Updated April 23, 2024. This article was thoroughly audited by multiple golf experts and coaches for its accuracy. You can read more about our rigorous testing protocol here.
One of the easiest ways for struggling amateurs to improve the consistency of their game is by finding the correct yardage for every long distance shot on the course.
With the help of a golf rangefinder, any golfer, no matter their handicap, has the power to get precise yardage readings from anywhere they play.
In our review of the best budget golf rangefinders, we’ll take a deeper look at which rangefinders you should put at the top of your list and what makes them shine in a crowded market.
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Table of Contents
Best Budget Golf Rangefinders 2024
Nikon Coolshot 20 GII Rangefinder
Best All-Around Golf Rangefinder
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Specifications
- Weight: 4.4 oz
- Display: LCD
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 800 yards
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to hold
- Very quick readings
- Lens provides a clear, bright view
Cons
- Doesn’t have a visually appealing appearance
- Somewhat inconsistent with shots over 200 yards
Nikon’s reputation for making great optical devices is further improved by the compact but highly effective Coolshot 20 rangefinder.
A popular value model for weekend warriors, the Coolshot 20 offers up to 800 yards of range, a clear 6x magnification, and a lightning-quick reading that gathers the yardage to multiple areas on the hole.
As we engaged the rangefinder, we found that yardage readings were fast, efficient, and highly accurate from around 125 yards.
Once we got a little further out from the flag, the accuracy dropped just a bit, something not uncommon with value-priced rangefinders.
Most of all, we loved how fast and easy this rangefinder is to use on the course.
While we saw it struggle to grab consistent yardage on measurements over 200 yards, it stayed relatively close to the true yardage within a handful of yards.
We also loved the Coolshot 20 Gil’s recent price drop, which makes it even more attractive for the value-seeking golfer who wants accurate readings on the links.
For the money, this lightweight, rainproof rangefinder from the good people at Nikon is a great option for casual golfers who want to enhance their enjoyment on the links.
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Specifications
- Weight: 4.2 oz
- Display: LCD
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 450 yards
Pros
- Three different color options
- Strong magnet for easy cart access
- Compact and very lightweight
Cons
- Lacks waterproof protection
- Not as durable as we had hoped
TecTecTec has exploded onto the rangefinder scene as a disruptor that offers high-quality rangefinders at a reasonable price.
Their most popular model, the KLYR, delivers premium performance in a compact size that’s easy to carry in your pocket while walking the course.
Once we fired up this rangefinder, we enjoyed its ergonomic feel. Our hands never became tired while using it, as it comfortably nestles inside the palm for a non-fatigue hold.
When measuring yardage, the KLYR offers a bright, clear viewfinder with plenty of magnification. Target lock happens within seconds of activation, and the accuracy is quite good, up to 300 yards.
Even with the strong magnet attachment, the KLYR requires care because its limited warranty does not cover accidental drops.
Some golfers online have complained that the magnet isn’t strong enough to hold onto the cart, but we did not experience that during our testing. We felt the magnet held fine over the course of our round.
Complaints aside, the KLYR is a very good middle-of-the-road rangefinder that quickly and painlessly produces the data you need on the course.
While we wished it were a bit more sturdy, the plastic casing does make it very lightweight.
Blue Tees Series 3 Max Rangefinder
Most Stylish Budget Golf Rangefinder
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Specifications
- Weight: 6.7 oz
- Display: Mono LCD
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 450 yards
Pros
- Exceptional design and appearance
- Fun colors available
- Crystal clear 7x magnification display
Cons
- Carrying case lacks durability
BlueTees’ Series 3 Max Rangefinder dazzles with various vibrant colors and a premium design that delivers a unique appearance.
At just under $200, the BlueTees rangefinder promises a few more features than the standard model, and after testing it, we can safely say that it delivers more than just a few bells and whistles.
First, we loved the expansive view the 7x magnification display provided on the course.
If you play at a links-style course where everything is laid out in front of you, you’ll appreciate the landscape-wide perspective this rangefinder gives you.
Once you lock in your target, the rangefinder offers a pulse vibration to indicate that the reading is complete.
The slope function also utilizes a side switch to engage that important feature while staying compliant with USGA rules for tournaments.
We did not like the carrying case provided by BlueTees. It seemed a little flimsy during our testing, and there have been anecdotal reports that the case has quickly fallen apart after a couple of months for some golfers.
The BlueTees Series 3 Max Rangefinder is definitely worth the $200 as it provides golfers with a very high-quality rangefinder with some style to burn.
GolfBuddy Laser Lite 2 Rangefinder
Best Value Golf Rangefinder
Specifications
- Weight: 5 oz
- Display: LCD
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 880 yards
Pros
- Excellent LCD
- Readings in less than a second
- Quick switch slope setting
Cons
- Needs two hands to keep steady
- Struggles with yardages over 200
GolfBuddy’s Laser Lite 2 Rangefinder offers a nice mix of solid features at a very affordable price. This lightweight rangefinder can take a measurement in just 0.2 seconds and has a range of 880 yards.
