Golf rangefinders are essential in a golf course; they are designed to help improve a golfer’s game by estimating the precise distance and accuracy. So, of course, you need to get one.
We understand that choosing the right golf rangefinder can be challenging. Thus, this article will compare two top golf GPS golf laser rangefinders, Garmin approach z82, and Bushnell Pro XE. We hope our in-depth review and comparison help you decide the right choice for you. Let’s get started!
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At a glance
The Quick Answer
The Garmin z82 and Bushnell Pro XE are on the same standards with an identical price range, excellent slope technology, sound design, and waterproof material. Yet, one cannot deny that the Bushnell Pro XE has the upper hand over Garmin approach z82. This is not just due to its high-quality brand recognition but also because of the additional features the device entails.
Bushnell Pro XE is relatively cheaper compared to Garmin z82. Plus, the 7x magnification and higher clarity, and magnetic mount technology make the device unrivaled. Therefore, we recommend purchasing the Bushnell Pro XE if you require a laser rangefinder for $550 with stunning features.
Product Overviews
Garmin Approach Z82
Garmin z82 is a laser rangefinder that includes several features. Aside from a rangefinder’s primary elements, it possesses a unique full hole map that provides you with front, middle, back distances and a full view of the hole. Also, it has slope compensation technology that you can turn off with a switch to make it tournament legal.
Plus, unlike Garmin’s previous release, the z80 model. The Garmin z82 can be linked to the Garmin golf app. Plus, an indicator light to show the device is in off-slope mode alongside a minor vibration feature that alerts you that you have locked onto your target has been added.
Despite the numerous features, there are some downsides to Garmin approach z82, and the major one is its price and absence of a magnetic mount.
- Adaptive slope technology
- Advanced image stabilization
- Waterproof
- 6X magnification
- Rechargeable battery.
- Expensive
- No magnetic mount technology
- Bulky frame.
Bushnell Pro XE
Bushnell Pro XE is a laser rangefinder ideal for golfers who wants fast performance and accurate distance measurements. The device embodies several features, such as a slope switch technology that lets golfers easily switch on and off the slope.
The Bushnell Pro XE also has a pin seeker with advanced visual jolt technology to alert you that you have locked onto the flag. In addition, Bushnell Pro XE features the best optics alongside its 7X magnification, providing top-tier clarity and effortless focus. Plus, the device has an inbuilt magnetic mount and is waterproof.
You can also connect the device to the Bushnell Golf app for helpful layouts and wireless course updates. However, similar to Garmin z82, the device has its downsides too. A major con of this device is that it uses a non-rechargeable battery.
- BITE magnetic cart mount.
- Adaptive slope technology.
- Superior Optical resolution.
- Waterproof.
- 7X magnification.
- Expensive.
- Slightly heavier due to the inbuilt magnetic cart mount.
- Non-rechargeable battery.
You must also read: Best Bushnell Golf Rangefinder | Top 9 and FAQ
Side-by-side comparison
Slope Switch Technology
Slope technology indicates the ability of a golf rangefinder to compensate for elevation changes and adjust the distance to your target accordingly. Unfortunately, one cannot legally use slope technology in official games. Thus, top brands such as Garmin and Bushnell ensure that slope technology improves your scores on the course.
Thus both devices come with a slope switch that you can use to turn off the mode during tournaments. In addition, the approach z82 comes with a version of their slope called PlaysLike distance. External light is integrated into the device to indicate that the PlaysLike feature has been turned off during golf games. The z82 can also be linked to the Garmin golf app to give you wind speed and direction information.
On the other hand, Bushnell Pro XE also has a similar slope compensation technology. However, the device introduces slope with elements. A technology that asides from compensating the changes in gradients also has temperature and barometric pressure added to the slope technology to give golf players the precise compensated distances.
Waterproof
The Garmin z82 looks fancy with an ergonomic design. The bottom part of the device is made from a rigid material, while the top has a lightweight waterproof fabric. As a result, the device doesn’t feel rugged but instead looks stylish.
