Canon launches first compact laser rangefinder with built-in camera for golfers
Fore! Canon's PowerShot takes to the green with a new Golf edition
Canon has announced a delight for those who "hit the green" and enjoy the hobby and pastime of golf with the new Canon PowerShot Golf, a sophisticated laser golf rangefinder with an added camera function, designed to enhance the game for both amateurs and professionals.
This new product marks Canon's debut in the golf accessories market, though other very-well known photography brands (like Nikon) can already found in a guide to the best laser rangefinders for golf.
Canon's new device combines advanced rangefinding capabilities that we usually see in their end-end binoculars with visual imaging technology.
The pocket-sized PowerShot Golf provides quick and accurate distance readings anywhere on the course and allows golfers to document their rounds with an easy-to-use camera.
The PowerShot Golf also offers rapid and precise readings thanks to its high-precision laser and pin-locking function, which targets the nearest object when multiple subjects are detected – ideal for perfecting your swing and trying to get that hole-in-one.
The new device offers crystal-clear and bright optics, with 6x optical and additional digital magnification capabilities, enabling golfers to assess the course in detail, helping to improve their handicaps on both new and familiar courses. With 12x digital magnification, golfers can closely examine flags, greens, bunkers, and any hazards, offering a comprehensive view of the course and aiding in strategic decision-making for club selection.
Due to its lightweight and compact construction, the PowerShot Golf easily fits into any pocket, ensuring portability between shots. It is water-resistant to IPX4 standards, making it suitable for use even on rainy days. As one of the lightest rangefinders available, it is perfect for all golfing occasions and features a built-in rechargeable battery that can be conveniently recharged via a USB-C port.
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The PowerShot Golf helps golfers choose the perfect club for every shot with precise and reliable distance readings, including elevation-adjusted distances when using the optional Slope Mode. Slope Mode considers elevation changes, providing "plays like" distances, which are crucial for confident club selection.
Golfers can also capture photos and videos of specific holes with superimposed distance information, creating a personal course diary complete with voice memos for detailed shot analysis. This feature is useful for settling disputes or verifying rule compliance, as golfers can document the position of their ball or any obstacles in their path.
The high-quality optics, bright electronic viewfinder, and Image Stabilizer technology ensure a steady, clear, and detailed view of the golf course. This steadiness enhances the accuracy of distance measurements, especially when targeting distant flags or hazards.
With tournament season approaching, the Canon PowerShot Golf is approved for use under the Rules of Golf. Players can easily comply with tournament regulations by turning off Slope Mode, indicated by a flashing blue light to assure fair play all round.
Pre-orders:
Pre-order Canon PowerShot Golf at Canon USA Store: $349.99
Pre-order Canon PowerShot Golf at Canon UK Store: £329.99
Available in Australia from July 2024, with price TBC
For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.
He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and holds a Master of Arts in Publishing. He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since his film days using a Nikon F5. He saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still, to this day, the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, the British Equestrian Writers' Association.
He is familiar with and shows great interest in 35mm, medium, and large-format photography, using products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2, shooting Street/Documentary photography as he sees it, usually in Black and White.