Updated September 2, 2025. This article was thoroughly audited by multiple golf experts and coaches for its accuracy. You can read more about our rigorous testing protocol here.
Finding the best golf watch can transform your game by providing accurate distances, shot tracking, and course management tools right on your wrist.
Modern GPS golf watches combine advanced features, such as preloaded courses, virtual caddie recommendations, and fitness tracking, to enhance your golfing experience.
Whether you’re looking for a feature-packed golf watch or a simple GPS device, adding one of the best golf watches to your equipment can help you make informed decisions on the course.
In this article, we’ll look at today’s smart golf watch options that offer everything from wind speed data to detailed hole maps, and the ability to track shots, making them essential tools for many golfers seeking to improve their performance and enjoy the game more.
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Last updated on 2025-09-02. The links are affiliate links. Product images are served from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Table of Contents
Best Golf Watches 2025
Garmin Approach S50 Golf Watch
Best Overall Golf Watch
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Display: Yes
- Display Size: 1.4″ diameter
- Weight: 2 ounces
- Battery Life: 20 hours
- Courses: 43,000+
Pros
- Large, vibrant color touchscreen display
- Excellent 20-hour battery performance
- Comprehensive course database
Cons
- Premium pricing for advanced features
- Bulkier than basic GPS models
The Garmin Approach S50 stands out as one of the most advanced GPS golf watches on the market, combining sophisticated technology with practical course management tools.
This feature-packed golf watch delivers accurate distances to greens, hazards, and layup areas across more than 43,000 preloaded courses worldwide.
The large color touchscreen provides exceptional visibility in all weather conditions, while the robust construction ensures durability throughout countless rounds.
Many golfers appreciate how this Garmin golf watch seamlessly transitions from a day to day smartwatch to a powerful golf companion, offering additional fitness benefits alongside golf-specific features.
Advanced GPS and Course Mapping
The S50’s GPS accuracy sets it apart from basic golf apps, providing precise yardages that help golfers make confident club selection decisions.
The watch includes detailed hole maps with green contours, helping players navigate even the most challenging hilly courses.
The virtual caddie feature analyzes your shot history and current conditions to offer club recommendations, while hazard information keeps you informed about water features, bunkers, and out-of-bounds areas.
The device automatically recognizes which golf course you’re playing and provides real-time data throughout your round.
Smart Technology Integration
Beyond golf functionality, this smart golf watch offers comprehensive fitness tracking, smartphone notifications, and music control capabilities.
The touchscreen interface makes navigation simple and easy for this great watch, whether you’re checking distances during play or reviewing performance data afterward.
Shot tracking capabilities allow golfers to record club usage and analyze trends over time, providing valuable insights for game improvement.
The watch integrates seamlessly with Garmin devices and golf apps for comprehensive data management.
Battery Life and Durability
With 20 hours of GPS battery life, the S50 easily handles multiple rounds without requiring frequent charging. The robust construction withstands the rigors of regular golf play, while the comfortable band ensures all-day wearability.
Weather resistance means the watch performs reliably in various conditions, from sunny days to rainy rounds, making it a favorite among golfers around the world.
We found the charging system is extremely convenient, making it easy to maintain optimal performance during use.
Garmin S70 Comparison
The newer Garmin Approach S70 offers several upgrades over the S50, including a larger 1.4-inch display with enhanced resolution, improved battery life that extends up to 26 hours in GPS mode, and advanced features such as Virtual Caddie with wind speed and weather data integration.
The S70 also features comprehensive fitness tracking with health monitoring capabilities and supports over 43,000 courses worldwide, complete with detailed hole maps and green contours.
While both watches provide accurate yardages and shot tracking, the S70’s additional features, such as music storage, smartphone integration, and enhanced durability, make it worth considering for golfers seeking the latest Garmin technology.
Voice Caddie T11 Pro GPS Watch
Best Color Screen Golf GPS Watch
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Display: Yes
- Display Size: 1.28″ diameter
- Weight: 1.8 ounces
- Battery Life: 40 hours
- Courses: 40,000+
Pros
- Exceptional 40-hour battery life
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Competitive pricing for features offered
Cons
- Smaller screen than premium models
- Limited smartphone integration features
The Voice Caddie T11 Pro represents excellent value in the GPS golf watch market, delivering essential golf features without the premium price tag of high-end models.
This watch provides accurate distances across 40,000 preloaded courses, making it a worthy purchase while maintaining an impressive 40-hour battery life that easily covers multiple rounds.
The lightweight 1.8-ounce design ensures comfort throughout long days on the course, while the color touchscreen offers clear visibility of yardages and course information.
We found this watch strikes the perfect balance between functionality and affordability for casual and serious golfers.
Core GPS Functionality
The T11 Pro excels at providing accurate yardages to greens, hazards, and key course features, helping golfers make confident club selection decisions.
The watch automatically recognizes courses and includes front, middle, and back green distances along with hazard locations.
Shot tracking capabilities allow players to record their performance and analyze trends over time.
The GPS accuracy rivals that of more expensive models, ensuring reliable distance measurements throughout your round, making it a worthwhile investment.
User Interface and Design
The 1.28-inch color display provides clear visibility in various lighting conditions, while the intuitive touchscreen interface simplifies navigation during gameplay.
The sleek design transitions well from golf course to daily wear, offering basic smartwatch functionality beyond golf features.
The comfortable silicone band and lightweight construction minimize distractions during your swing, while ensuring the watch stays securely in place on your wrist.
