Rangefinders are becoming more compact and reliable, with advancing technology. They're more affordable than ever now, with the increase in their importance and demand.
Modern units are equipped with lasers and can even lock onto targets, making them highly useful in professional applications.
This article talks about the best rangefinders available for those on a budget and discusses their features.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Budget Rangefinders
- OUR TOP PICK: AOFAR HX-700N
- RUNNER-UP: Simmons Hunting Laser Rangefinder
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: BIJIA Hunting Rangefinder
Comparison of the Best Budget Rangefinders
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Can You Really Find a Quality Rangefinder That's Affordable?
It might come off as a surprise, but yes, it is possible to find a good-quality rangefinder that falls well within your budget. However, there's a tradeoff. Higher-end units are more accurately calibrated and are less prone to errors.
People think that the affordable ones might come with a zero error that can remain persistent. However, this can be resolved by subtracting or adding the error to the final reading. Nevertheless, more and more affordable units are now available with error-correcting features.
Moreover, optics and accuracy have also improved by miles, and many professional hunters have praised the budget units that also have incredible quality optics.
How to Choose a Budget Rangefinder
At this point, you must be wondering how you will find a rangefinder that does not end up wasting your money. Don't worry; we have your back. Below are some aspects to consider before buying a budget product.
Magnification
Hunters usually target deer, which are at a far distance. For that, they need a high amount of magnification. To serve that purpose, a magnification power of 6x is enough.
However, 4x magnification isn't a deal-breaker either. The magnification you go for highly depends on what kind of animal you will be hunting and at what distance.
Optics
Many companies don't give much attention when it comes to optics. A wrong choice of optics might make the subject look blurrier, even when the range is accurately reported. Always look for units that use quality optics, with multiple protective coating preventing scratches and other damaging build-ups.
Battery
Most rangefinders are equipped with lithium-ion batteries. The problem arises when the battery life gets weak, which can be troublesome if you are going on a two-day hunting trip.
On the other hand, you can choose a unit with rechargeable batteries. You can also opt for a unit with replaceable batteries; if one goes down, you can always use new ones.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean:
- Dimensions and Weight: Length, width, height, and weight of the rangefinder.
- Magnification and Objective Lens: Amount of magnification the rangefinder can provide.
- Measurement Range: The entire range the rangefinder can measure accurately.
- Angle Compensation? Whether the unit automatically adjusts based on the angle and actual distance to your target.
- Measurement Metrics: The unit of measurement used by the range finder. Usually in CM, IN, MOA and/or MIL.
- Accuracy: Refers to how closely accurate the rangefinder is at measuring distance.
- Modes: The maximum distance the rangefinder can measure to given optimal conditions. In practice, this is rarely achieved.
- Exit Pupil: The exit pupil is the diameter of the circle of light which reaches your eye and is usually measured in mm.
Review of the Best Budget Rangefinders
The following section includes reviews of the best products available. This will help you find the product that is not only ideal but doesn't put a huge dent on your wallet either.
Best Overall:
AOFAR HX-700N
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love the fact that this two-in-one product provides exceptional clarity and solid accuracy for any use. The unit is lightweight and has a solid build. Moreover, the buttons are reported to be easy to use due to their convenient positioning. Users liked the auto-turn off feature, where it shuts itself down after some inactivity.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Only a few rangefinders can handle both golf and hunting, and the AOFAR HX-700N serves both purposes. This unit has multiple modes, such as speed, range, scan, and fog.
You can take advantage of features like flagpole lock mode and PinSeeker Technology for hunting, and especially locking moving targets. Not only this, but it is also equipped with a speed gun, giving you an estimate about the speed of the subject in motion.
This unit can view up to 700 yards with the magnification power up to 6x. It comes with a lanyard and an easy-to-understand user manual. Other accessories that come with it include a cleaning cloth for the lens, a CR2 battery, and a carry case.
Bottom Line
Finding a product that caters your hunting and golfing needs is tough, but not with the AOFAR AF700L. This unit is extremely inexpensive and stuffed with all the necessary features. Other units within this price range do not include a speed mode, but this one also has that.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
4.33 x 2.95 x 1.77" ; 6.35 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens :
6x
Measurement Range:
5 - 700 yds
Angle Compensation?
