As you improve your game, you get to the point where knowing the yardage becomes more important than just eyeballing it. A random search for a golf rangefinder online can expose you to two sides of the divide: cheap-looking, less-quality options or high-end devices costing your children’s college funds.
But you don’t have to break the bank to get a quality device. I have tested and reviewed some of the best budget golf rangefinders worth using because they are feature-rich.
Here are the best value golf rangefinders, in case you’re in a hurry:
- Best in the overall category: Sureshot Pinloc 5000IP
- Simple design for value: Inesis Golf 900 Rangefinder
- Lowest price: Peak Pulse Golf 6S
- Outstanding clear optics with enhanced focus—TecTecTec VPro 500
- Quickest speed in the budget category: Precision Golf NX9
- The best range finder for shaky hands: Precision Pro NX10
- Lowest price but feature-rich rangefinder: Hawkray Golf Rangefinder
Key Takeaway: I’d recommend the Sureshot Pinloc 5000IP overall. It is accurate, superfast, compact and lightweight, easy to use, packed with great features, and cheap. However, Peak Pulse Golf 6S will benefit you more if you’re on a seriously tight budget, while TecTecTec VPro 500 will be the perfect option if you’re a recreational golfer who wants something simple that works just fine.
Being a golfer with around 20 handicaps and rapidly improving, I have tested dozens of rangefinders. New manufacturers keep popping up into the market with unique features to give the bigger brands a run for their money.
While I’m always excited to review these devices, I’ve noticed a wide gap between less-quality options and high-end, expensive ones like a $300 Bushnell Tour V5. So what happens to the player looking to spend less than $150 on a quality rangefinder? That is why I decided to test and review my top recommendations.
Whether you are looking for a model with a slope or a basic rangefinder, there’s something for you. Here’s a table comparing the features and specifications of the devices to be reviewed in this buying guide:
| Model | Range | Magnification | Slope functionality | Price | |
| Sureshot Pinloc 5000IP | 1,100 Yards | 6x | Yes | $219 | Buy Now |
| Inesis Golf 900 | 1,300 yards | 6x | Yes | €155 ($165) | Buy Now |
| Peak Pulse Golf 6S | 550 yards | 7x | Yes | $80 | Buy Now |
| TecTecTec VPro 500 | 540 yards | 6x | No | $150 | Buy Now |
| Precision Golf NX9 | 600 yards | 7x | Yes | $230 | Buy Now |
| Precision Pro NX10 | 600 Yards | 6x | Yes | $299 | Buy Now |
| Hawkray Golf | 700 yards | 6x | Yes | $70 | Buy Now |
You can see that these are budget rangefinders. But beyond being cheap, they offer great technology. So, no matter how hard it may seem, there’s something to learn before making your final purchase.
1. Sureshot Pinloc 5000IP: Best Overall
Sureshot Pinloc 5000IP
$219
- Conveniently displays the distance for 15 seconds upon locking onto the target, aiding quick decision-making
- The CR2 3V lithium battery provides extended battery life, exceeding 50 rounds of usage.
- Its compact, lightweight, water-resistant, and shock-resistant design enhances usability and durability.
We are talking value and cheap golf rangefinders, but the Sureshot Pinloc 5000IP laser rangefinder may not be the most budget-friendly option. Still, it stands out as a top-quality choice in its market category.
One thing I loved the most about this option while testing is the “Intelligent Pulse Vibration Technology,” which gives a reassuring vibration once the target is acquired. It’s also a good thing this feature can be deactivated. The PinLoc feature conveniently displays the distance for 15 seconds upon locking onto the target, aiding quick decision-making.
Its compact, lightweight, water-resistant, and shock-resistant design enhances usability. Additionally, it comes with a stylish case and clip for easy attachment to your golf bag. Based on my experience, it exceeds 50 rounds with the CR2 3V lithium battery.
What I like about this rangefinder
- For the price, the accuracy, features, and appearance challenges are some of the most expensive in the market.
- Superfast
- Compact and lightweight
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- Despite being under the affordable margin, it could still be expensive for buyers under a tight budget.
