It’s a worse feeling—to get out onto the first tee only to discover that your rangefinder is dead. If you’ve invested in a good rangefinder, you will need a replacement battery, and there are different brands to opt for.
But the goal is to ensure the unit remains fully powered throughout your round of golf. Duracell and Panasonic are the top brands that come to mind. However, picking the right battery requires knowing the particular model that works for your device.
Here is the list of my top 4 recommended batteries for golf rangefinders and why I recommend them, in case you’re in a hurry:
- The best rangefinder battery of all time: Panasonic CR2 Rangefinder Replacement Batteries (2PK)
- Best value for money rangefinder batteries: Duracell CR2 High Power Lithium Batteries
- Best budget rangefinder battery: Shockli 3V CR2 Lithium Battery, 1000mAh
- The Best CR123A Rangefinder Battery: Surefire CR123A Lithium Battery
I have tested, reviewed, and ranked these batteries based on long-lasting power, stable voltage output, quick recharge time, and temperature resistance.
After using the Bushnell Tour V3 rangefinder for a while, I realized it sucks through batteries (a separate review is coming up soon). Unfortunately, the CR2 3V battery in this device is pretty expensive to buy in retail.
This prompted me to research where to buy rangefinder batteries, and I realized it’s a common problem among many rangefinder owners.
During my research and testing, I found the above four batteries best for golf rangefinders. However, they are all built with unique selling points. Before buying a particular battery brand, you must know what batteries work with your rangefinder model.
First, Know Your Rangefinder Battery Type
“What kind of battery is used in a golf rangefinder?” is a popular question when looking for the best replacement batteries to buy for their device. Both expensive and affordable rangefinders for golf (or even hunting) use rechargeable lithium-ion or non-rechargeable alkaline/lithium batteries.
Here are the popular batteries found in golf rangefinders, their unique purpose, and how to determine which one is used in your device:
Rangefinder battery types | Purpose | How to Identify Rangefinders | Rangefinder Models That Use It |
CR2 3V Lithium | Longlasting, lightweight, and quick charging | Check the battery compartment or user manual for battery-type information. | Bushnell Pro XE, Nikon Coolshot Pro, Precision NX10, TecTecTec KLYR |
CR123A Lithium | Powerful, temperature-resistant, long shelf life | Check the battery compartment or user manual for battery-type information. | Bushnell Pro X7, Pro X7 Slope, Pro 1M, 1M Slope |
AAA Alkaline | Affordable, easy to replace, and easily available | Check the battery compartment or user manual for battery-type information. | Gogogo Sport Vpro GS24, GS03 |
Rechargeable Lithium-ion | Eco-friendly, fast charging, and consistent performance | Check the battery compartment or user manual for battery-type information. | Wosport Rechargeable, REVASRI NKG, MiLESSEY GPF12, and Bozily BL-X3 |
Best Battery for a Golf Rangefinder: Full Review
CR2 3V lithium batteries are common in rangefinders, but some work with CR123A lithium types. So, if you’re looking to buy our replacement, here is my full review of the top five best options on the market:
1. Panasonic CR2 Rangefinder Replacement Batteries (2PK): Best Overall
Panasonic CR2 Rangefinder Replacement Batteries (2PK)
$15
- 800mAh capacity CR2 batteries suitable for various rangefinders.
- Decent shelf life, making it convenient for long-term use.
- Virtually invisible self-discharge rate, less than 1% annually, ensuring reliable performance.
- Versatile compatibility with brands like Bushnell, Leupold, and Callaway.
PRICE: $15
The Panasonic CR2 Rangefinder Replacement Batteries pack of 2 tops my recommendations for the best replacement batteries for golf rangefinders. It comes at a fantastic price.
These 800mAh CR2 batteries have been a game-changer for my Tour V3. What sets it apart is the virtually invisible self-discharge rate, which is less than 1% annually.
This means you can rely on it whenever needed without worrying about constant replacements. Plus, it’s versatile enough to work as a Leupold rangefinder battery.
This 3-volt lithium CR2 battery pack is compatible with Bushnell, Leupold, and Callaway brands. But always check your device to ensure you are ordering the correct battery style.
