Last Updated on January 29, 2024
Golf watches have revolutionized the way players approach the game, offering a blend of technology and convenience. In this guide, we delve into selecting the best golf watch, focusing on functionality, style, and accuracy. Our extensive experience in evaluating golf gadgets ensures that our recommendations not only enhance gameplay but also fit comfortably and look great, assisting golfers in making smarter decisions on the course.
Our Top Choices
We understand how important it is for golfers to have accurate data and insights right at their wrists. Our selection features the finest golf watches that combine GPS capabilities with a host of other features designed to improve your game. Whether you’re looking for advanced analytics, swing tracking, or simply a reliable yardage to the pin, our roundup caters to every golfer’s needs.
Garmin Approach S10
We believe the Garmin Approach S10 is an excellent choice for golfers who want straightforward yardage information with minimal fuss.
Pros
- Impressively accurate yardages to greens and hazards
- With its lightweight design, it’s very comfortable to wear all-day
- The battery easily lasts for an entire round of golf – quite impressive
Cons
- Lacks a backlight for low-light conditions
- Missing some newly updated courses can complicate play on certain links
- A basic watch, so don’t expect advanced features like swing analysis
When we took the Garmin Approach S10 out on the course, we quickly noticed the simplicity of its operation. It automatically selected the course we were on, and we could read the distances at a glance, thanks to the clear display—even under the bright sun. Walking from hole to hole, the watch transitioned smoothly, keeping up with our pace without the need for manual input.
The sleekness of the S10 is something we truly appreciated. Barely noticing it on our wrist throughout our swings was a pleasant change from some bulkier models we’ve used in past rounds. While Garmin boasts about preloaded courses, we did come across an occasional mismatch in the database, which wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s good to be aware if you’re playing on a newly remodeled course.
In terms of battery life, we were impressed with the S10’s ability to last throughout our rounds. Kicking off the day with a full charge, it still had juice left after the 18th hole, demonstrating its endurance. While it doesn’t offer bells and whistles like its fancier cousins, the Garmin Approach S10 is a dependable golf watch that keeps the game simple and focused on what matters: the next shot.
Garmin Approach S12
We’ve found the Garmin Approach S12 to be a reliable companion on the course, offering just the right amount of tech to enhance our game without overwhelming us.
Pros
- Crystal clear display that’s easy to read in direct sunlight
- Impressive battery life that easily lasts through multiple rounds
- A streamlined interface that makes it a breeze to keep score and track distances
Cons
- The lack of a touchscreen might be a drawback for tech-savvy golfers
- Advanced metrics are missing, which might be a miss for professionals
- Additional sensors for club tracking come at an extra cost
The Garmin Approach S12’s high-resolution display was a standout, providing crisp visuals even under the bright glare of the afternoon sun. Navigating through the options with physical buttons was refreshingly straightforward, which we appreciated mid-swing.
The battery life is a true ace, lasting us well beyond a weekend’s worth of golfing escapades. It’s reassuring not having to worry about the watch dying on the 18th hole, allowing us to focus on our driving and putting instead.
However, if you’re the kind of golfer who craves touchscreens and gesture controls, you might find the button-only interface a bit old-school. But for us, the tactile feedback was a plus, letting us operate the watch without looking, which came in handy when jotting down scores.
On the downside, we did miss some of the advanced shot analytics and real-time swing data that more complex watches offer. Although for golfers who revel in the simplicity and just want a digital caddy for the basics, this wasn’t a dealbreaker.
Bear in mind, if you’re looking to dive deeper into your equipment stats, you’ll have to fork out extra for the Approach CT10 sensors. It’s an added investment for sure, but the ability to track each club’s performance could be worth it for those looking to meticulously fine-tune their game.
In summary, our time with the Approach S12 confirmed its position as a great middle-of-the-fairway option. It eliminates the hassle and keeps the essence of golf tech, giving us exactly what we need to up our game.
Garmin Approach S70
We found the Garmin Approach S70 not just sharp in looks, but a powerful tool to give any golfer the edge on the course.
