Accurately measuring your distances on the course has become essential for progressing and better managing your game strategy. Today, two solutions dominate: the laser rangefinder and the GPS watch . While each has its advantages, the choice depends above all on your playing style and your priorities on the course.

1. The laser rangefinder: precision to the nearest meter

How does it work?
It uses a laser beam to measure the exact distance between you and the target (flag, bunker, obstacle).

Benefits :

• Ultra-precise measurement, often to within ±1 meter.

• Ideal for aiming for a precise flag, even on a deep green.

• Does not depend on a preloaded GPS map: works on all routes worldwide.

Disadvantages:

• Measures only the direct distance to the target (not distances to different points on the hole at a glance).

• Less practical in bad weather or when visibility is reduced.

• Ask to go out and aim the device at each shot.

2. The GPS watch: fast and comprehensive information

How does it work?
It uses geolocation to display the distance to the entrance, middle and back of the green, as well as hazards.

Benefits :

• Information available at a glance on your wrist.

• Gives distances to obstacles, doglegs and lay-ups.

• Some watches also offer score tracking, automatic shot detection, or swing analysis.

Disadvantages:

• Accuracy generally within ±3-5 meters (sufficient for most shots).

• Depends on the manufacturer's GPS maps (you need to check that your route is covered).

• Autonomy sometimes limited depending on the model.

3. Which tool is right for you?

• Choose a rangefinder if you are looking for maximum accuracy when aiming at a flag or if you often play on unfamiliar courses.

• Opt for a GPS watch if you prefer to have all the information quickly without interrupting your playing rhythm, and if you also want data on obstacles.

4. The ideal option: combine the two

Many professional and amateur players use the watch for overall strategy and the rangefinder for attack shots towards the green . It's the winning combination for combining speed and accuracy.

✅ In summary :

• Rangefinder = accuracy, ideal for aiming at the flag.

• GPS watch = strategic vision, speed of use.

• Both = the best of both worlds.