GolfBuddy's range of laser distance measuring devices have long caught the eye for their combination of performance, accuracy and ease of use, a tradition continued by the latest incarnation, the GolfBuddy LR5.
As we noted in our review of its predecessor, the GolfBuddy LR4, successive generations of the devices build on the best of the what has come before with small changes that improve the user experience.
This theme seems to have continued with GolfBuddy saying the LR5 is packed with all the award winning technology found in the LR4, with improved ergonomics that make it even easier to use.
The 'Mode' and 'Power' buttons now sit alongside each other on the top of the unit, making it a lot simpler for the golfer to select their preferred operational mode and activate the laser.
The battery compartment, that was upgraded to a clever flip and twist mechanism in the LR4, has been relocated to the rear of the LR5 whilst a non-slip grip pad has been introduced on the side of the rangefinder to give added traction and stability in the hand for use in inclement conditions.
The final tweak is a permanent batter power indicator in the display to let players know when they need to replace the CR2 3V battery. The LR5 also features a new grey and blue colour scheme on the casing with metallic detailing around the edges of the lens casing, eyepiece and buttons.
The operational modes will be familiar to fans of GolfBuddy lasers with Scan, Pin and Standard options allowing players to either get a reading on all objects located, home in on the flag without background object interference or get a single distance to the target, whether it is a flag, bunker or dogleg.
The LR5 is accurate to +/- 1m up to 880 yards and you can choose between the distance being displayed in yards or metres, with the device automatically defaulting to your last used setting. The multi-coated lenses have 6x magnification and the eyepiece allows for focus adjustment so is suitable for glasses wearers.
The battery should be good for up to 5,000 scans and an automatic shut-off function after 10 seconds of non-use ensures that no power is wasted. The GolfBuddy LR5 is also IPX3 water and dust resistant.