Golf rangefinders are an invaluable tool – not having to pace off or guess your yardage and being able to get a number you trust within a matter of seconds is enough reason for any golfer to invest.
The only issue is some rangefinders are incredibly expensive. If you are more of a budget-conscious golfer looking for the best golf rangefinder under $200, we have you covered. The great news is that in recent years we’ve seen some great options appear in this price bracket.
The best golf rangefinders under $200 are:
- GolfBuddy Laser Lite
- Precision Pro NX7
- Callaway 200S Laser Golf Rangefinder
- Shot Scope Pro L1
- GoGoGo Sport Vpro
- Nikon Coolshot 20i GII
1) GolfBuddy Laser Lite
The GolfBuddy Laser Lite is our top choice for a rangefinder under $200. The reason this model earned the top spot is its accuracy. One of the major concerns that golfers have about a value type rangefinder is accuracy. After all, what good is a rangefinder if the yardages are not correct?
Accuracy
When testing the GolfBuddy Laser Lite, we found the accuracy to be 99.5% within 200 yards. Consider the most premium priced models on the market are about 99.75% accurate; this is seriously impressive. In addition to being incredibly accurate, we also found the GolfBuddy to be fast.
The measurements come up in about half a second, and the one click scan also provides you with a vibration alert letting you know you have locked in on your target. The vibration may surprise you at first, it is a little strong, but you will know without a doubt that you are locked in.
Features
In addition to being fast and accurate, the GolfBuddy Laser Lite has some additional features and benefits.
We like the slope mode features and the accuracy that comes along with this. Many golfers struggle with learning how slope impacts golf shots, and the GolfBuddy Laser Lite can undoubtedly help you learn. In addition, the slope can be turned on and off at the touch of a button, making it legal for all competitions.
The GolfBuddy Laser Lite comes with a highly functional carrying case. All rangefinders in this price range give you a case, however, some are better than others. This is a sturdy option that does an excellent job of protecting your new rangefinder and ensures that you can easily access the rangefinder when necessary.
Usability
Even though the GolfBuddy Laser Lite has three modes, you can toggle between them with just one click. The model has the perfect amount of usability and speed mixed with its great value. This is also a water-resistant model (tested throughout a British winter) that is both sleek and compact. For the price, we can’t fault its usability – matching the performance of many more expensive rangefinders.
Value
The GolfBuddy Laser Lite comes in well below our $200 threshold, helping it stand out as one of the best budget rangefinders on the market for the price. If you want the functionality and accuracy of the top models without paying for it, the GolfBuddy Laser Lite is a great choice.
Golf Insider verdict
This is our go-to rangefinder for under $200. The features and functionality are very close to the same thing you will find with rangefinders in the $400 range. Golfers of any handicap will benefit from its accuracy and usability.
2) Precision Pro NX7
The Precision Pro brand is very popular when it comes to budget rangefinders. If you have been wondering whether these are all they are cracked up to be, here are a few things you should know.
Accuracy
The accuracy of all the Precision Pro model rangefinders is surprisingly good. The NX7 is their more budget-friendly model, and it is called the Pro Slope Golf Rangefinder. The “play as” distance is the slope reading, and it is almost as accurate as the GolfBuddy, our top choice. You can expect yardages to be within a yard of any premium rangefinder with this model.
The 600-yard range capacity is a nice feature, although not all that necessary. From 600 yards out, this model works well as a scope, but our human limitations mean the real usage is from 200 yards and in.
Features
The Precision Pro NX7 is relatively basic when it comes to features and functionality. The two modes are either slope or standard. Golfers will appreciate how quickly they can get a yardage with the Precision Pro NX7 and how clear the optics are.
We notice that with the display being as clear as it is and the overall shape of the model, even those with a shaky hand can get the number they need. Sometimes the larger models are a bit more challenging to manage if you struggle to keep a steady hand.
The Precision Pro NX7 also comes with interesting benefits like free lifetime battery replacements. The battery will last quite a bit of time before needing to be replaced (1 to 3 years, depending on use), but this is still a nice feature to have.
Overall you won’t find many bells and whistles with the Precision Pro NX7, but that does not take away from its affordability, accuracy, and usability.
Usability
The optics are very clear with the Precision Pro NX7, and the 6X magnification makes it much easier to get your exact measurement. The good news is that you can turn the slope mode off and still use your NX7 in an event. Sometimes with budget-friendly slope models, this is not possible.
One quick note if you do grab this laser rangefinder. Press the button once and release, then hover over your target. Some budget versions require you to hold down the laser button, not the case here.
Value
As we mentioned, there are several Precision Pro models in this price range. The Precision Pro NX7 seems to offer the best overall technology for the fairest price. The bottom line is that you can trust the yardages you get from this, and that will make it worth every penny you spend.
Golf Insider verdict
If the GolfBuddy is not the right fit for you, give the Precision Pro NX7 a try. This brand has earned a strong name for itself in the last few years, and the overall accuracy will help justify the price you pay.
