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The Best Golf GPS Rangefinders in 2021
Golf EQ Reports | Results that work for you
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Data Points Gathered
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Brands Included
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GPS Devices Tested
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Golfers Served
- Golf EQ
- February 19, 2021
- 10:00 am
Performance: Garmin delivers everything a golfer needs in one device with the Garmin Approach G80 GPS Rangefinder and Launch Monitor. Capture course info while you play and track every shot you hit on the range to improve quickly and play your best golf.
Value: Get your yardages without breaking the bank with Izzo Swami GPS Watch. This watch provides precise distances to the front, middle, and backs of greens. The Izzo GPS Watch is lightweight and easy-to-use making it the perfect device for beginning golfers.
Balance: Arccos provides golfers the best all-in-one tool for tracking their performance during play. Additionally, Arccos uses A.I. to provide you a distance to your target and recommend a club to hit based on your past performance and current golf swing.
The Highlights:
- Overall, each device tested delivered accurate distances with most units using the same course information.
- Handheld devices and GPS watches make up the largest two classes of GPS Rangefinder units.
- Premium features are nice, but not a must for golfers simply looking to get their distances while on the course.
The EQ Score Top 5
GPS Rangefinder
EQ Score
Garmin Approach G80 GPS Rangefinder
333.88
SkyCaddie SX500 GPS Rangefinder
331.15
Arccos Caddie Link + Smart Sensors
309.38
Shot Scope V3 GPS Watch
304.38
SkyCaddie SX400 GPS Rangefinder
302.11
The VEQ Top 5
GPS Rangefinder
VEQ Score
Izzo Swami GPS Watch
91.84
Izzo Swami Voice GPS Rangefinder
86.03
GolfBuddy Voice 2 GPS
82.95
Izzo Swami 6000 GPS Rangefinder
72.16
Arccos Caddie Link + Smart Sensors
66.98
The BEQ Top 5
GPS Rangefinder
BEQ Score
Arccos Caddie Link + Smart Sensors
46.41
Shot Scope V3 GPS Watch
45.66
Izzo Swami 6000 GPS Rangefinder
42.47
Izzo Swami Voice GPS Rangefinder
40.44
Garmin Approach G10 GPS Rangefinder
41.14
Introduction
Currently, there are so many options for golfers to choose from when deciding what type of device to use to gather distance information on the golf course. Importantly, GPS rangefinders and GPS watches are straightforward distance measuring devices that can be used conveniently from anywhere. Unlike lasers, GPS units help player see what the entire golf hole looks like before they hit their shot. Knowing what is coming can be a massive advantage, especially on courses you have never played before. This Report details the very best GPS rangefinders in golf, keep reading to find out which device is best for you.
GPS Rangefinder Performance Tiers
Outstanding Performers
| Garmin Approach G80 GPS Rangefinder |
| SkyCaddie SX500 GPS Rangefinder |
| Arccos Caddie Link + Smart Sensors |
| Shot Scope V3 GPS Watch |
| SkyCaddie SX400 GPS Rangefinder |
Average Performers
| Garmin Approach S62 GPS Watch |
| Garmin Approach S60 GPS Watch |
| Garmin Approach G30 GPS Rangefinder |
| Izzo Swami 6000 GPS Rangefinder |
| Garmin Approach S40 GPS Watch |
| SkyCaddie LX5 GPS Watch |
| Bushnell ION 2 GPS Watch |
| Bushnell Phantom GPS Rangefinder |
| Izzo Swami Voice GPS Rangefinder |
| Garmin Approach G10 GPS Rangefinder |
| Izzo Swami GPS Watch |
Below Average Performers
| GolfBuddy Voice 2 GPS |
How the Performance Tiers Separate GPS Rangefinders
At Golf EQ we use the EQ Score to divide GPS rangefinders in three categories, they are 1) Outstanding Performers, 2) Average Performers, and 3) Below Average Performers. Number 1, Outstanding Performers, are GPS devices that outperform all other devices in our testing group by 1 or 2 standard deviations. Number 2, Average Performers, are 1 standard deviation below Outstanding Performers but, importantly, 1 standard deviation above the Below Average Performers. Number 3, Below Average Performers, fall 1 standard deviation below the Average Performers and are thus the worst among the tested devices. Always, it is in the best interest of all golfers to use as high a performing device as they can afford.