Pros
- Highly readable AMOLED display in various lighting conditions
- Stylish design that transitions smoothly from the links to daily wear
- Exceptional battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging
Cons
- Premium pricing may be prohibitive for some golf enthusiasts
- No ability to text or call, which some users may expect at this price point
- Some accuracy concerns noted by users, albeit infrequently
Approaching the first tee, we couldn’t help but appreciate the vibrant display of the Garmin Approach S70. The golf course maps are full of life, and with over 43,000 courses preloaded, it was easy to have all the information we needed right on our wrists. Transitioning from tee to fairway, the accurate GPS and enhanced PlaysLike Distance features felt like having a personal caddie, taking into account wind and elevation to suggest the best club for the shot.
What truly stood out to us was the watch’s ability to seamlessly blend into our daily lives. From a morning jog to navigating the office, the slim design and suite of lifestyle features—like activity tracking and sleep monitoring—made the S70 more than just a golf watch. It was like a companion for every aspect of our day.
Despite the prowess on the green, we did face some limitations. The watch doesn’t support text or call functionalities, which was a slight inconvenience. Nonetheless, the array of golfing and fitness features brought enough to the table to overshadow this shortfall.
TecTecTec ULT-G Watch
We recommend the TecTecTec ULT-G Watch for its comprehensive features tailored to improve your golfing game with convenient wrist-top access.
Pros
- Straightforward usability enhances the golfing experience
- The watch is lightweight, adding minimal bulk
- Preloaded with courses to use worldwide without additional fees
Cons
- The charging process can be more cumbersome than we’d like
- Occasionally, the yardage may be slightly off
- The battery life can be limiting, struggling to last a full golf round
Having just walked off the green with the TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch strapped to my wrist, it’s fresh in our minds how much it streamlines the game. The clear LCD display presented all the necessary information at a glance, making club decisions easier.
Our round was noticeably more efficient due to the preloaded courses. Not having to fumble with manual downloads nor input keeps us focused on the game itself. Throughout the day, its lightweight design meant we barely noticed it on our wrist, ensuring unhindered swings.
One thing we grappled with was the watch’s charger alignment; it demanded a bit more attention than expected. Despite this minor hurdle, it remained a reliable companion throughout the round. We did notice once or twice that the distance to the pin had a margin of error. This wasn’t significant enough to detract from our overall performance, but it is something to keep in mind.
Finally, we’d advise keeping an eye on the battery indicator. On one occasion, the watch didn’t last for the entire 18 holes, which can be a setback if you’re playing a longer course or forget to charge it the night before. Despite this, the TecTecTec ULT-G remains a solid choice for most golf enthusiasts looking for utility and convenience from a golf GPS watch without any frills.
Garmin Approach S62
After spending some quality time on the green with the Garmin Approach S62, we believe it stands out as a stellar choice for any golfer looking to enhance their game with smart tech.
Pros
- Outstanding battery longevity ensures you’re covered for multiple rounds.
- A clear, large display makes for effortless reading, even under the harsh sun.
- Virtual Caddie proves invaluable for selecting the right club and strategizing shots.
Cons
- Pricey investment upfront, which might not appeal to casual players.
- Some features have a learning curve before you can fully utilize them.
- Garmin Pay availability might be limited depending on your location.
During our time with the Approach S62 on the course, we appreciated its robust build and the vibrant display that was a breeze to read, letting us focus more on our swing than squinting at our wrist. The Virtual Caddie felt like having a personal golfing assistant, providing smart club suggestions and accounting for wind, which is a game-changer if you’re serious about improving your skills.
It’s not just about golf, though. We used its smartwatch features and found that it integrated seamlessly into our daily life, handling notifications and keeping track of our activities. The Garmin Pay feature came in handy to grab a quick snack in the clubhouse, but do check if it works in your area.
Admittedly, there is a bit of an investment in terms of both time and money with the Approach S62. Given its price, this watch is more for the avid golfer rather than the occasional player. It takes a few rounds to get accustomed to the array of features and to integrate them fluidly into your gameplay.
