Here we look at the best rangefinders under $100/£100 – laser rangefinders are designed to be easy to use and quick at getting you a yardage. When these handy devices were first released to the market, they were all in the $200 -$400 range. As technology has improved, we have seen a major drop in price.
For the budget-conscious golfer, there are plenty of good rangefinders for less than $100; let’s take a look at some of our favorites and what you can expect in terms of performance.
TLDR
Rangefinders under $100 are accurate to within ±2 yards, but you need to take more care when finding your target. Even with pin lock technology, you are more prone to zapping the bushes behind the green. These are still very useful for casual golfers, but serious golfers should look to spend more.
The best golf rangefinders under $100 are:
- Gogogo Sport Vpro Laser Rangefinder (Best Overall)
- Peakpulse 6 Pro Laser Rangefinder (Best For Quick Reading)
- Mileseey Professional Laser Golf Rangefinder (Best For Beginner)
- Profey VPro X5 Golf Rangefinder With Slope (Best Value)
GoGoGo Sport Vpro Laser Rangefinder (Best Overall)
The GoGoGo Sport Vpro Laser Rangefinder is the best overall golf laser rangefinder under $100. We know that this option comes in just under that $100 mark, but for the technology and performance it provides, it easily earns the top spot.
Accuracy
The measuring range on the GoGoGo Sport ranges from 5 to 650 yards. The accuracy is stated to be within a yard/meter. There is a little variability at longer distances but we found that as we got closer (within 200 yards), the technology naturally got more accurate. More than accurate enough for most golfers.
Features
With these lower-priced rangefinders, it is very important to consider the features like pin locking, slope, and adjustability. Let’s be honest; there is a reason these rangefinders are priced lower than top options on the market, like the Bushnell Pro XE. Some features and functionality are just not there.
However, with the GoGoGo Sport Vpro, we found that the flagpole locking function is quite good, especially from 150 yards and in. There is also an adjustable diopter (focus) to help get the display set exactly as you would like it. When the flag is dialled in, the unit will vibrate.
Slope functionality is as included, and you can turn it off to make this a legal tournament rangefinder. It takes a second sometimes for the slope reading to come up, but it seems to be more accurate than other rangefinders in this price range.
Usability
The GoGoGo Sport Vpro is slightly less compact (taller) than some other rangefinders on the market, but it still fits well in the palm of the hand. Overall you should have no trouble getting the yardage and for the pin to lock-in. When using the GoGoGo Sport, we felt we could trust the yardage we got.
Value
Finding a laser rangefinder with pin lock, vibration and tournament slope mode for under $100 can be tricky. It gets even more difficult when you add in the fact that you want accuracy. Luckily the GoGoGo Sport really checks all the boxes.
Golf Insider verdict
If you are on a budget and want a laser rangefinder that will check all the boxes for the average golfer, this GoGoGo Sport Vpro is the way to go. At longer ranges, you may get better accuracy by spending more. However, for most golfers, the GoGoGo Sport Vpro is accurate enough and far better than using course yardages, or a GPS unit that doesn’t know where the pin is located.
Golf Insider readers can get 5% off when buying direct with GoGoGo by using the promo code: GOLFINSIDERUK at checkout.
PEAKPULSE 6 Pro Slope Golf Laser Rangefinder
Flag Acquisition Technology is something that tends to lack in these lower-priced rangefinders, or it tends to be very sluggish, but it is where Peakpulse really sets itself apart. If you have a need for speed and are looking for an affordable rangefinder, this is the one.
Accuracy
The Peakpulse will measure from 6 to 400 yards with a 6X magnification. We love the fact that this model only goes to 400 yards. Golfers don’t need a 600-yard measurement, and it’s near impossible to verify accuracy over 250-yards with human testing alone. Accurate, within 400 yards is solid for a rangefinder in this price range (±1 to 2 yards depending on distance).
Features
The Peakpulse 6 comes in slope and non-slope models. Although the non-slope version is a bit less money, we would spend the extra $10 to have the slope functionality when you need it. This model features something called a Fast Focus System. There is an adjustable eyepiece that makes it easy to focus on your target.
We’ve used this product over time and can vouch that the Peakpulse 6 has a long battery life, and it even comes with a 2-year warranty. The slightly smaller rangefinder size is also something we prefer over the GoGoGo Sport Vpro.
When it comes to Flag Acquisition Technology, there is a vibrating pulse that ensures that you have indeed locked in on the flag. The vibrating pulse was a little weak, but once you get used to it, you will know that you have the proper yardage.
The speed of this unit is what helps it move towards the top of our list. Some golfers don’t want to fidget with technology during a round; if that describes you, check out this rangefinder.
Usability
For golfers who wear glasses or struggle with shaky hands, the Peakpulse is actually one of the better choices on the market. The unit has no trouble locking in on the flag when you scan on and around your target, and its slightly more compact size will make it easier to control.
