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Best Golf GPS Watches Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Durability
This is one of the most important aspects. The reason being is that without proper durability, the watch can easily break. Other than that, individuals should expect years of use when it comes to their watch. Therefore, it should be properly designed with durability in mind. As far as durability, we took different aspects into consideration such as, how much wear and tear the watch can handle alongside the material design of the watch. Durability and the material of the watch go hand and hand. No individual can expect a durable watch made from cheap plastic or cheap materials. Therefore, we took durability into consideration when picking out the best watches.
As far as durability and material, we realized that most brands design their watches from the best materials in the industry to ensure maximum durability and longevity. The screen, of course, is made from a glass display with a coating over it in the case that it shatters, while the bands are designed from either a strong rubber material or other material to ensure that the watch can withstand the test of time.
Now, as far as durability some brands have even extended their quality design to the point where the watch is water-resistant with some being able to be submerged a couple meters under water, in the case of an accident. With that, individuals should take this design quality loosely and expect that not every brand offers a water-resistant design. Speaking of design, let’s talk about the style of the watch and why the design was one of the most important criteria to consider.
Watch Face
One of the most important thing we looked at was the watch's face, after all that is what you're going to be looking at and using the most; After all GPS watches aren't just a fashion statement so you're going to need a clear and readable screen. The screen should be strong and durable to withstand being worn over and over again so the materials that the watches face are made of are important. You should be able to glance at your watch and clearly see if there are any hazards coming up and how far away it is.
As far as the screen, many golf GPS watches have a high-resolution screen that offers a plethora of features. The screen, of course, is made of a glass design that at times, depending on the brand, will have a thin film over it to protect an individual in the case that the screen cracks. Other than that, all of the screens on a golf GPS watch are designed with a touchscreen feature so individuals can easily maneuver the features and get the best of their experience.
Now, one really cool aspect that we noticed is that certain brands offer a touchscreen that is also glove-friendly. With this, an individual does not need to take off gloves to use the touchscreen, adding a level of comfort and flexibility.
Lastly, users should not expect an overly colorful display since most of the displays are very simple but high resolution. Other than that, some brands do offer the ability to change the display color and style with different skins, etc. Now, let’s talk about the top features that individuals should expect from a quality product.
Style
The watch design is one of the most important aspects to consider, one we wanted to ensure we covered. When it comes to picking out a watch, what does a person first look at? Most individuals look at the design without even reading the features or the specs. Of course, the features may be some of the best but if the design quality is subpar, no individual will want that particular golf GPS watch. Therefore, the design was an important factor that we took into consideration. When it comes to design, this is what we discovered.
There are two styles of golf GPS devices that we came across; rectangular and sleek, and round and somewhat bulky. Therefore, we wanted to share both to give our readers a variety of styles to choose from. The sleek designs are the most visually appealing. Many of the sleek designs are also extremely lightweight and made with a sleek glass design with a stylish outer shell. These designs are extremely beautiful.
Now as far as the circular design, individuals can expect a quality design that tends to look a bit sportier. With that said, individuals can expect the more sporty brands to offer the ability to switch out the bands. In fact, some brand has interchangeable bands that a person can purchase and switch out depending on their look. Now that we are covering the design, let’s talk about the screen design and what individuals can expect from their golf GPS watch.
Value
Now, when you combine all of these features together, how much does it all cost? At first, we were somewhat surprised at the prices of a properly designed GPS watch because it can get expensive. However, as with any technology item that is intended to make events and situations easier, users can expect a lot of value. What we discovered is that the cost really depends all on the features of the product. Most brands have the same stylistic design that ensures that the product will function properly. However, it is the features that bring up the price. One of the most expensive watches we included even includes a heart rate monitor feature for the safety and health of golfers.
With that said, the cost and value really determine who the product is for. For example, more seasoned golfers that have used a golf GPS watch before can attest that it is better to start off with a simple watch. Many reviews say that individuals that have never used this type of product before may get overwhelmed by the quality of the watch and the slew of features, which at times makes it more difficult to use the time. With that said, users should expect to pay the minimum of one hundred dollars for a properly designed watch with a handful of features. GPS watches that are designed with maximum durability, water-resistant technology, and feature a large selection of features can go for a triple or quadruple the price. Therefore, it is always better to be informed and prepared than not.
