Knowing exactly how far you are from the flag, the front of the green or the bunker you need to carry changes the way you play golf. Guessing distances from yardage markers and sprinkler heads works, but it is slow and often inaccurate. Distance-measuring devices take the guesswork out of every shot — and for most golfers, they are the most useful piece of technology they can buy.
But which type should you choose? Laser rangefinders, GPS watches, handheld GPS units and smartphone apps all promise accurate yardages, yet they work in very different ways. This guide explains how each one works, what they are good and bad at, the rules on using them and how to choose the right device for your game and budget.
Why use a distance device?
- Better club selection. Accurate distances help you choose the right club. See club selection.
- Faster play. No pacing from sprinkler heads or searching for markers.
- Confidence. Commit to the shot when you know the number.
- Course knowledge. See where hazards are and how far they are to carry.
- Learning your distances. Measure your own shots to build a reliable yardage chart.
Laser rangefinders
How they work
A laser rangefinder fires a laser beam at a target — usually the flagstick — and measures how long the light takes to bounce back. It then calculates the distance, typically accurate to within a yard.
Features to look for
- Flag-lock or pin-seeking technology — prioritises the nearest target, so you get the flag rather than the trees behind it.
- Vibration or audio confirmation when the flag is locked.
- Magnification — usually around six times.
- Slope function with an on/off switch for competitions.
- Clear display that is readable in bright sunshine.
- Stabilisation for steady readings.
- Water resistance.
- Magnetic mount to attach to a cart.
Pros
- Precise distance to the exact flag position.
- Measures anything you can see: bunkers, trees, layup points.
- No subscriptions or course downloads.
- Works on any course in the world.
Cons
- Needs a clear line of sight — no help on blind shots.
- Requires a steady hand, which can be tricky with nerves or tremors.
- Only one distance at a time.
- Batteries need replacing or recharging.
GPS devices
How they work
GPS devices use satellite positioning to locate you on a pre-mapped course. They calculate distances to the front, middle and back of the green, plus hazards and layup points.
Types of GPS device
GPS watches
Worn on the wrist, showing distances at a glance. Many also track steps, heart rate, scores and shots.
Handheld GPS units
Small devices that clip to your bag, belt or cart. Larger screens often show hole maps.
Smartphone apps
Turn your phone into a GPS device. Many are free; premium versions add features. See golf apps and online tools.
Cart-mounted and speaker units
Some devices clip to a cart or bag and read out distances.
Features to look for
- Course coverage — check that your regular courses are mapped.
- Front, middle and back distances.
- Hazard and layup distances.
- Green view with the ability to move the pin position.
- Battery life of at least 18 holes — ideally two or three rounds.
- Automatic hole advance.
- Score and statistics tracking.
- No subscription fees, or clear subscription costs.
Pros
- Instant distances without aiming.
- Works on blind shots.
- Front, middle and back of the green — great for approach strategy.
- Hazard distances and course maps.
- Easy to use with little technique required.
Cons
- Less precise for exact flag position — unless you move the pin manually.
- Depends on accurate course mapping.
- Battery life — especially with phone apps.
- Some require subscriptions.
Rangefinder vs GPS: side by side
| Feature | Laser rangefinder | GPS watch/handheld | Phone app |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance to flag | Exact | Approximate (to green centre) | Approximate |
| Front/middle/back | Measure separately | Instant | Instant |
| Blind shots | No | Yes | Yes |
| Hazard distances | If visible | Yes | Yes |
| Speed of use | Fast once practised | Very fast | Fast |
| Course downloads | Not needed | Needed | Needed |
| Works anywhere | Yes | Mapped courses only | Mapped courses only |
| Ongoing costs | Batteries | Sometimes subscription | Sometimes subscription |
| Extra features | Slope, flag-lock | Stats, fitness tracking | Stats, scoring, social |
Hybrid devices
Some rangefinders now include GPS functions, and some GPS units come with laser-like features. These combine the precision of a laser with the convenience of GPS, though they can cost more. Many golfers simply use a GPS watch for everyday distances and a rangefinder for precise flag distances.
The rules on distance-measuring devices
Under the Rules of Golf, you may use a device that measures distance unless a local rule prohibits it. You may not use a device to:
- Measure elevation changes (slope).
