Best Golf GPS Watches

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 21, 2024
The better you know the golf course, the higher the chances of your victory are; GPS trackers are created for the very purpose of helping you navigate the field. So, we’ve picked 5 models to assist you in achieving the best results every time you’re on the course. ...Read more ...Read less
Advertiser Disclosure
BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Functions
Courses
Display
Battery Life
Usability
Warranty
 
PROS

This GPS golf watch is compatible with the Garmin TruSwing™ wireless sensor that allows you to analyze all the essential swing metrics (trajectory, tempo, angle, and more) to get the maximum control over the swing and the ball flight.

CONS

The instructions could be more clear.

OUR VERDICT

This stylish and functional accessory is lightweight and comfortable to wear. With that, the unit has a large high-resolution display and provides accurate activity tracking. It comes preloaded with over 41,000 golf courses all over the world and the map updates automatically. Irreplaceable on the green, the watch will also come in handy for everyday use.

detailed parameters
Type

Watch

Functions

GPS time sync, Automatic daylight saving time, Alarm clock, Sunrise/Sunset times, Accelerometer, Activity tracking features, Yardage to the front/center/back of the green

Courses

41,000 + courses, Automatic map updates

Display

Sunlight-visible, transflective memory-in-pixel display (128 x 128 pixels resolution)

Battery Life

Up to 8 weeks (watch mode) 

Up to 15 hours (GPS mode)

Usability

5 ATM Water rating, 64 MB Memory, Bluetooth® Smart and ANT+® connectivity, iPhone®, Android™ smartphone compatibility, TruSwing™ compatibility

Warranty

1 year limited

PROS

The device shows the exact distances to the green and obstacles on more than 41,000 preloaded maps of golf courses around the world. In addition, every year you can add new fields and updates using Garmin Express. Updates are free, without any subscriptions or fees.

CONS

Have to manually advance holes from time to time.

OUR VERDICT

The Garmin Approach X10 has a lightweight and convenient wristband, with an easy-to-read touch screen and a highly sensitive GPS receiver that will help you see the goal and exit the game, even if you have never played on the particular field. A great device to have when playing on new courses.

detailed parameters
Type

Watch

Functions

GPS time sync, Automatic daylight saving time, Alarm clock, Sunrise/Sunset times, odometer, Multiple Golfing Features, including Yardage to the front/center/back of the green

Courses

41,000 + courses, Automatic map updates

Display

Easy-to-read touchscreen LCD display (160 x 68 pixels resolution)

Battery Life

Up to 12 hours (GPS mode)

Up to 23 days (Watch)

Usability

5 ATM Water rating, access to Garmin Express

Warranty

1 year limited

PROS

If you like walking the links, you will appreciate this handheld golf GPS with a built-in odometer. It will help you to track the distance you cover on each and every hole you play.

CONS

The buttons can be accidentally activated.

OUR VERDICT

This portable accessory was designed to help you improve your golfing performance. It features a digital scorecard that will allow you to keep track of your golf statistics by displaying your score during each round. Moreover, the item is IPX7 water-rated, so you can rest assured it will survive if you happen to get caught in the rain.

detailed parameters
Type

Handheld, Clip-on

Functions

Odometer, Alarm clock, Yardage to the front/center/back of the green, Yardage to layups/doglegs, Digital scorecard

Courses

40,000 + courses, Automatic map updates

Display

1.3" Sunlight-readable, high-resolution, monochrome LCD display

Battery Life

Up to 15 hours (GPS mode)

Usability

Clip-on device, Water-resistant, USB port

Warranty

1 year limited

PROS

Utilizing a built-in magnet technology, this Bushnell golf GPS device can be easily mounted on any metal surface, for example, on your golf cart. Plus, the item comes with a clip for attaching it to your bag or belt.

CONS

Bluetooth might take some time to connect.

OUR VERDICT

The Bushnell Phantom Golf GPS will allow you to get the optimum ball trajectory. As a result, you will use as few strokes as possible to complete a hole. This highly-sensitive handheld GPS will give you accurate data of front/center/back distances for greater performance. The battery will last up to 2 games on one charge.

detailed parameters
Type

Handheld, Clip-on

Functions

Distances to the front/center/back of the green, Auto course recognition, Auto hole advance

Courses

36,000 courses in 30 countries, Wireless course updates

Display

Easy-to-read monochrome LCD display

Battery Life

Up to 10 hours (GPS mode)

Usability

Bluetooth connectivity, Built-in magnet technology, Clip holder included, Bushnell Golf app included

Warranty

1 year limited

PROS

The watch has a durable case and is resistant to moisture and dust, making it immune to harsh weather conditions.

