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Golf GPS watches are designed by their very nature to optimize all aspects of your golfing experience, from how much enjoyment you get, to how much you’re able to improve your skills. While there are a handful of core brands you’ll already know, it’s amazing how much diversity exists.
Finding an excellent golf watch depends on a few things, but the most important thing to remember is that this is your golfing experience, and you should have a watch that suits what you’re looking for. With this in mind, today we’re going to explore the ten very best golf GPS watches currently available, ensuring you’re able to find the one that’s right for you.
View The Best Golf GPS Watch Below
1. Garmin Approach S20
As one of the biggest names in the GPS industry, it should come as no surprise that Garmin holds what has considered one of the best GPS golf watches in the industry worldwide, but for players at any experience level. This watch has everything you could want or need, all in a handy and easy-to-use device.
For every one of your shots, you’ll find all the information you need to be displayed on your screen, including precise distances to the next hole, and even a detailed analysis of hazards and layups you may be facing.
You’ll never have to worry about outdated information thanks to the S20’s 40,000+ map updates, and there are even all the smartwatch extras you’d expect, including smart notification compatibility with Android and iOS devices, and full activity tracking features. You can also connect this up with a compatible Garmin TruSwing device to help you take your game to the next level.
Pros:
+ Incredibly stylish and easy to use
+ Contains over 40,000+ updates, plus free updates for life
+ Comes with the state-of-the-art AutoShot feature
+ Smart notifications and activity tracking features
Cons:
– Cannot record drives manually, therefore not the best golf GPS watch for something like this
Why We Like It – Built right into the S20, you’ll find a feature known as AutoShot. This feature allows you to track all your game details with absolute precision automatically. Every shot, distance, and location are stored right onto the device, so you never have to worry about missing a beat!
2. Bushnell Neo Ion
Bushnell is another leading course for beginners and pros alike when it comes to golf GPS watches, and it’s one that is sure to exceed expectations. The lightweight device comes preloaded with over 35,000+ courses from more than 30 different countries around the world.
This is backed by an impressive 16-hour battery life, which you can fully recharge from as little as in two and a half hours. You’ll also be happy to know that comfort is no issue thanks to the dual-injected silicone sports band that helps you remain free and unhindered throughout every swing.
Using one of these golf watches is easy thanks to the automatic course recognition feature, and all distances are displayed automatically on the screen as you play. With minimal setups like this, that means more time focusing on your craft and getting the most out of the time you have on the green.
Pros:
+ Comes with over 30,000+ courses preinstalled, covering over 30+ countries
+ Boasts an impressive 16+ battery life with only a 2.5-hour charging time
+ Legal for use in tournaments around the world
+ Displays up to four hazards on screen at a time
Cons:
– Doesn’t contain a heart rate monitoring feature
Why We Like It – A super-handy notice about the Neo Ion is the fact that this watch is legal for pretty much all tournaments. Whether you’re just starting or you’re looking for an assistant to help you be your best every time you swing, the Neo Ion is a watch you’re not going to want to miss.
3. TecTecTec ULT-G
In need of a simple, easy to use golf GPS watch that comes with everything, including one of the most accurate experiences, look no further than the ULT-G. With this watch, you’ll be able to measure all distances, including the front, middle, and back of the green, all within an impressive accuracy of just one yard (plus or minus).
Integrated into the golf watch, you’ll find over 38,000 golf courses from around the world, all easily accessible with the push of a button, and using the automatic GPS locator and recognition feature. The set up of this watch is effortless, thanks to the four-button navigation. You’re sure to be up and running in no time at all.
Be prepared for any situation thanks to the dust and waterproof design, and a battery life that’s guaranteed to last at least 2.5 rounds. This is covered by an included one-year warranty and one of the best, most renowned customer service teams in the industry. Affordable, lightweight, and sturdy; what more do you need?
Pros:
+ Contains more than 38,000 golf courses from around the world
+ Automatic golf course detection as standard
+ Displays all distances clearly with all the information you need to know
+ Long battery life that lasts up to 2.5 rounds of golf
Cons:
– No smart notification features
– No activity monitoring
Why We Like It – With the ULT-G, you never have to worry about it becoming updated. With full Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily keep your maps and device running the latest firmware, ensuring you’ll always have access to the best of the best.
4. Garmin Approach S10
If you like the Garmin S20 we were speaking above, but you’re looking for an edition that’s a little more affordable and more suited to your budget, the earlier S10 version could be just what you need. Affordable and packed with features, it’s no wonder this is a consistently five-star rated golf GPS watch.
