Introduction #
Technology has transformed how we play golf. Gone are the days of pacing yardages from sprinkler heads or just ‘eyeballing’ the distance. Today, golfers have powerful tools to help them make smarter decisions — the laser rangefinder and the golf GPS watch.
But which one is best for your game? At Dunes Golf Centre in Fraserburgh, this is one of the most common questions our PGA Pros get asked. The answer depends on your experience level, your playing style, and what you value most — precision or convenience.
What Does a Golf GPS Do? #
A golf GPS provides accurate distance information to key points on the course — such as the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as bunkers, water hazards, and doglegs. Many devices come preloaded with thousands of courses and automatically detect where you’re playing.
Key Benefits of a Golf GPS #
- Accurate yardages to key features — including hazards and greens, even when you can’t see them.
- Convenient and wearable — GPS watches sit on your wrist, giving instant data without needing to pull out a device.
- Stat tracking — some models track fairways hit, greens in regulation, and even putts per round.
- Perfect for blind shots — a GPS shows distances even over hills or around corners where you can’t see the flag.
For higher-handicap players, GPS devices can be game-changing. Knowing the distance to the middle of the green and choosing your club accordingly helps you avoid trouble and shoot lower scores.
Pro Tip: #
Combine your GPS watch with a gap testing session on our Toptracer Range at Dunes Golf Centre. You’ll learn exactly how far you hit each club — information that makes your GPS data much more valuable on the course.
What Does a Golf Laser Rangefinder Do? #
A laser rangefinder measures the exact distance to a visible target by bouncing a laser beam off it. It’s fast, simple, and highly precise — often accurate to within one yard. Unlike GPS devices, it doesn’t rely on course maps or signals.
Key Benefits of a Laser Rangefinder #
- Pinpoint accuracy — perfect for players who want exact distances to the flag.
- Works anywhere — no need for preloaded maps or GPS signal.
- Ideal for target practice — measure distances to bunkers, trees, or range targets.
Laser rangefinders are popular among lower-handicap golfers who have the skill to hit specific yardages precisely. If you can already control your distances well, that extra precision can really fine-tune your performance.
Laser vs GPS: Which Should You Choose? #
Ultimately, the best device depends on your goals and experience level.
If you’re a high-handicap or casual golfer: #
Choose a GPS watch. It gives you all the important yardages without fuss and helps you focus on strategy — not guesswork. Knowing the distance to the middle of the green (and aiming there!) will help you avoid short shots and lower your scores.
If you’re a low-handicap or competitive golfer: #
Go for a laser rangefinder. You’ll benefit from ultra-precise yardages to the pin, especially when attacking flags. It’s also ideal for practice sessions when you’re dialling in exact distances with wedges and irons.
PGA Professional Advice #
As Peter Myers, PGA Professional at Dunes Golf Centre, explains:
“Low handicappers generally go for a laser as they want precise yardage to the hole. For higher handicappers — 18 and above — a GPS device that gives front, middle, and back yardages is far more helpful. Simply aiming for the middle of the green can save strokes every round.”
Try Before You Buy at Dunes Golf Centre #
At Dunes Golf Centre in Fraserburgh, we stock a wide range of GPS watches and laser rangefinders from leading brands. You can even try demo units to see which feels best for you before committing to a purchase.
Visit us in-store or call 01346 510693 to chat with one of our PGA Professionals. We’ll help you find the perfect device for your game and show you how to make the most of it with on-range testing using our Toptracer technology.
Conclusion #
Both golf GPS watches and laser rangefinders are fantastic tools — but they serve slightly different needs. If you want convenience and all-round guidance, go with GPS. If precision and pin accuracy matter most, choose a laser. Either way, the key is knowing your own game — and that’s where the team at Dunes Golf Centre can help.
