GarminApproach Z82, Golf GPS Laser Range Finder, Accuracy Within 10” of The Flag, 2-D Course Overlays

This range finder works very well and is light weight. Easy to operate.

I have used this rangefinder for about 10 rounds on a few different courses. I’ve used other rangefinders and recently have been using GPS software on my phone. I never enjoyed using my phone on the course due to the distraction.This device is just fun to use. There is a slight delay for the device to wake up, but it doesn’t bother me at all. I end up using the GPS functionality even more than the laser. They’ve done an amazing job with the software UI to give you a ton of information very quickly. I do wish there was a shortcut to get to the score card quickly.The pin finder function is surprisingly useful (pro tip, don’t wear a hat with a magnetic ball marker). One drawback is that you can’t use a magnet attachment with this rangefinder due to the compass. I use a bag with a magnet flap and that doesn’t seem to bother it.The laser is very accurate and grabs the flag quickly. The overlay of the ranged distance on the hole overview is just awesome. I end up playing a lot of evenings. One benefit of this device is makes the flag easy to see even when getting dark. It amplifies the ambient light and makes it easy to see.The battery life is probably the only drawback. I usually need to charge about every other round. I keep a backup battery in my bag so even if I forget to charge, I can plug in while getting ready. It actually charges very quickly.The connection to the phone works great and very cool how the score updates from the rangefinder into the Garmin golf app.In summary, this is a premium device at a premium price. At first I struggled with the idea of spending $500+ on a rangefinder, but very glad I did.

Have to say that I impulse-purchased the Approach Z82 after seeing an ad from Garmin themselves on Facebook. I’ve used it for seven rounds. For the purpose of comparing: I’ve had a Leupold GX-4i3 and, most recently, a Bushnell Tour V4 Shift in my range-finding golf career.The accuracy of this rangefinder is just as good as both of my past owns. There is no worry there. Targeting the flag can be a bit cumbersome for first-time users, but you will definitely get the hang of it, even without a steady hand. It has the vibration technology just like most others with this feature. It is roughly the same size and still ergonomically-friendly. My favorite feature is what the embedded GPS helps bring to the front: the laser range arc. After you input some of your standard yardages, this feature will ensure that you never second-guess yourself when wanting to clear ponds, fescue, anything. The automatic switch to green view when you are shooting to the pin as you approach is also really neat - complete with front- and back-of-green yardages.Think that bunker is within driving distance for you? It might not be after you use the hazard view and literally scroll bunker-by-bunker on the hole you’re playing!My only negatives are probably the same as what you might have read elsewhere:1) it is not easy to keep taking it out of its carrying case and putting it back in. You almost have to leave it out. However, the case is definitely solid and protective, so that’s the good thing about it.2) you really have to practice going thru all of the copious menu options this thing has BEFORE you play. And do it many times. I only did it once. You’ll hold up your playing partners if you’re not prepared. But...be prepared to be blown away by what the Z82 can do.3) There is no easy way that I’ve found to resume your round if you accidentally power it down while entering your scorecard (yes, you can do that right on this thing too!!).4) price. Personally I feel it is worth it, having sold my other two to cover the cost. But if you can pull the trigger, you won’t be sorry.This really is a five-star product in my opinion. If it comes down under $500 and if Garmin can provide a case that makes for easy removal and return, I will move this to five stars.I’m still having a lot of fun with it and am ready for a hot day on the course tomorrow!

I’m a gadget geek. I have a Garmin golf watch and a high end Bushnell rangefinder. The watch gives me hazards and front, middle, back of green distances, and the rangefinder gives me pin distance. The Z82 does both in a rangefinder that fits in your back pocket.Pluses: —all the data you need in one place—cool graphicsMinuses: —can give inaccurate pin readings (I still use my watch to confirm pin distance accuracy)—rangefinder optics not as clear as my Bushnell—there’s a small delay between hitting the pin seeker button and the rangefinder turning on (I now just push the pin seeker button a moment before I lift it to my eye)Would I get it again? Definitely. It’s super cool, and once you get the hang of it, it’s easy (and fun) to use.

Save yourself some money and get the Busnell or Calloway rangefinders. This thing is overly complicated, slow to turn on, and the micro-usb charger is outdated and annoying, which combined with horrible battery life will have it dangling from your golf bag worthless to you.