Our favourite … Laser rangefinders

The latest point-and-shoot yardage calculators come with built-in GPS info so you can get the best of both worlds on one device

Garmin Approach X80 $849 www.garmin.com.au

Combining a laser rangefinder with GPS has been done a couple of times before, but never quite like Garmin’s new Z80. GPS yardages and 2D course and green maps are shown next to each other as you laser the flag. It’s not cheap, but the idea has been really well executed.

Bushnell Hybrid $599 www.championsports.com.au

Combining a laser rangefinder with simple GPS (front, centre and back) isn’t as simple as it sounds, and cost can be an issue. Bushnell reckons its cracked it with its Hybrid, which gives both laser yardages and GPS distances. It has two independent batteries powering each, so you won’t get caught out for juice on the course.

GolfBuddy LR7 n/a www.golfbuddyglobal.com

If like many golfers you primarily use a rangefinder inside 150 yards, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get your distances. The LR7 is a simple, no-nonsense affair. It’s water-resistant, legal for tournament play (as there’s no slope function) and its soft, ergonomic body is designed for a stable grip.

Nikon Coolshot 80 VR $549 www.nikon.com.au

Nikon is an expert when it comes to optics, so it’s no surprise its latest rangefinder features “vibration reduction” to reduce hand shake when you’re trying to pinpoint the flag. The 80 doesn’t give slope-adjusted distances (the 80i does for £419.99), so it’s legal for competition play.

Bushnell Pro XE $799 www.championsports.com.au

Featuring refined ‘Jolt’ technology and new ‘BITE’ magnetic mount, the new Pro XE introduces ‘Slope with Elements’. Temperature and altitude have been added to Bushnell’s Slope technology giving the most precise compensated distances ever, while a new “Slope” Algorithm takes into account the most updated ball flight measures.