A golf watch can save you ample shots when out on the golf course. Here, we take a look at the best ones on the market
Golfers have found that golf watches have been a game-changer for them since GPS technology has significantly altered the experience of playing golf on the course. The days of searching for the yellow marker that is 150 yards away and attempting to give an estimate of which club to hit are long gone. In addition to providing you with a variety of other helpful functions, golf watches also provide you with the ability to obtain an accurate distance number just by looking at your wrist.
Today’s golfers have an incredible amount of options to choose from when it comes to timepieces for the game. While some of the most well-known names in the technology industry, such as Garmin, provide a wide variety of models, a number of smaller manufacturers also produce golf watches that are designed to meet the requirements of all golfers. Whether you are the most tech-savvy golfer who wants all the bells and whistles, or if you have simpler demands and just want a model that does the fundamentals right, we have you covered in our guide. We have everything you need to know.
It has been stated that the market is flooded with models that perform really well, and in this guide, we have sought for the best of these models and the category that they belong to. For those who are unclear of the distinctions between golf watches, the best rangefinders, and GPS devices, a golf watch may perform well both on and off the course, and it offers a wide variety of capabilities that are not limited to golf-related activities.
THE QUICK LIST
Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch
The Approach S70 is the most feature-packed golf watch to date with a brilliant display and incredible detail as well as an expansive suite of features.
Bushnell Ion Elite Golf GPS Watch
This is an incredibly useful and intuitive watch to wear. The slope-adjusted distances and moveable pin make it almost as accurate as a laser rangefinder.
Voice Caddie T9 Golf GPS Watch
With slope functionality, heat-mapped greens and hole maps with flyovers, the T9 has all the information you need to optimize your strategy.
The Approach S62 Watch is undoubtedly one for the gadget lover who wants lots of features and the ability to track shots all in one place.
Samsung Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition Watch
For anyone with an Android phone and wants a golf watch, this is the way to go. It’s easy to use, packed full of features, and comes with all the benefits of a smart watch.
TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch
A feature-packed, sporty yet elegant golf watch, the TAG Heuer E4 Golf Edition provides one of the most cutting-edge experiences in golf.
The LX5 may well save you a few shots, giving accurate distances and crystal clear hole maps that enable you to see what lies ahead in great detail.
Full color hole maps and green undulations, along with slope adjusted distances, make the Voice Caddie A2 a very user-friendly and stylish golf watch.
The Shot Scope X5 is sleeker than the previous V3 and has a greater array of features that will enhance your strategy and understanding of your game.
If you are looking for something simple that works well, the S12 ticks the box. The yardages are accurate and well-displayed on a black and white screen.
GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch
The Aim W12 is a user-friendly, feature-packed golf watch that will help you plot your way around the course, choosing the right club along the way.
The G5 is an extremely simple and intuitive golf GPS watch that also provides plenty of off-course appeal that makes it great value for money.
The iON Edge from Bushnell didn’t blow us away in terms of looks, but it does offer simple functionality along with solid, accurate distances.
A smart and sophisticated golf watch that boasts cutting edge features and a crystal clear display, the MARQ is one at the top end of the price spectrum
Contained in a sleek package are a number of extremely useful and easy-to-use features for golfers of all levels, the S42 is ideal for use anywhere.
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BEST FOR FEATURES
GARMIN APPROACH S70 GOLF WATCH
A user-friendly GPS golf watch that comes with a stunning display
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 43,000
Battery: 20 hours in GPS mode
Screen size: 1.4″
Weight: 56g
Straps: One
REASONS TO BUY
Packed full of technology and features
Can track shots and make suggestions
Improved looks and interface
Extended battery life
REASONS TO AVOID
Abundance of tech and features could overwhelm some
USB-C charging cable might not cater for all
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a functional smart watch: The Approach S70 has more features than most people will know what to do with. It’s rammed with functionality.
✅ You want a smart watch that oozes style: The sleek design and wide face on the Approach S70 mean it oozes class and style.
✅ You want versatility from your watch: Doubles as an everyday smartwatch. Send emails, messages, check the weather and use the Approach S70 to track your fitness and wellbeing
NO IF:
❌ You want something a little more simple: While the Approach S70 is a great watch for gadget lovers, some may find its features overwhelming and many of its functions will not be required.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Garmin Approach S70 watch is the most recent addition to the brand’s collection of timepieces, after the excellent Approach S62 watch as the most recent addition. All of the positive aspects of the S62 were enhanced, making it even more impressive. It is sufficient to have a look at some of the greatest Garmin smart watches currently available on the market to perceive that these watches are among the most fashionable and forward-thinking things that money can purchase. Those who are seeking for a golf GPS watch that is both fashionable and comprehensive are likely to be drawn to the Approach S70, which is the current flagship model and a huge favourite among golfers who are passionate about gadgets. Based on our testing sessions, we are able to attest to the fact that, despite the fact that it is loaded with a variety of tools and programmes, it is among the most user-friendly products that have been released to this point.
What you need to know: Garmin’s Approach S70, which was introduced in 2023 as an improvement to the extremely popular Approach S62, exemplifies the company’s dedication to manufacturing high-quality smart watches that are capable of delivering data that may be utilised to enhance their performance in the game. In comparison to the S62 long, it features an enhanced graphics system, a larger screen, a display that is brighter, and a battery life that is longer. The highlight of this product is its comprehensive feature list.
Design: The watch comes with a sleek ceramic bezel, which is comparable to the one that was on the S62, which was the watch’s predecessor. The S70 is one of the smart watches that we have tried that has the most attractive appearance. Not only does this multipurpose watch have the capacity to assist you in monitoring your fitness and shots while you are out on the course, but we also believe that it looks fantastic when worn in social or professional settings. Additionally, it is relatively lightweight, and the large’superbright’ AMOLED touchscreen display has colours that are vivid and eye-catching, making it simple to read and use.
FeaturesFor its price, the S70 offers a lot of value, as it comes preloaded with more than 43,000 different courses. Although it might appear to be pricey, you actually receive a lot of value for your money. As soon as you arrive at the course, the watch will immediately begin downloading the most recent maps for the course that you are currently playing and will display them on its visually appealing face. It will instantly flick between holes as soon as you begin your game, and it will provide you with exact and speedy distances to bunkers, trees, hazards, and of course, the hole itself. Additionally, it will provide players with precise weather updates, and when used with the smartphone app, it can even supply you with ‘plays like’ distances that take into account the wind and elevation.
In addition to keeping track of your score, the S70 will also serve as your own caddie by providing club recommendations based on the data collected from your swing. It is also important to note that the watch will not only assist you on the golf course; it is also a fully functional smartwatch that enables you to monitor emails and messages as well as keep track of your health and well-being. This makes it without a doubt one of the most versatile golf watches available in the game.
Performance: Although some people might find the extensive list of capabilities on this watch to be intimidating, Garmin designed the S70 with the intention of making it as user-friendly as possible. Despite the fact that it contains a high number of features, it is not overly complicated to use. During our testing, one of the things that particularly pleased us was the fact that the watch can keep a charge for up to sixteen days when it is set to smartwatch mode. In GPS mode, it will run for twenty hours, which means that you will be able to play many complete rounds of golf before you need to charge it again (charging is done using a USB-C cable). This makes it an excellent choice for golfing during vacations. Additionally, it is water resistant, which means that even if you do find yourself in the middle of a rainstorm (which you should avoid doing given the watches’ uses in the weather!), you can be assured that the watch will continue to function normally. Taking into consideration that this is one of the top Garmin golf watches (Insert Link) now available on the market, the price point is fairly anticipated to be quite high.