However, this doesn’t reduce the quality of the Garmin z82 as the device is fully waterproof. According to IPX7, the device would still work if left in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
The Bushnell Pro XE is also fully waterproof. But, this device looks more rugged compared to Garmin z82. This is because the device comes with a rubber-armored metal casing material. Yet, despite the rugged look, the design doesn’t feel cheap, has a good quality feel, and has a nice weight.
Plus, Bushnell Pro XE is also IPX7 certified, and what this means is that you can hold it under 1 meter of water for 30 minutes, and no harm would come to the device.
Price
The two devices, in comparison, are expensive. However, they are both within the range of $500 to $600, although the Garmin approach z82 is a little more costly than Bushnell Pro XE with an extra $50 at the price tag of $599.99 on Amazon.
Still, compared to Garmin z82, Bushnell Pro XE is preferred for its price because it is a high-quality brand. Also, the device has some extra features, such as a magnetic cart mount and higher optical quality.
Key Differences
Magnetic Cart Mount
Garmin z82 has no magnetic mount technology. Thus it cannot be attached to a buggy when out in the field. But, the device has advanced image stabilization that performs the stabilization features of a magnetic cart mount. A laser rangefinder with a magnetic cart mount is preferred by players with shaky hands to be attached to a metal object on the field or uneven terrain.
It is undoubtedly difficult to find a fault in Bushnell Pro XE. The device comes with an inbuilt magnetic cart mount. Bushnell features the BITE magnetic technology, making attaching the device on a buggy easy. Besides, the feature reduces the risk of losing the expensive laser rangefinder.
Optical Resolution
With an improved OLED display, the Garmin z82 optics had improved from the brand’s previous model z80. Paired with a 6X magnification, Garmin z82 produces sharper images and allows clear viewing. The superior viewfinder also provides a better viewing experience for golfers who wear glasses.
On the other hand, Bushnell Pro XE uses high-performance optics that deliver superior clarity. The 7X magnification features make it clearer to view the object or flag far away. Plus, you can adjust the brightness of the device with the holding mode. Bushnell is a high-quality brand, and there is no denying that the optical quality of Bushnell Pro XE is nothing less.
Battery
Garmin z82 has excellent battery life. Even though the device uses a rechargeable battery, the device, when charged fully, can last over two complete rounds of the game. The battery takes about 4 hours to charge fully, but it can last up to 15 hours in its GPS mode.
In addition, the device comes with a charging cable. As a result, you do not have to worry about replacing the battery now and then; all that’s needed is a reasonable charge.
Bushnell Pro XE, however, comes with a non-rechargeable battery. Instead, the device uses a standard CR2 battery that you can easily purchase at hardware stores. The package of the device, when bought, comes with an extra CR2 battery bundle, and the initial battery can last you for a few months before running out. But, unlike Garmin z82, you constantly have to get a new set of batteries.
FAQs
When was Garmin approach z82 and Bushnell Pro XE released?
Garmin Approach z82 was released in April 2020, while Bushnell Pro XE was released in February 2019.
Is Garmin Approach z82 waterproof?
Yes, the Garmin approach z82 is fully waterproof.
What is jolt technology in Bushnell Pro XE?
The jolt technology provides short vibration to alert you that the laser golf rangefinder has locked onto the flag.
Does Bushnell Pro XE calculate wind?
Yes, the Bushnell Pro XE considers the wind to measure distance accurately.
Does Garmin approach z82 has a magnetic mount?
No, the Garmin approach z82 doesn’t have a magnetic mount. Instead, it comes with an advanced image stabilization feature.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a golf laser rangefinder can be intimidating due to the several options available in the market. Still, it is essential to note that an ideal laser rangefinder for amateurs and professionals should give accurate distance measurements. It should also have excellent slope technology and be worth its price.
Both Bushnell and Garmin are top brands in the rangefinder market. Hence, depending on your choice, you can be assured that you are getting one of the best laser rangefinders.