With a gorgeous display resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, you’ll see everything on screen with complete clarity, which only adds to the executive experience this device provides. In true Garmin fashion, they’ve outdone the competition; they now offer over 41, 000 golf courses preloaded and ready to go with automatic course recognition technology. There are also free lifetime updates forever!
Of course, all your standard settings are here, including hazards and doglegs indicators, and score tracking, as well as handy features like recording the total distance you’ve played, and the ability to upload your scorecards to the Garmin Express service. As you can see, this completely enhances the modern-day golfing experience.
Pros:
+ A stunning 128×128 pixel screen for complete display clarity
+ Provides all standard readings, including front, back, and middle green distances
+ One of the most accurate GPS golf watches on the market
+ Upload all your game stats to the defining Garmin Express service
Cons:
– An older version with newer, more expensive editions available
Why We Like It – The best feature of this golf GPS watch is how accurate it is. Garmin is renowned around the world for their precision GPS technology. This is reflected in the device, all of which you’ll get to reap the benefits from.
5. Bushnell Neo Ion 2
If you enjoyed the stats of the Neo Ion golfing watch, it’s worth noting you can take things one step further with the more recent Neo Ion 2. As you can imagine, this is very similar to the previous model, but there are a few critical updates you’ll want to know about.
They have improved the battery life, so it now lasts up to three games before it requires charging, and there are over 35 000+ preinstalled and ready to go at a moment’s notice, covering clubs from around the world. The screen displays up to four upcoming hazards at a time, and there are some handy little features, like a shot distance calculator and round odometer available as standard.
Pros:
+ Long battery life that can last up to three rounds on a single charge
+ Automatic course recognition technology with over 36,000 golf courses
+ Comes with a shot distance calculator and a course odometer
+ Displays up to four hazards at a time
Cons:
– Only comes with a 30-day warranty
Why We Like It – All standards including front, middle and back distances are displayed, and the super comfy design and strap ensure you’re not weighed down by the device, nor will it hinder your golf swing in any way whatsoever! What is there not to love?
6. CANMORE TW-353
While CANMORE may be one of the lesser-known brands, they still offer a fantastic range of features of their TW-353 watch that can help you enhance your overall golfing experience, while maximizing what you can achieve when you’re out on the green.
Over 38,000 courses are included with the watch as standard, with free updates for life, so you never have to worry about the data going out of date. Just connect up the watch to your computer using a USB and download the update from the website.
All your primary functions are included, such as automatic golf course recognition, and easy switcher, easy to access course distance data, hazard distances, scorecards, and even a clock with a digital alarm, all for one affordable price!
Pros:
+ Comes with a one-year warranty to help protect your device
+ Easy course updates via USB Comes with a clock and digital alarm
+ Displays all kinds of golf course information
Why We Like It – The high contrast screen offered with this watch is one of the best features by far. Whether you have vision difficulties or you’re playing in bright and sunny conditions, you’ll easily see everything on the screen.
7. Garmin Approach S40
Another entry from Garmin now, this time one of their more premium additions to the GPS golf watch market. This super stylish watch has a high definition screen that displays all the watch data we’ve spoken about, with all features easily interchangeable using the built-in bezel.
Like true Garmin fashion, there are over 41,000 golf courses loaded with all automatic recognition to get you started on your games as soon as possible. However, there are also bonus features that put this watch above many of the others.
These include Green View, a feature that allows you to actively and manually pin positioning wherever you want, for easy distance tracking to hazards. This helps you fully customize your experience and optimize your style of golf play.
Pros:
+ Comes with an incredible 12 hours+ battery life
+ Preloaded with over 41,000 courses ready to go
+ Can be paired with the optional Approach CT10
+ Tracks all activity, sleep, and step data
Cons:
– One of the more expensive watches on the list
Why We Like It – Like every best golf GPS watch, this one comes with many of the functions you’d expect in the premium type of smartwatch. You can handle your activity tracking and your phone notifications, as well as track bonus stats like sleeping patterns and steps.
8. SKARLIE Golf GPS
SKARLIE is another hidden gem in the golf GPS watch market and one that’s affordable and suitable for any budget or player who wants to expand their golfing capabilities. It contains a high sensitivity GPS chip that ensures all readings are accurate and can display up to four unique hazards at a time.
All front, middle, and back distances are displayed, and with over 40,000 courses from over 81 different countries, you’ll always be able to use this device. This is then backed by free lifetime updates to keep you covered.
With other amazing features, such as 12-hour battery life, a 50-60 days watch mode, and an 18-month warranty, it’s no wonder many opt for this golf GPS watch over some of the more premium options.