2. Inesis Golf 900 Rangefinder: Simple Design for Value
Inesis Golf 900 Rangefinder
$165
- The device offers accuracy within +/- 1 yard and the flexibility to measure distances in either yards or meters.
- Convenient slope switch to disable it for tournament play
- Simple and compact design
From its outward appearance, nothing seems special about the Inesis Golf 900 Rangefinder beyond its compactness.
But starting with the price, the device also has slope functionality and a slope switch to easily turn the feature off for tournament play.
Having tested models like the Bushnell Tour V5 Shift, I can say this device measures up in terms of accuracy and ease of use. The device is accurate to +/- 1 yard and can measure in yards or meters.
What I like about this rangefinder
- It has decent features for its price.
- Simple design
- Super compact
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- It doesn’t have a premium look (an appearance that matches its performance value). It is easy to judge a book by its cover.
3. Peak Pulse Golf 6S: Lowest Price
Peak Pulse Golf 6S
$80
- Excellent value for budget-conscious golfers
- Impressive accuracy, boasting a +/- 0.5-yard precision
- Yardage readings from 6 to 650 yards
I recently stumbled upon the Peak Pulse Golf 6S rangefinder, priced at just $80, and it’s truly a standout among budget-friendly options. Its standout feature is its remarkable precision, boasting an impressive +/- 0.5-yard accuracy, far surpassing the standard +/- 1-yard estimate. In our tests, it rivaled a rangefinder five times its cost in terms of accuracy, proving you don’t have to compromise on quality due to a lower price.
Impressively, the 6S has unexpected perks for its price point. It conserves battery by automatically turning off after 8 seconds, is water-resistant, and includes a durable magnetic closure carrying case with textured grip pads.
What sets the 6S apart further is its two models, both offered at the same price. The “No Slope Model” offers yardage readings from 6 to 650 yards, while the “Slope Model” includes a toggleable “Slope Switch,” making it competition-ready.
Both models share features like “Flag Acquisition Technology” and “Pulse Vibration Technology” for precise flag-locking from up to 650 yards away. The adjustable eyepiece provides up to 6X magnification for clear views.
With these remarkable features, the Peak Pulse Golf 6S seems like the ideal budget-friendly rangefinder for this season.
What I like about this rangefinder
- Below $100
- Still water resistant and have slop options available despite the price.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty (no questions asked).
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- Shorter range than some rangefinders on the market
4. TecTecTec VPro 500: Outstanding Clear Optics, Enhanced Focus
TecTecTec VPro 500
$150
- Utilizes Pinsensor technology for accurate readings within 150 yards.
- Comes with a two-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing peace of mind to users.
- Impressive clarity and adjustability in the optics with a great zoom and focus.
The optics on the VPro500 are impressively clear, offering great adjustability in zoom and focus. It’s also easy on the eyes during extended use. Its lightweight and compact design, coupled with a durable exterior and included carrying pouch, make it highly portable.
Usability-wise, the Pinsensor technology excels within 150 yards, and its compact size ensures a comfortable grip. It may not be the best for shaky hands, though.
Also, it lacks slope technology, which may be a drawback for some golfers. The TecTecTec VPro500 provides straightforward and accurate yardage readings if the slope isn’t crucial.
Plus, its two-year warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee offer peace of mind if you’re a rangefinder newcomer.
What I like about this rangefinder
- It comes with a great carrying case.
- Very clear optics
- Accuracy to within one yard
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- Requires steady, still hands
- No-slope technology
5. Precision Golf NX9: Quickest Speed
Precision Golf NX9
$230
- Built-in magnet for convenient attachment to golf clubs and golf carts.
- Minimal variation in distances, reducing confusion during use.
- Exceptional precision and reliability in delivering accurate yardage readings.
I’m thrilled with the Precision Pro NX9 rangefinder because it lives up to its name by being incredibly precise and user-friendly. What’s even better is that Precision Pro Golf keeps affordability in mind. These rangefinders are fantastic without breaking the bank and they even provide free lifetime batteries!