Features
Other than design, an individual buys a golf watch for the purpose of having beneficial features. The features are intended to enhance an individual’s experience on the golf course as well as their play style and how they track their progress. With that said, the handful of features that we discovered were synonymous with many of the golf GPS’s on this list are as follows.
Ready To Use – This may be one of the most important features that brands offer from the moment an individual buys a watch. All of the watches are always preloaded with thousands of different courses worldwide that are displayed on the watch so individuals can see an accurate reading of the green. With that said, all of the brands offer a ready to use the feature where an individual does not need to download any software other than an app on their phone and many brands are membership and service-free. With that said, individuals can expect that some of the golf watches have a zip code feature that gives the golfer an accurate reading of which courses are nearby.
Digital Scoreboard – This is one of the biggest features that brands offer when it comes to a watch. In fact, some brands even have a measuring distance feature that measures the distance of the swing as well as the speed of the swing. Other than that, some brands have an app where an individual can easily check their digital scoreboard, print it, and even compare to past scoreboard. With that said, some of the digital features of a GPS watch include displaying the distance to different areas of the green such as the middle and the back. Other features include golf guidance as far as the next area to move or swing to.
Smart Notifications – This may be one of the coolest, yet exclusive features. Some brand offers smart notifications for individuals that want to pair their watch to their phone. With this feature, individuals can expect to be able and receive phone calls, texts, and other exclusive features. Alongside this, individuals can read the notification and cancel it, depending on the brand.
10 Best GPS Golf Watches
1. Garmin Vivoactive
We are eager to share the very first golf watch on this list, a quality golf watch that is perfectly designed for individuals that want a quality durability and high-quality technology. This next golf watch is not a just any golf watch, it is one of the best sports activity watches in the industry today. With the ability to track your stats, incredible battery, and be able to customize the watch face, individuals can expect this watch to last the test of time and technology. Let’s talk about the Garmin Vivoactive Black watch, a quality watch for the everyday sports individuals. Here are two points to consider!
Read moreThe Display
When it comes to a quality display, it is important to have a design and display that is both bright but also time-efficient and easy to use. With that said, the display of this particular sports activity watch is perfectly designed with a color touchscreen display that includes high-resolution graphics and a color touchscreen. Other than this, the display itself is very thin so individuals are not lugging around a bulky watch. Which brings us to the next design element that makes this a quality active watch.
The Durability
For individuals that are going to be golfing, swimming, running, and everything under the sun, they can expect the quality of this watch to be on of the best in the industry. The material design itself is made from an ultra-thin and durable material that ensures that it will not come off. With that, the connections of the watch are tiny screws to ensure the durability of the watch alongside maximum comfort design. For users that are heavy on multiple activities, this is the watch for you.
Cost And Value
As the first golf watch on this list, this brand is known to offer some of the most premium quality GPS’s and technology that are designed to last the test of time. With that said, this watch, in particular, has the same technology that has made this brand known for quality and durability. With that in mind, the price is not as heavy as we thought it would be and should not pass the one-hundred dollar market depending on the seller. With that said, we can guarantee that this brand is designed to withstand the test of time and users will appreciate the quality of the golf watch.
2. Garmin Approach S2
Now, as the next golf watch on this list, we are bringing it back to Garmin. This brand is known for their premium quality products, and users should expect to see more watches by them on this list With that said, we are eager to share the Approach S2-Series GPS Golf Watch with our readers. Preloaded with over 38,000 courses worldwide, this watch is easy to use and easy to learn. Here are two important points to take into consideration about this quality watch. Let’s begin with the design.
Read moreThe Design
The design of any sports watch has to be both durable but also easy to use. With that said, this watch is not cumbersome, although it does have a large display, unlike the first ultra-thin golf watch. Now, it does provide plenty of useful information and it is designed with durability in mind. The band is a rubber material that is connected with pins. Therefore, the band can actually be removed and switched out. If individuals loved the S1, they can get everything from the original plus more, now with the S2.