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BUSHNELL ION ELITE GOLF GPS WATCH
Slope functionality on a GPS Watch
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 38,000
Battery life: 12+ hours
Screen size: 1.28″
Weight: 38g
Straps: Two
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Wide variety of features and display modes
+Slope feature and moveable pin enhance accuracy
+Excellent value for money
REASONS TO AVOID
–Charging connection could be better
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a smart watch with a big screen: If you are a player who struggles to see smaller graphics, this is a fantastic option as it has a large, clear screen.
✅ You want a smart watch with plenty of features: This watch boasts a plethora of features so is perfect for the gadget loving golfer.
✅ You want a watch that is easy to use: Seamless to use and offering great visuals, the Bushnell Ion Elite is ideal for golfers who don’t want to be baffled by tech.
NO IF:
❌ You want something that is compact: This watch comes up a little chunky on your wrist.
❌ You want a watch that is easy to charge: The connection on the charging system of this watch is a bit flimsy so you need to be careful when charging it.
THE BOTTOM LINE
As a brand that is known for providing some of the most advanced golf technologies, Bushnell has produced a model that stands up to the reputation of the brand. On the golf course, we believe that a great number of players would take pleasure in wearing this multifunctional golf watch. In addition to providing a great deal of flair, it also provides a great deal of practicality, and it is exceptionally well priced. We thought the stainless steel bezel of the watch was quite attractive, and we have the impression that it looked wonderful on our wrist. It’s an improvement on the ION Edge from 2021, which was functional but rather simple. It would appear that the company has pushed things to the next level in this regard, since they are attempting to appeal to golfers who are interested in gadgets.
What you need to know: When compared to the Bushnell ION Edge, this watch represents a huge improvement. The images on this 2023 offering were excellent, and we believe that it will be a great winner among those individuals who are looking for a wearable that is filled with features and that they can use both on and off the course. There is a lack of diversity in terms of the fitness and lifestyle features that it provides, despite the fact that it is primarily a GPS Golf watch and comes with many of the same functions that you will find on other top models on this list. In spite of this, it accomplishes what it sets out to do and provides a great deal of utility and flair to assist golfers in having a more enjoyable time on the course, which should hopefully result in them shooting lower scores.
Design: As a result of the metallic bezel and the brilliant touch screen, the Ion Elite has a look that is significantly more dazzling and luxurious than its predecessor. It should look good with any outfit, and we really liked the white strap that came with it because it was both gaudy and comfy, and it was able to keep the watch in place in a great way. Furthermore, it possesses water resistance to the extent of an IP67 rating, which is among the highest degrees of protection that an IP rating can provide. If you frequently find yourself playing in damp weather, this is definitely something you should take into consideration.
Features: Despite the fact that it is not as versatile as the Garmin Approach S70 that was discussed earlier, this is an exceptional golf watch that comes packed with a multitude of functions that any golfer will find to be enjoyable. It will immediately determine where you are on the course and provide you with exact maps to the front, middle, and back of the green when you get on the course. You can access additional display modes and functions by pressing the icons that are located in the four corners of the screen. These icons include features such as hazards and lay ups, hole maps, green view, and scoring. During our testing, we discovered that the hole maps were particularly helpful because they provided an insightful perspective of the course, which will assist you in formulating your approach. In addition, the scoring screen is easy to understand because it not only records the points you earned on each hole but also assists you in keeping track of the fairways that you touched and those that you did not touch. The slope functionality, which provides yardages that are adjusted to account for the topography in front of you, was a feature that stood out to us as particularly noteworthy.
Performance: When it came to the performance of this watch, we had a hard time finding any flaws. On the average, we would say that it was quick and provided correct distances during our round. However, there are occasions when it can be a touch sluggish when loading different programmes and features. The visual display that the watch provided was of high quality, and it also had a battery life of more than twelve hours, which means that you can play around two rounds of golf on a single charge. To add insult to injury, if you combine it with the Bushnell Golf app, you will be able to view all of your swing statistics, data, and scores in a display that is simple to navigate.
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VOICE CADDIE T9 GOLF GPS WATCH
Redefines what a smart golf watch can do
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 40,000+
Battery life : 27 Holes – 10 days Golf Mode – 27 holes
Screen size: 3cm
Weight: 48g
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Bright, responsive touch screen
+Plenty of strategy-enhancing features
+Versatile for off-course wear
REASONS TO AVOID
–Green undulations weren’t always accurate
–Automatic shot tracking wasn’t obvious
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a responsive touchscreen: Having a responsive screen is a real bonus when things like water and sweat come into play on the golf course.
✅ You want a watch that factors in slope gradients: Factoring in slope when providing distances is not something that too many watches can do, but this one can!
✅ You want a stylish watch: This modern and lightweight option will catch the eye of many golfers due to its sleek and classy styling.
NO IF:
❌ You want automatic shot tracking: The watch does offer some autonomous shot tracking but it does require some input on the course which can be distracting and difficult to always remember.
❌ You want a watch with a big screen: The screen is excellent but its size is a touch smaller than many other options.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Voice Caddie T9 smart golf watch offers plenty of functionality that many golfers will enjoy. Golfers of all abilities will be able to benefit from heat-mapped greens, hole-by-hole fly overs, analytics and usability that all come in a sleek and modern-looking package. It even comes with plenty of off-course versatility that does increase its value.
What you need to know: Voice Caddie is well-known for manufacturing some of the most advanced rangefinders and launch monitors in the industry. They have utilised a significant amount of their expertise in the design of these technologies to create this remarkable golf watch. Due to the fact that it is packed with the kinds of bells and whistles that make it one of the most technologically advanced products on this list, this watch is a dream come true for people who are passionate about wearable technology. The T9 is the most recent addition to the T-series lineup of watches, and it represents a technological and visual advancement over the T8 smart golf watch, which was already an amazing product. The ability of this watch to offer correct yardages and combine that with V-Algorithm 3.0, which is Voice Caddie’s slope calculation software, to deliver slope compensated yardages to the green is the feature that stands out to us the most throughout our testing. In addition, this watch gives golfers access to undulating green maps, which can be of great assistance when it comes to approach shots, particularly when you want to leave yourself a particular choice of putt.
Design: This watch has a very good appearance to it. It has a simple, contemporary, and streamlined design, and we can immediately see that a lot of players would appreciate it. You may easily wear this watch away from the course or in social situations, which adds to its worth. The shining silver bezel contributes to the off-course versatility that this watch provides, which results in an increase in its value. The T9 is equipped with a full-color reflective LCD Touch screen that is readable and bright in any light environment, including direct sunlight.
Features: Obviously, the fundamentals are taken care of, and the watch will provide yardages to the green on the primary screen. In addition, it will take slope into account in order to provide the most accurate information possible. This, however, is not permitted in competitions, and players have the ability to disable or enable tournament mode in order to have this feature turned off. The golfer is able to figure out how to play a specific hole by zooming in and out on the maps to determine how far away they are from critical hazards and other hazards. Full-color hole maps provide this capability. A pretty fascinating feature that only a few watches offer is the ability to generate heat maps of the greens, which will be provided by the watch. Last but not least, the T9 comes equipped with a Practice Tempo Mode that allows you to keep track of how quickly you are swinging throughout the game. Additionally, it has shot and putt tracking capabilities that assists you in keeping track of each shot that you hit throughout the round.
