The explosion of golf technology over the last 20 to 30 years has led to a huge advancement in golf ‘accessories’ as well as golf clubs. Laser and GPS are the two main types. These devices can now do all sorts of things but at its most basic level will give you an exact yardage/meters to any point on the golf course you choose – for example to the hole, the front of the green, a hazard, a bunker or even the group in front of you so you know when it’s safe to play. If you’ve made the decision that a rangefinder will help you with your game then the next question becomes which one to get. To make things simpler though remember that there are basically two types of rangefinders for you to consider – Laser and Global Positioning System (GPS) devices.
So, to help break down the comparison between the two I have listed below the main functions and features for you to consider.
GPS watch:
A fully-featured GPS will provide the most information for golfers, especially when you’re playing a course for the first time. Whatever you need to know, it’s all right there for your perusal. Everything from yardages/meters to bunkers, the entire golf course is laid before you and all without the cost of hiring a caddie. And a GPS will not only give you the distance to said bunkers and water hazards; it will also show you hazards which aren’t visible to the naked eye. Plus, there’s information about the size and shape of the green which can be crucial for good course management.
Laser rangefinder:
Accuracy, accuracy, accuracy! That is the single biggest reason to choose a laser rangefinder over GPS device. Every major rangefinder on the market, is accurate to within a yard/meter, and some promise accuracy to the half or even tenth of a yard!
Another big thumbs-up for the rangefinder is that they can be used anywhere. Every golf course on
the planet can accommodate these little gadgets and you don’t need to worry about downloading in advance to playing. Lasers are also great on the range – you can verify the flag you’re knocking down is actually 150 yards away and not 140.
Visit our Pro Shop and get a closer look to the Garmin S12 and S42 (love the rose gold one) and the Bushnell New Tour V5 as well as New Tour V5 Shift.
Beatriz Jiménez
Head Caddie Master