In conclusion, our rounds with the Garmin Approach S62 have shown us that it’s a premium tool for any golfer looking to seriously upgrade their game. It’s more than a luxury; it’s an investment that pays off on the course.
Rad Golf GPS Watch
We believe the Rad Golf GPS Watch is a solid pick for golfers seeking precision and course knowledge to elevate their game.
Pros
- Quick and accurate GPS readings on over 40,000 golf courses.
- Comfortable wearability with a lightweight design.
- Convenient integration with the Rad Golf mobile app.
Cons
- Small screen and buttons can be challenging to navigate.
- Some features may not meet every golfer’s expectations.
- Limited battery life, particularly in running mode.
Stepping onto the first tee with the Rad Golf GPS Watch felt like having a caddie on my wrist. The GPS locked in quickly, providing distances I could trust. Its touch pin positioning on the digital green view simplified my approach shots, letting me adjust on the fly.
Throughout the round, I appreciated the watch’s comfort; it was so light I hardly noticed it on my arm. Syncing with the Rad Golf app post-round added a layer to my game analysis, enabling me to reflect on my performance with meaningful data.
Although the sleek watch helped shave off strokes, I noted the small screen size made it tough for a quick glance during sunnier days. And while the watch lasted the full 18 holes, any golfer planning to play a double round might need to recharge in between.
Garmin Approach S12
We found the Garmin Approach S12 to be an essential companion on the golf course, providing valuable yardage information with ease.
Pros
- Precise yardages help plan the perfect shot
- The watch interface is user-friendly and intuitive
- Outstanding battery life for extended play
Cons
- Absence of advanced golf analytics
- No touchscreen, buttons only
- Lacks smartwatch features beyond golf
Upon strapping the Garmin Approach S12 to our wrist, we were immediately impressed by its comfortable fit and lightweight design. Out on the sunny greens, the high-resolution display remained crisp and readable, negating the need to squint or shade the screen to view our data.
Navigating through the menus, we appreciated the straightforward button controls which facilitated a no-fuss experience. Switching between functions was seamless, whether accessing the over 42,000 preloaded course maps or keeping score – a feature that proved particularly handy when tracking our progress throughout the day.
What genuinely stood out to us was the battery life. We spent the whole day perfecting our swings without any concern about the watch dying on us. It’s evident that the Garmin Approach S12 is tailored for endurance.
However, as smooth as our experience was, we did miss having in-depth golf analytics. Golfers seeking complex data insights might find the feature set a bit too basic. Moreover, while the button operation is solid, the absence of a touchscreen may be a drawback for those used to modern smart gadgets.
Despite these minor gripes, we can’t deny the Garmin S12 fulfills its primary purpose brilliantly. It’s an efficient, no-nonsense tool that simplifies the golfing experience. Whether you’re eyeing a simple way to enter the world of golf tech or looking for a reliable upgrade, the Garmin Approach S12 should be on your shortlist.
Garmin Approach S60
We think you’ll appreciate the Garmin Approach S60 for its on-course reliability and stylish off-course appearance.
Pros
- Intuitive full-color course maps
- Fast and easy style changes with Quick Fit bands
- Extensive battery life for lengthy golf sessions
Cons
- Premium price point
- Can be bulky on smaller wrists
- Lacks fitness tracking features found in other smartwatches
The clear touchscreen display of the Approach S60 is highly visible, even in direct sunlight, providing key yardages, hazards, and a full-color map view of each hole we tackled. It certainly takes the guesswork out of our club selections.
The elegance of quick style changes cannot be overstated. We changed the band effortlessly before hitting the town, which showcased the watch’s versatility. It was as if we had a new watch for every occasion, making the Approach S60 a fantastic accessory whether we were at a dinner or driving off the tee.
Lastly, battery longevity was never a concern. We spent entire days on the course, relying on the GPS feature without any power issues. And when used as a regular timepiece, the 10-day battery life meant we rarely had to think about charging it up before heading out for another round.
