Bushnell Tour V4 and Callaway 300 Pro are powerful rangefinders that get lots of love from golf communities. They both allow for automatic and accurate slope compensation and are identical in features. This explains why it’s difficult for many buyers to pick between these two options.
I decided to try these two rangefinders side-by-side, and the first discovery from my comparison test is that the Callaway 300 Pro is less accurate for longer distances, but the Bushnell is only more accurate by 100 yards. But many people would not consider this a big deal considering the lower price of the Callaway 300 Pro, its scan targeting feature, and a superior lens make it a steal for $200.
I’ve been a loyal fan of the Leupold RX 600 range finder but had to replace it with a slope-equipped rangefinder. During my search, I discovered many people are in the dilemma of flipping between the Bushnell Tour V4 Shift and the Callaway 300 Pro. I decided to cut out a budget to experience these models individually.
The first impression was the price difference. The Bushnell is twice the price of the Callaway, but is it worth the extra cost? I have documented my experience in comparison with these two devices to help you decide which is better for you.
Bushnell vs. Callaway Rangefinder: Compared
Before we delve into the full comparison, below is a table comparing both rangefinders across relevant factors:
Factors | Bushnell Tour V4 | Callaway 300 Pro |
Dimension | 2.61 L x 1.33″ W x 1.97″ H | 4″L x 2.7″W x 1.4″H |
Weight | 0.75 Pounds | 0.5 Pounds |
Slope Function | Yes | Yes |
Magnification | x5 | x6 |
Range | 1,000 yards and 400+ yards to a flag within one yard | -1000 yards with +/- 1 yard accuracy |
Warranty | 2-year limited warranty | |
Material | Plastic | Plastic |
Water-resistant | Yes | Yes |
Price | $400 | $200 |
Image | Product | Detail | Price |
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Bushnell Tour V4 |
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Buy Now | |
Callaway 300 Pro |
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Buy Now |
Performance
The Bushnell Tour V4 rangefinder features PinSeeker technology with Jolt, which delivers short vibrating bursts to confirm that the laser has locked onto the flag.
It’s incredibly precise, accurately ranging from 5 to 1,000 yards and pinpointing the flag within one yard, even at 400+ yards.
The 5x magnification and fast focus system ensure a clear view of my shot. But it is nothing compared to a 6-x-powered rangefinder.
One standout feature is the patented slope technology, which calculates the compensated distance based on the hole’s incline or decline, giving me a more accurate target reading. The compact size of the Tour V4 is a notable improvement, and it swiftly acquires targets.
On the other hand, the Callaway 300 Pro offers 6x magnification, providing a range of 5-1000 yards with an impressive +/- 1-yard accuracy.
It also offers measurements in yards and meters, catering to everyone’s preferences. The Pin-Locking Technology, with Pin Acquisition Technology (P.A.T.), allows you to lock onto a pin up to 300 yards away.
Plus, there’s a nifty pulse confirmation—a short vibrating “burst” lets you know when you’ve locked onto the pin accurately.
The External Slope On/Off Switch is great for tournament play, ensuring it complies with the rules.
The premium molded hard carry case with a carabiner and elastic “quick-close” band adds to the overall value.
However, if you wear glasses, you might find it tricky to get your eye close enough to see all the data at once.
You’ll need to adjust the device to find the right angle.
The effective distance with a slope enabled appears in the bottom corner, and the vibration feedback is clear.
Accuracy
When it comes to accuracy, both rangefinders are great. They give similar results, and the slope adjustment efficiency of both devices is identical.
However, during testing, I noticed that the Bushnell V4 targeted flags from a further distance, and I had trouble locking onto pins farther than 300 yards when using the Callaway 300 Pro.
Meanwhile, the Callaway 300 has a more powerful lens with 6x magnification, even though it’s not as accurate as the Bushnell Tour V4.
I also like that the Callaway has a scan mode that simultaneously brings up distances to multiple targets. This gives it an edge over Bushnell.
Price
If you’re on a tight budget, the Callaway 300 Pro would appeal more to you because it’s half the price of the Bushnell V4.
The area of price is where these two devices vary widely. With $200, you can get the Callaway 300, but you need $400 to purchase the Bushnell V4.
Battery
The Bushnell V4 has a battery that runs off a 3-volt battery that comes with a casing. While testing this device, the batter held up for full 18-hole rounds.
The Callaway 300 Pro is operated by a single 3-volt battery that holds up for close to two and a half 18-hole rounds.
While the Callaway comes with appealing accessories like the lanyard strap, cleaning cloth, and carrying case, the Bushnell battery has a longer life than the Callaway.
Pros and cons
Indeed, there’s no perfect product out there. There are always two sides to the coin. To further help you decide which of these launch monitors is best for you, consider the pros and cons of each:
Bushnell Tour V4 Rangefinder
PROS | CONS |
Can measure distance to pins up to 400 yards | 5x magnification compared to Callaway 300 Pro’s 6x magnification |
Bushnell is prominent for its optical devices. | Only one diopter adjustment |
Lightweight | It costs more. |
Longer battery life |
Callaway 300 Pro Rangefinder
PROS | CONS |
1-year warranty | A bit heavier than the Bushnell Tour V4 |
Water and fogproof | Shorter battery life |
6x magnification lens | Shorter flag targeting distance |
Handy | |
The slope measurement is super accurate. |
Verdict summary
Many rangefinders on the market promise accurate slope calculations but don’t meet expectations.
The Bushnell V4 and Callaway 300 Pro rangefinders have proven worth the attention they are getting.
However, depending on your needs and budget, one will be a better choice.
With these in mind, here’s my rating for both devices based on my experience with them:
Rating | Bushnell Tour V4 | Callaway 300 Pro |
Optics | 10 | 8 |
Accuracy | 9 | 9 |
Performance | 8 | 9.5 |
Ease of Use | 10 | 9 |
Looks | 10 | 7 |
TOTAL (50 points): | 47 Points | 42.5 Points |
The Callaway 300 is a bang for a buck. But it’s less accurate for longer distances. So, if you value accuracy, especially for game improvement, the Bushnell V4 is a better buy, but remember, it’s only more accurate by 100 yards.
If you value the scan targeting feature and affordability, you can overlook this accuracy gap and proceed with the call.