Best Golf GPS Watch of 2025: Tested and Reviewed

Golfers know that precision and strategy are key to mastering the game, and having the right tools can make all the difference. One such tool that has gained popularity in recent years is the golf GPS watch. These watches provide accurate distance measurements to help you navigate the course with confidence. But with so many options on the market, choosing the best golf GPS watch can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve tested and reviewed the top golf GPS watches available on the market.

List of the Best Golf GPS Watch:

Check out the detailed reviews of the best golf GPS watch below.

1. Garmin Approach S12 Golf GPS Watch

The Garmin Approach S12 is a high-performance GPS golf watch designed to deliver precise data on the course, offering more than 42,000 preloaded golf course maps worldwide. Its 0.9-inch high-resolution display is sunlight-readable, ensuring clear visibility even under bright conditions. The watch offers key yardages to the front, back, and middle of the green, as well as to hazards and doglegs, empowering golfers to make smarter decisions on the course.

One of the standout features is its long-lasting battery, providing up to 30 hours in GPS mode, allowing golfers to play multiple rounds without worrying about recharging. The Garmin Approach S12 also supports automatic score tracking, and it can sync directly with the Garmin Golf app for leaderboard participation. Moreover, the watch pairs with optional Approach CT10 club sensors to track club performance automatically.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Over 42,000 preloaded golf course maps worldwide.
2. Sunlight-readable, high-resolution display.
3. 30 hours of battery life in GPS mode.
4. Score tracking and Garmin Golf app integration.
5. Optional compatibility with Approach CT10 club tracking sensors.

Pros:

1. Easy to set up and use.
2. Long battery life, lasting through multiple rounds.
3. Accurate yardage data.
4. Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
5. Good value for the price.

Cons:

1. Does not come with club sensors (sold separately).

2. Garmin Approach S62 Premium Golf GPS Watch

The Garmin Approach S62 is a premium GPS golf watch designed to enhance your game with its advanced features and superior functionality. Boasting a large 1.46-inch color touchscreen display, 18% larger than its predecessor, the S60, it ensures excellent visibility and easy navigation even under bright conditions. The watch comes preloaded with over 41,000 full-color CourseView maps worldwide, providing accurate and comprehensive data for golfers everywhere.

Equipped with a Virtual Caddie, the S62 suggests the best club choice based on your typical distance, wind speed, and direction, helping you make informed decisions on the course. It also offers innovative features like PlaysLike Distance, which adjusts for uphill or downhill shots, and PinPointer, which helps you locate the pin on blind shots. With up to 20 hours of battery life in GPS mode and 14 days in smartwatch mode, it supports long hours on the course and beyond.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Over 41,000 preloaded golf course maps worldwide.
2. Virtual Caddie suggests optimal club choice based on environmental factors.
3. PlaysLike Distance adjusts for uphill/downhill shots.
4. 20 hours of GPS battery life and 14 days in smartwatch mode.
5. Garmin Pay for easy, contactless payments.

Pros:

1. Large, easy-to-read color touchscreen.
2. Extensive golf course data.
3. Advanced golf features like Virtual Caddie and PinPointer.
4. Long battery life in GPS and smartwatch modes.
5. Health and fitness tracking capabilities.

Cons:

1. Expensive compared to basic golf GPS watches.

3. TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch

The TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch combines functionality with simplicity, making it a great choice for golfers looking for a reliable, easy-to-use device. With a lightweight design and a durable wristband, this GPS watch offers essential golf data, such as distances to the front, back, and middle of the green, making it ideal for players of all levels. It includes access to over 38,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide, ensuring you have comprehensive course coverage wherever you play.

Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy updates via your smartphone, so you always have the latest course information without draining your phone’s battery. The watch operates with just four buttons, making navigation straightforward even for beginners. With automatic hole progression, it tracks your play effortlessly. The ULT-G is also built to withstand outdoor elements, with water and dust resistance for use in various weather conditions.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Access to over 38,000 preloaded courses worldwide.
2. Bluetooth connectivity for easy updates.
3. Measures distances to the front, middle, and back of the green.
4. Durable design with water and dust resistance.
5. Automatic hole progression and simple button navigation.