Performance: This golf watch is a thorough piece of equipment that is responsive and provides a full-intuitive breakdown of your game with the use of the MyVoiceCaddie programme. It is an exceptional performance that is being offered. This watch’s screen was really responsive and clear, which was the feature that we liked the most about it. The screen is a reflective LCD that has been optimised for usage in direct sunlight, and we discovered that it provided a screen that was both clear and bright, displaying course maps in a manner that was unaffected by the weather. The automatic shot tracking functionality, which did need us to enter each shot on the watch, was a little disappointing to us since it did not automatically track our shots.
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Displays wind speed and direction and even adjusts for slope
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 41,000
Battery life: 20 hours
Screen size: 3.3cm
Weight: 61g
Straps: Two
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Modern, cutting-edge styling
+Wide ranging features suitable for off-course use
+Ability to track shots
REASONS TO AVOID
–Hole map graphics look dated
–Differences in what appeared between the app and watch
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a stylish smart watch: Thanks to its premium bezel the S62 is one of the best-looking golf smart watches in the game
✅ You want off-course versatility: While not as comprehensive as its successor the S70, this watch has some useful fitness and daily life functions to keep you healthy and organized.
✅ A watch needs to be easy to use: While there are plenty of features crammed into the S62, the user experience is very straight forward, especially on the golf course.
NO IF:
❌ You want a watch with a bright screen: While the S62 does have a nice display, the graphics don’t jump out quite as much and course maps weren’t as vibrant as some other watches.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The Approach S62 continues to be one of the very best golfing technology products available, despite the fact that it has been overtaken by the fantastic new Approach S70. Garmin is one of the leaders in the golf technology sector, providing some of the most feature-packed products available worldwide. There are a variety of applications that can be utilised both on and off the course, and it features a watch face style that is both sporty and stylish. Additionally, the silicone band is comfortable and can be changed. There are very few watches that can compete with the features that the S62 provides for golf.
What you need to know: Since the introduction of the Approach S1 in 2010, Garmin has been manufacturing golf GPS watches. This has been the case for more than thirteen years. Ten years later, Garmin introduced the S62, which served as the company’s flagship product in the golf watch category until it was supplanted by the S70 three years later. A state-of-the-art wearable device that offers golfers a number of capabilities that can assist them with strategy, decision-making, and club selection. More than 42,000 preloaded courses, a Virtual Caddie, and a longer battery life are some of the features that are included in the S62, which is an improvement over its predecessor, the Approach S60 by a significant margin.
Design: In terms of its appearance, this golf watch was and still is among the most attractive timepieces now available on the market. It comes with a ceramic bezel that has a notched design, giving it a style that is both sporty and elegant. Putting this watch through its paces was a pleasure, and we felt comfortable wearing it both on and off the course. In conjunction with the action buttons that are located on either side of the device, the S62 comes equipped with a huge colour touchscreen display that makes it very simple to operate. Additionally, you have the ability to personalise this watch to complement your personal style by selecting one of the colourful QuickFit accessory bands. Additionally, you have the choice to upload your own photographs to use as a screensaver or watchface.
Features: This watch is unquestionably one for the gadget enthusiast who wants to access a great deal of information and evaluate their performance in greater detail after the round. It is packed with a full range of features. You will be able to pull up a satellite view of the hole you are now on and move the pointer about with your finger to assist you in planning out your route to the pin, just like you would be able to do with the majority of GPS golf watches. We were pleased with how quickly and easily we were able to obtain precise distances to both the hazards and the targets.
Additionally, the S62 is equipped with a helpful Virtual Caddie tool that, although it does take some input at the beginning of the game, will make a recommendation for a club to utilise on an upcoming stroke after five rounds have been completed. Automatic shot tracking is a function that comes in very handy in situations where your drive has missed the fairway and you need to narrow down the search area. Additionally, when we paired the watch with our phone, we were able to receive real-time information on the wind conditions, which is a feature that we have not seen on many other watches.
Through the use of the intelligent email and text notification systems, you are able to simply keep track of items that are not related to golf when you are away from the course. Garmin Pay is another option for making contactless payments, and if you are interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the S62 comes with a large number of preloaded activity profiles for activities such as running, cycling, and swimming.
Performance: This watch is now substantially less expensive than it was when it was first released, which makes the S62 one of the finest value golf watches currently available on the market. We really loved what this watch gave for its price, which is now significantly lower than it was. There is a possibility that the functionality you receive for the price is currently unrivalled. The display was simple to navigate, which made it possible for us to obtain distance readings in a short amount of time. We particularly like how natural it was to use on the course. We particularly liked the Pin Pointer feature, which displayed an arrow pointing in the direction of the green and proved to be very helpful on blind shots when we were unable to see the flag. These yardages appeared to be comparable to those of our rangefinder as well as other leading GPS devices.
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SAMSUNG GALAXY5 PRO GOLF EDITION WATCH
Perfect for on and off course activities
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 40,000
Battery life: N/A
Screen size: 1.79″
Weight: 46.5g
Straps: 5
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Accurate way to get yardages and keep score
+Includes all the non golf features of the Samsung Galaxy5 Pro smartwatch
+Golf application is as detailed as a golfer could want
REASONS TO AVOID
–Won’t work for iPhone users
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a watch that is already set-up for golf: The Galaxy5 already has a Golf Buddy Smart Caddie app preloaded so requires little work to set up
✅ A sleek and stylish watch: Not only can this be worn on the golf course, but it won’t look out of place off it
✅ You want a watch that is not only for golf: It has full smart watch capabilities so when paired with your phone, you can access emails, texts and health related apps
NO IF:
❌ You have an iPhone: Although this watch is an excellent performer, it can only be paired with an Android device
THE BOTTOM LINE
One could argue that simplicity is the most important aspect of a golf watch, and the Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition is an excellent example of this. It offers all of the fundamental features, such as hole maps, distances, and scoring, which are essential for golfers. Because it comes already installed with the Golf Buddy Smart Caddie, a specialised application that was designed by GolfzonDeca just for the Galaxy wristwatch, the process of setting it up couldn’t be simpler. A number of smart watch capabilities, including health and fitness, emails, calls, and texts, are also included in this wristwatch.
What you need to know: Despite the fact that Samsung is well-known in the mobile phone sector, the Galaxy5 Pro Edition watch that they released particularly impressed us with the golf app that was already preloaded on it. It is simple to pair if you have an Android phone; however, if you are an iPhone user, then this watch is not for you and any of the other watches on the list would be more suitable for your needs. If, on the other hand, you have a Galaxy phone, Android 8 or a higher version, and at least 1.5 gigabytes of random access memory (RAM), this could be one of the greatest golf watches that are now available. It has the capability to download courses, and then it may scroll through the numerous possibilities in a way that is both simple and effective.
Design: With five different band options, the watch has a highly sophisticated and sophisticated appearance, which means that there is a look and colour that will appeal to everyone. At 1.8 inches in length and only 46.5 grammes, it is extremely lightweight and can be used just as well off the course as it is on it. The Galaxy5 is an alternative that is incredibly adaptable, has a fantastic appearance, and will appeal to people who are interested in golfing as well as fitness aficionados.