Value
Both the slope and non-slope versions of the Peakpulse 6 are a good deal for the money – a rangefinder that is accurate and has slope mode can’t really be faulted within this price range.
Golf Insider verdict
If the size and slightly slower response times of the GoGoGo Sport VPRO is a concern, give the Peakpulse a try. The yardages are quick, and you can trust them – hard to ask for much more in this price range.
Mileseey Laser Golf Rangefinder
The ability to turn slope on and off, and vibrate function are features that cost money. If you are a new player that is not quite ready for a tournament round, the Mileseey Laser Golf Rangefinder could be a great fit.
Accuracy
The Milleseey can read yardages up to 660 yards away. Although this is not really all that necessary, it was fairly accurate, even from the tee box on short par 4’s. Again, we’re taking within 2-3 yards at longer distances and generally within one or two yards of pricier rangefinders within 150-yards.
The flagpole locking technology only starts around 200-yards are in. Again, more than enough for most beginner players.
Features
This Milessey Professional rangefinder comes in two models; one has the ability to turn slope on and off, the other will have slope on at all times. We liked the outer cover of the rangefinder as it was really easy to hold in hand and had a non-slip coating on it.
The flagpole lock is quite good, but it will not vibrate when you are locked onto the flag. For those with a bit of a shaky hand, this is not the best option to consider, as a little more time and accuracy is taken to get the flag lock to work.
If you have already played golf a rangefinder from Bushnell, you know that they are solid, but rather heavy and can be a bit cumbersome. The Milessey almost feels like a pocket rangefinder that is lightweight and easy to carry. Although there is a trade-off in speed and accuracy compared to a top of the range Bushnell.
All models come with a carrying pound with hook, and they are powered by a CR2 battery. Battery life was not quite as long as it was with the Peakpulse, but you still can get plenty of rounds in before replacing the battery.
Usability
The size of the Mileseey makes it easy to fit in your hand and line up your target. However, the overall ability to lock in on the target was just a little harder. With no visual notification or vibration to let you know you have found the flagpole, in testing we weren’t always sure if we had the pin.
Value
The Milessey is really an excellent value for a new player. Let’s face it, golf equipment is really expensive in the beginning, and the last thing you need is a $400 rangefinder to add to the mix. Yes, usability and functionality drops a bit from premium brands, but for a working rangefinder, the price is pretty incredible.
Golf Insider verdict
If you are trying to learn your yardages and want a cheap rangefinder (with slope) to help get you there, the Mileseey is a good choice. For golfers with a shaky hand, poor vision, or a desire to play in tournaments, go with the GoGoGo Sport or the Peakpulse instead.
Profey VPro X5 Golf Rangefinder With Slope (Best Value)
The Profey VPro X5 is not an expensive rangefinder, but for the money, we were impressed with the technology and abundance of features. This is an option worth considering with 6x magnification, a range of up to 1500 yards, and slightly better accuracy than some other low price rangefinders (when used correctly).
Accuracy
The Profey claims to be accurate to about a half a yard. Measuring to within half a yard is challenging in field testing (golf range and course), but when tested against high priced rangefinders, it was giving us the same readings ±1 to 2-yard – which sits within with what we see when testing rangefinders 2-3x the price.
However, we experienced that the Profey can lock onto the background rather than the flag, or give you more inaccurate findings when not holding the laser on your target for long enough. Take note, as this is something that is common with cheaper rangefinders.
The Profey VPro X5 is accurate enough, when used with care, and features very clear optics plus slope measurement, making the Profey a top choice in this price range.
Features
When it comes to features, the Profey V Pro X5 has the longest total range out of any of the options on our list. This is nice to know but let’s face it, when are we planning on hitting the ball over 400-yards?! We only really worked with yardages around 400 yards or less, scanning bushes and bunkers is easy to do and it wasn’t difficult too difficult to lock in with the pin from inside 200-yards.
Another great feature of the Profey VPro is that it has slope mode. It is also a tournament legal option, so you can turn the slope on and off if needed. When the slope is turned off, the model conforms for all tournament use.
The Profey is fast focusing and has textured rubber grips that helps ensure your hand will not slip while using the rangefinder. The vibrating burst that, lets you know you have locked in on the target, is good enough to signal when you are locked onto the flag. Outside of the 200-yard range, it was hard to get the pin lock technology to work, but this is common with lower cost rangefinders.
Usability
The Profey VPro X5 has very clear visuals. When you look through the scope, it is easy to find the pin and lock in on the target. Overall the usability was almost as good as the GoGoGo unit, and this comes in with an even lower pricetag.
Value
The value is where the Profey stands out. With the technology offered for the price, you will have difficulty finding a better deal. We do note, that as a trade-off you will need to take more care when zapping your targets.
