Even though GPS technology has come a long way, many golfers still prefer to use rangefinders to help them to get the most out of the game. Rangefinders come with a lot of benefits but also with some issues. Here are the main pros and cons:
Pros:
-Accuracy
Every rangefinder that's available for purchase, from every brand, is highly accurate. There is a very small margin of error (less than a yard).
-Versatility of use
Rangefinders can be used on any course as they determine distances based on a manual process. This is unlike GPS systems which can only be used on courses which the manufacturer has already mapped out on a database.
Cons:
-Obstructions
You can only use a rangefinder to find the distance between you and a point if you can point the laser at that point. If there are obstructions between you and the flag, you might find it difficult to get a clear line of sight for the laser.
-Speed
The whole process is much slower than with a GPS system as you have to manually point the laser at the flag as opposed to automatically receiving yardages via your GPS.
-Technicality
Some people find rangefinders 'fiddly' and struggle to use it with shaky hands.
It's also worth mentioning that not all rangefinders are made equal. Some are better than others. Fortunately, websites like
this one allow buyers to determine which is the best for them before they make any purchases.
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