What makes a Golf GPS Rangefinder The Best?
Critically, GPS devices do not vary that much in terms of accuracy, so, what makes them different from one another? Plainly, what makes devices different are the features, speed and convenient, and cost. First, features like large, vibrant touchscreens, shot, performance, and fitness tracking, and hole mapping may be important for some players. Second, how quickly a device operates and where it can be stored are important. Third, how much a device costs and what a golfers is getting for that money should be considered. Other important features include what distances the device provides. Almost every unit will deliver distances to the front, middle, and backs of the greens. The best units will also provide distances to hazards including water and bunker areas and do so on a large, easy-to-see display.
GPS Features
| GPS Rangefinder | Standout Feature | Number of Courses | Estimated Battery Life | Shot Tracking Features | Performance Tracking Features | Subscription Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Arccos Caddie Link + Smart Sensors | Best-in-class AI caddie and club selection capabilities. | 36000 | 10 hours | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
 Bushnell ION 2 GPS Watch | Golf specific GPS with fitness tracking built in. | 36000 | 12 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
 Bushnell Phantom GPS Rangefinder | Magnetic attachment great for golfers that ride in a cart. | 36000 | 10 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
Garmin Approach G10 GPS Rangefinder | Compact and easy to use. | 41000 | 15 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
 Garmin Approach G30 GPS Rangefinder | Large touchscreen display and hole mapping. | 41000 | 15 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
Garmin Approach G80 GPS Rangefinder | All-in-one unit with a launch monitor included. | 41000 | 15 hours | ✓ | ✓ | 🆇 |
 Garmin Approach S40 GPS Watch | Touchscreen enabled and doubles as a smartwatch. | 41000 | 15 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
 Garmin Approach S60 GPS Watch | Touchscreen and full color display. | 41000 | 10 hours | ✓ | 🆇 | 🆇 |
 Garmin Approach S62 GPS Watch | Premium features in an elegant design. | 41000 | 20 hours | ✓ | 🆇 | 🆇 |
GolfBuddy Voice 2 GPS | Simple to use and comes with voice distances enabled. | 40000 | 12 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
Izzo Swami 6000 GPS Rangefinder | Great budget option with full features. | 38000 | 16 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
Izzo Swami GPS Watch | The best dollar-for-dollar choice for GPS yardages. | 38000 | 10 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
Izzo Swami Voice GPS Rangefinder | Compact and comes with built-in audio distances. | 38000 | 12 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | 🆇 |
Shot Scope V3 GPS Watch | Excellent shot tracking and performance review features through the smartphone paired app. | 36000 | 10 hours | ✓ | ✓ | 🆇 |
 SkyCaddie LX5 GPS Watch | Full touchscreen display and HD course views. | 35000 | 8 hours | 🆇 | 🆇 | ✓ |
SkyCaddie SX400 GPS Rangefinder | Large size and full range of features. | 35000 | 12 hours | ✓ | 🆇 | ✓ |
SkyCaddie SX500 GPS Rangefinder | Most vibrant and easiest-to-see screen and distance readout. | 35000 | 12 hours | ✓ | 🆇 | ✓ |
About Our test
Here, we put the best GPS rangefinders in golf head-to-head to find out which ones rose to the top. Notably, we found that many devices offered golfers the same level of shot planning performance but paired that capability with features that help players improve their game at some level. All GPS devices were evaluated using the EQ Scoring system to create our rankings.
How to find The best Golf GPS Online
Searching and scanning the internet for what GPS is best for you takes time and often results in wasted money. Luckily, we have built a software tool that takes the results of our tests and delivers personalized results for every golfer at Golf EQ. Take Golf Rangefinder EQ ID now to identify your best GPS or Laser Rangefinder and save yourself time and money. EQ IDs are always free and they have helped over 5,000 golfers find equipment built for them already. Be sure to check out all of the EQ IDs as you shop for new golf equipment.
