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Comparing Golf GPS and Laser Rangefinders

By: rlarkin Click author's name for more of his/her articles

This article will look into the benefits of the new GPS units for golf side by side to laser range finders for golfers. No Matter of which device you use, they can give you an correct reading of distance, but they follow different design principles that can be both good and bad.

The Way Rangefinders Function

Range finders work a lot differently from Global Positioning Systems (GPS) based units. The range finder is an visual device, and is someplace between binoculars and the kind of laser gun the traffic police use to find accelerating drivers out on the highway. This optical system is built like a rifle scope, and allows you see, select, and lock on to the object you want to measure the distance to (for example, a tree just beside the putting area). The range finder beams a 'safe for the eyes' laser on your point while measuring the time that it needs for the laser of the rangefinder to bounce off your target and reflect back over to the range finder. The device looks at this delay between firing and returning to measure the yardage.

Learning How a GPS for Golf Unit Functions

Simply put, golf GPS systems units just use a satellite based mapping device. The GPS is communicating with overhead positioning satellites and determines your exact fix on the planet, then calls in to previously recorded locations on the golf course to be able to give you the yardages to any of the crucial obstacles or targets near you (for example: the center of the putting area for the hole you're currently playing).

GPS for Golf Systems Pros

You don't need to aim a device at your point to get an accurate reading. If you can't quite see the target area you want to measure - if you're on blocked by a knoll, for example - this is perfect. It also does not require you to have accurate eyes or a dependable hand for that matter like a rangefinder does.

Some Advantages of Laser Range Finders for Golfers

You can zoom up to 7x magnification with current rangefinder models. This can be very helpful for locating your accurate distances, as well as for guiding the laser to get you precise distance measurements to your object.

One example would be the difficulty of locating a ridge on a green that should, or at least could, be avoided from 175 yards but would be impossible to see with the naked eye. Using the rangefinder device, you'll be able to see it and successfully miss it, enabling you to score lower in your golf. Another benefit to using a laser rangefinder is that you can also use it when you are out on the driving range so you can really know the distance you hit each club.

Finally, both types of systems are great for improving your game; it actually depends on individual preference. If you can swing it the best way to solve the choice problem is just get one of each! However, that's not always possible or realistic, so do your homework, consider your game, and see which one is optimal for your style of play.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: Visit Yardage Range Finder for a free download of our GPS for Golf and Laser Rangefinder buyer's guide which will help you find the right unit and full golf GPS unit reviews and golfer supported studies on the bestselling rangefinders and GPS units currently available.