CONS

The band is a bit uncomfortable.

OUR VERDICT

The TecTecTec ULT-G is a practical golf watch that does not have anything superfluous - only information about the course, location of holes, required distances and the current time. The model includes 4 control keys and does not require any paid subscriptions.

detailed parameters
Type

Watch

Functions

Auto Course Recognition, Automatic Hole Progression, Distance to Front/Center/Back of the Green, Distance to Hazards

Courses

38,000 + courses, Automatic map updates

Display

Easy-to-read monochrome LCD display

Battery Life

Up to 2.5 rounds (GPS mode)

Usability

Water and dust resistant, Bluetooth Update Capable, USGA Compliant

Warranty

1 year (Online Registration Required)

X

This site is a free online resource that strives to offer helpful content and comparison features to its visitors. Please be advised that the operator of this site accepts advertising compensation from certain companies that appear on the site, and such compensation impacts the location and order in which the companies (and/or their products) are presented, and in some cases may also impact the scoring that is assigned to them. The scoring that appears on this site is determined by the site operator in its sole discretion, and should NOT be relied upon for accuracy purposes. In fact, Company/product listings on this page DO NOT imply endorsement by the site operator. Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on this page are disclaimed. The information which appears on this site is subject to change at any time. More info

Garmin Approach S20

Successful Approach

The Garmin Approach S20 is currently one of the top offerings on the market. This fantastic GPS watch not only displays and records shot distances but also allows you to see the layout of the field. A high-sensitivity GPS receiver built into the watch provides all the necessary distance data (the distance to the next pin, doglegs and layups, and to the front/back/middle of the green). Moreover, the CourseView feature updates frequently-played courses automatically.

Featuring a built-in odometer, the item will track your activity displaying steps, distance, calories burned, and even hours of sleep. Needless to say, the Garmin Approach S20 also doubles as a watch measuring the time.

The device has a high-resolution display and a comfortable fit band. The watchband has a stylish design that makes the accessory a trendy choice for women and men alike. And to suit every taste and style, this model is available in black, white, midnight teal, and slate color.

Review of Garmin Approach S20 GPS Golf Watch with Step Tracking

Improve Your Golf Results While Staying Connected

Golf makes us forget about everything, and this is one of the reasons it is so popular. However, enwrapped in the game, you might miss an important call. Luckily, this GPS golf watch can be connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth. In such a way, you will get notifications on messages and promptly read important emails.

But let's go back to the game! This innovative GPS device is compatible with the Garmin TruSwing™ sensor allowing you to monitor the speed, trajectory of your swing, critical club angles, and other parameters. Analyzing the metrics will help you see how the ball flight is affected by each of the factors and, therefore, you can figure out how to improve your shot results.

To add to its benefits, this durable model is water-rated to 5 ATM (50 meters). It is equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and one charge lasts up to 15 hours in a GPS mode; up to 8 weeks in an activity tracking mode.

Summing up, the Approach S20 is a fantastic device designed to help you play with confidence and style. Irreplaceable on the green, it can become your healthy lifestyle companion as an everyday watch.

Garmin Approach S20 GPS Golf Watch with Step Tracking in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $269.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01AX444EK

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Great golf GPS. Distances very accurate.

Display

The display numbers are nice and large and easy to read and the battery is by far the best of the three golf GPS watches I have owned.

Features

Alerts you to messages on smartphone, when connected via Bluetooth
 

Garmin Approach X10

Exact Measurements

Being able to accurately gauge the distance of a shot is one of the attributes of a successful golfer. This can be quite difficult to do just with your eyes, but many people can learn how to do this with the help of a smartwatch for golf such as the Garmin Approach X10 Lightweight GPS Golf Band. This device shows the exact distances to the green and obstacles on more than 41,000 preloaded maps of golf courses around the world, letting you get an accurate measurement for a successful shot on virtually any golf course in the world. In addition, every year you can add new fields and updates using Garmin Express. Updates are free, without any subscriptions or fees, so you will always have access to updated information about whichever course you are playing on.

