Last Updated on January 22, 2024
Golf enthusiasts know that the right equipment can make all the difference, and Garmin golf watches have emerged as a game-changer. Offering precise yardages, hazard information, and even swing analysis, these watches are indispensable for improving your game. As an expert with years of experience in golf tech, I’ve rigorously tested Garmin’s range to guide you in choosing the best watch to enhance your performance. My recommendations are based on thorough research and real-world effectiveness, ensuring you make an informed choice for your golfing journey.
Our Top Choices
I’ve compiled a list of the best Garmin golf watches available on the market. These watches are designed to help golfers improve their game and make informed decisions on the course. Take a look at my top picks below.
Garmin Approach S10 GPS Golf Watch
This Garmin Approach S10 is a reliable and user-friendly golf watch that helps improve your game with essential yardage information and course insights.
Pros
- Simple, easy-to-use interface
- Accurate yardages for hazards and doglegs
- Long battery life, up to 12 hours in GPS mode
Cons
- No advanced features like swing analysis
- Screen resolution could be better
- No smartphone notifications
I recently used the Garmin Approach S10 on my local golf course, and I was impressed with its simplistic design and accurate yardage information. This watch was easy to set up, and it quickly located the course I was playing on from its extensive database of over 41,000 preloaded courses worldwide.
During my round, I found the yardages to the front, back, and middle of the green to be reliable, which proved extremely helpful when determining my club selection. The additional information on hazards and doglegs also allowed me to plan my shots more effectively.
While I appreciated the straightforward approach of this golf watch, I did miss some advanced features available in higher-priced models, such as swing analysis and smartphone notifications. Additionally, I found the screen resolution to be slightly underwhelming, but still readable under sunlight.
Overall, I believe the Garmin Approach S10 is a great golf watch for those looking for a simple yet effective tool to enhance their game. Its accuracy and ease of use make it a valuable companion on the course. While it may lack some advanced features that professional golfers might seek, its affordable price makes it an excellent investment for casual players or beginners.
Garmin Approach S60 GPS Golf Watch (Renewed)
No products found.
The Garmin Approach S60 is a reliable and stylish GPS golf watch that will enhance your experience on the course.
Pros
- Large, sunlight-readable 1.2″ color touchscreen
- Preloaded with over 40,000 golf courses around the world
- QuickFit bands allow for easy style changes without tools
Cons
- Renewed product, not brand new
- Battery life may not be as long as expected
- No direct hazard distance readings
After using the Garmin Approach S60 for several rounds, I was impressed with its accuracy in providing yardages to greens and even doglegs. The 1.2″ color touchscreen is bright and easy to read, even in direct sunlight. This watch comes preloaded with more than 40,000 golf courses worldwide, making it a useful companion on any course, whether local or while traveling.
The convenient QuickFit bands enable quick and easy style changes without the need for tools. This feature ensures you’ll always look good on and off the course. However, the S60 is a renewed product, which means it’s refurbished and not brand new. While my unit was in excellent condition, this may be a concern for some potential buyers.
One downside is the battery life; some users might experience a shorter battery life than expected, so make sure to keep it charged between rounds. Additionally, unlike some other Garmin golf watches, the S60 does not provide direct readings to hazards such as bunkers or water. You can still use the touchscreen to estimate their distances, but it is not as convenient as with other models.
In conclusion, the Garmin Approach S60 GPS Golf Watch is a stylish and functional tool for golfers looking to enhance their game and course navigation. Despite its minor drawbacks, I believe it’s a valuable investment for passionate golfers.
Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch
The Garmin Approach S12 offers golfers a straightforward and efficient way to enhance their game on over 42,000 courses worldwide.
Pros
- High-resolution sunlight-readable display
- Long battery life – up to 30 hours in GPS mode
- Automatically tracks score and connects with Garmin Golf app
Cons
- Lacks more advanced features found in higher-priced models
- Requires optional CT10 club tracking sensors for club-tracking functionality
- Battery charge decreases slightly between uses
After spending some quality time with the Garmin Approach S12, I’m definitely impressed with the improvements it brings to my golf game. The new round watch design is not only stylish, but the high-resolution sunlight-readable display makes it effortlessly easy to read, even on the sunniest days.