The Features
When it comes to a quality sports watch, this is one of the best. In fact, it is jam-packed with a slew of features that make it one of the best in the industry. The watch itself can lock in and measure yardages from front to middle, to back of the green. On top of this feature, it can also track dogleg distances to improve usability over the hole. Another great feature that makes it ideal for the everyday golfer is the digital scoreboard tracker, which you can connect to your laptop via the USB cable to properly track your growth. Features such as this one make it an ideal watch for the amateur golfer.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for this watch, we can say that it is one of the best in the industry thanks to a slew of features. In fact, the watch is both durable and can practically do everything an individual needs out on the green. With that said, the price can be a bit expensive but the value is very beneficial. With five different color choices to choose from, individuals can pick their ideal watch and get on the green in no time. We highly recommend this brand and the watch!
3. Bushnell Neo Ion
As the next quality golf watch on this list, we are eager to share the Bushnell Neon Ion Golf GPS Watch. Now, this watch, in particular, is designed for the everyday amateur that does not want to spend an outrageous amount of money on a golf watch. With that said, we believe individuals will find plenty of design benefits in this old generation watch. With a handful of cool features, let’s talk about the best two below.
Read morePreloaded and Ready To Go
This watch is ready to use from the moment an individual receives it in the mail. The watch itself is properly designed for everyday use and it is fitted with over 35,000 courses in over thirty different countries. So, if you are traveling tomorrow, don’t forget to take your golf watch with you. Other than this, the watch also comes with a USB charging and sync cable, so it can easily connect to your laptop and there are no membership fees or download fees to worry about. Simply unpack, charge, and go to the green!
The Band
When it comes to a proper activity watch or golf watch, quality brands understand the importance of a durable and comfortable band. With that in mind, the band of this particular golf watch is designed from a silicone material that is comfortable and adjustable. With that, the color of this watch is blue and white, which is very appealing for individuals that want a quality color choice. We believe that this watch is perfect for the everyday golfer that wants simple quality and style.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into thought for this watch, it is important to note that this is an old generation watch and so, the features may be a bit outdated. Other than that, individuals can expect that the watch itself is priced accordingly, at about half the price of what the new generation watch is. However, individuals can expect plenty of quality features that make this one of the best watches available today. We highly recommend it for the amateur golfer.
4. Garmin Approach S20
Now that we are switching back to the Garmin brand, individuals will love this quality golf watch that is expertly designed for all-day comfort and high-quality golf watch benefits. From the brand that has excelled at providing quality technology, let’s talk about the Approach S20 Golf Watch and what makes it one of the best in the industry today. With a slew of features to take into consideration, here are two important ones we want to share with our readers. Up first is the smart technology.
Read moreGarmin Connect Golf
When it comes to innovative ways to stay connected, the technology industry has excelled at showcasing and sharing some of the best products available today. For instance, this particular watch includes a Garmin Connect Golf feature that you download to your phone. The feature allows for an individual to track their round, share them with a community, and also receive recommendations of what that person’s ideal round is. In fact, the system is always learning the golfer and what their improvements are.
Digital Scoreboard
One of the best benefits of a golf watch is if it comes with a digital scoreboard. For example, this watch keeps track of a person’s score through the round Alongside this it also gives an individual a green view of the front, back, and middle. An individual can also manually position the pin to match today’s location for an accurate shot. With that said, there are many other features that make this one of the best watches of today.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for this watch, we can say that it is designed with masterful quality by the Garmin brand. Individuals can expect this watch to withstand the test of time alongside other features. With that in mind, this watch is priced very well and offer great features for the price. In fact, individuals can sometimes receive the watch up to 50% off, depending on the time and occasion. For the everyday golfer or traveler, we highly recommend this watch.
5. Garmin Approach S4
This next watch may be one of the most stylistically beautiful watches in the industry today. With a high-resolution touchscreen display and versatile technology, this brand has proven an industry wrong with this innovative watch design. This watch is known for a slew of features and we are eager to share the top two that make it a worthwhile purchase today. Here is the Garmin Approach S4 GPS Golf Watch, what may be the best golf watch for professionals that want durability and technology.
