being said, with so many options, choosing the right type of tech can be overwhelming.  Have no fear though - we're here to help!  Check out our handy guide to golf rangefinders and gps and when in doubt, stop by one of our awesome stores and talk to a real expert. :)

 

GOLF RANGEFINDERS OVERVIEW:

 

WHAT IS A GOLF RANGEFINDER?

  • Golf rangefinders use lasers to measure the distance between the player and the target, providing accurate distance readings to the flag or other objects on the course. They are typically more precise than GPS devices, especially when it comes to determining distances to specific hazards and other features on the course. However, they require steady hands and a clear line of sight to the target, which can be challenging in certain situations.

RANGEFINDER PROS:

  • Accuracy - Rangefinders give you the exact yardage to every pin.
  • Use It Anywhere - Rangefinders can be used anywhere in the world. As long is there a flag to point at, then you will be able to get the yardage.
  • Great For Practice - Perfect tool to hone your yardages at the driving range

 

RANGEFINDER CONS:

  • Clear Visual Needed - If trees or hills block your view of pin, you won't get yardages
  • Slower Pace - Pace of play can be slower due to "shooting the target
  • Less Green Info - Lasers can't tell you front, middle and back due to shooting a target
  • Not Great With Shaky Hands - Can be difficult to use if your hands shake

SHOP GOLF RANGEFINDERS >>


GOLF GPS OVERVIEW:

 

WHAT IS A GOLF GPS UNIT?

  • Golf GPS devices use satellite technology to provide a comprehensive view of the course layout, including distance measurements to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as distances to hazards and other features. They are often more user-friendly and easier to use than rangefinders, and they can be more useful in situations where a clear line of sight to the target is not possible.

 

GOLF GPS PROS:

  • Variety of Models - Handheld, watch and hat clip - something for everyone!
  • Ease of Use - Turn it on and get instant yardages for every programmed hole.
  • Pace of Play - Most people play faster with GPS due to instant yardages
  • Pricing - More affordable than most rangefinders

 

GOLF GPS CONS:

  • Less Accurate - GPS are unable to give exact yardages to the flag. Most of the time the accuracy is within 5 to 7 yards of the actual distance
  • Chance of Missing Maps - With GPS, there is an outside chance that the course you play hasn’t been mapped yet for GPS. Most major courses are mapped.

SHOP GOLF GPS UNITS >>


f you need exact distances, a rangefinder is going to be a better fit. If you're looking for something to give you approximate yardages that is easy to use, golf GPS is probably going to be for you.

Either way - better data will lead to better golf so you really can't go wrong!

 

 

IF YOU'RE A VISUAL LEARNER, CHECK OUT OUR HANDY INFOGRAPHIC:

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