Golf GPS watches and laser rangefinders are both popular tools that golfers use to get accurate yardage information on the course. Gone are the days of just ‘eyeballing’ the distance. Note: If you are still doing that, you are at a big disadvantage!

We often get asked which is better, a laser or a GPS Watch?

Well, here are some differences between the two:

Golf GPS:

  • Provide accurate yardage information for each hole, including distance to the green, hazards, and other important features.
  • Some GPS devices come preloaded with course maps, while others require you to download maps onto the device before use.
  • GPS watches are wearable devices that can be easily accessed on the course without having to pull out a phone or other device.
  • Some GPS devices can track your progress over time and provide statistics such as score, fairways hit, greens in regulation, etc.
  • GPS devices can show you the yardages to the green even if you cannot see it eg. up over a hill or behind trees or on a dog leg.

A GPS Watch can really help lower your scores. Especially when combined with finding out how far you hit the balls with a gap test or session on the range using technology like Toptracer

Golf Laser Rangefinder:

  • Provides accurate distance measurements to a specific target, such as the flagstick or a hazard, by emitting a laser beam.
  • Laser rangefinders are easy to use and provide quick and accurate distance measurements.
  • Laser rangefinders can be used on any golf course, regardless of whether it has been mapped or not.
  • Laser rangefinders do not require an internet connection or GPS signal to function.

A golf laser range finder gives you pin point accurancy to the hole or any target you choose. This is great if you can see the flag and you have the skills to hit that accurately.

Both golf GPS watches and laser rangefinders have their pros and cons, and the choice between the two comes down to personal preference.

Golfers who prefer a more hands-on approach to yardage measurement may prefer laser rangefinders, while those who want a more convenient and comprehensive approach may prefer golf GPS watches.

PGA Pro Opinion
Low handicappers generally go for a laser as they are wanting a much more precise yardage to the hole. For higher handicappers (and I’m talking 18+ hcp here) the GPS devices provides the important distance to the front, middle and back of the green. For most higher handicappers; simply aiming for the yardage at the middle of the green would help them lower their scores.

Peter Myers PGA Professional at Dunes Golf Centre – Fraserburgh

To check out our recommended Lasers and GPS Devices go to dunesgolfshop.co.uk

For advice on the best option for your game give us a call on 01346 510693 or call in to Dunes Golf Centre to speak to one of the team. We have demo units that you can try before you buy.

Author

  • Peter Myers

    PGA Golf Professional since 1997 Director of entertainment at Dunes Golf Centre in Fraserburgh Passionate about creating opportunities for everyone to play and enjoy golf Proud Yorkshireman Loves Leeds United and enjoys a BrewDog or two

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