As far as reading the data on the watch goes, you'll find this quite easy as well. The watch has an elongated monochrome touchscreen display that shows information in large, very readable numbers, giving you easy navigation through the settings along with its readability. The menus are laid out in a logical manner, so you won't have to waste time hunting through the different options trying to find whatever information you need. In fact, this is definitely one of the easiest to use golf GPS watch models out there.

Review of Garmin Approach X10 Lightweight GPS Golf Band

Lightweight and Comfortable

Speaking of the different features of this device, this one has just about everything you would need in a golf GPS watch. It has a highly sensitive GPS receiver that will help you see the goal and finish the game, even if you have never played on the particular field. Along with that, it has a green view that will give you a detailed spread of the green of each hole, with manual pin placements that will help immensely in showing the layout of the green, letting you angle your putts accurately. In short, this is a great device to have when playing on new courses.

Moving on to the physical characteristics, the Garmin Approach X10 has a lightweight and convenient wristband that will feel quite comfortable on your wrist. For those who worry about the weight of a watch having an effect on their swing, there are no worries here: this watch is so lightweight, you'll easily forget that you're wearing it.

If there is one negative aspect to this wearable, it would be that it sometimes falls behind, requiring the user to manually advance the hole from time to time. We wouldn't say that it happens often, but it's something to be aware of. Regardless, with the advanced features coupled with its lightweight design, any serious golfer will find this to be a helpful companion on any course.

Garmin Approach X10 Lightweight GPS Golf Band in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B078SZB6D6

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Bought this for my wife. She loves it. Perfect size for female wrist. Very attractive color and extremely accurate and easy to use.

Display

The screen is very basic and tends to work better in bright sunshine. I can still see it on a dull day

Features

Perfect yardages. I haven't used all of the features yet, but the ones I have used are awesome.
 

Garmin Approach G10

Overcoming Hazards

Getting the ball in the hole might be rather tricky because of the obstructions on the course. Therefore, knowing their exact location will let you score better. The Garmin Approach G10 is the right tool to help you identify the distance to doglegs, sand traps, water, and other hazards which can increase the number of strokes to complete the hole. And, of course, it measures distance to the front, middle, and back of the green, among other things.

Equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS, the device will quickly acquire satellite signal and display all the important distances. Moreover, it will show you the shape of the green and pin placements (you can move the pin manually). All the data is easy to read on a large 1.3" square display.

One more useful feature of this GPS device is a digital scorecard that will help you keep track of your achievements throughout each round, for later consideration and analysis. For this purpose, you can upload the data to your PC and to Garmin Connect golf community, using a USB cable. Analyzing your performance and monitoring your success will surely motivate you for new achievements!

Review of Garmin Approach G10 Handheld Golf GPS

Compact and Convenient

If you like neat and functional accessories, this model is just what you need. The item has a handy portable design. You can either keep it in your pocket or clip it onto your golf bag or belt. Besides, the GBS has a hanging hole which allows you to attach a carabiner and wear the item on your belt loop. Just keep in mind that since the item has sensitive buttons, they can be activated accidentally.

This model is equipped with a long-lasting battery that ensures excellent GPS performance for up to 15 hours on one charge. That is to say, you can take the fully-charged unit away for a golfing weekend and never worry about battery life.

Lastly, this handheld golf GPS has over 40,000 courses preloaded in its memory. Moreover, you can use the CourseView updater to get free updates (no fees or subscriptions are required).

In a word, the Garmin Approach G10 is a compact, convenient, and durable device that will facilitate your performance throughout the game quite a lot.

Garmin Approach G10 Handheld Golf GPS in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $124.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01AX44544

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Easy to use. Accurate. When i use my laser to determine if the pin is front/middle/or back and compare with what this gps shows it’s good to within a yard or two.

Display

The ability to change the screen rotation is a good feature that allows you to wear it any way that you feel most comfortable.

Features

Love the little features such as hazards, layups and doglegs. Prefer it to the popular range finders, never had the steady hand for those things.
 

Bushnell Phantom

For Tournament Play

This professional rangefinder is a great choice for both experienced players and beginners. This is due to the fact that this model is legal for tournament play, as it complies with USGA rule 14-3/.05.

The item has a large easy-to-read display for showing distances to the front, center, and back of the green. Moreover, it can show up to four hazard distances per hole.