Features: The Golf Buddy Smart Caddie, which is a specialised application which was built by GolfzonDeca just for the Galaxy smartwatch, is already preloaded onto the watch, as was indicated earlier. It is important to note that some of the watches that we have described in the past come with courses already pre-loaded; however, in the case of this particular watch, we were required to download the course before we could begin playing. On the other hand, after it has been downloaded, activating it prior to the round with the first tee is a simple process. This watch provides hole maps, distances, and score information as its fundamental features; however, for those who are interested in delving deeper into the subject matter, the Smart Caddie app has everything covered.
Additional features include club and shot tracking, which, according to our evaluations, performed quite well and proved to be of great convenience. It also keeps track of the fairways you hit, greens in regulation, putts, and other shots you make, and once it has accumulated a sufficient amount of shot data, it will begin to provide recommendations for which clubs you should hit in specific scenarios. On select courses, you can find a greens heat map that can assist you in reading breaks and slopes. Additionally, there is a compass tool that can identify the direction in which the centre of the green is located from where you are now standing.
Performance: The battery life was satisfactory, and if you charge it to its maximum capacity, you will have no trouble making it through the round with enough of juice left over. The process of charging it is extremely simple, and if you are not playing golf, you will be able to use it for a couple of days without having to recharge it. The distances that were presented were really accurate, and it is simple to navigate through the numerous menus that are available on the watch. When you couple it with your phone, it transforms into a fully functional wristwatch that exposes you to an entirely new universe in which you can explore a variety of applications.
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TAG HEUER CONNECTED CALIBRE E4 GOLF EDITION WATCH
The next best thing to having a caddie by your side
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 40,000
Battery life: 24 hours
Screen size: 3.5cm
Weight: N/A
Straps: Nine
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Crystal clear display
+Shot tracking enhances strategy
+Exceptional app experience
REASONS TO AVOID
–Very expensive versus the competition
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a watch that is simple to use: The touch screen and toggles make it easy to navigate through the various menus
✅ You are after arguably the most premium model on the market: Tag Heuer is one of the most recognized brands on the market and this watch can be found on the wrist of brand ambassador Tommy Fleetwood
NO IF:
❌ You are after a cheaper model: The watch is very pricy and although it’s excellent, there are other models which can do the same job for a lot less money. They don’t look as premium though
THE BOTTOM LINE
A golf watch that is so packed with features that it is both sporty and stylish, and it offers one of the most cutting-edge experiences in the sport of golf. Although the price tag is somewhat tough to justify, this watch is not only enjoyable but also helpful to use, and it will, over time, optimise your approach by automatically tracking your tee strokes during the course of your game.
What you need to know: Around the turn of the decade, Tag Heuer made its debut in the golf GPS watch industry. Since then, the company has worked to enhance their product with the assistance of Tommy Fleetwood, who has won the DP World Tour on many occasions. A number of new features have been added to the Connected Calbre E4 golf edition watch in comparison to the previous model. These new features include a revamped golf software, an automated shot-tracker, and a new buckle that incorporates a magnetic ball marker into the strap.
Design: The watch has a very attractive appearance. The appearance and feel of the Tag Heuer watch continue to be sporty and quality, and a significant improvement is that the dial displayed on the side of the watch is slightly more responsive than the dials found on earlier generations. Despite the fact that we would have liked the maps to be a little bit brighter, the dial allows you to easily navigate through the many options, and it is entertaining to use while you are out on the course. The overall display of the watch was found to be quite detailed and crystal clear.
Features: The Tag Heuer is totally packed with features, such as a two-dimensional view of the hole on the screen, which is perfectly in line with what one would anticipate given the price point. It is also one of the greatest apps that we have used, and the maps that are included in the mobile app are of a very high quality. You may access the front and back numbers, as well as the par of the hole, by tapping the screen. When you are out on the course, a red dot will indicate where you are, moving with distance, and proposing a club for that yardage. Additionally, you will have access to other information.
The driving range feature is one of the most notable features. This feature automatically monitors drives and, by utilising the watch’s accelerometer and gyroscope, marks the tee shot and then following shots in a smooth manner in order to capture all of the necessary data. After some time has passed, a heat map will be generated for each hole in the application. This heat map will then display, in a color-coded format, where your shots landed on previous rounds. The fact that you are able to determine which clubs perform the best on each tee shot makes this a really fascinating feature that is perfect for optimising your strategy.
Performance: To begin, let’s talk about the battery life of the Tag Heuer, which, despite having all of its features operational, readily lasted for more than five hours. This is thirty percent greater than its predecessor, and there has been a significant improvement in that regard. In addition, the fact that it can be operated by either the toggle or the touch screen indicates that it is simple to use. Furthermore, along with the overall performance and the multitude of functions, this watch is an excellent choice. Having said that, we couldn’t help but feel that there are other options available that do a same function for a significantly lower cost. One of the drawbacks is that they do not carry the Tag Heuer brand name.
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Boasts the largest screen for exceptional detail and ground-verified accuracy
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 35,000
Battery life: Up to two rounds
Screen size: 3.5cm
Weight : 65.2g
Straps : One
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Crystal clear color hole maps
+Abundance of information to assist with strategy
+Ability to score and measure shots
REASONS TO AVOID
–A little chunky on your wrist
–Navigating the hole maps can be a touch fiddly
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a more accessible GPS: The LX5 is based on the SX400 and SX550, but in a more accessible package
✅ You want a watch that works on and off the course: The LX5 has lots of features for on and off the course
NO IF:
❌ You want a more stylish watch: Although there are five watch faces to choose from, the watch itself is a little basic and there are more stylish watches on the market
THE BOTTOM LINE
Despite the fact that the LX5 does not track your shots, it has the potential to save you a few shots. It provides you with exact distances that you can rely on and crystal clear hole maps that allow you to see what dangers are forthcoming in great detail. Although it appears to be somewhat cumbersome, it is actually quite lightweight and pleasant to wear, and it does not hinder the swing in any way.
What you need to know: It is common knowledge that GPS watches are easy to use, but the LX5 is essentially a scaled-down version of the SkyCaddie SX400 and SX550, which are both quite remarkable portable GPS watches. As a result of this, a wearable device that has a high-definition colour touchscreen has been packed with a great quantity of information and features. Because it comes preloaded with 35,000 golf courses, the LX5 is able to rapidly identify where you are and show up information about the course while you are playing. It is also possible to utilise it for activities that are not related to the course, and it comes with a variety of features and designs.
Design: During our testing, the touchscreen stood out as the most notable feature. It is both bright and perfectly clear, making it very easy to read in a variety of settings. There is a possibility that it appears to be on the larger side; nonetheless, it is lightweight enough to not hinder the swing, and the styling (in addition to the fitness elements) makes it appropriate to wear outside of the golf field. We believe that the design is really beautiful overall, despite the fact that it may be a little cumbersome on the wrist, which is something that not everyone will find appealing.
Features: The LX5 is equipped with a variety of features that are useful while playing golf as well as when it is not. A Big Numbers screen that displays front, middle, and back yardages will be a blessing for the golfer who does not have the best eyesight. When you swipe your finger across the screen, you will be able to see scores, hazards, the hole map, and also measure distances. A truly intriguing feature of the LX5 is that it advises the optimal driving stance based on feedback from SkyCaddie mappers who have walked the courses. The hole graphics were fantastic during testing because we were able to see every detail of what was going to happen next.