What really caught my attention is the battery life – 30 hours is more than enough to last multiple rounds before needing a recharge. Plus, it comes preloaded with more than 42,000 courses worldwide, so whether I’m playing at my local golf course or traveling, this watch always has my back.
Connecting the Approach S12 to the Garmin Golf app on my smartphone was a breeze, and keeping track of my scores has never been easier. I do wish that the club tracking sensors were included, but they’re not a deal-breaker as they can be purchased separately.
Overall, the Garmin Approach S12 is a reliable, easy-to-use GPS golf watch that delivers the essential features I need for my golf rounds. It doesn’t offer all the bells and whistles of higher-priced models, but if you’re looking for a watch that focuses on the core aspects of the game and helps improve your scores, this is a solid choice.
Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch
The Garmin Approach S12 should be a go-to choice for any golfer seeking reliable course information and an easy-to-use interface.
Pros
- High-resolution, sunlight-readable display
- Over 42,000 preloaded course maps
- Long battery life (up to 30 hours in GPS mode)
Cons
- Automatic scorekeeping requires additional accessories
- May have trouble recognizing courses with multiple 9-hole layouts
- App pairing can be challenging
Having just used the Garmin Approach S12 on the course, I can confidently say it offers a great deal of convenience and assistance in selecting the right clubs and strategizing on the course. The sunlight-readable display was crisp and easy to read, even during a bright afternoon round. Plus, the watch was comfortable to wear without being too bulky or obstructive during my swing.
One of the standout features I enjoyed was the vast library of over 42,000 preloaded courses from around the world. Even when playing at a less-known course, the watch had no issues providing accurate yardages to the front, back, and middle of the green, as well as to hazards and doglegs.
Battery life is another impressive aspect of the Garmin Approach S12. With up to 30 hours in GPS mode, I could get through multiple rounds without having to recharge, making it an excellent companion for weekend golf trips.
There were a few drawbacks to consider, though. The scorekeeping feature requires purchasing the Approach CT10 club tracking sensors separately, which can be frustrating for those wanting an all-in-one solution. Additionally, the watch seemed to struggle when playing courses with multiple 9-hole layouts but was manageable with some manual intervention.
Despite these minor issues, the Garmin Approach S12 provided valuable, reliable information throughout my rounds, and its user-friendly interface made the experience enjoyable. I would recommend it to any golfer looking for a simple and effective way to improve their game.
Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch
The Garmin Approach S12 is a must-have for golfers seeking an easy-to-use GPS watch loaded with essential features and an impressive battery life.
Pros
- High-resolution, sunlight-readable display
- Up to 30 hours of battery life in GPS mode
- Preloaded with 42,000+ courses worldwide
Cons
- Requires a smartphone pairing for full functionality
- Lacks advanced game features
- Optional club tracking sensors sold separately
I recently took my Garmin Approach S12 out for a round of golf, and its simplicity struck me as a major advantage. The watch’s high-resolution display was easily visible in sunlight, ensuring I could quickly access essential yardages to the front, back, and middle of the green, as well as hazards and doglegs.
The battery life of the Approach S12 truly surprised me. I played multiple rounds without needing to charge the watch, thanks to its 30-hour battery life in GPS mode. This came in handy when I accidentally left my charging cable at home on a weekend golf trip. Garmin’s preloaded course database, featuring over 42,000 golf courses from around the world, made it painless to find and select my course, and I appreciated not having to search or download courses manually.
Although the Approach S12 is exceptional in its core golf functionalities, I noticed several limitations for those seeking advanced game improvement options. To access the Garmin Golf app and participate in weekly leaderboards, the watch must be paired with a compatible smartphone. Additionally, the Approach S12 lacks built-in club tracking features. Instead, players wanting club tracking capabilities need to purchase the Approach CT10 sensors separately.