Pros:

1. Easy to set up and use.
2. Lightweight and comfortable design.
3. Reliable GPS accuracy.
4. Good value for the price.
5. Water and dust-resistant for outdoor use.

Cons:

1. Slow GPS connectivity for some users.

4. Garmin Approach® S44 Golf GPS Smartwatch

The Garmin Approach® S44 is an essential golf GPS smartwatch that offers a sleek design and impressive functionality. Featuring a 1.2-inch color AMOLED display, this watch provides crystal-clear visibility, making it easy to navigate your course. With over 43,000 preloaded golf courses, it gives you access to a wealth of detailed data, including distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as information on hazards like bunkers and water.

Equipped with smart features, the S44 allows you to keep score during your round and upload it directly to the Garmin Golf app for advanced stat tracking and handicap calculations. With its compatibility for optional Approach CT1 or CT10 club trackers, it offers automatic shot tracking to help you analyze your game. Battery life is commendable, lasting up to 15 hours in GPS mode, allowing you to play multiple rounds without concern. Additionally, the smartwatch enables smart notifications, such as emails and texts, when paired with your smartphone, so you can stay connected while on the course.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 43,000+ preloaded golf courses.
2. 1.2-inch color AMOLED display.
3. Shot tracking with optional Approach CT1 or CT10 sensors.
4. Smart notifications for emails, texts, and alerts.
5. Up to 15 hours of battery life in GPS mode.

Pros:

1. Clear, high-resolution AMOLED display.
2. Accurate GPS data for golf courses.
3. Advanced stat tracking and score upload to Garmin Golf app.
4. Long battery life.
5. Sleek design with a comfortable fit.

Cons:

1. Limited functionality without a Garmin Golf membership.

5. Bushnell iON Elite Golf GPS Watch

The Bushnell iON Elite Golf GPS Watch offers a reliable and sleek solution for golfers looking for essential features combined with advanced functionality. Featuring a 1.28-inch color touchscreen, the watch provides clear visibility, even under bright sunlight, allowing golfers to easily access crucial course data. With over 38,000 preloaded courses, the iON Elite delivers accurate distances to the front, center, and back of the green, along with slope-compensated yardage, which adjusts distances for uphill or downhill shots.

The watch’s 12+ hour battery life ensures that golfers can play multiple rounds without worrying about charging. Additional features, such as auto hole advance, auto course recognition, and shot distance calculator, enhance gameplay by providing comprehensive data. The GreenView feature and hole maps allow for precise shot planning, improving decision-making on the course.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 38,000+ preloaded courses worldwide.
2. Slope-compensated distance calculations.
3. 12+ hours of battery life.
4. Auto course recognition and auto hole advance.
5. Shot distance calculator and GreenView for shot planning.

Pros:

1. Easy-to-read color touchscreen.
2. Accurate GPS and slope data.
3. Long-lasting battery life.
4. Convenient auto course recognition.
5. Comprehensive course and hole maps.

Cons:

1. Mixed feedback on readability in direct sunlight.
2. Connectivity issues with satellite pairing.

6. Garmin Approach S42 GPS Golf Smartwatch

The Garmin Approach S42 GPS Golf Smartwatch is a lightweight and versatile device designed for golfers seeking precise data on the course. With its 1.2-inch color touchscreen, it provides a clear and easy-to-read display, even under bright sunlight. Preloaded with over 42,000 CourseView maps, this watch offers detailed distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, along with hazards and doglegs, ensuring you make informed decisions during your game.

The S42 also includes advanced features such as the Green View feature for manual pin positioning and the AutoShot round analyzer, which automatically tracks shot distances. For more accurate data, it pairs with optional Approach CT10 club sensors for shot tracking. In terms of battery life, the watch can last up to 15 hours in GPS mode and up to 10 days in smartwatch mode. Smart notifications, activity tracking (including steps and sleep), and integration with the Garmin Golf app for live scoring and stat tracking further enhance its functionality.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 42,000+ preloaded CourseView maps.
2. 1.2-inch color touchscreen for easy readability.
3. AutoShot round analyzer and optional CT10 club tracking.
4. Up to 15 hours of battery life in GPS mode.
5. Smart notifications and activity tracking features.

