Golf Watch vs Rangefinder: A Hole-in-One Comparison!

What I found when deciding on whether to go for a Golf Watch vs Rangefinder really comes down to what you prefer, what you need, and how much you’re willing to spend.

Both gadgets serve the same purpose in golf, giving you distance measurements all across the course, but they do have their own unique features and benefits.

Whats The Difference Between a Golf Watch & Rangefinder

Golf Watch:

1. Wearable Convenience: A golf watch is worn on your wrist like a regular watch, making it easily accessible without needing to carry an extra device.
2. GPS Technology: Golf watches use GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to calculate distances to various points on the course, including the front, middle, and back of the greens, hazards, and bunkers.
3. Course Mapping: Many golf watches come preloaded with course maps for thousands of courses, and they can automatically detect which course you’re on.
4. Score Tracking: Some golf watches offer score tracking features, allowing you to input your scores and track your performance over time.
5. No Additional Costs: Once you purchase a golf watch, there are typically no additional costs for course data or subscription fees.

Rangefinder:

1. Pinpoint Accuracy: Rangefinders offer extremely precise distance measurements to specific targets, such as the flagstick. They are often favored by more serious golfers for their accuracy.
2. No Course Mapping Required: Rangefinders do not require preloaded course maps or GPS signals. You can use them on any golf course without the need for updates.
3. Quick Measurements: Rangefinders provide quick, real-time distance readings with the push of a button, allowing you to get precise yardages on-demand.
4. No Need for Charging: Rangefinders usually operate on batteries, so there’s no need to worry about recharging.

Key Considerations:

1. Cost: Golf watches tend to be more affordable upfront, while rangefinders can be more expensive, especially if you opt for a high-end model.
2. Ease of Use: Golf watches are generally easier to use and require minimal setup, whereas rangefinders may take a bit of practice to aim accurately.
3. Personal Preference: Some golfers prefer the simplicity and convenience of a golf watch, while others appreciate the pinpoint accuracy of a rangefinder.
4. Local Rules: Check with the golf courses you play at regularly. Some courses may have specific rules or restrictions on the use of rangefinders or GPS devices.

Ultimately, it all boils down to your individual needs and preferences when deciding between a golf watch and a rangefinder device. If you’re all about ease of use, course mapping, and nifty features like score tracking, a golf watch might be right up your alley. Related- Can you use a hunting rangefinder for golf?

On the other hand, if you’re all about precise distance measurements and don’t mind a bit of extra setup, then a rangefinder could be your jam. Some golfers even use both devices, depending on the situation and what floats their boat. It’s all about finding what works best for you!

Our Top Pick Rangefinders & Golf Watches

Best Overall – Garmin Approach S62:

Specification	Details
Display	1.3-inch touchscreen color display
GPS	High-sensitivity GPS and GLONASS
Preloaded Courses	Over 41,000 worldwide courses
Distances	Front, middle, back of greens, hazards, more
Battery Life	Up to 20 hours in GPS mode, 14 days as a watch
Features	Scorecard, virtual caddy, smart notifications
Reviews	Excellent user reviews for accuracy and features

Best Budget – Garmin Approach S10:

Specification	Details
Display	1.3-inch monochrome display
GPS	High-sensitivity GPS
Preloaded Courses	Over 41,000 worldwide courses
Distances	Front, middle, back of greens, hazards
Battery Life	Up to 12 hours in GPS mode
Features	Scorecard, auto hole transition, simple design
Reviews	Positive feedback for affordability and accuracy

Best Reviews – Apple Watch Series 7 (with Golf Apps):

Specification	Details
Display	Retina LTPO OLED display
GPS	Built-in GPS
Golf Apps	Third-party apps like Golfshot, Hole19, etc.
Distances	Customizable with golf GPS apps
Battery Life	Up to 18 hours with golf GPS use
Features	Fitness tracking, notifications, app ecosystem
Reviews	Highly-rated for versatility and app options

Best Rangefinders

Best Overall – Bushnell Pro X3:

Specification	Details
Magnification	6x
Range	5-1,300 yards
Display	Vivid Display Technology
Slope Mode	Yes (can be disabled for tournament play)
Water Resistance	IPX7-rated (rainproof)
Reviews	Top-rated for accuracy and build quality

Best Budget – TecTecTec VPRO500:

Specification	Details
Magnification	6x
Range	540 yards
Display	Clear, multilayered optics
Slope Mode	No (tournament legal)
Water Resistance	Not specified
Reviews	Highly affordable with positive user feedback

Best Reviews – Nikon Coolshot Pro Stabilized:

Specification	Details
Magnification	6x
Range	8-1,200 yards
Display	OLED display
Slope Mode	Yes (can be disabled for tournament play)
Water Resistance	Not specified
Reviews	Praised for image stabilization and accuracy

These are just a few options for golf watches and rangefinders, but there are loads of other models out there on the market. The best choice for me will depend on what I actually need, how much I want to spend, and what I really like.

Pros & Cons

Pros of Golf Watches:

Aspect	Details
Wearable Convenience	Worn like a regular watch, easy to access
GPS Technology	Calculates distances to various points on the course
Course Mapping	Preloaded with course maps for thousands of courses
Score Tracking	Some models offer score tracking features
No Additional Costs	Typically, no additional fees after purchase

Cons of Golf Watches:

Aspect	Details
Accuracy Limitation	May not provide the same pinpoint accuracy as rangefinders
Battery Life	Require recharging or frequent battery changes
Cost	Some high-end models can be pricey

Pros of Rangefinders:

Aspect	Details
Pinpoint Accuracy	Offers extremely precise distance measurements
No Course Mapping	No need for preloaded course maps or GPS signals
Quick Measurements	Provides real-time distance readings with a button press
No Charging Needed	Operates on batteries, eliminating the need for recharging

Cons of Rangefinders:

Aspect	Details
Additional Device	Requires carrying an extra device
Setup Learning Curve	May take practice to aim accurately
Potential Local Rules	Some courses may have restrictions

What The Professionals Think

“I was in the right rough on 10 yesterday, so you know, it’s a funky angle to that back left pin and my rangefinder got about 6 yards different than what we had come up with,” Simpson said. “I was one of those old school guys thinking we’re going to need both numbers still, it’s going to slow down play, but I actually do think it’s been a good thing. The more we did it each round, the more I like it.”

Jordan Spieth

Jordan Spieth agreed with Simpson’s assessment. Source NBC Sports

GPS vs. Rangefinder Final Distinction

Technology is truly incredible. It offers a plethora of options to assist you in determining your goals. It’s simply a matter of finding the one that aligns with your specific needs.

Depending on your circumstances, it’s not limited to just one option. Numerous golfers utilize either a laser or a basic GPS watch on their home course, and opt for an app or a handheld device when they’re on the go.

Some even combine both approaches simultaneously: leveraging the handheld to assess the layout and layup, and relying on the laser for their approach shot. With the affordability of new technology, doubling up becomes a practical choice.