Golf Range Finder Battery: Which Type and How Long?
Most laser golf rangefinders that use a replaceable battery need a CR2 lithium battery, but check your model before buying. How long one lasts in use depends on the rangefinder and how often you take readings.
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Most laser golf rangefinders that use a replaceable battery need a CR2 lithium battery, but check your model before buying. Runtime varies by rangefinder and use, so a spare can be useful if you play away from home.
A CR2 cell is not the same as a CR123A. Check the label inside the battery compartment or the manual, and match the battery type exactly.
Which battery does a golf rangefinder use?
Many laser rangefinders use a 3V CR2 lithium battery. The required type depends on the model, so use the battery name printed in its manual or compartment.
CR2 batteries are common in compact optical devices. For example, the Bushnell Tour V6 Shift includes a CR2 battery, and its battery description is lithium.
Don't assume that every laser uses CR2, or that a GPS watch or handheld GPS device takes the same cell. If you're comparing device types, our guide to golf rangefinders explained covers laser, GPS, and hybrid options.
Is CR2 the same as CR123A?
No. CR2 and CR123A are different battery sizes and aren't interchangeable.
Amazon Basics states this directly for its CR2 batteries.
Don't try to make one fit by using a spacer or changing the battery orientation. Check your rangefinder's instructions before replacing a cell, especially if the battery compartment label is hard to read.
How long does a golf rangefinder battery last?
There isn't a single runtime for all golf rangefinders. Battery life depends on the model, cell, temperature, and how often you take readings or use other features.
The battery details here don't give a number of rounds or operating hours for a rangefinder. Use your device manual for its battery-life guidance, and replace the cell when the device shows low power or readings become unreliable.
Storage life is different from runtime. Energizer and Duracell each state that their CR2 batteries can be stored for up to 10 years; that doesn't mean either one will power a rangefinder for 10 years in use.
What can shorten battery life on the course?
Frequent use can drain a battery faster than occasional readings. Cold or hot conditions can also affect battery output, and both Energizer and Duracell describe their CR2 cells as suitable for high and low temperature operation.
Keep the rangefinder switched off when you're not using it if its manual recommends that. If a battery seems to drain unusually fast, check the manual for storage, cleaning, and power settings before assuming the device needs repair.
How do you choose a replacement CR2 battery?
Choose a single-use 3V CR2 lithium cell if that's what your rangefinder specifies. Compare pack size, storage needs, and the battery maker's stated features, then confirm that the exact cell type matches your device.
Energizer also lists DLCR2, CR15H270, and KCR2 as replacements. Use those cross references only if your manual allows them.
Duracell describes its CR2 cell as designed for high-drain specialty devices and says it is guaranteed for 10 years in storage. If you keep a spare, store it as directed and check its condition before a trip.
Amazon Basics lists an 800mAh capacity and says these cells are not interchangeable with CR123A batteries. Choose this pack only if your rangefinder calls for CR2.
For a different example of a rangefinder that takes CR2, the Bushnell Tour V6 Shift comes with a CR2 battery. Check your own model before buying a replacement.
Should you carry a spare battery?
Carry a spare if a dead rangefinder would interrupt your round and your model uses a replaceable cell. Keep it in its packaging or a battery case, away from loose metal items that could touch its contacts.
A spare is especially handy when you play away from your car, travel, or don't have easy access to a shop. Confirm the battery type before packing, and check airline guidance before flying with spare batteries; our guide to taking a golf rangefinder on a plane covers that question.
The Tour V6 Shift also has an external slope switch, flag-lock vibration, and a magnetic cart mount. Those features don't guarantee battery runtime, so use the manual for expected operating life and replacement steps.
How do you replace a rangefinder battery?
Follow the replacement steps in your rangefinder's manual. Turn the device off, open the battery compartment as directed, and match the new cell's type and orientation to the markings.
Keep the compartment dry and free of grit while it's open. Close it fully before using the rangefinder, and avoid forcing a cover or contact that doesn't move as expected.
If the device still won't power on, check the cell orientation and compartment contacts according to the manual. Don't mix old and new cells or combine different battery types.
Which golf rangefinder battery should you choose?
For a golf rangefinder battery, match the exact cell type in your manual first. If it specifies CR2, choose a 3V CR2 lithium cell and decide whether a 2-pack or 4-pack suits your spare-battery needs.
Energizer and Duracell each offer a 2-pack and state up to 10 years of storage. Amazon Basics offers a 4-pack and states that its CR2 batteries are non-rechargeable and not interchangeable with CR123A.
If your current rangefinder uses a built-in rechargeable battery, don't buy a CR2 for it. Learn how the device types differ in golf rangefinders explained, or see how a magnetic mount can keep a compatible laser within reach in our rangefinder mount setup guide.
Frequently asked questions
What battery does a golf rangefinder use?
Many laser golf rangefinders use a CR2 lithium battery, but battery type varies by model. Check the battery compartment or manual for the exact cell name and voltage before buying.
A CR2 is different from a CR123A, so don't substitute one for the other unless the manual says it's compatible.
How long does a CR2 battery last in a golf rangefinder?
There isn't one runtime that applies to every rangefinder. Battery life depends on the model, battery, temperature, and how often you use the display and take readings.
Replace a weak cell with the type specified in the manual, and carry a spare if you play far from your car or locker.
Can you recharge a CR2 battery?
Standard CR2 lithium batteries are single-use and aren't rechargeable. Amazon Basics specifically labels its CR2 batteries as non-rechargeable.
Don't put a single-use cell in a charger; if you want rechargeable power, use only a battery type and charger approved by your rangefinder's manual.
Can you carry a spare rangefinder battery on a golf trip?
Yes, a spare can help if your rangefinder uses a replaceable cell, but pack and carry batteries according to the airline's current rules. Keep the battery protected from loose metal objects, and confirm whether your device uses CR2 before you leave.
See our guide to taking a golf rangefinder on a plane for more.
