While using a rangefinder for measuring distances related to golf, hunting, or other activities, some users may notice that the device defaults to meters. In the United States, the imperial system is more commonly used. Therefore, people are more accustomed to “yards”. So, how to change rangefinder from meters to yards?
In this post, we are going to offer a step-by-step guide to changing the unit from meters to yards. Let’s go!
Part 1. Why Should You Change Units on a Rangefinder?
Adjusting the unit of measurement on a rangefinder is a matter of personal choice. Here is a detailed explanation of the matter.
1. Golf Courses: Yards Are the Standard
Golf courses in the US and other countries using the imperial system track distances with yardage markers, flagsticks, and course signage.
When set to meters, many rangefinders require mental conversions, making club selection hard. This is compounded by the fact that mental conversions aren’t necessary when the rangefinder is set to yards. Switching to yardage ensures seamless alignment with course markers and helps maintain consistency.
2. Hunting: Yards Fit Natural Aiming Instincts
For hunters, especially in North America, yards are more instinctively used when judging shot distances. Most ballistic charts, scopes, and hunting guides are based on yard measurements.
A mismatch between your rangefinder unit and your scope setup could result in inaccurate aiming and missed opportunities. By switching your rangefinder to yards, you align your readings with your equipment and muscle memory.
3. Engineering or Scientific Use: Meters for Precision
In engineering, surveying, and scientific research, the metric system is the international standard. Measurements in meters provide a globally recognized, decimal-based precision that fits technical calculations and reports.
If you're using a rangefinder for these purposes, switching to meters ensures compatibility with software tools, documentation, and project requirements.
4. In the U.S.: Feet Are Also Common
In certain American construction, safety, or tactical applications, feet are a frequently used, especially for vertical measurements such as building heights or tree distances. Some advanced rangefinders also offer a "feet" setting, and switching to this unit can provide quick and relatable measurements in specific scenarios.
5. Greater Flexibility Across Environments
The ability to quickly toggle between meters, yards, or feet gives you greater flexibility to adapt your device to the situation at hand.
Ease of travelling internationally, sharing of the device, or a quick switch between professional and recreational settings makes the device more accurate and user-friendly.
Part 2. How to Change Rangefinder from Meters to Yards? (General Method)
While the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the brand or model, most rangefinders follow a similar process for switching between meters, yards, or feet. Here's a general guide you can follow:
Step 1. Press and Hold the "MODE" or "UNIT" Button
Most rangefinders use a dedicated MODE or UNIT button. Pressing and holding this button for 2–3 seconds typically opens the unit setting mode.
Step 2. Check the Screen Display
Once in unit setting mode, your screen should display a symbol like “M” for meters, “Y” for yards, or “FT” for feet. This helps you identify the current unit.
Step 3. Switch Units Using the Correct Button
To toggle between units, use one of the following:
- The Power button (short press)
- The Arrow keys (if available)
- The Mode button (in some models)
Each press should cycle through the available units.
Step 4. Save the Setting
Some rangefinders automatically save the selected unit after a few seconds of inactivity. Others may require you to press and hold a confirmation button (often the MODE or POWER button again) to finalize your choice.
Step 5. Verify the Change
Do a quick test by measuring a known distance. This will help confirm that the unit has successfully switched.
Tip: Some rangefinders reset to default units (usually meters) after powering off. If you often switch between units, make it a habit to double-check the setting before use.
Part 3. Recommended Multi Unit Display Rangefinder - Gogogo Sport Vpro ZeroIn Rangefinder
If you're looking for a highly precise and rechargeable laser rangefinder with the Gogogo Sport Vpro ZeroIn Rechargeable Laser Golf Rangefinder featuring multiple measurement units, then you're in for a treat. Its unparalleled precision and ease of operation make it ideal for golfers, hunters, and anyone who participates in outdoor measurement activities.
Seamless Multi-Unit Switching
ZeroIn supports meters (m), yards (yds), and feet (ft), allowing quick adaptation to various environments without complicated settings.
How to switch units:
Just press and hold the MODE button for 2 seconds. The screen will cycle through the available units—release the button when your desired unit is displayed.
Other Key Features of the ZeroIn Laser Rangefinder
Ultra-Precise Distance Measurement
- Measures distances up to 2500 yards
- FlagLock 2.0 locks onto the flagstick within 300 yards
- Accuracy of ±0.5 yards with lightning-fast response time of 0.38 seconds
USB-C Rechargeable Design
- Built-in 800mAh lithium battery
- Lasts through 80+ golf rounds on a single charge
- Fast charging—80% charged in just 30 minutes
Built-In Magnetic Mount
- Strong magnet easily attaches to golf carts, clubs, and metal surfaces
- Secure even on a 45° angle, tested for 10,000+ uses
Slope Switch Function
- Complies with USGA Rule 4.3a
- Toggle slope compensation off during tournaments to ensure legality
Part 4. What If You Can’t Change Rangefinder Units?
Some users may find that the unit-switching function on their rangefinder doesn’t respond or appears unavailable. If you're experiencing this issue, here are some possible causes and solutions:
1. Device Does Not Support Unit Switching
Some entry-level rangefinders only support a single unit (often meters or yards). In such cases, switching units simply isn’t an available feature. Check your user manual or product description to confirm whether multi-unit support is included.
2. Button Malfunction or Low Battery
If pressing the MODE or UNIT button does nothing, it could be due to:
Worn or faulty buttons
Low battery power
Try replacing or recharging the battery, then attempt the switch again. Button sensitivity often improves with full power.
3. Requires Mobile App Settings
As with Bluetooth-connected smart rangefinders, some of these devices will require you to change unit preferences using a companion application on your mobile device. Make sure the app is installed, connected, and check the unit settings in the app's menu.
4. Try a Factory Reset
If the unit setting is stuck or the device is glitching, performing a factory reset may help. Refer to your user manual for the reset procedure—this often involves holding down a combination of buttons for several seconds. Resetting can clear temporary bugs and restore switching functionality.
Still Not Working?
- If none of the above solutions work, try these steps:
- Search for your model's PDF manual online
- Contact the manufacturer's customer support or authorized reseller for help
Part 5. Tips for Using the “Yards” Unit in Rangefinder Effectively
Even after switching successfully, it's important to use your rangefinder consistently:
Maintain Unit Consistency
Make sure your course maps, golf GPS, ballistic calculator, and other tools are all set to yards. Mixed units can lead to miscalculations and confusion.
Ideal for Hunting
In the U.S., most ballistic charts and scope settings use yards. Using the same unit on your rangefinder improves targeting accuracy and distance estimation.
Standard on Golf Courses
Golf courses in the U.S. almost always mark distances in yards. Keeping your rangefinder in yards prevents mismatched readings during play.
Check Units Regularly
Some devices reset to default (meters) after power-off. Before every round or hunt, double-check that the unit hasn't changed unexpectedly.
Final Thoughts
Changing your rangefinder from meters to yards is easy. Be it on the golf course, in the field, or in the long measurement professional world, knowing the correct button to press on your equipment makes unit changes seamless. For a rangefinder that provides high precision at a low cost, Gogogo Sport Vpro series makes a perfect buy supporting both metre and yard usage.