The Bushnell Phantom will help you feel more confident on the court in any weather: you can adjust the display contrast for better visibility. Lower contrast level will provide the best viewing quality in bright sunlight while the higher level will come in very useful when the sky is cloudy.

This GPS is a fantastic choice for avid golfers; 36,000 courses in 30 countries are preloaded into its memory. With that, the device can be used right out of the box - you do not need to subscribe or pay membership fees. You can get the updates via the Bushnell Golf App free of charge and use a wireless Bluetooth connection for downloading them to the unit. This app will also allow you to get more detailed information about the course using your smartphone.

Review of Bushnell Phantom Golf GPS

Cart Mountable GPS

It's nice to have your golf GPS at hand and this particular model has even more to offer. The unit has a built-in magnet that will allow you to mount the GPS device on any metal surface such as your golf cart bar. This way, all the important data will be right at your eye level anytime you need it. Besides, the purchase comes with a clip holder that will help you attach the item to your belt or your golf bag.

The Bushnell Phantom is available in black, green, and red/blue color schemes. Just keep in mind that the model with a blue, green, or red housing is easier to spot and you are less likely to accidentally leave it attached to your cart.

This model has a built-in battery and comes with a charging USB cable compatible with all USB ports. The battery is quite capacious - it will last 10 hours on one charge, so you will be able to play up to two golf sessions without recharging. The only downside is that you cannot use the GPS while it is charging (in case you decide to use your golf cart charger). In other words, you'd better check the battery status (select “Battery” from the settings menu) before you go golfing.

All in all, this ergonomic rangefinder supported by the Bushnell Golf app will allow you to comfortably check yardages and study the layouts of your golf course.

Bushnell Phantom Golf GPS in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $209.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B079YM6QPL

 

TecTecTec ULT-G

Only What You Need

As with any high-tech devices, golf GPS watches are prone to something called "feature creep", where more and more superfluous features get added to the device mainly to be used only as selling points. Many of these features tend to only get in the way. Thankfully, the makers of the TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch are aware of this problem, and have done all they could to prevent it from hampering this device.

To put it succinctly, the TecTecTec ULT-G is a highly practical golf watch that does not have anything superfluous - only information about the course, location of holes, required distances and the current time. The model includes 4 control keys and makes the most of them to give you instant access to the data you need. Whatever information you need to find is only a button press or two away, so you can quickly and easily find your course, the current hole you are on, and the measurement of your last shot, all within just a couple of seconds.

What is also quite notable about this model is what it doesn't have. It doesn't have any extra features that get in your way while doing nothing to help your golf game, it doesn't require syncing with other devices, and it requires no subscription fees of any kind. Anyone who has had to fight through a bloated mess of a golf GPS watch before will certainly appreciate this.

Review of TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch

Very Durable

One of the best features of any golf GPS watch is its durability, and the TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch has this in spades. The watch is made of a hard plastic case that is extremely durable, especially against impacts, so you won't have to worry much about breaking or cracking the screen if you bump it into anything. Furthermore, the case is resistant to moisture and dust, something that is somewhat lacking in other models. Now even the worst weather conditions will not interfere with your game.

Despite its durability, this watch is not overly heavy. Some people tend to worry about the weight of a watch affecting their swing, but this won't be the case here. The band is also quite durable, but it does come with the trade-off that it is not the most comfortable one that we've seen. On top of that, the band is also not easily replaceable, so those who find comfort to be a primary concern may want to look at other options. Still, the lack of comfort provided by the wristband shouldn't be an issue for most people.

Overall, this golf GPS watch from TecTecTec will not disappoint. It gives you everything you need in a device of its type without anything you don't, letting you focus on your game without any distractions.

TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $99.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07NRYCRL3

 

What Is a Golf GPS Watch?

It’s impossible to imagine modern life without technologies – they penetrate into every sphere of our life including sports. Why should golf be an exception? Golf GPS navigation systems are becoming more and more popular among the players who want to achieve the highest results in their careers.

These devices were mainly created to measure yardage to different parts of the green, shot distance, and hazard distance. However, many of the device manufacturers often include additional functions such as an odometer, pin positions, automatic hole recognition, etc. Also, most GPS devices have preloaded golf courses so that users can easily navigate in a new place.