Garmin Approach S12
We find the Garmin Approach S12 to be a solid pick for golf enthusiasts seeking accuracy and convenience on the course.
Pros
- Sunlight-readable display ensures clear viewing even under bright conditions.
- Extensive course database, with over 42,000 courses from around the globe.
- Impressive battery life allows for multiple rounds before needing a recharge.
Cons
- As a refurbished item, it might not appeal to those wanting a brand-new product.
- Lack of advanced analytics compared to higher-end models.
- Additional sensors for tracking club data require separate purchase.
After testing the Garmin Approach S12, we’re pleased with its ease of use. The setup is straightforward – you can hit the links quickly. The high-resolution display is exceptionally clear, vital for reading in direct sunlight. Plus, having tens of thousands of courses at our fingertips is quite a luxury.
The accuracy of yardages provided to hazards, doglegs, and greens was impressive. It certainly takes some of the guesswork out of the game and helps with club selection. Scoring directly on the watch is a breeze, and syncing with the Garmin Golf app couldn’t be easier.
We noticed the battery longevity to be much better than expected. Even after demanding 18-hole rounds, there’s plenty of juice left, meaning less time tethered to the charger. Although it’s a refurbished unit, it functions just as well as new, which reflects the quality control of the Amazon Renewed program.
In sum, the Garmin Approach S12 offers reliability and functionality for golfers looking to enhance their game without the bells and whistles of pricier models. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a no-fuss, accurate golf watch.
Garmin Approach S42
We recommend the Garmin Approach S42 for its accuracy and convenience, making it a top choice for golfers who want a blend of performance and style.
Pros
- Accurate GPS that enhances game strategy
- Long battery life suited for multiple rounds
- Intuitive interface with smart notifications
Cons
- Premium price point
- Some features require additional accessories
- The watch band may be short for those with larger wrists
After using the Garmin Approach S42, we’ve found its accuracy impressive, especially when gauging distances to hazards, which can be crucial to avoiding unnecessary strokes. Its sleek design feels lightweight on the wrist and offers no distraction during swings.
The battery life is a noticeable standout. We didn’t worry about the watch dying mid-round, which can be a concern with other models. The Approach S42 lasts through a few rounds easily, allowing us to focus purely on the game.
Smart notifications are a convenience we didn’t know we needed. It minimizes the number of times we have to reach for our smartphones, which is quite handy when we’re in the zone. However, some advanced features are only unlocked with additional purchases, like the Approach CT10 sensors – a slight inconvenience. And for golfers with thicker wrists, the strap may feel a bit short, but this is a minor hiccup in an otherwise robust feature set. Overall, the Garmin Approach S42 remains a reliable companion on the course, with its clever balance of functionality and user-friendly design.
Buying Guide
Key Features to Consider
When we look for the best golf watch, various features come into play. Our primary goal is to ensure that it enhances our golfing experience through accurate data and usability.
GPS Functionality: The core feature of any golf watch is its GPS capabilities. We want pinpoint accuracy for distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as hazards and doglegs.
Battery Life: A longer battery life means fewer interruptions. We should aim for a watch that can last multiple rounds, or at least offer a full day of golfing on a single charge.
Course Availability: The golf watch should offer a comprehensive course library. Access to thousands of courses worldwide is a standard feature among leading golf watches.
Comfort and Design: Since we’ll wear the watch throughout the round, comfort and design are critical. It should be lightweight and not interfere with our swing.
Display: Readability in various lighting conditions is important. A high-resolution, glare-resistant screen is ideal.
Added Features: Here are some additional features that can enhance our golf game:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Swing Analysis | Helps improve our swing technique. |
| Stat Tracking | Records our performance data for analysis. |
| Water Resistance | Ensures durability and usability in all weather conditions. |
User Experience
Usability is key. We should look for easy navigation through menus and buttons that are accessible even with golf gloves on.
Price and Value
We weigh the features against the price, determining which golf watch offers the most value for our investment. While we do not seek the cheapest option, we must ensure that we’re not paying a premium for unnecessary features.