Once we got the Laser Lite 2 to the golf course, we were impressed with how fast the rangefinder gets a reading.
6x magnification has become the norm among rangefinders and we were happy that the Laser Lite 2 delivers a clear, crisp image to help you get a yardage reading.
Also, the quick engaging slope function helps find an accurate reading when dealing with elevation.
If you play in tournaments that don’t allow slope use with your rangefinder, the Laser Lite 2 allows you to turn it off to stay compliant.
During our testing, we noted that the rangefinder is a bit on the smaller side, and you’ll want to use two hands when holding it to get a quick reading.
Also, there’s no rubber protector to help stabilize your eye when looking through the viewfinder, which can become annoying over time.
If you are in the market for a durable, very consistent rangefinder under $150, the Laser Lite 2 from GolfBuddy should be at the top of your consideration list.
Gogogo Sport VPro Rangefinder
Best Budget Rangefinder for Big Hands
Specifications
- Weight: 6.9 oz
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 1000 yards
- Battery: CR2
Pros
- Switchable slope technology
- Upgraded clear display
- Powerful magnetic mount for easy access on the cart
Cons
- Processing time can be slow if batteries are low
- Can be hard to find pin over long distances
Gogogo’s Sport VPro, our choice for the best budget golf rangefinder, offers casual players 6x magnification, pinseeker JOLT technology, and the ability to find slope compensation distance in a lightweight, compact size.
First off, when it comes to optics, we were pleased with this slope rangefinder. Not only are you getting 6x magnification, but the company upgraded the viewfinder to present a clearer view of the hole.
During our time with the laser rangefinder, we admired the rangefinder’s ability to engage and disengage the slope technology quickly. This rangefinder is completely legal for tournament play, which we need for our game.
When searching for the flag, the unit also gives off a nifty vibration letting you know that the yardage is locked on the viewfinder.
If we have some complaints about the unit, they focus particularly on the pinseeker mode from distances farther than 200 yards. You’ll need a steady hand and a little bit of patience when searching for the right yardage in these situations.
Several times on long par 5s, we had to stop, allow the laser rangefinder to clear, and then search again before getting a read on the flag.
While annoying, we’re happy to report that this hiccup doesn’t often happen with the VPro.
Available for right around $100, the Gogogo Sport VPro earns our top spot for golfers on a budget due to its terrific functionality, fast focus system, and lightweight build.
WOSPORTS Golf Rangefinder
Best Non-Slope Budget Golf Rangefinder
Specifications
- Weight: 7.9 oz
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 800 yards
- Battery: CR2
Pros
- 800-yard range
- Continuous scan locks target quickly
- Extremely versatile, great also for hunting
Cons
- Missing slope technology
- Lacks the smoothness of more expensive golf rangefinders
You certainly won’t find your jaw dropping when you first see the WOSPORTS rangefinder, but looks can be deceiving as this little juggernaut provides golfers with an impressively accurate laser rangefinder at an even more incredibly low price.
Featuring an 800-yard range, it offers outstanding versatility if you need the rangefinder for other uses such as hunting. But its primary function is to find flags and mark the distance.
Considering this criterion, we must say that the WOSPORTS does remarkably well considering the price.
Inside 250 yards, the rangefinder delivers a smooth flag lock that’s accurate up to one yard in distance. Once you hit the flag, the WOSPORTS device emits a vibration that lets you know that the yardage is ready.
If you are a struggling golfer, the WOSPORTS rangefinder is easily one of the best golf rangefinders for its price.
Offering an ergonomic hold coupled with a continuous scan that locks onto the flag in mere seconds, the small rangefinder rides easily in the golf cart or fits comfortably in the valuables pocket of your golf bag.
Yes, this rangefinder is missing slope functionality, and while we hate that, if you are looking for a simple device to help you choose the right golf club, then the WOSPORTS model can handle the job.
Gaialoop Golf Laser Rangefinders
Best Slope Budget Golf Rangefinder
Specifications
- Weight: 11.6 oz
- Magnification: 6x
- Range: 700 yards
- Battery: 1 CR2-3V
Pros
- 700-yard range with 6x notification optics
- Accurate slope adjusted distance
- Vibration notifies golfer of results
Cons
- Issues with battery door staying locked
- Can struggle to lock on the pin occasionally
Gaialoop’s rangefinder offers a wide scope of essential features, such as a 700-yard range, exceptionally accurate slope readings, and a wide angle of view to help you understand the scope of the hole.
With 6x magnification and coated lenses, it also boasts one of the largest fields of view you’ll find in a low-cost rangefinder.
With 7.5 degrees of view angle, you’ll see even more of the hole as you step up to find the distance of your next shot.
We love rangefinders with continuous scans because they work more efficiently in getting you the result. We’re happy to report that the Gaialoop’s continuous scanning helps minimize the time you need to look through a viewfinder.
Another helpful feature of the Gaialoop rangefinder is that the interior is protected by a waterproof outer shell that keeps the rain and moisture out for long-lasting protection.
Probably the biggest complaint we had with the Gaialoop involved the design of the battery door.
Strangely, once we checked the battery area, we had problems keeping the door shut, something other golfers have expressed as a problem with this model.