The final golf features include the precise shape of the greens and the yardages from their approach angle. Additionally, different yardage arcs are superimposed on the landing regions of the fairways and greens, which enables the player to select the appropriate club. Some of the capabilities that are not related to the course include a step counter, a heart rate monitor, and five different watch faces that may be selected when wearing the LX5.
Performance: During the tests, the watch worked exceptionally well. When you are on the main screen of Big Numbers, all you have to do to access the other features is swipe in different directions. This makes it an entirely user-friendly application. Because your finger always seems to be somewhat in the way, moving the crosshair can be a little bit of a hassle. However, the large screen size helps to lessen the impact of this inconvenience. The battery life is sufficient to endure for two rounds, which is great for situations in which you are out all day and playing 36 holes without the opportunity to recharge.
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Superb value for money at just $250
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 40,000+
Battery life: 10 days/Golf Mode (GPS) 10 hours
Screen size: 1.9″
Weight : 50g
Straps: One
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Simple to use
+Interactive color hole maps
+Option of slope adjusted distances
REASONS TO AVOID
–Course can sometimes take a long to locate
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a watch which is simple but effective: The A2 provides a lot of information in an easy-to-digest format
✅ You want accurate yardages: The slope adjustment feature is extremely for when you are playing unfamiliar courses
NO IF:
❌ You are wanting a watch for off-course activities: The A2 is solely for golf. If you want an all around smart watch then look to other watches on this list from brands that cater for off-course activities
THE BOTTOM LINE
Full-color hole maps and green undulations help you plan your shots, and slope-adjusted lengths make you more accurate. It’s all in a stylish and easy-to-use package. The Voice Caddie A2 is a great deal at $250.
The SL2 Active Hybrid rangefinder from Voice Caddie was awarded the title of best golf rangefinder of 2022. Voice Caddie is a brand that has made a significant name for itself in the GPS and rangefinder markets. This is a device that is quite amazing while being used on the course, and the A2 Golf GPS watch is the next product to follow in that mode. As a result of its comfort and stylish design, as well as its extensive feature set, it is one of the best GPS golf watches now available on the market.
Design: Not only is it fashionable and contemporary, but it is also completely waterproof. During our testing, we immediately saw that it is lightweight, and we especially appreciated that the flexible strap has a substantial number of buckle holes that allow for a secure yet comfortable fit. In addition, we found that the buckle holes were convenient.
As for the display, the images are simple, but the layout is understandable enough, and navigation is accomplished through the use of a colour touch screen in conjunction with buttons located in the four corners of the screen. The fact that you can utilise either one, depending on your preference, is a lovely touch that we thought was included. As an illustration, the buttons on the right hand side of the screen can be used to act as up and down functions on specific menus. However, you can also swipe the screen in any direction to accomplish the same thing.
Features: There is a wide variety of features that may be utilised with the A2, with the slope-adjusted distances or the Tournament mode that disables them being among the most advantageous of these features. To a large extent, however, the touch screen itself was the feature that left the strongest impression on us. The fact that it brightens when you hold it up to look at it is a creative feature that also helps to preserve battery life. We found it to be very responsive, and we also noted that it became brighter when looked at.
The amount of information that is displayed on the screen is presented in a format that is simple to comprehend. Not only do you receive the front, middle, and back yardages, but you also receive the time, hole and par, yards or metres, battery life, and the current score. This is similar to many of the other items on the list. In the event that this is not sufficient, it will also inform you of the total amount of steps that you have walked, and if you swipe to the side, you will be able to see the full colour hole maps.
Performance: In general, the performance of the A2 is satisfactory; nonetheless, we discovered that the automatic course detection offered us a degree of unpredictable results. On some occasions, it took less than ten seconds, while on other occasions, it took more than a minute. If you load up the course with plenty of time to spare before teeing off, you can typically escape this problem; however, the A2 requires you to be close to the first tee in order to avoid its consequences. In the event that you are playing in a shotgun start, this presents an additional challenge for you to deal with. In conclusion, this is an all-encompassing golf GPS watch that is not only intelligent but also easy to use. In addition to providing the golfer with the information that is required, it also delivers a great deal of additional information, and it does so in a way that is easy to understand and navigate.
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Provides GPS distances and seamless shot tracking for performance analysis
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 36,000+
Battery life: Two plus rounds
Screen size: 1.2″
Weight: 41g
Straps: Six
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Impressive feature list
+Seamless shot tracking
+Color screen is crystal clear
REASONS TO AVOID
–Touch screen could have been more responsive
–Post-round editing is fiddly on smartphone
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You are a stats fanatic: The X5 has the ability to provide stats, such as fairways hit etc, making it perfect for those who love that aspect
✅ You want a model that won’t break the bank: You won’t find many better value GPS watches than this one for around $300
NO IF:
❌ You are a technophobe: There are a lot of features on the X5, but those who don’t like technology may be better served by a more basic model
THE BOTTOM LINE
In comparison to the previous version, the V3, the X5 is more streamlined and comes with a wider variety of features that will improve your grasp of the game as well as your strategy. Although the touch screen can be a bit finicky at times, this is a product that has been carefully considered and is priced competitively for what it provides.
What you need to know: Shot Scope has always been able to produce devices that are interesting for golfers who are searching for a wearable gadget that can bring together shot tracking and GPS information. We were so enthralled with the amount of features that were available (in addition to the looks), that we decided to include this product in our 2024 Editor’s Choice. The new X5 appears to build on what was available from the outstanding Shot Scope V3, and we were so impressed with each and every one of those capabilities.
Design: The new watch is unquestionably more streamlined and has a greater appeal off the course than the relatively simple V3, but it has not lost any of the shot tracking capability that consumers have come to expect from the V3. The information that you obtain from Shot Scope is unparalleled, and it is derived from newly developed and enhanced tracking tags that are lightweight and of the second generation. These tags can be easily screwed into the top ends of your clubs.
However, it is not a foolproof method, and according to the design of the X5, it must be worn on your lead arm. Furthermore, because it must be within 10 centimetres of the tags in order to pick up shots, we discovered that it did occasionally miss a few rounds while it was being used. Although it does not happen frequently enough to be a significant issue.
Features: You have the choice of using GPS or GPS+ Track when you arrive at the course, and this choice is determined by whether or not you are using the tags. The front, middle, and back lengths, as well as the hole number and the current score, are all displayed on the home screen on the television. Additionally, there is a lock mechanism, which our team strongly suggests that you disable before you begin playing.
Other features include the ability to see the distances to reach and carry hazards, as well as a map of the green and the ability to move the pin to different locations for a more exact yardage by swiping left or right. Additionally, the pin may be transported to multiple locations. Additionally, there is the capability to measure shot distance, as well as doglegs and layup distances, and the inclusion of penalty shots. The sensors not only enable you to track shots, but they also provide you with free access to more than one hundred performance statistics, one of which is the number of strokes gained.
Performance: During our testing, the performance was really impressive, with the X5 requiring approximately twenty seconds to locate the course once it finally arrived at the location. Although the touchscreen functioned properly, the screen is rather small and can be a little difficult to use at times. In spite of this, you do have the option of turning the screen and tapping the button located in the upper right corner, which we discovered to be more effective. While you are scrolling through the settings, the watch will vibrate on each one. Additionally, you can press this button to browse through the game menu in golf mode rather than swiping the touchscreen. Despite the fact that the user experience was not flawless, we found the X5 to be a product that was entertaining to use and that we believe has the potential to assist the user in improving their decision-making and club selection. With a price tag of approximately $300, you are unquestionably getting a lot for your money.