Read moreThe Display
Now, the display of this watch is a high-resolution touchscreen display. However, it is one nifty design feature that makes it better than the rest. Have you ever worn gloves and realized that you cannot use them because of wearing gloves? Well, that is a problem that is no problem with this particular golf watch. In fact, the screen is glove-friendly so individuals do not have to keep taking off their golf gloves when they were these gloves on the course. With that in mind, the screen is intuitive, easy to read, and very user-friendly.
Instant and Simple
This watch, in particular, is masterfully created with over 40,000 different courses around the world. With that said, individuals simply have to turn on the watch and use it to begin getting the best benefits of the watch today. Other than this, the watch has plenty of nifty and useful features from receiving emails to texts and even alerts. Alongside this, it has every golf feature imaginable from distances to the back, middle, and front as well as layups to doglegs.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for this particular item, we can say that it is priced according to the value and users should expect maximum durability alongside comfort. With that in mind, the value is well designed and can withstand the test of time. For individuals that want a quality everyday wearable golf watch that is designed to withstand the test of time, this is it.
6. Garmin Approach S3
When it comes to this brand, we are more impressed every time we read about their expertise in the golf industry. They are known for quality design benefits alongside everyday comfort for individuals that want a premium golf watch. With that said, this is a water-resistant watch that offers a 1-inch monochrome LCD touchscreen display that is easy to use. Let’s talk about the Garmin Golf Approach S3 GPS Watch and two features users can expect.
Read morePreloaded And Ready To Use
This particular watch is an old generation watch. Therefore, it may need to be updated. However, it comes with 29,500 worldwide courses straight off the bat. With that, the courses are well-described and know exactly the best course details to better track an individuals golf course and score. With that in mind, the course preview is detailed and offers a hole-by-hole preview design, so individuals can better get to know the green.
The Touch Screen
Another important aspect to take into consideration when it comes to this particular golf watch is that it has a high-resolution display that shares the front, back, and middle of the greens. Other than that, the display has a glove-friendly touchscreen feature, so individuals can easily use the glove even in cold weather. With this in mind, individuals do not have to worry about the glove not working properly in cold weather or rainy days.
Cost And Value
When we take cost and value into consideration, we can say that this brand is one of the top experts in quality GPS and golf products. The value of the product is well designed and for an old generation product, users can expect it to withstand the test of time. With that said, we highly recommend this product for individuals that want a starter golf watch that has plenty of courses to last a lifetime.
7. Callaway GPSy
This brand is not only known for great golf gear, they are known as one of the leading brands in the golf industry, with many different industry professionals and golfers desiring them at the number one sport. With that said, we are going to share a simple and more subdued golf watch that is ideal for individuals that want simplicity and style. Here are two important features to take into consideration when it comes to this quality golf watch.
Read moreAccuracy Is Important
When it comes to a quality golf watch, the technology is detrimental to the success of the sport and the product. With that said, individuals can except premium accuracy when it comes to this watch. In fact, the watch can track accurate distances to the front, center, and the back of the green as well as carry distances, layups, and doglegs. With that said, the display is easy to read and easy to understand, offering an easy learning curve for individuals that are new to using a golf watch.
The Battery
When it comes to a quality brand that understands the importance of supply a quality product, this is it. We are eager to say that the battery of this particular sports watch is masterfully designed with quality in mind for individuals that want a long-lasting battery. In fact, the battery itself can last 10-12 hours in GPS mode and 90 plus days in time mode alone. With that in mind, individuals can easily charge the watch with a charging cable included.
Cost And Value
When it comes to cost and value, we can say that this is one of the best brands in the sports industry. Therefore, we would expect nothing but the best product design and quality as far as this item. With that said, the value design is perfect for individuals that are starting in the golf industry and need a quality design at a fraction of a regularly priced sports watch. We can say that it is highly worth it for the price.
8. Garmin Approach X40
We are coming close to the end of our watch list and we are eager to share what may be one of the best quality watches available today. In fact, this watch may also be known as the most stylish and beautiful golf watch. With a sleek and simple rectangular design, individuals can expect that this watch is easy to use, of quality, and designed for the everyday professional golfer. Let’s talk about the Garmin Approach X40 and why it may be the best choice for seasoned golfers. Here are two points to take into consideration.