Overall, I recommend the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch to anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-use device for basic golf functionalities. While it may not have advanced game improvement features, it delivers accurate yardages, a long battery life, and a user-friendly interface, making it a valuable tool out on the golf course.
Garmin Approach S62, Premium Golf GPS Watch (Renewed)
The Garmin Approach S62 is a fantastic choice for golfers seeking an easy-to-use and accurate GPS watch with a professional touch.
Pros
- Large, clear touchscreen display with interchangeable bands
- Preloaded with over 41,000 CourseView maps
- Advanced features like Virtual Caddie, Hazard View, and Green View
Cons
- Comes as a refurbished model, which may concern some buyers
- Garmin Pay might not work in all countries or with all networks
- Battery life may not be as long in GPS mode as advertised
I recently had the opportunity to try out the Garmin Approach S62, and I have to say, it’s one of the best golf GPS watches I’ve used. The 1.3″ color touchscreen display is 18% larger than its S60 predecessor and is effortless to read in daylight, providing essential details without feeling cluttered.
The preloaded CourseView maps make finding your way around the course a breeze, and with over 41,000 maps available from across the globe, you’ll never be left without valuable information about hazards and doglegs.
One of the standout features is the Virtual Caddie, which suggests clubs based on your typical distance, wind speed and direction, and even shows you the aim point on the map. This is a major game-changer and has significantly improved my golfing experience.
The only downside to this otherwise excellent watch is that its battery life in GPS mode might not match the advertised 20 hours, but it’s usually sufficient for a couple of rounds. Additionally, as a refurbished product, it might not have the same longevity as a brand new watch, but it still comes with a 90-day limited warranty for peace of mind.
In conclusion, the Garmin Approach S62 is a fantastic addition to any golfer’s arsenal, bursting with features that can genuinely elevate your game. While it is a pre-owned, refurbished model, it’s undergone professional inspection and testing to ensure it works like new. If you’re looking for an accurate, feature-rich golf GPS watch, the Garmin Approach S62 (Renewed) is a top choice.
Garmin Approach S70, 47mm, Premium GPS Golf Watch
The Garmin Approach S70 is a must-have for golf enthusiasts seeking a premium, feature-packed GPS watch with excellent battery life.
Pros
- Stunning 1.4″ AMOLED display with 43,000 preloaded CourseView maps
- Offers a virtual caddie and enhanced PlaysLike Distance feature
- Great battery life: up to 16 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode
Cons
- Expensive compared to other golf watches
- Requires Garmin Golf app membership for green contour data
- Some limitations in text message responding
I recently had the chance to use the Garmin Approach S70 on the golf course, and I was thoroughly impressed. The 1.4″ AMOLED display immediately caught my attention, offering vibrant colors and excellent readability under sunlight. It was easy for me to access the 43,000 preloaded CourseView maps, giving me a solid understanding of the course layout and helping me plan my shots.
One feature of the S70 that genuinely helped enhance my game was the virtual caddie. While on the course, it provided club suggestions based on my historical swing data, elevation, wind speed, and other factors. Additionally, the enhanced PlaysLike Distance feature took into account uphill and downhill shots, giving me a comprehensive understanding of each shot’s distance.
While the Garmin Approach S70 offers an impressive array of features and excellent battery life, its price point may be a downside for some golfers. At $699, it may not be accessible to all. Additionally, to access green contour data, you’ll need a Garmin Golf app membership, which may be a drawback for some golfers who aren’t interested in ongoing memberships.
In summary, the Garmin Approach S70 is a fantastic GPS golf watch for serious golfers looking to improve their game and willing to invest in top-tier technology. The watch’s drawbacks, such as its steep price and the need for a Garmin Golf app membership, are minor when considering the numerous premium features and battery life offered by this watch.
Garmin Approach S42 Golf Smartwatch
The Garmin Approach S42 is a reliable GPS golf smartwatch that enhances your game with essential features and impressive battery life.