The minimal variation in distances eliminates confusion, a common issue with lower-end rangefinders. Plus, the stylish green and black design is a bonus.
For golf cart users like me, the built-in magnet of the Precision Golf NX9 is handy, though it’s easy to forget due to its all-black color. I had to retrieve it from the course worker a few times.
My only gripe is the wide crosshairs in the viewfinder, which can be frustrating when targeting pins against a busy backdrop. Nonetheless, the responsive company’s customer service and free lifetime battery replacement are fantastic perks.
What I like about this rangefinder
- Free battery replacements
- Amazing accuracy and speed
- Magnet attaches to clubs and golf cart
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- The battery life is short.
- There is a slight delay between locking onto the target and the pulse vibration.
6. Precision Pro NX10: The Best Rangefinder for Shaky Hands
Precision Pro NX10
$150
- Clear visuals and a 600-yard range
- Slope function for courses with elevation changes
- Excellent accuracy
Despite being slightly older, the Precision Pro NX10 still holds its own in the budget rangefinder market. The scanning mode is handy, providing distances to various objects as you move the device. The pin lock feature adds value by vibrating when you lock onto the flag, instilling confidence.
What impressed me most was the slope function, which is perfect for courses with elevation changes. The only downside is the low-quality carry bag, but easy replacements are available.
While it may not match the speed of pricier brands like Bushnell, it offers excellent accuracy at a fraction of the cost, making it ideal for you as a budget-conscious golfer.
Plus, the vibration feature is a game-changer, especially for shaky hands. In the budget category, the Precision Pro NX10 is a clear winner with its slope feature.
Just be wary of the magnetic feature, as it tends to get misplaced; consider using a magnetic strap instead.
What I like about this rangefinder
- 600-yard range
- Adaptive slope technology
- Very clear visuals
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- Lacks a magnetic outer cover
7. Hawkray Golf Rangefinder: Feature-rich Budget Rangefinder
Hawkray Golf Rangefinder
$70
- USB Type-C rechargeable design, eliminating the need for batteries.
- Slope Mode for tournament play with a 3-700-yard range.
- Flag-Lock feature with vibrations.
- Lightweight design at just 6.3 oz, making it convenient to carry.
The Hawkray Budget Golf Rangefinder is the perfect choice for golfers like me who want a lightweight, affordable rangefinder with features.
What sets the Hawkray apart is its USB Type-C rechargeable design, saving you from buying batteries.
Weighing just 6.3 oz, it’s incredibly light and convenient, plus it boasts a built-in magnetic mount for easy cart placement and a magnetic carrying case for secure transport.
The rangefinder also offers Slope Mode for tournaments, a 3-700-yard range, Flag-Lock with vibrations, water resistance, and an anti-slip coating.
It’s a golfer’s dream, ensuring you never drop it during play.
What I like about this rangefinder
- USB-C Charging Port (no need for batteries)
- Side magnet for easy mounting to the golf cart
- Anti-sweat and anti-slip outer coating
- Slope Mode with On/Off Switch for Tournament-Legal Play
- Range of 3 to 700 yards
What I don’t like about this rangefinder
- It’s so lightweight that it can be presumed to be flimsy.
Is it worth buying a Cheap golf rangefinder?
Yes, you can buy a cheap golf rangefinder worth the investment in the long run, but it has to be the right rangefinder. There are lots of models out there that come at cheap prices, but performance is lacking. I encountered this while testing for this review.
With this in mind, I only ranked budget options that are cheap but still feature-rich and provide the value that an expensive one would.
Final Thoughts
You’re probably missing a chance to improve your game if you don’t have a rangefinder in your bag as a golfer. These devices help you hit shots more confidently, improve your course management, and learn the distances you hit each of your clubs.
A common obstacle to purchasing a rangefinder for many golfers is price. Fortunately, there are plenty of quality, affordable options to be found. You just have to look in the right place.
If you’ve been on the fence about getting a rangefinder or need to replace an old device without breaking the bank, I hope this guide has helped point you in the right direction.