- Get club recommendations or advice during the round.
- Measure wind speed or direction in a way that gauges conditions.
Many rangefinders include a slope function. These devices are permitted in competition only if the slope function is switched off, and many have a visible indicator showing when it is disabled. Check your competition's conditions and use a device with an easy on/off switch. For more, see golf rules explained.
Which should you choose?
Choose a laser rangefinder if:
- You want precise flag distances.
- You play mostly open courses with few blind shots.
- You play many different courses, including unmapped ones.
- You do not want subscriptions.
Choose a GPS watch if:
- You want instant front, middle and back distances.
- You value convenience — glance at your wrist.
- You want stats and fitness tracking.
- You play courses with many blind shots.
Choose a phone app if:
- You are on a budget.
- You already carry your phone on the course.
- You want to try a distance device before buying one.
For beginners
A free or low-cost GPS app is a great start. It shows the shape of each hole and basic distances. As you improve, a rangefinder or GPS watch adds precision.
For older golfers
GPS watches and voice-enabled devices are convenient and avoid the need to hold a laser steady. Large, clear displays help.
How to get the most from your device
- Learn your own distances. A precise yardage is only useful if you know how far you hit each club. See golf statistics to track.
- Measure carry to hazards, not just the flag.
- Use front and back distances to plan approach shots.
- Adjust for wind, elevation and temperature. See playing golf in bad weather.
- Practise using a rangefinder to lock onto flags quickly.
- Keep it charged — carry a spare battery or charge after each round.
Using distance devices to speed up play
A good device should make you faster:
- Measure while others are hitting, as long as you are not distracting them.
- Get your distance before reaching your ball where possible.
- Avoid multiple measurements for every shot.
- Do not use your device as a reason to delay play.
Price and value
Distance devices range from free apps to premium rangefinders and GPS watches. When comparing value, consider:
- Accuracy and speed of readings.
- Build quality and water resistance.
- Battery life.
- Subscription costs over several years.
- Warranty and support.
Distance devices are excellent to buy online, as performance depends on features rather than fit. See buying golf equipment online, and keep an eye on our Pro Shop for hand-picked options.
Practical tips for using a rangefinder
- Brace the device with both hands, or rest your elbows against your body, to keep it steady.
- Aim slightly below the top of the flag and scan across it; flag-lock features usually confirm with a vibration.
- Measure to the front edge of bunkers and water to know your carry distance.
- Measure a point beyond the green to understand how much room you have behind the flag.
- Use landmarks for blind shots — measure to a tree or bunker you know the yardage beyond.
- Check the reading makes sense — if a distance seems wrong, you may have locked onto something behind the flag.
Practical tips for using GPS
- Download course maps before you arrive at a new course.
- Check the pin position on the green and adjust your mental number — front, middle or back.
- Use hazard distances to choose tee clubs and layup positions.
- Keep your device charged and turn off features you do not need to save battery.
- Mark your tee shot position if your device tracks distances, to learn how far you really hit each club.
Frequently asked questions
Is a rangefinder or GPS more accurate?
A laser rangefinder is more accurate to the exact flag position. GPS is very accurate to fixed points such as the front and centre of the green but depends on course mapping.
Can I use a rangefinder in a competition?
Generally, yes, unless a local rule prohibits it. The slope function must be switched off.
Do golf professionals use rangefinders?
Professional tournaments have historically restricted distance devices in competition rounds, though some events now permit them. Club competitions usually allow them.
Is a phone app as good as a GPS watch?
Many apps are very accurate, but taking your phone out for every shot is slower, and battery drain can be an issue. Watches are more convenient.
Is a distance device worth it for beginners?
Yes. Even a free app helps beginners learn course layouts and how far they hit each club.
The bottom line
Both rangefinders and GPS devices make golf easier, faster and more enjoyable. Laser rangefinders offer pinpoint accuracy to the flag, while GPS watches, handhelds and apps provide instant front, middle and back distances, hazard information and blind-shot help. Choose based on how you play, make sure slope can be switched off for competitions — and remember that the best device is only as good as your knowledge of your own distances.
Next, read how to use a rangefinder and golf GPS watches.