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10 Best Cheap Rangefinders
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Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Rangefinders
When choosing a cheap rangefinder, it's important to focus not just on price but on making sure the device actually meets your needs. Rangefinders are useful for sports like golf, hunting, and even construction. They work by measuring the distance to a target, so you want one that's accurate, easy to use, and reliable in your expected environment. Start by thinking about where and how you'll use your rangefinder most often, so you can match the features and specifications to your activities.Maximum RangeThe maximum range tells you the farthest distance a rangefinder can measure. This is crucial because if your activities require you to measure long distances—like in golf or open-land hunting—you need a higher range. Cheap rangefinders usually have lower maximum ranges, often between 400 to 800 yards. If you mainly measure short to medium distances, a lower range will suffice and keep things simple. Always consider your typical usage when deciding what maximum range is sufficient for you—there’s no need to pay extra for more range than you’ll ever use.
AccuracyAccuracy specifies how close the measured distance is to the real distance. This is measured in units like plus or minus ‘x’ yards or meters, for example, ±1 yard. Cheap rangefinders tend to have slightly lower accuracy, usually around ±1 to 2 yards. If you need precise measurements for your sport or task, aim for the highest accuracy you can, but for casual use, a small tolerance is often acceptable. Think about how precise you need your measurements to be for your intended use and pick accordingly.
Display TypeRangefinders typically have either LCD or LED displays. The type of display affects how easily you can read measurements in different lighting conditions. LCD displays tend to be clearer in bright sunlight, while LED displays can be easier to read in low light but might be harder to see when it’s very bright. Consider where you’ll use your rangefinder most—if it’s outdoors during the day, go for an option with a clear LCD screen; if you’ll often use it in dusk or dawn, choose one with an easily readable LED display.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears compared to the naked eye, such as 5x or 6x. Higher magnification makes it easier to see far-off targets, but it also narrows your field of view and can make it trickier to hold the image steady. For general outdoor or casual use, moderate magnification, like 4x or 5x, strikes a good balance. Think about how far your typical targets are and how easy you want it to be to spot and lock onto them.
Size and WeightThe physical size and weight of the rangefinder affect how easy it is to carry and use. Lighter and more compact models are often better for activities like hiking or golf, where you want to carry as little as possible. However, smaller rangefinders might have smaller buttons or displays, which can be harder to use. Consider how you plan to carry the device and whether a slightly larger unit would be more comfortable to handle in your specific scenario.
Ease of UseEase of use covers things like button layout, menu simplicity, and how quickly the rangefinder locks onto a target. Simple, intuitive controls are especially important in cheap models where advanced features may be sacrificed for cost. If you’re new to rangefinders or want a tool that's quick to operate, look for one with straightforward, user-friendly operation. A test run or reviews from similar users can help you choose a model that won’t frustrate you in the field.