No
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Accuracy:
±1 yard
Modes:
Range, Fog, Scan, Speed
Runner-up:
Simmons Hunting Laser Rangefinder
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Reports tell us that this unit works exactly as advertised by the manufacturer. The viewfinder is easy to use and service, even for beginners. Buyers could put in a great deal of trust towards the brand and really liked the unit's laser capabilities. The reports suggest that the unit remained accurate even when the light was visibly low.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Simmons rangefinder looks like something that came from the future. It has excellent magnification ranging up to four times. This unit can work accurately with a distance of ten to 600 yards.
Paired up with an LCD monitor, you will not miss a shot with this product. The LCD has a clear and vivid display of vital information like time and temperature. This makes the unit ideal if the weather is inconsistent. The screen has no issues with foggy or humid weather.
This product is water, dust, and rust-resistant. The material for its build is also excellent. Moreover, thanks to the compact design, you can effortlessly carry it with you everywhere.
Bottom Line
There is no point in spending a fortune on a high-end rangefinder when thus Simmons model comes at a relatively lower price. This can be an ideal choice for you if you are looking for something simple and accurate with just one button to operate.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
6 x 5 x 2" ; 4.7 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens :
6x; 20mm
Measurement Range:
Up to 625 yds
Angle Compensation?
No, but with tilt adjustment technology
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Accuracy:
±0.5 yard
Exit Pupil Diameter/Distance:
3.3mm
Best Budget Laser Rangefinder:
Gogogo Sport Laser
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love the multi-coated unit since it increases their shots' accuracy and, therefore, their whole performance. They don't consider this product a burden while carrying because of the lightweight and compact design. It is quite better than the other products available at this price since it offers a range of up to 1200 yards.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You can easily track your target or prey with the 6x magnification with the Gogogo hunter laser rangefinder. It lets you aim accurately, even from a long distance. The best part is that it can measure from five to 1200 yards.
The tool can also be used to locate a flagpole at the range of 150 yards. The multi-coated lens is exceptionally great at reducing the reflection of light and glare on the lens. This feature enhances clarity while accurately showing the readings. It also has multiple modes that include ARC, flagpole vibration mode, pin sensor mode, and speed mode.
Bottom Line
Overall, this product successfully delivers what it promises; a range of 1200 yards with accurate measures. It works excellently for pro hunters, but can also be a good choice for intermediate level users.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
4.17 x 1.57 x 2.83" ; 6.5 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens :
6x; 25mm
Measurement Range:
5 - 1200 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Accuracy:
±1 yard
Modes:
Scan, Slope, Speed
Exit Pupil Diameter/Distance:
3.7mm
Best for the Money:
BIJIA Hunting Rangefinder
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Lots of reports tell us that the unit is quite sturdy and durable. Unlike other products, this one can actually withstand impact, shocks, and possible damaging conditions. Many buyers shared their experiences of dropping it accidentally and then being impressed by its tolerance.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Don't let the name confuse you into believing that this product is only for hunting. The BIJIA hunting unit comes with three different modes, making it highly multi-purpose. The first mode is ideal for hunting. The second mode is excellent for golf since it can measure distances ranging from five to 150 yards.
The third is the scanning mode. It gives the user accurate readings of distance and speed to get the job done efficiently. This product is even capable of measuring the speed and distance of a moving target.
It has a compact and lightweight design that can be carried anywhere without any hassle. Additionally, the product is accompanied by all the necessary accessories that make a user's experience incredibly convenient.
Bottom Line
To conclude, if you are an outdoor enthusiast who likes to spend time hunting or playing golf, then save yourself some time and go with this product. This is the all-in-one rangefinder that is able to handle multiple tasks for both hunting, archery, and golf.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
4.17 x 1.57 x 2.83" ; 6.35 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens :
6x
Measurement Range:
5 - 650 yds
Angle Compensation?
Yes
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Accuracy:
±1 yard
Modes:
Distance, Scan, Slope, Speed
Best Budget Rangefinder for Hunting:
Wosports Hunting Rangefinder
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers find this product worth gifting to their loved ones, as it is of top-notch quality and has an affordable price tag. Many professional hunters bought this product and reported that it does not break concentration or come in the way while hunting. Moreover, it can endure a lot of damage, as people used it for a long time, even in tough conditions.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For those looking for an affordable product that also delivers superior performance, Wosports has your back! The special optic lens in this product allows you to magnify six times even from a long distance.