3) Callaway 200S Laser Golf Rangefinder
Not all golf manufacturers get involved in the laser rangefinder industry. Callaway seems to put their hand in everything so it was not a surprise to see this crop up in our review. The 200s is the smaller, lightweight and lower-cost version of the Callaway 300 range.
There are some good features within the Callaway 200s Laser Golf Rangefinder that will make die-hard Callaway fans quite pleased to add to their ‘Callaway Tour Bag look’.
Accuracy
The Callaway Laser Golf Rangefinder claims to be accurate to within a yard from 5-1000 yards from the pin. We found that as we got inside the 300-yard mark, the accuracy was pretty consistent with the GolfBuddy and Precision Pro. There is a Pin Acquisition Technology that Callaway calls PAT, and it allows you to lock into the target quite easily.
Features
When you go for the name brand golf rangefinders, you need to ensure that you are not choosing something that simply has you paying for the logo. With the Callaway 200s Rangefinder, this does not feel like the case. There are plenty of features and benefits that go beyond the Callaway name.
Slope technology is essential, but so is the ability to turn off the slope. Golfers need to be aware that sometimes in the budget range of rangefinders, you can end up with a product that will not allow you to turn slope off. This ends up making it illegal to use the rangefinder at all in a tournament.
With the Callaway Laser Rangefinder, there is an external slope on/off, so it’s easy to see if your slop functionality is on.
The case that comes with the unit does a good job of keeping it protected when you store it in your golf bag and comes with a bag hook, but this feels more of a budget case then others in our review.
We did notice that the flag lock reading takes just a second longer to shoot up, but certainly not long enough to discourage the use of this rangefinder.
Usability
Overall the Callaway Golf Laser Rangefinder is easy to use. The pulse confirmation will let you know that you have locked in on the target and have the correct distance. However, on the cons, the Callaway 200s takes a second longer to display a flag locked yardage and the carry case isn’t the best out there.
Value
To be totally honest, we feel you are paying a little bit for the Callaway name on this product. The overall rangefinder works well, has a longer range than some of the other picks on our list, but is certainly not more accurate.
In addition, there are no extra features to speak of. The only wider consideration to keep in mind is that from a warranty perspective, Callaway is a pretty sound company to work with.
Golf Insider verdict
If you want an affordable and durable rangefinder, the Callaway Laser Rangefinder is a really solid option to consider. There is nothing over the top about this rangefinder, but if you love Callaway and want the peace of mind that comes with their products, this is a good choice.
4) Shot Scope Pro L1
One of the golfers’ greatest concerns when going with a cheap rangefinder is that the accuracy will be below average. The Shot Scope Pro L1 claims to be accurate within less than a yard. We put the Shot Scope Pro L1 to test, and it held up quite well, but not within Shot Scope’s claim.
Accuracy
The accuracy of the Shot Scope Pro L1 is quite good and from our testing ±2 yards within 200 yards. This places the ShortScope below our top few picks, but it makes our best-of list thanks to many other benefits.
One of the things that helps the accuracy of the Shot Scope Pro L1 is how clear the optics are. You can see what you are looking at when looking through the scope, the display is clean and uncluttered and that helps get the best numbers and sense of your target.
Features
The Shot Scope Pro L1 can measure up to 875 yards and features the continuous scan mode and a Targe Lock technology. If you struggle with keeping a steady hand and struggle to lock in on the target, the Shot Scope Pro L1 can help. If you want a yardage to a flag, a bunker edge, or even the trees in front of you, the Shot Scope Pro L1 can do the trick and delivers a yardage fast.
Even better news – at the flick of a switch you can turn slope mode on/off to find out more about the true playing yardage.
Usability
The Shot Scope is lightweight and fits easily with your hands. the buttons to toggle between modes are fast and responsive.
Golfers can choose from either a red or black display for their yardages. This is helpful for those with eye trouble that struggle to read what a rangefinder says. The hard carry case fits the rangefinder well, and it felt as though it protected it when carting your clubs from home to the course.
Value
The Shot Scope Pro L1 comes with a one-year warranty and has a fair price for the number of features. The claim to fame for this Shot Scope Pro L1 is that it is more accurate than other models on the market, but we didn’t find this in testing.
We will note, that Shot Scope said they had sent us an older test model, causing the reduced accuracy. They continued that, newer units do meet their accuracy claims, but at Golf Insider UK we pride ourselves on giving golfers all the details we can when you are trying to improve their game.
Golf Insider verdict
The Shot Scope Pro L1 is an excellent option for golfers looking for a quick, highly functional and easy to use rangefinder. The usability and speed are exceptional for the price range, we really wanted to place this higher, but its current place is based on slightly reduced accuracy during our testing.
5) GoGoGo Sport V Pro
The GoGoGo Sport Vpro falls well below the $200 mark. This will make some golfers nervous, but other budget-conscious players will likely want to look at what this has to offer. If we had to pick the best “cheap” rangefinder, this one would be near the top of the list thanks to its function and price.