Golf Insider verdict
The Profey is one of those rangefinders, we had some concerns about when testing and reading through previous reviews. In our opinion accuracy is sound, but more care is needed when measuring. Don’t buy this model because you want the 1500 yard range; outside of the 200 to 250-yard range, we didn’t find it to be the most accurate. However, from 200 and in, for the price it is offered, this is a good choice.
Honorable Mentions
The rangefinders for less than $100 below haven’t made it onto our list, but they are on our watchlist for future testing. We’ll try to grab them and add them to the list in our next testing batch.
Frequently asked questions when buying a rangefinder under $100
In this section, we’ll cover some of the questions that we are most commonly asked about laser rangefinders in the $100 and under price range. The most popular question we are asked is, “Are these rangefinders worth it?” As always, we will cover this as best we can.
Are rangefinders under $100 accurate?
Not all rangefinders under $100 are accurate. Our picks above are accurate to within ±2 yards but do require more care than premium rangefinders when trying to lock on to your targets.
The general things to look for when it comes to accuracy are flag lock technology, slope readings, and a vibration that lets you know you have locked in. However, the flag lock modes still do falter with the cheaper rangefinders, meaning you will need to check if you have the flag or the bushes behind the green from time to time.
The rangefinders on our list are accurate enough for the average casual golfer, but if you play regularly you should look to spend a little more.
What is the benefit of an expensive rangefinder?
Expensive rangefinders show slightly better levels of accuracy (usually within 1 yard), but critically they are far easier to use. They locate your target quicker and more accurately.
The expensive rangefinders have a few features that the cheaper rangefinders may not have. One of the most overlooked of these features is the cart lock technology. If you like the magnetic locking cart technology, you won’t find it in the lower priced rangefinders.
Some of the higher-priced options feature a mix of rangefinder and GPS technology. You also may notice that the pin locking functionality is much better and easier to pinpoint when you are actually on the pin.
The durability and number of features and options are better with an expensive rangefinder. The good news is that the accuracy for most of the cheap rangefinders is relatively comparable to the expensive ones.
Check out this link for our best golf rangefinders review.
What are the most important uses for a rangefinder?
Rangefinders are great for giving you a yardage to a pin and to trees and bunkers off the tee. However, they can also be really helpful when trying to determine how far you hit your clubs and what your actual carry distances are.
One of the biggest mistakes that amateurs make is they know their total distance for their golf clubs but not the carry distance. When you can hit an 8 iron 140 yards, that is great to know. But if it only carries 137, this is also really helpful when it comes to trying to score.
Use your rangefinder when you practice and play to get the most benefit out of it. It’s also an excellent tool for tournament preparation.
What should golfers know before they buy a golf laser rangefinder under $100?
A rangefinder is a great tool, and these new options that keep coming to the market for less than $100 really help make this an easier buying decision. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind when choosing a rangefinder.
Accuracy
The accuracy of a golf rangefinder has gotten quite good. Even the models under $100 are typically accurate to within two yards. Some of the higher-priced models are accurate to within half a yard, but this really only makes a difference for the lowest handicap golfers.
Range
Range is an interesting thing with laser rangefinders. Some of these models advertise that they can get accuracy from 900 yards away. For golfers, this really does not matter. We would rather have a rangefinder that is incredibly accurate from 200 yards and in than to have one with intermediate accuracy up to 1000 yards.
Slope
Slope technology is something that some golfers rely on, and others will never turn on. The slope technology on cheaper rangefinders is good, not great. For the newer golfer that doesn’t understand how elevation and angles work just yet, will enjoy the slope functionality. Experienced players should have a fairly good idea when to club up or down.
Pin lock
The pin lock technology is perhaps the most essential feature of a laser rangefinder. Pin lock allows golfers to have peace of mind that they are locked into their target and ready to trust the club in their hands.
However, this is one of the features that really alters with price. Cheaper rangefinders can give you the green light, when in fact, the yardage is to an object behind the green.
Longevity
An excellent laser rangefinder should last for five to seven years. Although technology continues to improve, it is not improving at a rate that is fast enough for you to replace your rangefinder each year.
Testing longevity is tricky, even some ‘robust testing’ can’t mimic how long a product will last in real life. Price tends to correlate well with build quality so purchasing something a bit closer to that $100 mark may give you just a bit more longevity.
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Summary
Years ago, there would be no such thing as a golf rangefinder for less than $100. Golfers should take full advantage of this technology and invest in something that is going to help speed up their round and make them more accurate players.
The GoGoGo Sport Vpro stands out as the best overall option because of its accuracy, ease of use, and overall functionality. Even though this is less than $100, it performs very similarly to the models in the $150-$250 range. If you just want accurate yardage to a pin that you can trust and swing with confidence, this would be the model to try.
Happy golfing.