You can accurately measure the speed and distance with the range assessment in both meters and yards. It has a range of 650 yards and displays a crystal clear and error-free image. The weight of this product is only 223 grams. The compact design adds more charm to this rangefinder.
Bottom Line
It is indeed one of the best rangefinders on the market, considering the price and features it offers. It delivers an exceptional hunting experience. We highly recommend this product to beginners since it is highly accurate and easy to use.
Product Specs
Dimensions and Weight:
5 x 3.15 x 1.69" ; 7.87 oz
Magnification and Objective Lens :
6x; 22mm
Measurement Range:
5 - 800 yds
Angle Compensation?
No
Measurement Metrics:
Meter and Yard
Exit Pupil Diameter/Distance:
3.7 mm
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
As with every item that goes with your hunting arsenal, you have to keep a few considerations in mind. Before buying any rangefinder, you must make sure of the following:
Comfort and Grip
Most modern rangefinders these days will come with a grip like a Handycam. However, one should always test and see if the grip is comfortable and sturdy enough. An ideal grip would prevent your wrist from straining and provide maximum control. Also, make sure that it fits your hands properly and ergonomically; poor fitting can lead to a plethora of issues.
Accuracy
Make sure the units you're considering to buy have a minimal error rate and great accuracy. A difference of a few yards reported by the rangefinder can significantly impact your hunting abilities.
Weather Proofing
An ideal product must be able to deal with all kinds of weather conditions. Modern units have no issues working through tough conditions like fog and rain. However, make sure that your rangefinder is dust and water-proof.
Hunters face all kinds of climates; sometimes it is water, and sometimes it is sand. Even if one speckle of dust is able to get inside the unit, it can heavily impact the overall performance and reliability of the device.
Rangefinder vs. Binoculars - Comparison Overview
Rangefinders and binoculars are often considered to be similar items; however, the reality is far from it. Both devices serve different purposes and have some similarities. Both are compared below on the following basis:
Magnification
Binoculars are superior when it comes to overall magnification. However, handling them can be extremely difficult. Rangefinders offer great magnification as well, but not as high as binoculars.
Rangefinders offer up to seven times magnification, and binoculars offer more than 10x magnification levels.
Range Reporting
The main purpose behind rangefinders is reporting the range, and they're really good at it. On the other hand, the majority of binoculars lack this feature. Even if some binoculars have range reporting features, they are not that accurate.
Furthermore, rangefinders incorporate lasers to report the range, and binoculars rely on mere estimates.
Target Locking
Many rangefinders are equipped with target locking features, which can come in handy when you're putting your focus on a particular target. Meanwhile, most binoculars do not have any target locking at all.
In the end, it boils down to the choice of the user; professional hunters make use of both devices to improve their overall hunting game. However, most hobbyists will either carry one along on their hunting adventures.
AOFAR HX-700N
Conclusion
Having a perfect rangefinder can greatly enhance your hunting performance and experience too. A good product provides comfort, accuracy, and portability without any compromise. It is suited to work in almost all weather conditions and provide accurate results, at all times. We hope our list helps you find the best rangefinder that suits your needs and budget.
People Also Ask
A rangefinder isn't something you buy every other week. We've collected some mostly asked questions that will help anyone looking to buy a rangefinder. Let's start!
Are Cheap Rangefinders Any Good?
Yes, cheap rangefinders have improved a lot over the past decade, thanks to the emergence of cheaper and reliable technology. They might not be on par with high-end units, but they get the job done for most hobbyists and beginners. They provide great accuracy, as well.
How Much Does a Rangefinder Cost?
The majority of budget rangefinders range from $70 to $200, varying on their quality and functionality.
Are Rangefinders Accurate?
Yes, they are really accurate. However, cheaper ones might struggle a bit when it comes to the overall accuracy, but that can be corrected by adding or subtracting the error margin from the final result.
How Far Can a Rangefinder See?
Rangefinders are equipped with optics that allows them to see up to 1000 yards. However, this isn't the case with all products, most notably the budget ones, which max out at 700-800 yards of distance.