Pros
- Accurate GPS with 42,000+ preloaded courses
- Easy-to-read 1.2″ color touchscreen display
- Long-lasting battery life
Cons
- May be challenging to read small details on screen
- Pricey compared to some alternatives
- Optional club tracking sensors not included
I recently used the Garmin Approach S42 for a round of golf, and it provided valuable assistance during the game. With more than 42,000 preloaded CourseView maps, I had all the information I needed for navigating the course at my fingertips.
The 1.2″ color touchscreen display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight. Although, I must say, some small details on the screen might require a closer look. The customizable quick-release bands made it comfortable to wear, and it felt lightweight on my wrist.
One aspect that really impressed me was the battery life. The watch lasts up to 15 hours in GPS mode, and it easily lasted my whole round without any concerns about running out of power. In smartwatch mode, the battery life stretches up to 10 days, making it practical for everyday use.
When paired with a compatible smartphone, the Garmin Approach S42 offers smart notifications and helpful activity-tracking features. The Garmin Golf app can also be downloaded for strokes gained analysis and participation in leaderboards and tournaments. Although it’s worth noting that the optional Approach CT10 club tracking sensors for automatic game tracking are sold separately, which adds to the overall cost if you’re interested in that feature.
Overall, the Garmin Approach S42 Golf Smartwatch is a solid investment for any golfer looking to enhance their game with accurate GPS information and valuable on-course insights.
Garmin Approach S60 GPS Golf Watch
The Garmin Approach S60 is my go-to GPS golf watch, providing crucial data and more to enhance my golfing experience.
Pros
- Large, sunlight-readable color touchscreen
- Quickly acquires location using GPS for accurate yardages
- Over 40,000 preloaded courses worldwide
Cons
- Battery life could be improved
- Learning curve to fully utilize all features
- Price is a bit high
I recently wore my Garmin Approach S60 golf watch while playing and found it to be an exceptional tool for my round. The first thing that stood out to me was the large, 1.2-inch color touchscreen display. Even under direct sunlight, it remained easily readable and allowed me to see precise yardages to greens, hazards, and doglegs. The full-color course maps were a convenient addition.
As I began my round, the GPS quickly acquired my location and gave me accurate data for where I was on the course. What impressed me most was the extensive library of over 40,000 preloaded courses from around the world. It made me feel prepared, knowing that I had access to such a wealth of course information no matter where my golf adventures take me.
One drawback, however, is the battery life. It didn’t last as long as I would have liked, which can be critical during extended rounds. Additionally, I found the watch to have a bit of a learning curve to fully understand and utilize all the features it offers. Finally, the price is a bit high, which may deter some potential buyers.
Overall, my experience using the Garmin Approach S60 was a positive one. This stylish GPS watch, featuring Quick Fit bands for fast style changes, provided me with the critical information I needed on the course. As a passionate golfer, I would recommend this product to others – as long as they are willing to invest in its capabilities and work through the slight learning curve.
Garmin Approach S42 (Rose Gold/Light Sand) Women’s Golf GPS Watch
The Garmin Approach S42 is a stylish and feature-packed golf GPS watch that I’d recommend for golfers looking to level up their game.
Pros
- Preloaded with 42,000+ worldwide courses
- Stylish design for everyday wear
- Built-in activity tracker and smart notifications
Cons
- Not suitable for large wrists
- Screen brightness could be better
- No direct way to check battery life
I recently put the Garmin Approach S42 Golf GPS Watch to the test on the course, and it proved to be an invaluable companion. With its preloaded worldwide courses, I was able to get quick distances to the front, middle, and back of greens as well as layups and hazards. This helped me lower my score and make more informed decisions about club selection and shot strategy.
In addition to its golf features, I was impressed by the style and versatility of the watch. Its sleek design with a sunlight-readable color display is an aesthetic standout, making it suitable for wear both on and off the course. The built-in activity tracker keeps track of my daily calories, steps, and sleep, which makes it a great companion beyond the golf course.
