Maximize your potential with the a top-rated GPS watch for golf, a tech-savvy companion that golfers of all levels can rely on for strategic course management and improved match performance.
Experience the game like never before with a user-friendly golf watch, delivering comprehensive data on pin location and green slope as well as quick access to yardage and important areas on the course.
But you can’t just pick any GPS-enabled watch and expect it to deliver the best possible experience. Before anything else, the watch needs to come with convenient features tailored to golfers like you.
For example, it should be easy to wear and offer quick access to all the GPS features. Otherwise, you will be better off with a handheld golf rangefinder.
Another significant aspect is the watch’s preloaded course options. The more courses it offers, the better your golfing experience will be. Be sure that the courses you play frequently are included on the watch. Additionally, a long-lasting battery life with GPS is essential to keep you focused on the game without interruptions for recharging. Lastly, choosing a golf watch with a hassle-free charging connection adds to its overall convenience and usability.
Next, it’s crucial to that the golf watch you choose has a display that is easily viewable in direct sunlight and features a large screen. Investing in a GPS golf watch with a clear and proper display will spare you from squinting and struggling to read the screen.
Last but not least, make sure the watch has extremely accurate GPS. Without that, none of the other features matter that much.
Wondering which golf watches excel in all the factors mentioned above? Check out our review of the 3 best golf watches below.
3 Best GPS Watches for Golf
Garmin Approach S62
TL:DR;
There’s no denying that Garmin makes some of the best watches for golf. The brand really knows what it’s doing in this regard. And if you want to start your advanced golfing journey, the Garmin Approach S62 is a great pick.
In short, it’s a cutting-edge golf watch that’s packed with features. You will find functions that’ll help you in decision-making, club selection, and strategies during a match.
The watch comes with over 41,000 preloaded courses. You also get a detailed view of speed and wind direction. And as it boasts a large display, you can view all the information with maximum clarity and details.
Design-wise, Approach S62 is highly ergonomic. You can easily wear it for hours without facing any issues. Also, It’s one of the most sleek-looking golf watches on the market. It comes with a ceramic bezel and sporty design elements.
The battery life is superb too! With a single charge, you can get up to 20 hours of runtime with the GPS turned on. That means one full charge will be more than enough for multiple golf matches.
The Specs
- Courses Preloaded: 41 thousand+
- Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
- Screen Size: 3.3 cm / 1.2 inches
- Weight: 61 grams
- Included Straps: 2
What’s in the Box?
- Charging/data cable
- One extra strap
Stuff I like
- Modern and sleek design
- Comfortable and easy to use
- Loaded with golf features
- Can track shots
- Great battery life
Stuff I like less
- The hole map UI is a bit dated
- Does not get too bright under direct sunlight
Where to get it
Bushnell Ion Elite GPS Watch
TL:DR;
Bushnell may not be a household name like Garmin, but among golfers who rely on smartwatches to excel on the course, it enjoys a reputable status. Despite its more budget-friendly price, the Ion Elite GPS Watch stands out as a top choice for the best golf GPS watch.
First of all, the watch comes with a comfort-forward design. It’s not too heavy, nor is it too large. You also get two straps, which offer a comfortable and secure fit. You’ll be able to swing with ease.
Moreover, the watch comes with loads of features. You get front, back, and middle yardages. In addition, there’s a dedicated option for you to put your stats and scores.
This input will let you improve your golf performance by reviewing your previous performances. However, there’re no advanced analysis options available.
Other than that, the screen is reasonably large. It can offer you a clear view of all the golf stats you might want on the watch.
Another thing that makes this budget offering a good pick as the best golf watch is the battery life. You get 16 plus hours of runtime with a full charge, which is plenty for multiple courses.
The Specs
- Courses Preloaded: 38 thousand
- Battery Life: 16 hours
- Screen Size: 2.7 cm / 1.06 inches
- Weight: 32.5 grams
- Included Straps: 2
What’s in the Box?
- Magnetic USB Charging Cable
- Extra strap
Stuff I like
- Comfortable to wear
- Can keep score
- Lets you input your stats
- Clear and easy-to-read display
- Neutral styling
Stuff I like less
- The touchscreen can get a bit unresponsive
- It could have come with more advanced golf features
Where to get it
Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Golf Edition
TL:DR;
Samsung smartwatches don’t require any introductions. They’re great for what they claim to do. And for this case, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Golf Edition nails all golf-related features.
To start with, you get a premium smartwatch that comes with an exclusive golf design. Alongside the two-tone golf-centric band, there’s a dedicated golf watch face and a stylish green home button.
But it’s not just about the looks. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Golf Edition has advanced features, such as a pin direction guide and distance guide. In addition, you get a voice guide that walks through the hole. All of these features make improving your golf game easier.
Besides, the GPS is highly accurate, and you get precise location information on the screen. Talking of the screen, It’s vibrant, large, and exceptionally bright. So you won’t have any trouble viewing in the middle of the day.
The Specs
- Courses Preloaded: 40 thousand
- Battery Life: 36 hours
- Screen Size: 4.4 cm / 1.73 inches
- Weight: 33 grams
- Included Straps: 2
What’s in the Box?
- USB Charging Cable
- Extra strap
Stuff I like
- Exclusive golf design
- Smart golf features
- Has a voice guide feature
- Great display
- Good battery life
Stuff I like less
- Has many bloatware apps installed
- The power saving mode is not reliable
Where to get it
Conclusion: What is the Best GPS Watch for Golf?
Truth be told, there’re not a lot of smartwatches in the market that comes with good golf features. And most that do integrate these functions are either too finicky or offer poor value.
However, the Garmin Approach S62, Bushnell Ion Elite GPS Watch, and Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Golf Edition are exceptions. In fact, they’re spot on with all the essential features that a golf smartwatch should have.
Slava is a man of mystery and no-one seems to know exactly where he is at any point in time. When he isn't enjoying writing about all things audio and technical he can be found researching his next project of interest. The man never rests.
This post was last updated on 2025-01-12 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.