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GARMIN APPROACH S12 GPS GOLF WATCH
Easy to use for golfers that want a faff-free experience
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 42,000
Battery life: 30 hours
Screen size: 2.3cm
Weight: 34g
Straps: Three
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Accurate and easy to use
+Lightweight strap allows you to swing freely without it getting in the way
+Looks great
REASONS TO AVOID
–Limited off course functionality
–Less easy to navigate through options versus touch screen watches
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a watch which does the basics well: Although this is the entry-level watch from Garmin, you can still access some of the useful features you will find on more expensive watches
✅ You want a watch that excels in simplicity: It provides users with an array of yardages on a simple black and white screen
NO IF:
❌ You want a watch that does more than just golf: This is purely a watch for golf, it does nothing else so if you are wanting a smart watch for use away from the course then you’ll need to be looking at others on this list
THE BOTTOM LINE
When it comes to wearable technology on the golf course, there is frequently a trade-off between the functionality of the device and how easy it is to interact with. We believe that the Garmin Approach S12 is an excellent choice for you if you are searching for something that is not only easy to use but also performs well right from the start. Despite the fact that the yardages are displayed on a screen that is rather simple and black and white, they are correct.
What you need to know: The Approach S12 is the first GPS watch that Garmin makes. This doesn’t mean it doesn’t work well; in fact, it does a great job of being easy to use and giving you exact distance information all the way through the round. It just doesn’t have as many features as the more expensive Approach watches.
Design: The black and white screen of the S12 is of a little lower size compared to the screens of some of the other Garmin alternatives that are more expensive. Despite the fact that this gives it a simple and inexpensive appearance, the simplicity will appeal to golfers who are only interested in the fundamentals and do not care about wearing it outside of the competition setting. The fact that the strap was both lightweight and stylish was one of the things that we liked best about this watch. Given that it weighs only 34 grammes, we hardly even knew that we were wearing it even though we were.
Features: On the S12, despite its seeming lack of complexity, there are still a great deal of golf-related functions. You got the normal front, middle, and back yardages, and while more features are good, this was all we required for the most part. In general, this was all we needed. Not only do you have access to those yardages, but you also have access to the distances for layup areas and hazards, which is quite helpful. An additional option is to manually adjust the position of the pin in order to obtain a more accurate number when hitting into the greens. The Big Numbers option, which can be accessed through the settings, is the final feature that will appeal to a significant number of golfers around the world. Simply put, this indicates that you have the ability to alter the layout of the display in order to make the most important information appear more prominently and be more easily readable. This, in conjunction with the fact that it is easy to operate, makes it an excellent option for the senior golfer who does not wish to be overpowered by technology.
Performance: What it is meant to do is what the watch really does. The correct yardages were displayed within a minute or two after beginning the set-up process, which meant that we had no trouble locating the golf course once we turned the watch on. The fact that it does not have a touch screen makes it more difficult to operate than the more expensive models. In order to scroll through the various yardage information on each hole, you have to press the buttons that are located on the side of the watch. It is more difficult to use than when using touchscreen watches, despite the fact that this appears to be a straightforward process. On the other hand, if you are not accustomed to using touch screens, you would not be aware of what you were missing out on anyhow. The absence of a touch screen does not detract from the fact that this watch is excellent and does a good job of performing the fundamental functions.
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GOLFBUDDY AIM W12 GOLF GPS WATCH
For golfers seeking functionality on a tight budget
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 40,000
Battery life: 10 hours
Screen size: 3.3cm
Weight: 50g
Straps: Two
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Slope function enhances accuracy
+Plenty of strategy-enhancing features
+Easy to navigate
REASONS TO AVOID
–
Hole maps could be improved
–
Shorter battery life than Aim W11
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want a watch that offers incredible usability: The user experience is near faultless on the W12
✅ You want a watch that is designed for golf: Slope functionality and easy-to-find yardages makes this great for new courses
NO IF:
❌ You want a watch with a longer battery life: Although it will last for 10 hours, there are watches with a longer battery life available
THE BOTTOM LINE
A golf watch that is both user-friendly and filled with features, which will assist you in positioning yourself on the course and selecting the appropriate club at each stage of the game. Individuals who play a lot on hilly courses will find the slope function to be ideal. The Aim W12 is another example of a cutting-edge device that is designed to provide golfers with a great deal more than just the standard front, middle, and back yardages.
What you need to know: A variety of GPS watches are offered by GolfBuddy, and the Aim W12 is a great example of how much value can be obtained for the price of $250. On the course, you can wear this, and the variety of features that are offered will be of use to you in a variety of different ways. Due to the fact that it has a number of fitness features, including a convenient step counter, you may even use it outside of the running course. This watch has been intended to seem like a golf watch, but it may also be worn outside of the environment where golf is played.
Design: From a visual standpoint, the Aim W12 is a significant advance over the Aim W11, which was released in 2021. As was noted, the appearance of this watch is more reminiscent of a conventional golf watch. We believe that it is more polished and a little bit more streamlined as a result of the flatter button that is located in the corner. Additionally, it comes with a premium leather strap as standard (in addition to an additional silicon strap that is included in the box), and it has two band options that are IPX7 waterproof, which means that you do not need to be concerned if you are caught in a deluge.
Features: The W12 offers a great deal of functionality for the amount that it costs. Additionally, it is equipped with a colour touch screen, yardages for the centre and back of the course, a green undulation map, a two-dimensional flyover of the hole, and the capability to measure strokes and distances to hazards. However, the slope capability of this watch, which takes into consideration the variations in elevation while delivering the distances, is where we felt that it really stood out from the crowd. When you are playing on hilly courses, this is a very helpful tool.
Performance: We are compelled to proclaim that the user experience with the Aim W12 was quite close to being flawless. In spite of the fact that it took a little bit longer than anticipated to find the course, it was quite simple and quick to understand how to access the various displays, and the touch screen was really responsive. It is possible that you will only be able to play two full rounds from a full charge rather than three, but generally, we believe that the user experience goes a long way towards justifying the modest price tag. The battery life in golf mode has decreased from 13 hours on the Aim W11 to 10 hours here.
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A simple and intuitive golf GPS watch that also provides plenty of off-course appeal
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded : 36,000
Battery life: GPS Mode – 2+ rounds of golf Watch Mode – 10+ days
Screen size: 4.65cm
Weight : 42g
Straps: 2
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Simple to navigate
+Lightweight and comfortable
+Versatile sporty look
+Plenty of useful features
REASONS TO AVOID
–Straps a little fiddly to attach
–Screen graphics are somewhat basic
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want simplicity: This watch is easy to navigate around in both on and off course activities.
✅ You want a bulkier watch face: The face of this watch is considerably larger than others on the market, giving excellent visuals.
NO IF:
❌ You want more of a detailed layout: The screen graphics are slightly more basic on the G5.
THE BOTTOM LINE
There is a lot to enjoy about the G5, including the fact that it has a larger face and is simple to navigate, which makes it appealing to a wide variety of players. However, the graphics are a little bit simplistic, which is the only drawback. It contains a lot of functions that are helpful for tasks that are not on the course. In addition to that, there is a great deal of value that may be obtained.
