Earlier this year, THP reviewed the Cigman CT-800Y laser rangefinder, which entered the competitive, budget-friendly market. Priced at under $100 and sometimes as low as $60, this rangefinder delivered a satisfying experience for its value. Cigman has since broadened its product range by introducing two new models: The CT-1000 and the CT-1000 Pro. Let’s take a look at these models and determine whether they justify an upgrade from the CT-800Y.
The CT-1000 and CT-1000 Pro have many similarities. Physically, they have the exact body dimensions and weight (206 grams), which are slightly larger and heavier than the compact design of the CT-800Y. Both feature an ergonomic design that is comfortable to hold and have the right amount of anti-slip material to help prevent accidental drops. The only noticeable aesthetic difference is that the Pro model has a blue finish, while the CT-1000 comes in dark gray. Other similarities include having a built-in magnetic strap for securing to a golf cart, an IP54 waterproof rating, and housing a 750mAh battery that charges via USB Type-C. According to Cigman, a full 3-hour charge is expected to last 20,000 uses.
Accuracy is essential when using a rangefinder. These models have a range of 1200 yards and are accurate to within 1 yard. With 7x magnification and a multi-layer AR-coated optical lens, both rangefinders deliver a clear and precise view of the target. A factor that has sometimes plagued wallet-friendly rangefinders is speed, which thankfully isn’t a problem here as Cigman rates the initial speed reading at .5 seconds.
The term “pro” is frequently used in the golf and tech industries and typically indicates that consumers are getting something extra. Unsurprisingly, the CT-1000 Pro rangefinder offers exclusive features that are unavailable on the CT-1000. To begin with, the CT-1000 has a basic black reticle, whereas the Pro version includes a red and green combination, providing a brighter appearance for improved visibility. In addition to the enhanced optics provided by the OLED screen, users can easily switch between four different brightness levels, making it easier to adjust to varying playing conditions.
An additional exclusive feature of the CT-1000 Pro is the Azimuth mode, which allows you to measure the straight-line distance between two separate targets. This mode can be helpful in various scenarios, such as measuring yardage for a playing partner without walking or riding over to their ball or on days when cart path-only rounds are enforced. By switching to this mode, you can measure the distance to your golf ball (point A) and the yardage to the pin (point B). The CT-1000 Pro will then use this information to provide an accurate distance for your next shot. After briefly testing the CT-1000 Pro, I can confirm that the Azimuth mode functions as described.
With the exception of the aforementioned Azimuth mode, both the CT-1000 and CT-1000 Pro benefit from the same number of measurement modes. For golf, the modes are what we expect most rangefinders to have these days, including straight distance, continuous scan, flagpole mode, and slope compensation mode. There is a sliding button on the side of each device that enables slope mode. When it’s turned off, these devices are considered legal for tournament play.
Similar to what we saw with the CT-800Y, Cigman markets these as multi-functioning laser rangefinders. They have modes such as vertical and horizontal distance, and a speed measurement mode, which could be handy for hunting and other outdoor activities.
Cigman now offers three devices priced under $200. Both of these new devices are solid upgrades from the CT-800Y that we reviewed earlier this year and provide useful features at a great value. Cigman lists these rangefinders’ suggested retail price (MSRP) at $129.99 and $199.99. Since these are mostly sold via Amazon, prices could fluctuate, meaning even better deals could be available. Currently, the CT-1000 is priced at $78, and the CT-1000 Pro at $149.99, thanks to a current coupon.
More information on the new CT-100 and CT-100 Pro laser rangefinders are available at www.cigman.com.