Pros:
+ Comes with over 40,000 courses in 80 countries with free lifetime updates
+ Displays up to four hazards
+ Up to 12-hour battery life with a three-hour charging time
+ 18-month warranty to help you stay protected
Why We Like It – Unlike some other watches, this one comes with many durability features to help the watch survive whatever you put it through. This includes a comfortable strap adjustable to however you want it, plus waterproofing up to 50m!
9. GOLFBUDDY aim W10
As the title of this next watch suggests, if you’re looking for the best golf GPS watch that doubles as a portable buddy, giving you all the stats and info you need to be your best, you might not need to look any further than this.
This advanced golf GPS watch uses such as a chip and Bluetooth technology to provide everything you need. Like with any other GPS mode, you can see distances, but uniquely, you can also view maps of all courses with the data displayed around it, perfect for accurately knowing precisely what you need to do next.
This is all thanks to the free-to-download GOLFBUDDY Smart App. This is helpful, whether you’re recording the score of your game, or checking what’s next. For a simple and lightweight GPS golf watch option, turn to GOLFBUDDY.
Pros:
+ Full color, a 1.3-inch touchscreen for a complete experience
+ Advanced Bluetooth connectivity to the smartphone app
+ Displays all distances and hazards
+ Can zoom in and out of the map with a flick of your finger
Cons:
– Updates to watch can feel slow compared to other models
Why We Like It – The full 1.3-inch touch screen is easily one of the highlight features of this watch. Full color with a crystal-clear display, this is one of the most visual watches available.
10. Voice Caddie Golf G1
The final watch we’re going to be focusing on today comes from Voice Caddy, a rather premium solution that contains a ton of features and functions which exceed expectations on so many levels.
This watch comes with a full-color touchscreen, automatically updated green information (where available), smart score tracking, and a waterproof build. Even unique details, like automatic slope detection, are included on this watch as standard.
With a full-color touch screen, plus Bluetooth compatibility for connecting to apps and fitness trackers, it’s safe to say this is one of the most functional watches you’re going to love.
Pros:
+ Highly accurate GPS mode and technology that can pinpoint exactly where you are
+ Displays all kind of distance data
+ Offers a full-color touchscreen that displays real-time maps
+ Bluetooth connectivity to connect to a smartphone or tablet
Cons:
– May be too expensive for some budgets
Why We Like It – What you’ll love about this watch is just how highly rated it is. Look anywhere, and you’ll find raving five-star reviews detailing just how great this watch is and what it can bring into your golfing experience. So many can’t be wrong!
Golf GPS Watch Buyers Guide
For this next section, we’re going to explore the key factors you need to know when it comes to buying a golf watch, and how you can easily choose which one is right for you.
Battery Life
There are two key things you’ll need to think about when it comes to battery life; how long is it going to last, and how long does it take to recharge. With cheaper models, you may find the battery life running out too quickly and interrupting your game. As a rule of thumb, you’ll want a battery life of around 3-4 hours or at least two games.
Preloaded Courses
There’s no point going to get a watch if you’re not going to be able to use it, which is why you need a watch with a lot of preloaded courses. The more courses you have, the more you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of the watch, which will only enhance your games.
Course Recognition and Auto Updates
A convenient feature to have on your watch is automatic course recognition, which means no matter which course you’re on, your watch will automatically display it. With thousands of courses on most watches, this is a necessary feature.
What’s more, GPS watches add new courses all the time, which is why you’re going to want your watch to provide free updates for life.
Game Information
Of course, a GPS watch is pretty useless if you can’t see information about the game. This includes things like distances to holes, layups, hazards you may encounter, and even features like manual distances and pin measuring.
Ease of Use
You’re going to need a watch that’s easy to use as one that’s too complicated will put you off your golf game. This is why you need to look for features like a handy bezel, or something with only a few buttons that can quickly help you navigate the watch.
If you want the best experience, get a watch with an accompanying smartphone app to make things even easier!
What’s the best feature to have on a GPS golf watch?
The number of courses loaded into the watch is perhaps the most key thing to note. There’s no point in getting a watch that can’t load your course. Always check to see how many are preloaded and what updates are available, to ensure you have access to the information you need.
Is fitness tracking common on GPS watches?
Typically, only the most premium of golf GPS watches. If you’re interested in tracking your activity, like how many steps you do, what kind of mileage you’re doing, and stats like your heart rate, it’s worth combining the two.
Expert Tip
Also, pay attention to the type of strap the watch of your choice is sporting. This is key because you need to make sure it’s comfortable with every swing.
Did you know?
The oldest golf course in the world is the St Andrews Golf Course in Scotland, 1552. People worldwide flock worldwide to this course. It’s renowned around the world as the ‘Home of Golf.’