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Golf Rangefinder EQ ID
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How to find your best Golf GPS Rangefinder In Person
Unfortunately, there is no process to test rangefinders like you might test golf clubs before you buy. Thankfully, some companies have trial periods so you can purchase a device and return it, if for some reason it does not fit your needs. Again, we suggest you start with our EQ ID to help match with your best fitting rangefinder before you spend any money.
Things to keep in mind when selecting a golf GPS
Ultimately, almost all GPS devices will provide you with accurate distances on the golf course. Keep in mind the features that you are most sure you will use often and select a device within your budget that comes standard with those features. We highly recommend that you avoid devices with subscription fees unless you know for sure you will be playing frequently and these additional advantages will boost your performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a GPS Rangefinder or a Laser?
A: Both GPS rangefinders and laser rangefinders come with advantages. GPS devices can provide a more detailed view of the hole you are playing. Laser enable players to find distances to anything on the course, not just the preloaded distances available on GPS units. We recommend using our EQ ID to identify which device will best suit your needs automatically and take the guesswork out of the process.
Q: Can i just use an app on my smartphone?
A: In short, yes. Smartphone apps have become good at providing distances for select golf course. Standalone GPS devices, like the ones in this report, will still deliver higher performance in terms of accuracy and provide a more comprehensive view of the golf courses you are playing. We do recommend using a golf-specific device, however, several golfers have great success using smartphone apps.
Q: How do i know if a GPS rangefinder is accurate for my course?
A: Surprisingly, most of the available GPS devices use the same satellite information to provide distance and golf course information. As a result, almost all the data is incredibly accurate for all golf course, no matter how small. To our knowledge, there is no way to be absolutely certain that a course will be present on a given device before purchasing it however.
Q: can i play golf in a gPS Watch?
A: Amatuer golfers can use a GPS watch for all non-competitive rounds. The information provided by GPS units, including GPS Watches, are not legal for tournament and competition play. Be sure to check the rules for any golf competitions you are planning to participate in before selecting a GPS device. If you play competitively, you will likely be best going with a laser rangefinder instead.
Q: Why do some GPS Rangefinders charge for updates?
A: Subscription charges are usually the result of some bonus feature on the GPS device unrelated to the distances provides. These features many include intelligent club suggestions or advanced hole mapping capabilities. Be sure to check our the full specs as many times, paying this upcharge will not be worth the money.
Q: Do i really need a device to help me track my stats while i play?
A: Players that want to improve quickly need to be keeping track of how well they are scoring as they play. Devices like the Shot Scope V3 and Arcoss unit have integrated Strokes Gained that can help players accelerate their game rapidly. You can always keep track of your stats by writing them down manually, but having a device to help will increase the amount of information you can capture and help you more accurately analyze your game.
Conclusion
Long gone are the days of using on-course markers to find the distance you have into the green. Choosing the right club to hit from the tee box, fairway, or rough is critical to playing your best golf and knowing exactly how far to hit your golf shot is the only way to do that properly. The devices we highlight in this report can help you navigate golf courses more easily and help you improve as a player quickly. Do not overlook one of the most important pieces to playing great golf – knowing what club to hit.
At Golf EQ, we strive to deliver the most insightful and comprehensive reports for golf equipment online. We appreciate you taking the time to drop by and hope you will let us know what you think. Come back for more EQ Reports and be sure to begin your search for any new golf equipment with our EQ IDs. Remember, getting the best gear for your game is the most important thing you can do for yourself to help make golf more enjoyable and shoot your best scores. Get started for free with our EQ IDs today and match with your ideal equipment.
Leave us a comment below to tell us what you think. Do you think we left out any of the best GPS rangefinders? Have you used a GPS rangefinder ini the past that you loved? Have you used one you hated? We want to hear from you.
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