Golf GPS Watches

This is a lightweight and durable smartwatch with a GPS module and entry-level functions for yardages (geared towards golf players). In addition, the slim design and durable build make it a better choice than most golf-specific GPS devices on the market.

At first glance, the Approach S20 from Garmin looks like a regular smartwatch, with a silicone strap and a slim display with a resolution of 128×128 pixels. However, underneath the protective display glass, there are functions geared towards golf players and the menu is operated using the side buttons (no touchscreen).

Functions such as AutoShot Round Analyzer, activity tracking, smart notifications, stat tracking, and access to over 40,000 courses are the ones that appeal to golf players. However, the watch also has activity tracking features (move bar alerts, steps counter, calories burned, sleep monitor, travelled distance) so it can be used as a fitness watch as well.

Garmin Approach S20 uses Bluetooth to connect with iPhone and Android smartphones and is compatible with the Garmin TruSwing sensor and the Garmin Connect app for post-round analysis.

Lastly, the watch is comfortable to wear, even during the day (the monochrome display is sunlight readable) and comes with a series of features that make it ideal for anyone doing outdoor activities.

The Callaway GPSy Golf GPS Watch was designed with golf players in mind but can be used as a regular smartwatch when you’re not on the green. It is comfortable to wear in most weather conditions, it doesn’t stick out due to the slim design, and comes with 30,000+ preset course maps.

The 1.28-inch display delivers information on time and date (accurately set via satellite) displayed in both analog and digital formats, but also offers valuable data for golf players such as accurate distances to greens, hazards, and doglegs. It also tracks scores, GIR, putts per round and has automatic functions (once you activate the GPS) that recognize the course and advance from hole-to-hole while playing.

Overall, the Callaway GPSy watch is designed to be used on and off the course, due to its comfortable and stylish design, and the rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery that lasts up to 10 hours in GPS mode and up to 90 days in Time mode.

Most smartwatches designed to be used for sportive activities look a bit bulky and feature an aggressive format, focused more on features than style. So, the Ion 2 stands out due to its sleek design and round case. In addition, the band is reversible, which allows users to have a say in the style they prefer.

Ion 2 supports Bluetooth connectivity, so its course library (36,000 courses in 30 countries) can be updated and has a built-in GPS module. When the GPS module is active, the watch provides information on distances to the front, center, and back of the greens as well as up to four hazard distances per hole. It also has auto course recognition and hole advance, so players don’t waste their time with settings.

The display is easy to read (even when you’re outside) and the information is well-organized. Also, the battery will hold for up to 12 hours when the GPS is on. Lastly, the watch also has a fitness step counter and can connect with your phone, if you have the Bushnell Golf App.

The slim design and easy to read touchscreen make the Approach X40 great for both men and women. Also, the fact that it has two modes (Time & Golf) means users can wear it all day long, nut just when they’re on the course.

In Time mode, the screen displays the time of the day in digital format, the date with day of the week, and the battery status. The bracelet can also be used to track your fitness level due to the Elevate wrist heart rate technology that measures heart rate at the wrist. As such, you can monitor distance, steps, intensity, and calorie burn. In addition, it has move bar alerts to remind you to stay active.

In Golf mode, the bracelet can automatically find the course nearest to your location (if the GPS is active) and displays distances to front, back and middle of the green plus hazards. The AutoShot tracking feature keeps track of your short distances and automatically records detected shots.

All the data is sent to your phone, but the bracelet also receives notifications that keep you up to date about alerts, texts, and incoming calls. Furthermore, the band is compatible with Garmin Connect, the famous golf community that lets you share and compare your data.

Lastly, the band has a decent battery life – up to 5 days in Time mode and up to 10 hours with the GPS on.

The GolfBuddy GB9 WTX features a round case but the profile is a bit bulky like most watches golfers wear. Still, even though it may not fit under the cuff of your jacket or top, it is a well-equipped GPS golf watch that is quite comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

The touchscreen and top-right button (that activates the menu) provides access to over 38,000 golf courses worldwide (pre-loaded). The watch constantly runs updates to keep you informed with regards to changes. It also has automatic course and hole recognition, distances to front/center/back of the green, hazards, and more features that appeal to golf players.

By default, the watch displays the time, but the interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The charging mechanism is a bit unusual since it is done via a magnetic disc that clips to the back of the watch and is then plugged into a computer using a micro USB cable.

Lastly, WTX is a bit more than just a GPS golf watch since it can also track data on other activities such as running, walking, or cycling. In addition, it accepts notifications from your phone, so you won’t miss important calls or messages while playing.

With a modern design and lots of cool features for golfers, the Approach S60 is quite popular! The large touchscreen display is easy to read, even in sunlight, and the band is easy to switch if you ever get bored with the current one.

The GPS module is quick in establishing your location and the watch will automatically select the closest golf course from the 40,000+ preloaded in its memory. In addition, the color display offers information on yardages to greens, hazards and doglegs, and even full-color course maps.

But the Approach S60 can also be used for tracking progress during other outdoor activities such as skiing, rowing, cycling, and more (each activity has its dedicated profile). In addition, the watch connects with your smartphone and can receive notifications on calls, texts, and more.

Lastly, users can also download custom watch faces, widgets, and apps from the Connect IQ store. For instance, one of the faces is an analog dial with a date complication in the 3 o’clock position and battery status indicator.