What you need to know: Due to the fact that not all golfers are interested in the fancy bells and whistles that many of the finest golf watches offer, simplicity is frequently the most important factor for golfers to take into account. There aren’t many that provide an experience that is more user-friendly than the Shot Scope G5.
Design: Despite the fact that the screen is so large, we yet received the impression that the G5 had a minimalistic feel to it. This could be due to the fact that the straps and case are quite lightweight. The fact that the outer ring of the display is somewhat elevated, which should have the effect of reducing the risk of scratches, was something that we liked, and we believe that the sporty appearance will appeal to a wide range of preferences.
Features: Immediately after we made our selection, the front, centre, and back distances to the hole were displayed in a clear and concise manner on the primary screen. There is a great deal of additional information that is additionally helpful, such as the current score, the battery level, the time, the hole number, and the par for that hole, as well as the current score. The information regarding the hazards can be accessed with just a click, and the G5 also provides the distances to lay ups and doglegs, as well as the distances to reach and carry the hazards. Furthermore, you will be provided with a digital scorecard and a shot distance measurement to assist you in keeping track of your round.
Performance: All things considered, we were really pleased with the way the G5 performed. When we were out on the course or at home, we didn’t really notice the G5 on our wrists because it is sporty, extremely lightweight, and compact. All of the functions proved to be useful, and we didn’t have any discomfort as a result of wearing it.
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Basic graphics but offers a wide array of features, including a moveable pin and hazards
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 38,000
Battery life: 16+ hours
Screen size: 2.7cm
Weight: 32.5g
Straps: Two
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Neutral styling and comfortable to wear
+Has ability to keep your score
+Front-middle-back yardages are clear to read and highly accurate.
REASONS TO AVOID
–Touchscreen could be more responsive
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You want the basics: The Bushnell iON Edge is accurate with its yardages and does the basics very well
✅ You want a value model: One of the main selling points of the iON Edge is the price tag, which is a lot less than others on the market
NO IF:
❌ You want a user-friendly watch: In testing the iON Edge wasn’t the most user-friendly and didn’t come with an instruction book
THE BOTTOM LINE
As long as you’re used to Bushnell’s touchscreen or can quickly learn how to use it, this is a good, cheap GPS watch. But we didn’t like how hard it was to use. Not having any directions also made it hard to get the most out of the features at first.
What you need to know: The brand Bushnell is well-known for manufacturing some of the most high-quality golf rangefinders that money can buy. Additionally, the company’s GPS watches are beginning to garner more notice. One of the most attention-grabbing aspects of the iON edge is its pricing, which is significantly lower than the prices of other models now available on the market. With a variety of fundamental features at its disposal, it accomplishes everything that it ought to accomplish.
Design: Even if the design isn’t particularly noteworthy, it has a respectable appearance on the wrist because it isn’t excessively cumbersome or weighty. In addition, there are two straps that can be chosen from. Both of them are sleek and have a very nice feel to them. Furthermore, they do not interfere with the swing or create pain, which is an essential feature.
Features: Although the watch does not have an unduly sophisticated operation, the fact that there was no instruction manual included in the box is a source of frustration. With regard to the features, you are provided with the standard front, middle, and back yardages, in addition to an area in which you can enter scores and statistics yourself. Despite the fact that it does not provide the comprehensive strokes-gained analysis that is available on some of the other watches, we believe that these statistics are still relevant because they present consumers with the fundamentals. This is something that you would expect from a device that is priced lower.
Performance: There are times when the touchscreen is unresponsive, and at the same time, it is sensitive to a finger that has been misplaced. This caused us to feel a little bit of disappointment. During the course of our round and testing, it would require numerous efforts to finish, and on occasion, it would send us to a whole different menu. In the event that you are able to exert control over it, the iON Edge is a reliable product that can assist in providing yardages and highlighting potential dangers. Additionally, the pricing is fairly competitive for this segment of the market.
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BEST FOR VERSATILITY
For the stylish golfer that wants something elegant to wear off the course
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 41,000
Battery life: 28 hours
Screen size: 3.4cm
Weight: 88g
Straps: 12 (price varies)
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Stunning looks
+Wide variety of functions
+Exceptional display
REASONS TO AVOID
–A touch bulky on your wrist
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You are looking for a premium, stylish watch: The Marq has lots of little touches that make it a viable option for on and off course activities
✅ You want a top of the range model: The Marq is the top model in the Garmin range, making it perfect for your golf game and lifestyle if you don’t mind splashing out
NO IF:
❌ You’re not fussed about the looks of a watch: There are other cheaper options from Garmin that do what the Marq does
THE BOTTOM LINE
A golf watch that is clever and sophisticated, with features that are at the cutting edge of technology and a display that is crystal clear. The MARQ Golfer is without a doubt one of the greatest golf GPS watches available, despite the fact that it takes some time to become familiar with navigation and that not everyone will make use of all the functionality to justify the purchasing price.
What you need to know: There is no doubt that the MARQ Golfer is one of the best golf watches that we have ever reviewed. It is Garmin’s most premium and feature-packed model that you can purchase. Due to the fact that this watch is absolutely loaded with functions, the golf features are only a small portion of its capabilities. It can monitor your respiration, blood oxygen levels, and even pay for products in stores. Despite the fact that it performs exceptionally well both on and off the course, some people may have difficulty justifying the expensive price tag.
Design: The MARQ is a magnificent watch that features a multitude of luxury touches, such as the ceramic bezel with 1-18 golf hole markings that are custom-etched into it and the titanium case that measures 46 millimetres for the watch. It is a watch that can be worn with pride both on and off the course, and the act of opening the box itself is an experience in and of itself. It screams the word “luxury.”
The watch comes with a spare strap and three CT10 sensors that can be screwed into the ends of your clubs. These sensors allow you to test out Garmin’s automatic shot tracking system. During our testing, we discovered that the silicone rubber strap was more effective at keeping the watch in place during the swing than the tritone green jacquard-weave nylon strap. Because it weighs 88 grammes, the MARQ Golfer is considered to be on the heavier side. Additionally, in comparison to other options that we have tested, it is somewhat cumbersome, but not to the extent that it does not get in the way. A premium build is responsible for the bulkiness of the product. In conclusion, it is a touchscreen, and it has five buttons that are dispersed around the device. These buttons allow you to move through the various menus.
Features: As is the case with the other Garmin models on this list, you are provided with a two-dimensional overhead view of the hole, as well as the front, middle, and back yardages, and the PinPointer feature, which indicates the direction of the pin when it is not visible. In addition, you can browse through the dangers that are still in front of you by hitting a button. There are a number of different lay up spots displayed alongside them, and they are displayed in the order of distance, which indicates how far it is to reach and transport them. Additionally, you have the ability to move the pin position in order to obtain a more precise distance.
After five rounds have been logged, the Virtual Caddie, which is a crucial element of the top Garmin watches, will propose clubs for next shots based on your past. This process occurs after the Virtual Caddie has been used. When combined with the Garmin software on your mobile device, they are even more accurate than you may imagine because they are able to take into consideration the slope as well as the current wind speed and direction, which is a really high end feature. You are able to toggle on and off smartphone alerts, and the watch will vibrate if you receive an email or text message. This is in addition to the golf functions that are available to you. Not only is it possible to disable this feature, but you can also link it to fitness, navigation, and contactless payments.
Performance: After the device has been charged and powered up, you will be required to figure out how to navigate through the menus by using the touch screen and the five buttons that are dispersed around the device. From the beginning, we thought it to be a little bit confused due to the large number of options that were available. It is something that can be improved with experience, and once you have become used to it, it will work exactly as it should!