Pros:

1. Accurate yardage and shot tracking.
2. Lightweight and stylish design.
3. Simple to use and intuitive interface.
4. Long battery life in smartwatch mode.
5. Integration with the Garmin Golf app for live scoring.

Cons:

1. Mixed feedback on battery life.
2. Some customers report issues after six months of use.

7. SkyCaddie LX5 GPS Golf Watch

The SkyCaddie LX5 Golf GPS Watch is designed to offer an exceptional on-course experience with its large, 1.39-inch full HD color touchscreen. Known for its bright, easy-to-read display, it ensures visibility in direct sunlight, allowing golfers to view crucial course information without strain. The watch is preloaded with over 35,000 ground-verified course maps worldwide, providing detailed hole and green graphics. With its patented IntelliGreen technology, it adjusts to your position, offering precise distances to the front, back, and center of the green, as well as key hazards, layups, and carries.

The LX5 is Wi-Fi enabled, enabling easy syncing with the SkyGolf 360 Cloud for score tracking and course updates without the need for a computer. Additional features like heart rate tracking and step counting add a fitness element to your game.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 1.39-inch full HD AMOLED touchscreen for excellent readability.
2. 35,000+ ground-verified course maps with 3-year membership.
3. IntelliGreen technology for precise green shape and distances.
4. Wi-Fi connectivity for easy syncing and updates.
5. Heart rate and step tracking functionality.

Pros:

1. Stunning graphics with detailed hole and green views.
2. Large, bright touchscreen readable in sunlight.
3. Easy access to over 35,000 courses worldwide.
4. Wi-Fi-enabled for seamless syncing with SkyGolf 360 Cloud.
5. Comfortable, lightweight design for all-day wear.

Cons:

1. Syncing speed is inconsistent.
2. Some users find the interface difficult to navigate.

How to Choose the Best Golf GPS Watch?

Golf is not just a sport; it’s an experience, and to make the most of that experience, the right tools can make all the difference. If you’re looking to elevate your game, a GPS golf watch could be your secret weapon. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs?

1. Understanding the Importance of a Golf GPS Watch

Before diving into the specifics of what to look for in a golf GPS watch, let’s quickly talk about why having one can make such a big impact on your game. Golf GPS watches provide precise distance measurements to hazards, greens, and fairways, all in real-time. They help you make smarter decisions on the course, improve your course management, and ultimately shave strokes off your game.

2. Know Your Needs: What Are You Looking For?

Different golfers have different needs when it comes to a GPS watch. Are you a beginner just looking for basic distance information, or are you an advanced player who wants detailed course analytics?

• For Beginners: If you’re new to the game, you may not need a watch with all the bells and whistles. Look for a simple model that provides distances to the front, middle, and back of the green.
• For Intermediate Players: If you’ve got a bit more experience, you might want features like shot tracking, hazard distances, and more advanced GPS data.
• For Advanced Players: If you’re a seasoned golfer, a top-of-the-line watch with customizable data points, detailed green mapping, and swing analysis might be more suitable for your needs.

By knowing your level of experience and what specific features you want, you can save time and energy by narrowing down your options.

3. Battery Life: Power That Lasts the Entire Round

Battery life is a crucial factor when choosing the best golf GPS watch. After all, there’s nothing worse than running out of juice halfway through your round. Depending on your style, you’ll want to find a watch that fits your battery needs.

• Standard Rounds: Most golf GPS watches provide 10-15 hours of battery life, which is typically more than enough for 18 holes.
• Extended Battery Life: If you’re a golfer who plays longer rounds, participates in tournaments, or enjoys weekend getaways, consider a watch with a battery that lasts 20+ hours.

When you choose the right battery life, you can focus on your game without the worry of your watch dying mid-round.

4. Accuracy and Coverage: Get the Exact Distance Information

When it comes to a golf GPS watch, accuracy is everything. Your watch should provide you with precise distances to hazards, greens, and fairways, and do so consistently. Ensure that the model you choose offers:

• Up-to-date course maps: Golf courses are always updating and evolving. You want a watch that provides regular updates to ensure your information is accurate.
• Comprehensive coverage: Look for a GPS watch that offers access to a wide range of golf courses worldwide, especially if you travel often for golf.