Read moreTracks Activity and Health
This smart golf watch is one of the best golf watches not just because it tracks your activity, it also attracts your health. Individuals will enjoy the heart rate technology that allows individuals to track their heart rate all day long. With that, there is also an Activity Tracking feature that tracks when an individual is active alongside an active on and off the course feature that also has bar alerts. With that in mind, individuals will appreciate the accuracy of this particular golf watch.
Green View Display
When it comes to the display, individuals can expect a quality display that is bright and easy to use. Now, one of the best parts of the display is that it has a green view display feature that shows the true shape and layout of the green. With that said, individuals can manually reposition the pin on the display to get an accurate shot selection. Alongside this, the touchscreen is easy to use, and individuals can also connect it to their phone for other premium features.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration, we can say that this brand has masterfully designed some of the best watches in the industry. Hence, why we share so many. With that said, this is one of the pricier watches on the list, therefore individuals should expect it to be more premium quality. We do recommend this watch more for the seasoned golfer or the seasoned golf GPS enthusiasts that is not afraid to splurge a couple hundred on a quality golf watch. With that said, it is priced as one of the best watches in the industry.
9. GolfBuddy WT5
As the last product on this list, we are eager to share a quality golf watch that is designed for amateurs that want quality and style in one simple to use the watch. The GolfBuddy WT5 GPS Watch may be the best golf buddy to any golfer wanting quality golf watch features in one simple and durable design. With that said, individuals can expect this watch to be masterfully designed for comfort and durability. Here are two important points to take into consideration.
Read moreFeature Rich
So, this golf watch is not made from a premium golf brand and it is designed rather simple. However, it offers premium features. For example, this watch has a digital scorecard so individuals can keep track of their growth and their score. It has a dynamic green view, a pin placement feature, and even a GPS tracking that can be used for walking or any other sport. Alongside this, it is preloaded with over 38,000 global golf courses and can be updated for the seasoned flyer and golfer.
Durable Design
Now that we have talked about the features, we can say that this particular watch happens to be one of the most durable in the industry. In fact, the bands are made from a durable material that is weatherproof and designed for a comfortable fit. The battery is also rechargeable, so individuals can use it all day long, at times with up to multiple rounds of golf without it running out.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration for this particular product, we can say that this is one of the best brands in the industry today for individuals that want a reliable golf watch with cool features without it costing hundreds of dollars. With that said, individuals can expect that this watch will be able to withstand the test of time and be able to golf against even some of the top tier watches. Although the display is not the best, it is still ideal for the everyday golfer.
10. Bushnell Neo XS
the next golf watch on this list, we want to share a dedicated golf watch design from a brand that expertly excels in the golf gear industry. This next watch is perfectly designed for individuals that want quality alongside an easy to read design. With a durable handle, and easy to understand display, the Bushnell Neo XS Golf GPS Rangefinder watch is one of the best watches in the industry today. Here are two major reasons why this watch has 1.4+ reviews all close to five stars.
Read moreThe Battery Life
When it comes to golfing, no individual wants to quit their golf game in the middle of their next swing because their golf watch or GPS watch has died. With that said, the battery of this golf watch is excellently designed for long-term use. In fact, an individual can go up to three rounds of golf in between charges. When in watch mode only, it can last up to two years on a single charge. Therefore, individuals can expect the watch to withstand the test of time as far as battery life and longevity.
Smart Watch
This smart golf watch is ideal for an individual that wants to play golf in different countries all over the world. In fact, this watch is already preloaded with 33,000+ courses in over thirty different countries. Other than that, it also includes an auto course recognition mode and an auto hole advance mode for better golf. The other beneficial technology elements it includes is the hazard, layup distances, and even back distances reading. With this, individuals can rest assured that the GPS rangefinder watch can be taken virtually anywhere.
Cost And Value
As we take cost and value into consideration we have to keep two aspects in mind. This is known as one of the best brands in the golf industry and they have produced some of the best products and equipment to date. With that in mind, the cost depends on the seller and don’t be surprised by it either. This is a premium golf watch that offers some of the best technology in the world for golfers. With that in mind, considering the brand, individuals should only expect premium quality from this manufacturer.