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Offers an appealing blend of simplicity and features in a sleek package
SPECIFICATIONS
Courses preloaded: 42,000
Battery life: 15 hours
Screen size: 3cm
Weight: 43g
Straps: Three
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
REASONS TO BUY
+Very clear and easy to use
+Lots of useful features
+Can easily be worn away from the course
REASONS TO AVOID
–Takes a few rounds to get the hang of all its uses
SHOULD YOU BUY IT?
YES IF:
✅ You’re looking for a sleek golf watch: The Garmin Approach S42 comes in a visually excellent and sleek package many golfers will enjoy.
✅ You don’t want a watch with a large face: This watch comes in the perfect size that isn’t too big but is perfect for the features it offers.
✅ You’re looking for an all-round health and fitness device: This watch delivers
NO IF:
❌ You’re looking to get up and running straight away: It does take a little while to get up to speed with all the functions this watch has to offer.
THE BOTTOM LINE
A sleek package holds a bunch of features that players of all levels will find very useful and easy to use. Anyone should get the Garmin S42 Approach because it’s great to wear on and off the track.
What you need to know: The S42 is the best of both worlds because it fits between the cheaper S12 and the more expensive S62. It is very simple to set up the watch; all you have to do is download the Garmin app and connect it to your phone. After that, you can use the many features, such as tracking your shots, seeing maps of over 43,000 courses, and more.
Design: From an aesthetic point of view, this watch is sleek and stylish enough to wear out. It has a lot of features that aren’t related to golf, but we hardly noticed the watch on our wrists as we hit the club. This may be the most important design feature. It’s also very easy to use because the 1.2-inch colour screen is very clear.
Features: You can start with the basics: you get distances to the front, middle, and back of each green, as well as pictures of more than 43,000 courses around the world. You can also connect the Approach CT10 club sensors to automatically track your clubs. Golfers can use the AutoShot round analyzer with the Garmin Golf app on their watch. This is a cool tool that keeps track of shot distances and helps you find your way around the course. When you’re done, you can look at your scores and other performance statistics that can help you figure out where you might need to improve.
Performance: It was easy to set up the S42, and once we downloaded the Garmin app and connected it to our iPhone, we could see how the shot tracking worked. Simply put, it worked great on the golf course, and even though it didn’t have some of the more high-tech features of more expensive models, we thought the S42 was a great deal for the money.
Today’s best Garmin Approach S42 deals
SPECIFICATIONS TABLE
HOW WE TEST GOLF WATCHES
At Golf Monthly, we have a thorough process for testing golf watches. To do this, we have to take different models out on the course and play a few games with each one. It’s also important to play in a variety of weather conditions so we can see how well each model handles sun, rain, and wind.
Since everyone on our team plays golf regularly, watches generally get put through a lot of tests. We often test the watches next to other related products to get a better idea of how they work and to see how accurate they are, how well they waterproof, how long they last, and other factors. This way, we can give you, the reader, feedback that is honest and helpful. If the watch was made to be worn off the golf course, we do that too. This gives us an idea of how versatile it is and what kinds of functions it has when it’s not used for golf.
In this part, we wanted to end by saying that a company can’t buy a good review. The people on our testing team look at golf gear and decide for themselves whether it’s good or bad.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT GOLF GPS WATCH
Features
Okay, so you know you want a GPS watch. Now you need to decide which features are most important to you. Of course, a cheap watch will give you the basic front, middle, and back GPS yardages. But there are some amazing watches out there that offer significantly more.
There are also watches that can give you a lot more information when it comes to yardages, route details, hazards, and other things. There are, of course, types with bigger screens as well, which can be very helpful. Some can keep track of your shots and score, and many can also help you stay fit when you’re not playing golf.
Your routine
You should give some thought to what you do every day on the golf field. Do you play quickly and only need to look at the numbers on the screen for a moment, or do you take your time and want to know everything about a shot before you make it? Know how you play the game because different models fit into different routines and styles. It’s faster to look at a watch than to take a device out of its case or move the pointer around on the screen, so think about what’s more important to you: more information or less distraction. Some players only need to know how far it is to get to the middle of the green. Some people will want to know how far it is to water dangers and bunkers, just in case. This affects the watch you pick out.
Versatility
A lot of brands make models that look good and have a lot of features that make them useful both on and off the golf course. If that’s important to you, a few of the types above will meet your needs. Smartwatches that let you check your messages, emails, and other things are becoming more and more common, as are health and wellness features. You might not want to buy two separate watches for that and golf. Instead, you might want to get one of the more expensive golf watches that does both.
Golf course
Next, you should think about what kind of golf field you usually play on. For us, courses with a lot of doglegs and blind tee shots need the detailed GPS data of a watch. On the other hand, courses that are more straight ahead might be better with the ease of a laser. You may also want the extra information that a GPS gives you over a laser if you play at other clubs for fun or in games. Also, find out how many golf courses come pre-loaded on that particular watch.
Battery power
Laser rangefinders have strong batteries that can be easily changed every six months to a year. GPS devices, on the other hand, need to be charged regularly via USB, so you might want to think about whether you can remember to do that before your next round. It’s also important to think about how many holes you play each day, since you’ll need something with a longer battery life.
Budget
Lastly, we need to talk about cash. There are simple models that won’t break the bank if you want one. But if you want to spend more, you can. Garmin and TAG Heuer, in particular, have very expensive watches.
FAQS
SHOULD I USE A GPS WATCH OR A LASER RANGEFINDER?
First, think about whether a GPS watch would help you the most. If you want something simple and easy to use, a watch is your best bet. On the other hand, some players may like how accurate laser rangefinders are at finding flags. The best thing about bigger mobile GPS units is that they have bigger screens that show a lot more information. Most people who use modern phones will already know how to use touch screens.
WHICH IS THE BEST GOLF WATCH TO BUY?
For this, it is depending on what it is that you are looking for. For those who place a high value on colour hole maps, the SkyCaddie LX5 is an impressive choice in this regard. The Shot Scope V3 provides shot tracking in addition to GPS information, while both Bushnell and Garmin offer options that are straightforward, although Garmin also has several models that are packed with a lot of features.
IS A GARMIN GOLF WATCH WORTH IT?
Yes – Garmin is one of the leading manufacturers when it comes to golf watches and it has multiple models and varying price points to suit the level of features you are after, starting from the entry level Approach S12 to the feature-packed Approach S62 and the elegant, premium MARQ Golfer.
IS A FITBIT GOOD FOR GOLFERS?
Despite the fact that Fitbits are not created with golfers in mind, as they do not provide any GPS capabilities when on the course, the gadget may still be utilised whilst playing golf with the primary focus being on the fitness benefits it offers. On Fitbits, for instance, you may designate your activity as golf, and then you can monitor the number of steps you take while you are playing the game.
In light of this, it is possible to download applications onto your Fitbit gadget that also include GPS capabilities; however, we have not yet been able to test these applications to determine how accurate they are.
We really hope that you found our guide on the best golf watches to be enjoyable. If you are interested in further gear information, such as the best golf simulator or the best golf GPS applications, you can visit the website of Golf Monthly. We also recommend checking out our guides on the best golf GPS devices, best golf rangefinders, best golf launch monitors, and the best golf watches for ladies should you be looking to increase your arsenal of golf gadgets.