What I like about this battery
- Amazing temperature resistance
- Reasonable price
- Decent shelf life
What I don’t like about this battery
- It’s not a rechargeable battery, but it stands the test of time.
2. Duracell CR2 High Power Lithium Batteries: Best Value for Money
Duracell CR2 High Power Lithium
$14
- 10-year storage guarantee, ensuring reliability over an extended period.
- Non-rechargeable but performs well with 780mAh capacity.
- Tested against safety measures for quality assurance.
- Strong reputation in the market for its performance.
PRICE: $14
These high-powered CR2 batteries offer long-lasting performance, ensuring your rangefinder runs smoothly without interruptions.
Even better, they come with a 10-year storage guarantee, so you can stock up with confidence, knowing they’ll be reliable whenever you need them. Plus, they’re compatible with various devices, making them versatile and convenient.
There are no rechargeable CR2s of these types, but they perform well. With 780 mAh, these batteries are tested against safety measures.
What I like about this battery
- It works like most other higher-end batteries.
- Strong reputation performance-wise in the market space
What I don’t like about this battery
- None so far.
3. Shockli 3V CR2 Lithium Battery, 1000mAh, Best Budget-Friendly
Shockli 3V CR2 Lithium Battery
$9 for 4 Pieces
- Effective performance at 800mAh, enhanced by PTC protection
- Affordable, with four batteries available for under $9.
- Small and lightweight
PRICE: $9 for 4 pieces
For value for money, Shockli CR3 batteries are the clear winners. While they’re advertised as having a 1000 mAh capacity, most CR2 batteries only offer 800 mAh.
What sets Shockli CR3 batteries apart is their excellent performance at 800 mAh, combined with PTC protection. This feature proved invaluable during your rangefinder use in harsh weather conditions.
What truly makes these batteries a steal is the price point—four batteries for under $9! I used them extensively for golf and hunting in the early morning, and they performed admirably.
What I like about this battery
- Nice packaging with the bag.
- The battery is small and lightweight.
- Cheap
What I don’t like about this battery
- It’s not rechargeable.
- It is not ideal for higher-end rangefinders.
4. Surefire CR123A Lithium Battery: The Best CR123A Rangefinder Battery
Surefire CR123A
$6
- 10-year shelf life for extended usability.
- High-performance batteries optimized for high-drain use in flashlights.
- Ideal for rangefinders with good contact surfaces and a proper charge.
Price: $6 for two packs
Golf rangefinders like the Bushnell Pro X7, Pro X7 Slope, Pro 1M, and 1M Slope use CR123A batteries. While I don’t have these models, I researched user reviews extensively and realized that the battery boasts a wide temperature tolerance.
I only bought it for a 5-month test. Remarkably, it showed no signs of leakage after a month of inactivity, maintaining its peak performance.
This battery’s ability to withstand extreme humidity sets it apart as the best rangefinder companion.
What I like about this battery
- High-performance batteries optimized for high-drain use in flashlights
- 10-year shelf life
- Good contact surfaces were received with a proper charge!
- Wide temperature tolerance
- Built-in heat and fault (short-circuit) protection
- Made in the USA to SureFire specifications
What I don’t like about this battery
- It’s still not rechargeable.
How Long Will A CR2 Battery Last In A Rangefinder?
CR2 batteries have a capacity of around 800-1000 mAh, which should last for several months to a year of average use in a rangefinder.
However, the battery life may be shorter if you frequently use features like image stabilization or shoot in cold conditions.
In other words, the lifespan of a CR2 battery in a rangefinder can vary depending on how often you use the device and the specific model of the rangefinder.
This is why carrying spare batteries for extended outings is ideal so you can be sure your rangefinder remains operational throughout your round of golf.
Wrapping Up
Whether you use a cheap or expensive rangefinder model, it is still possible to experience battery issues, requiring you to buy a replacement one.
While pursuing new batteries, I am happy I encountered a few options that performed excellently well. I am also glad that I can review and recommend them to you; suppose you’re also looking for a good rangefinder battery.
It is worth mentioning that the one I enjoyed so much is the Panasonic CR2 Rangefinder Replacement Batteries (2PK), which is why it ranks first in this review.
Whichever option you eventually settle for, ensure it has (or promises) a longer lifespan. Good luck!