However, not everything is perfect with the Approach S42. One downside is that it may not fit larger wrists, so be sure to check the sizing before purchasing. The screen brightness could also be improved, and there isn’t a direct way to check the battery life, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, despite some minor drawbacks, I’d highly recommend the Garmin Approach S42 Women’s Golf GPS Watch for golfers who want to make the most of their game and look stylish while doing it. The wealth of golf course data, combined with activity tracking and smart notifications, make this a valuable accessory both on and off the course.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best Garmin golf watch, there are several factors to consider. These features can greatly affect your golf game and provide valuable insights to improve your skills.
Display
The first thing to look for is the display. Some golfers prefer high-resolution, full-color screens, while others may find monochrome displays sufficient. Touchscreen functionality is also a useful addition, as it makes navigation simpler and more intuitive.
Yardages
Accurate yardage measurements are essential for any golf watch. You’ll want a device that offers precise distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as layup and dogleg distances. It’s a bonus if the watch also provides yardages to specific hazards, such as bunkers and water.
Course Maps
A great golf watch should come preloaded with thousands of worldwide courses. If you play on international courses, make sure the watch supports them. Additionally, ensure that the device allows for free course updates, so you always have access to the latest information.
Swing Analysis
For those looking to improve their overall golf game, a watch that includes swing analysis features is very helpful. It can track metrics like swing speed, tempo, and club path. This data helps identify areas for improvement and assists in tracking progress over time.
Battery Life
A reliable battery life is essential for a golf watch since you don’t want it to die during a round. Check the watch’s specifications for how long it lasts in GPS mode, and opt for a device that offers at least 10 hours of continuous use.
Additional Features
There are various additional features that can be valuable, depending on your golfing needs. Here are a few to consider:
- Stat tracking: Some devices allow for tracking your scores, fairways hit, greens in regulation, and putts per round.
- Smart notifications: Stay connected to your phone with alerts for incoming calls, texts, and emails.
- Fitness tracking: Some golf watches also function as fitness trackers, monitoring your daily steps and heart rate.
- Interchangeable bands: Customize the watch’s appearance with different bands for on and off the course.
By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and find the best Garmin golf watch that suits your needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Garmin golf watch has the most advanced features?
In my opinion, the Garmin Approach S62 is currently the most advanced Garmin golf watch. It boasts a large 1.3-inch color touchscreen, advanced golf features such as PlaysLike Distance, Hazard View, and AutoShot, and also includes fitness and smartwatch functions.
How do Garmin Approach S60 and S62 compare?
Although both Garmin Approach S60 and S62 are excellent golf watches, the S62 has some additional features and improvements. S62 has a slightly larger screen and better battery life. While both watches have the same core golf functions, the S62 adds a Virtual Caddie feature, which factors in wind speed and direction to suggest the best club for each shot.
Which Garmin watch is best for both golf and fitness?
The Garmin Approach S62 is ideal for both golf and fitness, as it includes golf-specific features as well as fitness tracking capabilities. It monitors heart rate, sleep, steps, and offers a variety of sport profiles, including running, swimming, and cycling. It also supports Garmin Pay and smart notifications.
Are there any new Garmin golf watches releasing in 2024?
As of today, I’m not aware of any new Garmin golf watches launching in 2024. However, it is essential to stay updated on Garmin’s announcements, as they continuously update and innovate their product line.
What unique features are in the Garmin Approach S42?
The Garmin Approach S42 is a stylish golf watch with a 1.2-inch color touchscreen. Its unique features include AutoShot game tracking, which measures and records detected shot distances, and Green View, which allows you to manually position the pin for more accurate distance measurements. Additionally, the watch is compatible with the Garmin Golf app, providing deeper analysis and insights on your rounds.
How does the Garmin Golf app enhance your golf watch experience?
The Garmin Golf app enhances your golf watch experience by enabling you to analyze your stats and performance, join and participate in leaderboards and tournaments, and even gain access to detailed course information. This connectivity allows you to get more insights into your game, helping you improve and compete with fellow golfers.