Some watches offer the ability to download course maps directly to the device, so you’re always covered with the latest information, no matter where you are.

5. Design and Comfort: Wear It All Day Long

A golf GPS watch is something you’ll be wearing for several hours at a time, so comfort and design are key factors. The watch should feel light on your wrist, be durable enough to handle the wear and tear of a golf course, and, of course, look good!

• Lightweight: Choose a watch that doesn’t feel heavy or cumbersome on your wrist during play.
• Water Resistance: Golf is an outdoor sport, and your watch should be able to withstand rain and the elements.
• Easy-to-read Display: Make sure the screen is large and clear, even under bright sunlight. Some watches offer sunlight-readable displays, which is a game-changer during those sunny rounds.

Remember, you want your GPS watch to be something you enjoy wearing, not just a tool to improve your game.

6. Key Features to Look For: The Extra Touches That Matter

Now that you know what to focus on, let’s talk about the extra features that can really set one GPS watch apart from another. Here are some of the key features that can make a world of difference:

• Shot Tracking: Track your shots and get data on club distances to analyze your performance.
• Course Layouts and Hazard Tracking: A detailed view of the course with distances to bunkers, water hazards, and doglegs will give you a strategic advantage.
• Fitness Features: Many watches double as fitness trackers, providing metrics like heart rate, steps, and calories burned, which is great if you walk the course.
• Touchscreen vs. Button Controls: Consider whether you prefer the ease of a touchscreen or the tactile feel of physical buttons when navigating through your watch.

These features allow you to personalize your experience and cater to your specific needs, making the watch much more than just a GPS tool.

7. Price Range: Finding a Balance Between Cost and Features

Price is always a consideration when purchasing any product, and golf GPS watches are no different. The good news is that there’s a golf GPS watch for every budget, from affordable models to premium options loaded with features.

• Budget-Friendly Options: For golfers looking for a simple, no-frills GPS watch, there are many solid options in the $100-$200 range. These models provide essential distance information and are great for beginners.
• Mid-Range Options: Between $200-$400, you’ll find watches with advanced features like course mapping, shot tracking, and fitness integration.
• Premium Options: High-end models over $400 often come with top-notch accuracy, extensive course databases, and advanced performance metrics.

Consider your budget and weigh it against the features that matter most to you. The most expensive model might not always be necessary if you don’t need all the bells and whistles.

8. Brand Reputation and Reviews: Trust the Experts and Fellow Golfers

Finally, when choosing a golf GPS watch, always check out brand reputation and user reviews. Trusted brands like Garmin, Bushnell, and Suunto have built a reputation for quality and reliability, and user reviews can give you insights into real-world performance.

• Look for customer feedback on battery life, GPS accuracy, and ease of use.
• Consider expert reviews from golf professionals or enthusiasts who have tested the products thoroughly.

By doing your research, you can be confident that you’re making a wise investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Best Golf GPS Watch

1. What is a golf GPS watch, and why do I need one?

A golf GPS watch is a wearable device that uses satellite signals to provide golfers with key information about the course they are playing on. It typically shows distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as hazards like bunkers, water, and doglegs. By providing accurate data, a golf GPS watch helps you make better decisions on the course, improving your game and potentially lowering your scores. It’s especially useful for course management, allowing you to choose the right club and approach each hole strategically.

2. How do I choose the best golf GPS watch?

To select the best golf GPS watch, you need to consider several factors:

• Accuracy: The watch should provide precise distances to key areas on the course.
• Battery Life: Choose a model that will last for the entire round, ideally with 10+ hours of battery life.
• Features: Decide if you want advanced features like shot tracking, course layouts, hazard alerts, or fitness tracking.
• Comfort and Design: Make sure the watch is lightweight, comfortable to wear, and has an easy-to-read display.
• Price: Golf GPS watches range from budget-friendly to premium, so choose one that fits both your needs and budget.

3. Can I use a golf GPS watch for other activities?

Yes, many golf GPS watches are versatile and can be used for other outdoor activities, such as running, hiking, cycling, or even fitness tracking. Many high-end models also come with built-in heart rate monitors, step counters, and sleep tracking features, making them useful for general fitness purposes outside the golf course.