However, if you are looking for the best budget golf rangefinders with slope technology at a low price, the Gaialoop rangefinder certainly can make the argument.
For less than $70, it offers exceptional performance on the golf course.
How We Tested the Golf Rangefinders
When testing rangefinders for our best budget rangefinder list, we account for several factors to ensure that any product we recommend will provide an exceptional performance on the golf course.
Most importantly, any rangefinder you purchase should be highly accurate.
With today’s current radar technology, golf rangefinders can pinpoint a spot on the hole and provide a yardage that’s within one yard of the true distance.
We would measure the distance between a tee box and a landmark on the course, then use a rolling yardage wheel to check against that rangefinder reading.
To make our best golf rangefinder list, rangefinders would have to consistently get within two yards. A rangefinder that offers inconsistent readings can lead to poor shots on the course.
We also test other features such as magnification, lens power, ergonomic hold, and how quickly the rangefinder can lock onto a target.
The best rangefinders on the market are comfortable to hold and provide fast yardage readings to help you keep pace with play.
Any rangefinder you purchase should speed up play due to its efficiency. They help you find your club faster and keep your day on the links running smoothly.
When testing, we place a big emphasis on the rangefinder’s speed and ease of use.
How to Choose the Best Golf Rangefinders
Accuracy
When evaluating accuracy in a budget golf rangefinder, you are looking for a reading that provides accurate measurements of the distance from your ball to the target within one yard.
Most, if not all, budget golf rangefinders offer this capability.
But be forewarned, if you are using a rangefinder without slope, your mileage may vary on how accurate even the best cheap golf rangefinder is on the course.
Magnification
Industry standard usually provides 6x magnification through the viewfinder to help you clearly see the terrain, fairway, or green shape ahead.
However, most cheap golf rangefinders do not offer magnification in their device. As with the slope function, finding a rangefinder with 6x magnification will cost you more money.
Higher priced rangefinders, such as anything from the Blue Tees Golf Series line of rangefinders, offer tremendous magnification power to help you see closer to the landing area with crystal clear clarity.
Slope Technology
In slope mode, rangefinders can consider the elevation changes to determine the distance. A slope feature can usually be activated by a switch along the side of the device.
When looking into the rangefinder, you will find two different yardages in slope mode.
The first could be the actual distance without accounting for elevation, but the slope measurement will give you the accurate yardage for what you need to hit.
In most amateur golf tournament play, you are not allowed to use the slope mode for distance measuring, so please consider this if you regularly play in sanctioned events.
Optics
With even the best budget golf rangefinders, the optics might not be as crisp and clear as you’d find with a higher-priced laser rangefinder.
But that doesn’t mean that a budget rangefinder can’t offer sharp optics that help you get a sense of the upcoming terrain, especially when dealing with uphill and downhill shots.
Of course, it helps if your laser rangefinder has magnification, but if it doesn’t, finding an accurate golf laser rangefinder with a clear view of the hole and its surroundings certainly puts you ahead of most golfers.
Waterproofing
Due to the cost, you can expect to find that some budget golf rangefinders do not include waterproofing with their unit.
Rangefinders on our list, such as the AOFAR GX-2S, offer outstanding waterproof protection, allowing you to get the yardage you need even in rainy conditions.
These waterproof budget golf rangefinders are a great choice if you regularly play in wet climates year-round.
Strength
When we talk about strength, we typically refer to the laser rangefinder’s ability to find the exact distance quickly.
Whether the device utilizes a pin lock feature or a progressive scan mode, having the power to run through that process quickly helps you get to the task of hitting your shot.
There’s nothing worse on the golf course than slow play, and the laser rangefinder offers the simplest way to jump start your game and reduce the time between shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best inexpensive golf range finder?
The best inexpensive golf rangefinder is the Gogogo Sport VPro.
Built with a magnetic mount that easily attaches to the golf cart for quick access, it also offers precise flag readings up to 300 yards and a dynamic slope function that gives you precise yardage no matter what elevation you are dealing with on the course.
Are budget rangefinders any good?
Yes, a budget golf rangefinder can be worth your money.
For essentially the cost of a green fee at a nice course, rangefinders can eliminate the guessing game of how far your ball is from the green, the hole, or any hazards you’d like to avoid.
A cheap golf rangefinder can change how you see the course, which is a huge game-changer for struggling golfers.
What is the best rangefinder for the money?
The TecTecTec VPro500 is our choice for the best budget golf rangefinders for the money.
Offering up to 540 yards of range, the VPro500 delivers highly accurate readings up to a yard. It is also incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry in your golf bag.
With an ultra-clear eyepiece, the VPro500 offers exceptional performance.
How much should I pay for a golf rangefinder?
If you are a casual player, you can pay anywhere from $60 to $100 for a rangefinder that will last you many, many years.
Most rangefinders do a great job at measuring distance with accuracy, but if you want to gain that extra edge, find a laser rangefinder with slope switch technology.
The slope reading allows you to measure your shot with the elevation considered.
Check this video to get an idea of how to use a golf rangefinder and how it works:
