Best Golf Watches 2024

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

Best Golf Watches
(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
Best Golf Watches: Quick Menu

Golf watches have been such a game changer for golfers as GPS technology has really transformed the on course experience. Gone are the days of looking for the yellow 150 yard marker and trying to estimate what club to hit. Now you have an accurate distance number  just by glancing at your wrist, while golf watches offer all sorts of other useful features too.  

When it comes to golf watches, users are truly spoilt for choice nowadays. Not only do the likes of tech giants, Garmin, produce an array of different models, but a number of other manufacturers create golf watches that cater to all golfing needs. Whether you're the most tech-savvy golfer who wants all the bells and whistles, or if you have simpler needs and just want a model that does the basics correctly, we've got you covered in this guide.

As mentioned, the market is swamped with excellent performing models and, in this guide, we have sought the best and the category they fall into. For those who are unsure what the difference is between golf watches and the best rangefinders and GPS', a golf watch can perform on the course as well as off it, providing plenty of features that aren't just golf related.

VIDEO: Joel Tadman compares eight of the best golf watches in 2023

Joel Tadman
Joel Tadman

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 15 years and as the Technical Editor oversees all equipment testing. One of his areas of expertise is distance measuring devices and specifically GPS watches. As such, he knows what makes the perfect golf watch - performance, features, versatility, battery life, looks and value for money. Joel has personally used most of the watches in this guide. 

The Quick List

Best Golf Watches 2023

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Best for features

Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch

Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch worn on the golf course

Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch worn on the golf course

(Image credit: Future)
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 new Garmin Approach S70 watch replaced the fantastic Approach S62 as the latest addition to the brand’s range of watches. It took everything good about the S62 and made it even better. You only need to take a look at some of the best Garmin smart watches on the market to see that they are some of the most stylish and innovative products money can buy. The Approach S70 is the current flagship model and is a big favorite among gadget-loving golfers, as well as those looking for a stylish and comprehensive golf GPS watch. From our testing sessions, we can also vouch that, while it does come packed with tools and applications, it is one of the most user-friendly products to date. 

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What you need to know: The Approach S70 was launched in 2023 to upgrade the highly popular S62 and embodies Garmin’s commitment to producing high-quality smart watches that can deliver data that you can use to improve your game. It comes with a bigger screen, brighter display and a longer battery life than the S62 long with improved graphics. Its extensive feature list is the highlight. 

Design: The S70 is one of the nicest looking smart watches we’ve tested, with the watch coming with a sleek ceramic bezel, similar to that of its predecessor the S62. This versatile watch has the capability to help you track your fitness and shots around the course and we think it looks great when worn in social or work settings too. It’s also very lightweight and the large ‘superbright’ AMOLED touchscreen display features bright, eye-catching colors that make it easy to read and use.

Features: Preloaded with more than 43,000 courses, the S70 packs a lot in for its price. It might seem expensive but you do get a lot for your money. When you get to the course the watch automatically downloads up-to-date maps for the track you’re playing and will display them on its colorful face. When you get your round underway it will flick between holes automatically and deliver fast and accurate distances to bunkers, trees, hazards and, of course, the hole. It will also provide players with accurate weather updates and when paired with the smartphone app can even give you 'plays like' distances that factor in the wind and elevation.

The S70 will keep track of your score and work as your personal caddie, offering up club recommendations based on your swing data. It’s also worth noting that the watch won’t just help you on the golf course, it's a fully functioning smartwatch that allows you to monitor emails, messages and keep track of your health and well-being, meaning it is unquestionably one of the most versatile golf watches in the game. 

Performance: While some may feel the vast array of features on this watch are overwhelming, Garmin have built the S70 with usability in mind. It has a lot of features but it's relatively straightforward to use. One thing that really impressed us in testing was that the watch will hold a charge for up to 16 days in smartwatch mode. In GPS mode it’ll run for 20 hours so you'll get several full rounds of it before needing to charge again (charging is done via a USB-C cable), making it ideal for holiday golf. It’s also water resistant, meaning if you do get caught in a downpour (which you shouldn’t considering the watches’ weather applications!), you’ll be safe in the knowledge the watch will be fine. The somewhat hefty price point is to be expected considering this is one of the best Garmin golf watches on the market.

Bushnell Ion Elite Golf GPS Watch

Bushnell Ion Elite Golf GPS Watch being worn on the golf course

Bushnell Ion Elite Golf GPS Watch being worn on the golf course

(Image credit: Future)
Slope functionality on a GPS Watch

Specifications

Courses preloaded: 38,000
Battery life: 12+ hours
Screen size: 1.28"
Weight: 38g
Straps: Two

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

Bushnell are known for producing some of the best golf technology and this model lives up to the brand’s reputation. We think many players will enjoy wearing this versatile golf watch on the golf course. It delivers plenty of functionality as well as style while offering plenty of value for money. We really liked the stainless steel bezel on the watch and feel it looked great on our wrist. It’s an upgrade on 2021’s ION Edge that was functional, yet basic. It seems the brand has taken things to the next level here as they look to cater to gadget-loving golfers out there. 

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What you need to know: This watch is a significant upgrade on the Bushnell ION Edge. We loved the visuals on this 2023 offering and feel this will be a real winner among those looking for a feature-packed wearable they can use on and off the course. It is primarily a GPS Golf watch and comes with the many of the same features you’ll find on other top models on this list, but it does lack some versatility in terms of the fitness and lifestyle features it delivers. Nevertheless, it does what it sets out to achieve and offers plenty functionality and style to help golfers enjoy their time on the course and hopefully help them shoot lower scores.

Design: The Ion Elite comes with a much brighter and premium look than its predecessor thanks to the metallic bezel and vibrant touch screen. It should compliment any outfit well and we especially loved the white strap that it came with as it was tacky and comfortable, which ensured it held the watch in position nicely. It’s also water-resistant to an IP67 rating, which is one of the highest levels of protection offered by an IP rating. Definitely something to consider if you regularly find yourself playing in wet conditions. 

Features: It is not as versatile as the Garmin Approach S70 mentioned above, but this is an out-and-out golf watch that packs in a ton of features that all golfers will enjoy. When you arrive on the course it will quickly locate where you are and deliver accurate maps to the front, middle and back of the green. Then there are icons in the four corners that you press to access other display modes and functions - such as hazards/lay ups, hole-maps, green view and scoring. In testing we found the hole-maps especially useful as they delivered an excellent view over the course which will help you plan your strategy. The scoring screen is intuitive too, as not only does it log what you scored on each hole but it will also help you keep note of the fairways you hit and missed. The slope functionality delivers yardages that are compensated for the terrain in front of you and was a real highlight for us.

Performance: We struggled to find faults in the performance of this watch. It can be a little laggy at times when loading different applications and features, but on the whole we would say it was fast and delivered accurate distances throughout our round. The visual display the watch delivered was excellent and it also comes with 12+ hours of battery life, allowing you to squeeze in around two rounds of golf from just one charge. Whats more, if you pair it up with the Bushnell Golf app then you’ll be able to see all of your swing stats, data and scores laid out in an easy-to-navigate display.

Voice Caddie T9 Golf GPS Watch

Voice Caddie T9 Golf GPS Watch Review

Golf Monthly testing the Voice Caddie T9 Golf GPS Watch on the course

(Image credit: Tom Miles)
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

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.  

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What you need to know: Voice Caddie are known for producing some of the best rangefinders and best launch monitors in the game and they’ve implemented a lot of their experience designing that technology into this excellent golf watch. As a result, this watch is a gadget-lover’s dream, full of the kind of bells and whistles that make it one of the most technologically advanced products on this list. The T9 is the latest edition to the T-series line-up and offers a technological and visual upgrade on the excellent T8 smart golf watch. In testing the highlight of this watch for us is its ability to deliver accurate yardages and combine that with V-Algorithm 3.0 (Voice Caddie’s slope calculation software) to deliver slope compensated yardages to the green. This watch also provides golfers with undulating green maps which can be really helpful on approach shots when you want to leave yourself a certain type of putt. 

Design: We love the look of this watch. It’s minimal, modern and sleek and we can already see many players will enjoy it. The shiny silver bezel adds to the off-course versatility this watch delivers and that enhances its value as you can easily wear it away from the course or in social situations. The T9 has a full color reflective LCD Touch screen which is bright and readable in all light conditions, even in bright sunlight.

Features: The basics are obviously covered and the watch will deliver yardages to the green on the main screen, while also factoring in slope to provide the most accurate information possible. This is not competition legal though so players are able to turn that off by enabling or disabling tournament mode. Full-color hole maps allow the golfer to strategize how to play a particular hole by zoom in and out on the maps to locate how far you are from key hazards etc. The watch will also deliver heat maps of the greens which is a really cool function that few watches offer. Finally, the T9 comes with a Practice Tempo Mode that you can use to monitor how fast you are swinging, not to mention the shot and putt tracking functionality to help you keep track of each shot you hit during your round.

Performance: This is a comprehensive golf watch that is responsive and delivers a full-intuitive summary of your game via the MyVoiceCaddie application. The performance on offer is outstanding. What we loved most about this watch was how responsive and clear the screen was. It is a reflective LCD optimized screen that is designed specifically for use in strong sunlight and we found that it delivered a clear and bright screen showing course maps clearly in any weather conditions. We were a little let down by the automatic shot tracking functionality, which did require us to enter each shot on the watch. 

Garmin Approach S62 GPS Watch

garmin s62 watchEditors Choice 2022

The Garmin Approach S62 watch showing yardages

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
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

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

Garmin is one of the leaders in the golf tech category, producing some of the most feature-packed products around and the Approach S62 remains one of the very best despite being superseded by the fabulous new Approach S70. It combines a sporty yet slick watch face design with a comfy, changeable silicone strap and plenty of applications that can be used both on and off the course. Very few watches can match the golf functionality offered by the S62. 

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What you need to know: Garmin has been producing golf GPS watches for over 13 years now, since the launch of the Approach S1 in 2010. Ten years later came the S62, which until it was succeeded by the S70 three years later was Garmin's flagship offering in the golf watch category. A cutting-edge wearable that provides golfers with a variety of features to help with strategy, decision-making and club selection. The S62 delivers a larger display than its predecessor, the Approach S60, as well as over 42,000 preloaded courses, a Virtual Caddie and a longer battery life. 

Design: Visually, this was and indeed still is one of the best looking golf watches on the market. It comes with a notched ceramic bezel that offers a sporty yet elegant look. We enjoyed testing this watch and felt at home wearing it both on and off the course. The S62 features a large color touchscreen display that makes it very easy to use in combination with the action buttons on either side. You can also customize this watch to match your style with one of the colorful QuickFit accessory bands and you even have the option of uploading your own photos for a screensaver or watchface.

Features: Rammed with functionality, this watch is undoubtedly one for the gadget lover who wants to access lots of information and assess their play in more detail post round. As with most GPS golf watches, you’ll be able to pull up a satellite view of the hole you’re on and move the pointer around with your finger to help you plan out your route to the pin. We enjoyed how quick and easy it was to get accurate distances to targets and hazards. 

The S62 also features a handy Virtual Caddie tool that does require a bit of input at the start, but will recommend a club to use on an upcoming shot after five completed rounds. Automatic shot tracking is extremely handy if your drive ha missed the fairway and you need to narrow down the search area, while pairing the watch with a phone also allowed us to receive real-time updates on the wind conditions, a feature we’ve not readily seen on many other watches. 

Away from the course, you can easily keep tabs on things outside of golf by utilizing the smart email and text notification functions. You can also use Garmin Pay to make contactless payments and, if you’re into staying fit, the S62 comes with plenty of preloaded activity profiles for running, cycling and swimming. 

Performance: We really enjoyed what this watch delivered for its price, which is now significantly less than it was when first released, making the S62 one of the best value golf watches on the market right now. The functionality you get for the price might be unmatched currently. We really enjoyed how seamless it was to use on course, with the easy-to-navigate display allowing us to get distance readings quickly. Those yardages seemed to stack up well against our rangefinder as well as other leading GPS devices and we particularly loved the Pin Pointer feature, which showed an arrow in the direction of the green and became very useful on blind shots when we couldn’t see the flag. 

Samsung Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition Watch

Samsung Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition Watch Review

A man wearing the Samsung Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition Watch

(Image credit: Mike Bailey)
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

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

Simplicity is arguably the most important factor in a golf watch and the Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition fits the bill perfectly, providing all of the basics like hole-maps, distances and scoring. It couldn't be easier to set up as it comes already preloaded with the Golf Buddy Smart Caddie, a special app developed for the Galaxy smartwatch by GolfzonDeca. It is also packed with smart watch features like health and fitness, emails, calls and texts.

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What you need to know: Samsung is well-known within the phone industry, but their Galaxy5 Pro Edition watch really impressed us with its already preloaded golf app. If you possess an Android phone then it is easy to pair but, if you are an iPhone user, then this won’t be for you and any of the other watches on the list would serve you better. However, for those with a Galaxy phone, Android 8 or higher with 1.5 GB of RAM or more, this might be one of the best golf watches available right now. It has the ability to download courses and then scroll through the various options in an easy and efficient manner.

Design: Visually the watch is very sleek and smart with five band options meaning there will be a look and color for everybody. At 1.8” and 46.5g, it is very lightweight and is just as much at home off the course as on it. The Galaxy5 an extremely versatile option that looks great and will appeal to fitness enthusiasts as well as golfers.

Features: As mentioned above, the watch comes preloaded with the Golf Buddy Smart Caddie, which is a special app developed for the Galaxy smartwatch by GolfzonDeca. Whereas many of the watches we have mentioned previously come with courses pre-loaded, it’s worth pointing out that with this watch we had to download the course first before playing. However, once downloaded you can easily activate it prior to the round on the first tee. The basics of this watch are hole-maps, distances and scoring but, for those who want to take a deeper dive, the Smart Caddie app really has it covered.

Other features include club and shot tracking, which in our testing we found to be incredibly accurate and very handy. It also charts your fairways hit, greens in regulation, putts, etc, and the app will even start recommending what clubs to hit in certain situations once it has collected enough shot data. There's a greens heat map available on certain courses, which can help you read breaks and slopes, and also a compass feature to tell what direction the centre of the green is from where you are. 

Performance: The battery life was good and on a full charge you will have no problem getting through the round with plenty of power left to spare. Charging it is very easy and if you aren’t playing golf you will be able to get a couple of days of use without having to re-charge. The distances that were provided were extremely accurate and it is easy to navigate through the various menus on the watch. When paired with your phone it becomes a full fledged smartwatch that opens up a whole new world you can trawl through various apps. 

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch Review

Testing the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch

(Image credit: Future)
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

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 feature-packed, sporty yet elegant golf watch that provides one of the most cutting-edge experiences in golf. The price tag is somewhat difficult to justify, but this watch is both fun and useful to use and over time it will optimise your strategy by automatically tracking your tee shots

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What you need to know: Tag Heuer introduced itself to the golf GPS watch scene around the turn of the decade and, since then, they have continued to improve their product with the help of multiple-time DP World Tour winner, Tommy Fleetwood. The Connected Calbre E4 golf edition watch sees a number of new additions from the previous model, including redesigned golf software, an automated shot-tracker and a new buckle with magnetic ball marker built into the strap. 

Design: It's a stunning looking watch. The Tag Heuer design and feel remains sporty and premium and a big positive is that the dial on the side is a little more responsive than that of previous models. We found the overall display of the watch to be detailed and crystal clear and although we preferred the maps to be a little brighter, the dial means you can scroll through the various options easily and it's enjoyable to use on the course.

Features: As you would expect for the price point, the Tag Heuer is absolutely crammed with features, such as a 2D view of the hole on the screen. The maps on the phone app are also excellent and the app itself is one of the best we've used. When out on the course, a red dot indicates where you are, moving with distance, suggesting a club for that yardage and with a tap of the screen you have access to front and back numbers, as well as the par of the hole.

One of the standout features is the driving range feature which tracks drives automatically and, using the watch’s accelerometer and gyroscope, marks the tee shot and then subsequent shots seamlessly to collect all of the data it needs. Over time, a heat map is created for every hole in the app which then shows where shots landed on previous rounds color-coded by your score. This is really cool and allows you to see what clubs work best on each tee shot, making it ideal for optimizing strategy.

Performance: We begin with the battery life of the Tag Heuer which, despite all the features being in play, easily lasted 5+ hours. This is 30% more than its predecessor and a big improvement has been made there. Additionally, the ability to use the toggle or the touch screen means that it is easy to operate and the overall performance and raft of features make this a great watch. However, we couldn’t help feel that there are other options that do a similar job for considerably less money. The trade off is that they don't carry the Tag Heuer brand name.

Sky Caddie LX5 GPS Watch

skycaddie lx5 gps golf watch review

The Sky Caddie LX5 GPS Watch with a detailed golf hole map

(Image credit: Future)
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

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

The LX5 does not track your shots but it may well save you a few, with accurate distances you can rely on and crystal clear hole-maps to enable you to see what danger lies ahead in great detail. It looks a little bulky, but it's still pretty lightweight and comfortable to wear without impeding the swing.

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What you need to know: A GPS watch is known for simplicity but the LX5 is essentially a shrunken down version of the impressive handheld SkyCaddie SX400 and SX550. Because of this, an enormous amount of detail and features have been crammed into a wearable device with a HD color touchscreen. The LX5 is preloaded with 35,000 golf courses so it will pick up where you are quickly and bring up the course details. You can also use it for off-course activities too, with multiple features and designs available.

Design: The main standout for us in testing was the touchscreen, which is bright and crystal clear, making it very easy to read in different conditions. It might look a little on the large side, but it is lightweight enough not to impede the swing and the styling (along with the fitness features) makes it suitable to wear away from the course. It is perhaps a tad clunky on the wrist which won't appeal to everybody, but overall we think the design is very appealing.

Features: The LX5 has a number of features that work both on and off the golf course. A Big Numbers screen displaying front, middle and back yardages will be a godsend to the golfer who doesn't have the greatest eyesight, while a swipe of the finger allows you to see scores, hazards, the hole-map and also measure distances. In testing, the hole graphics were stunning as we could see every detail of what lay ahead and a really cool feature is that the LX5 recommends the optimum driving position based on feedback from the SkyCaddie mappers who have walked the holes.

The final golf features include the exact green shape and yardages from their approach angle, with multiple yardage arcs overlaid on fairway landing areas and greens which will assist with club selection. Away from the course functions include a Step Counter, Heart Rate Monitor and five watch faces to choose from when wearing the LX5.

Performance: The watch performed very well in testing. It's simple enough to use, as from the main Big Numbers screen you simply swipe in different directions to access the other features. Moving the crosshair can be a little fiddly as your finger always seems to be slightly in the way, but the generous screen size helps to negate this. The battery life comfortably lasts two rounds which is ideal when you're out all day and playing 36 holes without the opportunity to recharge.

Voice Caddie A2 Golf Watch

Voice Caddie A2 GPS Watch Review

The Voice Caddie A2 Golf Watch out on the golf course

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)
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

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 enhance your strategy while the slope-adjusted distances bolster the accuracy, all in a user-friendly and stylish package. For $250, you get a lot of bang for your buck with the Voice Caddie A2. 

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What you need to know: Voice Caddie is a name that has really established itself in the GPS and rangefinder markets, with the SL2 Active Hybrid rangefinder crowned the best golf rangefinder of 2022. The A2 Golf GPS watch follows in that mode as this is a product that is seriously impressive on the course. It offers comfort and style and is packed with features to give you one of the best GPS golf watches on the market.

Design: Stylish and modern and also fully waterproof. In testing, we instantly noticed that it is lightweight, while we really liked that the flexible strap features a significant amount of buckle holes that allow for a secure yet comfortable fit. 

As for the screen, the graphics are basic but the layout is clear enough and navigation is achieved by a combination of the color touch screen and four corner buttons. You can use either, depending on your preference, which we thought was a nice touch. As an example, the right hand buttons double as up and down functions on certain menus, but you can also swipe the screen up or down to achieve the same thing.

Features: There are a lot of features available with the A2, with one of the best ones being the slope-adjusted distances or the Tournament mode that disables them. Mostly though it’s the touch screen itself that we were most impressed with. We found it to be very responsive and we noticed that it becomes brighter when you lift it up to look at it, a clever feature that saves on battery life too.

The amount of information displayed on the screen is in an easy-to-digest format. Like many on the list, you get the front, middle and back yardages, but you also get the time, hole and par, yards or metres, battery life and current score. If that isn’t enough it will even tell you the number of steps you’ve taken and, if you swipe to the side, you access the full color hole-maps.

Performance: Overall, the performance of the A2 is solid enough but we did find the automatic course detection was inconsistent for us. Sometimes, it took less than 10 seconds, other times it took over a minute. Usually you can avoid this issue by loading up the course with plenty of time ti spare before teeing off, but the A2 requires you to be near the first tee. An additional problem that brings would be if you’re playing in a shotgun start. All in all though, this is a comprehensive golf GPS watch that is both insightful and intuitive. It provides the golfer with the information needed plus a whole lot more, and it presents it in a clear fashion that is simple to navigate.

Shot Scope X5 GPS Watch

Shot Scope X5 GPS Watch Review

Golf Monthly testing the Shot Scope X5 GPS Watch

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)
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

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

The X5 is sleeker than the previous V3 and has a greater array of features that will enhance your strategy and understanding of your game. The touch screen can be temperamental, but this is a well thought-out product competitively priced for what it offers.

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What you need to know: Shot Scope has always made compelling products for golfers looking to combine shot tracking and GPS information in a wearable device. The new X5 looks to build on what was on offer from the impressive Shot Scope V3 and we were so enamoured with the amount of features on offer (as well as the looks), that we gave this product a spot in our 2023 Editor's Choice.

Design: The new watch is certainly sleeker and offers more off-course appeal than the fairly plain V3, but it has sacrificed none of the popular shot tracking capability. The information you get from Shot Scope is second to none and comes from new and improved lightweight, second-generation tracking tags which screw easily into the tops of your clubs.

It isn't a flawless process though and the design of the X5 means it needs to be worn on your lead arm and, as it needs to be within 10cm of the tags to pick up shots, we found that it did occasionally miss a few shots. Not often enough for it to be a big problem though.

Features: When you arrive at the course you have the option of GPS or GPS+ Track depending on if you are using the tags. The home screen displays front, middle and back distances, as well as the hole number and current score. There is also a lock function, which we would recommend turning off before play.

Other features include a map of the green and the option of moving the pin to different spots for a more accurate yardage by swiping left or right, as well as the ability to see the distances to reach and carry hazards. There’s also shot distance measurement, doglegs and lay up distances and the ability to add penalty shots, with the sensors allowing you to track shots and also give you free access to over 100 performance statistics which includes Strokes Gained.

Performance: The performance in our testing was very impressive, with the X5 taking around 20 seconds to locate the course once you arrive. The touchscreen worked fine but it is quite a small screen and can be a tad fiddly. You do have the option of rotating and pressing the button in the top right corner though, which we found works better. The watch will vibrate on each setting as you scroll through and you can also press this button to scroll through the game menu in golf mode instead of swiping the touchscreen. While the user experience wasn’t perfect we found the X5 to be an enjoyable product to use that we feel can help the user improve decision-making and club selection. For around $300, you’re undoubtedly getting a lot for your money.

Best for value

Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch

Garmin Approach S12 GPS watch

Testing the Garmin Approach S12 GPS watch out on the golf course

(Image credit: Tom Miles)
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

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 tech on the golf course there is often a trade off between functionality and ease of use. If you are looking for something very simple that works well from the off then we feel that the Garmin Approach S12 ticks the box. The yardages are accurate and well-displayed  on a fairly basic, black and white screen.

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What you need to know: The Garmin Approach S12 is the brand’s entry level GPS watch. This doesn’t mean that it performs badly, far from it in fact, as you get something that’s easy to use and provides accurate distance information throughout the round. It just doesn't have any of the bells and whistles of the more high end watches in the Approach family.

Design: The black and white screen of the S12 is slightly smaller than some of the other, more expensive Garmin options. This gives it a basic, inexpensive look but the simplicity will appeal to golfers who just want the basics and don't care about wearing it away from the golf course. One thing we loved about this watch was how lightweight and sleek the strap was. It comes in at just 34g, meaning we barely noticed that we were wearing it. 

Features: Despite its simplicity, there are still plenty of golf features on the S12. You have the standard front, middle and back yardages and while other features are nice, generally speaking for the most part this was all we needed. Along with those yardages you also have access to the distances for layup areas and hazards which comes in handy. You can also manually move the pin position to get a more precise number when hitting into the greens. One last feature that will appeal to a lot of golfers is the Big Numbers mode, which can be accessed via the settings. This basically just means that you can change the format of the display to make the key information a little bigger and easy to see. That combined with the simplicity of use makes this an ideal choice for the older golfer who doesn't want to be overwhelmed with technology.

Performance: The watch does what it is supposed to do. We had no problems locating the golf course once we turned the watch on, with the correct yardages being displayed within a minute or two of starting the set-up. The lack of touch screen functionality does make it more of a faff to use than the more expensive models as to scroll through the different yardage information on each hole you need to press the buttons on the side of the watch. This sounds simple enough and it is, but it is  more fiddly than when using touchscreen watches. That said, if you aren't used to touch screens then you wouldn't know what you were missing anyway. The lack of touch screen doesn’t detract from the fact that this is a great watch that does the basics well.

GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch

The fantastic looking GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch as worn on the course, showing off its vibrant and large touch screen

The GolfBuddy Aim W12 Golf GPS Watch showing off its vibrant and large touch screen

(Image credit: Future)
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

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 user-friendly, feature-packed golf watch that will help you plot your way around the course, choosing the right club along the way. The slope feature will be ideal for those that play a lot on hilly courses, with the Aim W12 another example of a cutting-edge offering designed to give golfers an awful lot more than just the basic front, middle and back yardages.

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What you need to know: GolfBuddy provides a range of GPS watches and, with the Aim W12, you get a lot for the price tag of $250. You can wear this on the course and the range of features available will help in a number of ways. You can also wear it off the course too, as there are several fitness features including a handy step counter. While it can be worn away from the course this watch has been designed to look  like a golf watch.

Design: As mentioned, the look of this watch is more like a traditional golf watch but, visually, the Aim W12 is a decent improvement over the Aim W11 from 2021. We think it is slicker and a bit more streamlined thanks to the flatter button in the corner. Additionally, it comes with a premium leather strap as standard (as well as an extra silicon one in the box), with two band options that are IPX7 waterproof meaning there's no need to worry if you're caught in a downpour.

Features: You get a lot of features for the price on the W12. It has a color touch screen, middle and back yardages, a green undulation map, a 2D flyover of the hole and even the ability to measure shots and distances to hazards. Where we felt this watch really stood out though is the slope functionality which takes into account the changes in elevation when providing the distances. This is very useful when playing hilly courses. 

Performance: We have to say that the user experience with the Aim W12 was near faultless. Despite taking a little longer than expected to locate the course, it was quick and easy to grasp how to access the different screens and the touch screen was very responsive. The battery life in golf mode has come down from 13 hours on the Aim W11 to 10 hours here, so you might only get two full rounds from a full charge rather than three, but overall we feel that the user experience goes a long way to justifying the modest price tag

Shot Scope G5 GPS Watch

Shot Scope G5 GPS Watch Review

The Shot Scope G5 GPS Watch being tested on the golf course

(Image credit: Future)
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

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

With it's bigger face and ease of navigation appealing to a wide range of golfers, there is a lot to like about the G5. It  has plenty of useful features for off course activities and the only downside is that the graphics are a tad basic. Aside from that, there is a lot of value to be had.

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What you need to know:  Simplicity is often the number one consideration for golfers as not everyone wants the fancy bells and whistles that many of the best golf watches offer. Not many offer a more intuitive experience than the Shot Scope G5.

Design: The screen size is generous and yet we still thought the G5 had a minimalistic feel to it, perhaps because of how lightweight the straps and case are. We liked how the outer ring of the display is slightly raised, which should reduce the risk of scratches, and we feel that the sporty look will appeal to a variety of tastes.

Features: Oonce we selected the course, the front, middle and back distances to the hole are displayed clearly on the main screen. There’s plenty of other useful information on there too, like the battery level, time, the hole number and its par as well as your current score. Hazard information is a simple click away and the G5 provides distances to reach and carry the hazard, as well as distances to lay ups and doglegs. Additionally you get shot distance measurement and a digital scorecard to keep track of your round. 

Performance: Overall, we were very impressed with how the G5 performed. All of the features proved to be useful and because the G5 is sporty and incredibly lightweight and compact, we didn’t really notice it on our wrists when out on the course or at home. 

Bushnell iON Edge GPS Watch

Bushnell iON Edge GPS Watch, man wearing Bushnell iON Edge watch, yardages displayed on golf watchEditors Choice 2022

Testing the Bushnell iON Edge watch with yardages displayed

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

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

For those used to Bushnell's touchscreen, or who are able to master it quickly, this will be a very solid and affordable GPS watch but we found its usability to be a bit of a hindrance. The lack of instructions also made it difficult to get the most out of the features, especially early on.

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What you need to know: Bushnell is a name known for producing some of the best golf rangefinders that money can buy, with their GPS watches also starting to gain attention. The main eye-catching point with the iON edge is the price, as it's considerably less than other models on the market. With a number of basic features available, it does all the things it should do.

Design: Although the styling isn’t anything special, it looks decent on the wrist as it isn’t overly bulky or heavy. There are also two straps available, both sleek and quite soft-feeling and they don’t interfere with the swing or cause discomfort, which is important.  

Features: Annoyingly, there was no instruction manual provided in the box but the operation of the watch isn’t overly complicated. When it comes to features, you get the usual front, middle and back yardages as well as a section where you can input scores and stats. As you'd expect from a lower priced product, it doesn't offer the in-depth strokes-gained analysis you will find on some of the other watches but we think these stats are still useful as they provide users with the basics.

Performance: We were slightly disappointed with the touchscreen, which is occasionally unresponsive while at the same time being sensitive to a misplaced finger. During our round and testing, it would take multiple attempts to complete and, occasionally it would navigate us to another menu entirely. If you are able to control it then the iON Edge is a solid product which can help provide yardages and point out hazards, with the price very competitive for this section of the market.

Best for versatility

Garmin MARQ Golfer GPS Watch

Garmin Marq golfer GPS watch on wrist

The Garmin MARQ Golfer GPS Watch being tested on the golf course

(Image credit: Kevin Murray)
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)

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 smart and sophisticated golf watch that boasts cutting-edge features and a crystal-clear display. Navigation takes time to grasp and not everyone will utilise all the functions to justify the investment, but the MARQ Golfer is undoubtedly one of the best golf GPS watches around

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What you need to know: The MARQ Golfer is Garmin’s most premium, feature-packed model you can buy and it's one of the best golf watches we've ever tested., The golf features only make up a fraction of its capability (it can track your breathing, blood oxygen levels and even pay for things in shops) as this watch is positively rammed with features. It performs fantastically both on and off the course but some may struggle to justify the premium price tag.

Design: The MARQ is a stunning watch that boasts lots of premium touches, such as the 46-millimetre titanium case and ceramic bezel with custom-etched 1-18 golf hole markings. It is a watch that can be worn with pride both on and off the course and even opening the box is an experience in itself. It screams luxury. 

Included is a spare strap and three CT10 sensors that screw into the ends of your clubs and allow you to try Garmin’s automatic shot tracking system and, during testing, we found that the silicone rubber strap helped the watch stay in position during the swing better than the tritone green jacquard-weave nylon strap. This is because the MARQ Golfer, at 88g, is on the heavy side. It’s also a little bulky compared to others we’ve tried, but not to the point that it gets in the way. The bulkiness is because of the premium build. Lastly, it is a touchscreen and it has five buttons scattered around that navigate you through the relevant menus.

Features: Like the other Garmin models on this list you get the 2D overhead view of the hole, as well as the front, middle and back yardages and the PinPointer feature, which points in the direction of the pin when it isn’t in view. By pressing a button you can scroll through the hazards that lie ahead too. They are shown in distance order, displaying how far it is to reach and carry them, while also showing various lay up points. You’re also able to relocate the pin position for a more accurate distance.

A key feature of the best Garmin watches is the Virtual Caddie which, after five rounds have been logged, will suggest clubs for upcoming shots based on your history. They’re even more accurate than you think because when paired with the Garmin app on your phone can take slope and current wind speed and direction into account, which is very high end. It’s not just golf features that are available, you are also able to toggle on and off smartphone notifications, with the watch vibrating when you receive an email or text message. You can turn this off and also connect it to fitness, maps and contactless payments.

Performance: Once charged and powered up, you’re left to work out how to navigate through the menus using the touch screen and the five buttons scattered around. We found it a little confusing at the start due to the amount of features available. It improves with practice and when you do get used to it, it performs just like it should!

Garmin Approach S42

best garmin approach s42 watch deals

Using button functionality on the Garmin Approach S42 watch

(Image credit: Golf Monthly)
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

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

Contained in a sleek package are a number of extremely useful and easy-to-use features for golfers of all levels. Ideal for wear on and off the course, we would highly recommend the Garmin S42 Approach to anyone.

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What you need to know: Fitting between the Garmin S12 and premium S62 options, the S42 delivers the best of both worlds. The set-up of the watch is extremely easy to perform as all you have to do is download the Garmin app and pair with your phone, which then allows you to access the benefits on offer, such as shot tracking, maps of over 43,000 course as well as a number of other features.

Design: Aesthetically this is a sleek and stylish watch that can be worn in social settings. It is crammed with lots of non-golf related features but arguably the most important design feature is that we barely noticed the watch on our wrist as we swung the golf club. Plus, the 1.2-inch color screen is extremely clear, adding to the ease of use. 

Features: Starting with the basics, you get yardages to the front, middle and back of each green as well as maps of more than 43,000 preloaded courses worldwide, There is also the option to pair with the Approach CT10 club sensors for automatic club tracking. When the watch is used in conjunction with the Garmin Golf app,  golfers can take advantage of the AutoShot round analyzer which is a cool feature that records shot distances and plots your way round the course. Once you’ve finished, you can look through your scores and review various performance stats that help to target potential areas of improvement.

Performance: The S42 was very easy to get going and after downloading the Garmin app and pairing it with an iPhone, it allowed us to see the benefits of the shot tracking. Put simply, it performed superbly out on the golf course and while lacking some of the fancy features of the more expensive models, we felt that the S42 represents excellent value for money.

Specifications table

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ModelCourses preloadedBatteryScreen sizeWeightStraps
Garmin Approach S70 Golf Watch43,00020 hours in GPS mode1.4"56gOne
Bushnell ION Elite Golf GPS Watch38,00012+ hours1.28"38gTwo
Voice Caddie T9 Golf GPS Watch40,000+10 days Golf Mode/27 holes1.2”48gTwo
Garmin Approach S62 GPS Watch41,00020 hours1.3”61gTwo
Samsung Galaxy5 Pro Golf Edition Watch40,000N/A1.79”46.5gFive
TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition Watch40,00024 hours1.39"N/ANine
Sky Caddie LX5 GPS Watch35,000Up to two rounds1.39"65.2gOne
Voice Caddie A2 Golf Watch40,000+10 days/Golf Mode (GPS) 10 hours1.9"50gOne
Shot Scope X5 GPS Watch36,000+Two plus rounds1.2"41gSix
Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch42,00030 hours0.9″34gThree
GolfBuddy AIM W12 Golf GPS Watch40,00010 hours1.2"50gTwo
Shot Scope G5 GPS Watch36,000GPS Mode - 2+ rounds of golf - Watch Mode - 10+ days1.83"42gTwo
Bushnell ION Edge GPS Watch38,00016+ hours1.06"32.5gTwo
Garmin MARQ Golfer GPS Watch41,00028 hours1.33"88gTwelve
Garmin Approach S4242,00015 hours1.18"43gThree

How we test golf watches

At Golf Monthly we have a comprehensive testing procedure around golf watches. This involves using different models out on the course, over a number of rounds and importantly in different conditions too because this gives us an idea on how particular models deal with sunlight, rain and wind. 

Watches usually get a thorough testing as our entire team are regular golfers. To get a better feel for the watches we often test them side by side against other similar products to test for things like accuracy, waterproofing, durability and other features. By doing this we can give honest and insightful feedback to you, the reader. We also look to use watches off the golf course too if they have been designed as such, because this gives us an idea on versatility and the kind of non-golf functionality on offer. 

The final thing we wanted to mention in this section is no manufacturer can buy a good review. Our testing team reviews golf equipment and makes its own opinion on how good or bad the product is. 

How To Choose The Right Golf GPS Watch

Features

If you have decided you want a GPS watch, now you need to think about what features are important to you. If you’re looking for your standard front, middle and back GPS yardages then a budget watch will do the trick, however there are some incredible watches out there that offer much more.

Alternatively, there are watches which can go into much greater detail when providing yardages, course detail, hazard information and so on. Obviously there are models with larger screens too which can be a particularly useful feature. Some also can help you record your score, track your shots, and many also have fitness features for off the golf course as well.

Your routine

It is important to think about what you do during your routine on the golf course. Are you a fast player who just needs a quick glance at numbers on a screen, or are you more of a deliberate player that wants as much detail as possible before committing to a shot? There are models that fit into different routines and styles so be aware of how you play the game. Ultimately a glance at a watch is much quicker than taking a device out of its case or dragging pointers on the screen, so weigh up if extra detail or less disruption is most important to you. For some golfers less is more, and a simple distance to the middle of the green is all that is required. Others will want to know distances to water hazards and bunkers, to account for every eventuality. This plays a part in the watch you should choose.

Versatility

Many brands make models that can be used on and off the golf course because of the range of features, and overall styling. If that is important to you, then several models above will cater to this need. Health and wellness features are increasingly popular, as are smartwatches for checking messages, emails etc. Rather than buy a watch specifically for that as well as one for golf, perhaps you want to combine the best of both worlds with one of the higher end golf watches.

Golf course

Next it is worth considering what type of golf course you play on regularly. We have found that courses with lots of doglegs and blind tee shots require the in-depth GPS information of a watch, whereas courses that are more out in front of you are perhaps more suited to the simplicity of a laser. Additionally if you play at other clubs in matches or socially, then you may want the extra information a GPS offers over a laser. Additionally be aware of how many golf courses are preloaded onto different watches as well. 

Battery power

Laser rangefinders run on powerful batteries that are easily replaced every six months to a year, while GPS devices normally need charging regularly via a USB, so consider if you have the discipline to keep it topped up ready for your next round. If you tend to play 36 holes in a day that will also need to be factored in to your choice as you will need something with a longer battery life.

Budget

Finally we should mention budget. If you want a simple model then there are budget-friendly options. However if you want to spend more you can with Garmin and TAG Heuer in particular offering ultra-premium models.

FAQs

Should I use a GPS watch or a laser rangefinder?

First, think about whether you would get the most out of a GPS watch. If simplicity and convenience are important to you then a watch will deliver this, whereas some players may prefer the pinpoint flag accuracy of laser rangefinders. In the case of larger handheld GPS units, the chief benefit is the larger screen which gives a lot more detail and the touch screen functionality will be familiar to most users of modern phones.

Which is the best golf watch to buy?

This is dependent on what you are looking for. If you value color hole maps, then the SkyCaddie LX5 impresses in this area. The Shot Scope V3 offers shot tracking as well as GPS information while both Bushnell and Garmin provide options that offer simplicity, although Garmin do also have some featured-packed models too.

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?

Whilst Fitbit's aren't specifically designed for golfers in that they do not offer any specific GPS functionality out on the course, the device can still be used when playing golf with more of an eye on the fitness benefits. For example on Fitbit's you can mark your activity as golf and then you can track your steps during the round. 

That being said you can download apps to your Fitbit device which offer GPS functionality as well but we have not been able to test these for accuracy yet. 

We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf watches and for more gear content, like the best golf simulator or best golf GPS apps, check out the Golf Monthly website. 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 expand your arsenal of golf gadgets.

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Joel Tadman
Technical Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 12 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all product content here at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader find exactly what they are looking for. So whether it's the latest driver, irons, putter or laser rangefinder, Joel has his finger on the pulse keeping up to date with the latest releases in golf. He is also responsible for all content on irons and golf tech, including distance measuring devices and launch monitors.


One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 3.2.


Joel's current What's In The Bag? 

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9° 

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15° 

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18° 

Irons: Ping i230 4-UW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM8, 54°. Titleist Vokey SM9 60° lob wedge, K Grind

Putter: Evnroll ER2V 

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x

With contributions from