As a rule, these gadgets are divided into two types – watches and handheld (or clip-on) models. No matter which one you choose, their battery life is usually long enough to play several games or even spend the whole weekend hitting balls into holes, and almost all of them are easily rechargeable.

To make your game even more productive, golf shoes will definitely come in handy. And with a golf bag, it will be more convenient for you to store and transport your golf equipment. You might also be interested in one of these laser range finders.

What Features to Compare

Functions

Before trying to find the best golf GPS watch, first, consider its functions as they determine how helpful a device will be. Most golf distance measuring devices display the yardage to the front/center/back of the green, to various hazards such as water or sand traps, and, of course, to the hole. Knowing these distances, you will not only feel more confident on the green, but you will also be able to take more precise shots.

If you play golf all over the world, pay attention to the number of preloaded courses. As the new courses are opened quite often, the option to add new maps will also come in very useful. Getting updates for free and without membership or subscription is one more pleasant bonus you can get with the best golf GPS devices.

On top of that, take notice of additional functions to get even more benefit from the game. For example, an integrated odometer will display the distance you have covered. Some sophisticated GPS devices are compatible with innovative sensors that will allow you to analyze the speed, trajectory of your swing, and other important parameters. Studying this data will help you to minimize mishits and improve your overall performance on the green.

Battery Life

You also want to take battery life into consideration as it varies from model to model and mainly depends on the gadget’s design. GPS watches are compact and work for up to 16 hours on one charge. Handheld devices, on the other hand, usually have bigger displays (as compared to watches) and consume more energy, although not too much, they still work for 14-15 hours in GPS mode. Most models feature a rechargeable battery and a USB port for charging and come equipped with a USB cable. In such a way you will be able to connect them to your computer for charging or updating preloaded maps.

Usability

Finally, don’t overlook the item's usability. Since golf is played in all weathers, a waterproof casing will definitely come in handy. Quality golf GPS units have user-friendly LCD screens so that the readings are clearly visible in broad daylight. Most handheld devices have a belt clip so that they can be attached to your golf bag or belt. Some have built-in magnets for attaching to metal surfaces.

One more important addition is a digital scorecard that will allow you to monitor your progress while you are on the green and analyze it later. If you want to track your progress and compare the results of several rounds, make sure your new device boasts PC sync option. And a voice assistant feature will come to your liking if you don’t want to get distracted during the game.

FAQ:

Q: My golf GPS doesn’t identify the course. What’s wrong?

A: Although modern golf navigation systems include thousands of courses all over the world, chances are not all of them are preloaded on your GPS. Thus, it's possible that your gadget doesn’t show you a map of a field you’re going to play. One more thing that can lead a situation like this is you being too far from the course; in this case, you only need to come closer so that a gadget could identify it.

Q: Satellite connection seems to be inconsistent. What should I do?

A: Sometimes, satellite connection can really be lost because of different obstacles such as trees, for example. Some users of GPS devices also claim that gadgets can malfunction when being in a pocket. To reconnect your GPS, step out to an open area and give your item some time to catch the signal; if it doesn’t help, try to reset it.

Q: Is it possible to add golf courses manually in every GPS device?

A: You might need to specifically search for a model with a function like that, they do exist. However, generally, even those navigators that can't be updated manually are updated automatically from time to time for free or on condition of registration.

Q: Can I use a golf GPS device during tournaments?

A: Golf rules restrict the use of the devices that can help a player get an advantage over his/her rivals. Since golf GPS is like that, its application during amateurish or professional tournaments is prohibited. The same limit is imposed on using smartphone apps during a stipulated round. Nevertheless, some models with the bare minimum of functions are approved for tournaments.

Q: Why should I buy a golf GPS if I can’t use it during a tournament or stipulated round?

A: Playing golf with a GPS can help you improve your skills, control the strength of every hit, determine the distance by eye, and feel more confident on a course. Having practiced playing with such a device for some time, it’ll be easy for you to beat your competitors even without it.

Q: Which model should I choose, a rangefinder or a watch?

A: It mainly depends on the purpose of your purchase. Opt for a GPS watch if you need a stylish accessory with a minimal number of functions. But if you want to see the maximum of course information, one of the handheld models will probably be better. Take notice of the usability too. Whereas watch models are literally imperceptible during a game, a handheld device should always be carried with you.
Other reviews
Comments
0 Comments

Your comment was successfully sent

Error! Please try again later

Publish Date: 2019-12-31 14:17:14