Accuracy
The GoGoGo Sport Vpro claims to be accurate to within a yard from 650 yards and in. However, the flagpole locking function only works from 150 yards and in.
As you can imagine, when you go with a less expensive rangefinder, there are some sacrifices you have to make. With the GoGoGo Sport Vpro, this will be that pin locking technology. If you have a steady hand and you are more than 150 yards away, getting your yardage is not that difficult.
Features
The GS24 TL version is a model that lets you turn the slope on and off. This is just a few dollars more and well worth it if you plan to take the rangefinder to your next tournament. With the ease of use and functionality of the GS24 TL, it’s a great tool to have in your bag for a tournament.
One of the features that helps a better rangefinder stand out is the continuous range readings or continuous scan. The GoGoGo Sport Vpro has this feature and will quickly pick up on the target. The pin seeking is not overly active on this model, and you will have to line it up pretty closely to get it to lock-in.
The focus is adjustable (6x magnification), and we had no problem focusing in on the target and seeing the yardages. In addition, the multi-coated lenses will reduce the glare and give you a really bright and clear image.
Overall it’s easy to see through the lens and to get yardage from the distances where precision matters the most.
Usability
The GoGoGo Sports Vpro is easy to use. The model is a bit large, and golfers with smaller hands may use both hands to steady it. If you are a long hitter and are continually hitting approach shots into green from more than 200 yards, this isn’t the best rangefinder for you.
Value
The GoGoGo Sport Vpro is the cheapest model on our list. Although it lacks a little bit when you look at the pin-seeking technology, for the price, it’s hard to be disappointed by this model.
Golf Insider verdict
We love the GoGoGo Sport Vpro for the golfer that does not currently own a rangefinder and is not wanting to commit a fortune on one. If it turns out a rangefinder is not for you this won’t lose much value.
Pin lock isn’t as advanced as other models, but this works well, gives yardages within a couple of yards and comes in at a great price.
6) Nikon Coolshot 20i GII Golf Laser Slope Rangefinder
Nikon is a big name in the world of golf rangefinders, and to find one on a budget-friendly list can be a bit tricky. The Nikon Coolshot 20i GII is not the most advanced rangefinder on the market, but if you are looking for extremely clear optics, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Accuracy
The range for the Nikon Coolshot 20i GII is between 6 and 800 yards. Displaying in 1-yard increments with slope leads to some pretty accurate yardages. However, in the over 100-yard range, the Nikon only claims to be accurate to within two yards. Two yards is a six-foot putt; this is something to keep in mind.
Features
Although there are some good features to the Nikon Coolshot 20i GII, the most important thing to mention is the optics. If you know anything about Nikon, you know that they are a very strong visual technology company that can provide an extremely clear view through the rangefinder display.
For those that have trouble with vision, this is a great solution. The 6x optical zoom provides some really clear images – great for shaky hands. In addition, there is a Focus Diopter Eyepiece that will help you get this set just right for your eye. In addition, the Long Eye Relief functionality is for those wearing sunglasses and standard glasses. Essentially, Nikon doesn’t expect you to take off your glasses to be able to see clearly through the rangefinder.
The first target priority is a good feature to understand as well. The idea here is that the nearest target will be picked up incredibly fast by the Nikon Coolshot. If you can hold the rangefinder steady, it will fire out fast yardages. Thre is no vibration or LED lighting to let you know that you have locked into the target.
Usability
From a vision and stability standpoint, the Nikon Coolshot 20i GII is an excellent option. However, when it comes to easily locking in on your target and trusting the number you get, there are better options. In addition, the fact that the accuracy from over 200 yards starts to waiver a bit will leave serious golfers questioning their number from time to time.
Value
There is no denying the fact that the Nikon Coolshot 20i GII has a great name and the company behind it. However, some of the features are lacking a bit, and the fact that it is less than $200 is probably accurate. As much as we would like to tell you that this is an amazing chance to get a Nikon for less than $200, the price point is right where it should be.
Golf Insider verdict
If you wear glasses or sunglasses and want a quick reading from a rangefinder that will last you a long time, the Nikon Coolshot is a great model to choose from. If you need something with more advanced features and lots of accuracy outside the 100-yard marker, it may be best to choose the GolfBuddy Laser Rangefinder.
Should I buy a rangefinder for under $200 or $100?
We have also compiled a list of the best rangefinders under $100. However, if you can afford to stay in the under $200 bracket you’ll benefit from a big jump in usability. The pin lock functions, time taken to display a yardage and general build quality shifts considerably between these price points.
Summary – Best rangefinders under $200/£200
We hope you now have a better idea of which golf rangefinders under $200/£200 are worth investing in. The good news is that you can get some great technology for less than $200.
The GolfBuddy Laser Lite stands out as the best overall choice on the market. It has quick and accurate yardages, holds up well over time, and when compared to rangefinders that are $300, and more gives yardages that are just as precise. Don’t let budget rangefinders scare you; there are plenty of great options on the market.
Happy golfing.