4. Do golf GPS watches work without cell phone service?

Yes, golf GPS watches do not require a phone connection or cellular service to function. They rely on GPS satellites to gather data, so once the watch is set up and the course maps are downloaded, it will work independently of your phone. This is a great benefit if you’re playing in remote areas without cell service.

5. How accurate is a golf GPS watch?

A quality golf GPS watch is typically very accurate, often within a few yards. The accuracy depends on several factors, including the quality of the GPS chip, the terrain, and weather conditions. Most reputable brands like Garmin, Bushnell, and SkyCaddie are known for their reliable GPS accuracy. Additionally, many models provide features like course updates to ensure your watch stays accurate over time.

6. How long does the battery last on a golf GPS watch?

Battery life varies depending on the model and the features it offers. On average, a golf GPS watch will last between 10 to 15 hours with continuous GPS tracking. If you use it for additional activities, such as fitness tracking, or if the screen brightness is high, battery life may decrease. Some premium models offer extended battery life, allowing up to 20+ hours, which is ideal for golfers who play longer rounds or multiple rounds in one day.

7. Are golf GPS watches waterproof?

Most golf GPS watches are designed to be water-resistant, but it’s important to check the specific model for its level of water resistance. Typically, these watches can handle rain, sweat, and splashes without any issues. However, they are not meant for submersion in water (such as swimming). Look for a watch with a rating of at least 5 ATM (50 meters) of water resistance for peace of mind during rainy rounds.

8. Can I update the course maps on my golf GPS watch?

Yes, many golf GPS watches allow you to update course maps either through a computer connection or via a mobile app. Some brands offer free updates, while others may charge a fee for map updates. It’s a good idea to choose a watch that provides regular updates to ensure you’re always playing on the most current version of a course, especially if it has been modified.

9. What features should I look for in the best golf GPS watch?

The key features to look for in a golf GPS watch depend on your preferences and experience level. Common features include:

• Course maps: Detailed maps of the course with distances to hazards, greens, and fairways.
• Shot tracking: The ability to track your shots, giving you insights into your performance.
• Fitness tracking: Features like step counters, heart rate monitors, and calories burned to help you stay fit off the course.
• Touchscreen: A touchscreen for easy navigation, though some golfers prefer physical buttons for ease of use.
• Green view: A feature that shows the shape and layout of the green from your current position.
• Pre-loaded courses: Access to a large database of golf courses, so you can play at different locations without worrying about course data.

10. Do I need to pay for a subscription for a golf GPS watch?

Many golf GPS watches come with free access to a wide range of golf courses and basic features. However, some models offer additional premium features, such as more detailed maps, shot tracking, or advanced analytics, that may require a subscription or one-time purchase. Be sure to check if any subscription fees are required for the watch you are considering.

11. How do I sync my golf GPS watch with my phone?

Most modern golf GPS watches can sync with your smartphone through a companion app (available on iOS and Android). You can sync your watch to download course maps, update software, or track your statistics. Some models also allow you to receive notifications, such as text messages or calls, directly on your watch, though this is typically an added feature for more advanced models.

12. Can I use a golf GPS watch for indoor practice?

Yes, some golf GPS watches offer features that can be useful during indoor practice, such as swing analysis or tracking of swing metrics like club speed and distance. However, you’ll need to make sure that the model you choose includes these features. Keep in mind that the GPS functionality is best used outdoors where there are clear views of the sky for satellite connections.

13. What is the difference between a golf GPS watch and a rangefinder?

While both devices help golfers with distance measurements, they work in different ways. A golf GPS watch provides distance information based on satellite data, displaying distances to the green, hazards, and other key areas. A rangefinder, on the other hand, uses laser technology to measure the distance between you and a specific target (such as the flagstick). Rangefinders tend to offer more precise targeting, but golf GPS watches are generally more convenient and provide broader course information.

Conclusion

Choosing the best golf GPS watch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and playing style. Whether you prioritize accuracy, battery life, additional features like shot tracking, or simply a comfortable and stylish design, there is a GPS watch that suits your needs. From budget-friendly options to high-end models, we’ve reviewed a range of watches that offer something for every golfer.

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