Value and Performance
With excellent battery performance and reliable GPS functionality, the T11 Pro offers tremendous value for golfers seeking essential features without premium pricing.
The watch performs consistently across different course types, from flat layouts to challenging hilly courses.
While it may lack some advanced features found in higher-end models, it delivers the core functionality most golfers need to improve their game and enjoy better course management.
TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition
Most Stylish Golf Watch
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Display: Yes
- Display Size: 1.39″ diameter
- Weight: 3.2 ounces
- Battery Life: 18 hours
- Courses: 40,000+
Pros
- Premium luxury watch aesthetics
- Comprehensive smartwatch functionality integration
- High-quality Swiss craftsmanship standards
Cons
- Significantly higher price point
- Heavier weight affects comfort
The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition represents the pinnacle of luxury smartwatches for golf enthusiasts, combining Swiss watchmaking excellence with cutting-edge golf technology.
This premium timepiece offers comprehensive GPS functionality across 40,000 courses while maintaining the sophisticated aesthetics expected from a luxury brand.
The clean display provides exceptional clarity and detail, making it easy to read distances and course information in any lighting condition.
For golfers who value both performance and prestige, this watch delivers unmatched style alongside practical golf features.
Luxury Design and Build Quality
The E4 Golf Edition showcases TAG Heuer’s commitment to premium materials and Swiss craftsmanship, featuring a robust titanium case and sapphire crystal display.
The attention to detail extends beyond aesthetics to include precise GPS accuracy and reliable performance in all weather conditions.
While heavier than dedicated golf watches, the substantial feel reinforces the premium positioning and durability expectations. The interchangeable straps allow customization for both golf play and formal occasions.
Golf-Specific Features
Beyond basic distance measurements, the watch offers comprehensive course management tools, including detailed hole maps, hazard locations, and shot tracking capabilities.
The integration with golf apps provides additional functionality for analyzing performance and planning course strategy.
The GPS accuracy meets professional standards, ensuring reliable yardages for confident club selection decisions. Advanced features include wind speed data and weather information to enhance course management.
Smart Technology Integration
As a full-featured smartwatch, the E4 offers extensive connectivity options, advanced fitness tracking capabilities, and seamless smartphone integration.
The watch seamlessly transitions from a golf companion to a luxury timepiece for everyday wear.
The battery life of 18 hours adequately covers most golf activities, although it requires more frequent charging than dedicated golf devices.
The comprehensive app ecosystem provides additional functionality beyond golf-specific features.
Garmin Approach S44 Watch
Best Golf Watch for Casual Golfers
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: No
- Color Display: No
- Display Size: 1.0″ diameter
- Weight: 1.5 ounces
- Battery Life: 15 hours
- Courses: 41,000+
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Simple button-operated interface reliability
- Affordable pricing for Garmin quality
Cons
- Basic monochrome display limitations
- Limited advanced feature set
The Garmin Approach S44 focuses on delivering essential GPS golf functionality in a lightweight, easy-to-use package that appeals to golfers seeking simplicity over complexity.
This straightforward golf watch provides accurate distances across 41,000 preloaded courses while maintaining the reliability and build quality expected from Garmin devices.
At just 1.5 ounces, the S44 offers exceptional comfort during long rounds, while the button-operated interface ensures consistent performance without touchscreen complications.
Many golfers appreciate this no-frills approach to GPS golf technology.
Simplified GPS Functionality
The S44 delivers core distance measurements to greens, hazards, and layup areas with the GPS accuracy Garmin is known for throughout the golf industry.
The simple interface displays front, middle, and back green distances along with basic hazard information, providing the essential data needed for club selection decisions.
Course recognition happens automatically, eliminating setup complexity and allowing golfers to focus on their game rather than technology management.
Practical Design Philosophy
The monochrome display prioritizes battery life and visibility over flashy graphics, ensuring clear readability in bright sunlight and various weather conditions.
Button operation eliminates touchscreen sensitivity issues that can occur when playing with wet or gloved hands.
The lightweight construction and comfortable band make the watch barely noticeable during your swing, while the durable design withstands regular golf course conditions without requiring special care or maintenance.
Value and Reliability
With 15 hours of battery life, the S44 easily handles full rounds without power concerns, while the straightforward charging process keeps the watch ready for play.
The affordable pricing makes Garmin GPS technology accessible to golfers who want reliable distance measurements without paying for advanced features they won’t use.
This watch represents excellent value for golfers seeking dependable GPS functionality from a trusted brand in golf equipment.
Shot Scope G6 Golf Watch
Best Battery Life Golf Watch
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Display: Yes
- Display Size: 1.3″ diameter
- Weight: 2.1 ounces
- Battery Life: 36 hours
- Courses: 36,000+
Pros
- Exceptional shot tracking and analytics
- Long 36-hour battery performance
- Comprehensive game improvement tools
Cons
- Learning curve for full features
- Requires setup time initially
The Shot Scope G6 revolutionizes golf performance tracking by combining GPS functionality with advanced analytics that provide detailed insights into every aspect of your game.
This innovative golf watch goes beyond basic distance measurements to offer comprehensive shot tracking, strokes gained analysis, and performance trends that help golfers identify areas for improvement.
The 1.3-inch color touchscreen displays detailed course information alongside real-time statistics, while the 36-hour battery ensures consistent performance across multiple rounds.
Serious golfers who want to understand and improve their game will find the G6’s analytical capabilities invaluable.
Advanced Tracking
The G6’s standout feature is its automatic shot detection and comprehensive tracking system, which records every shot without requiring manual input.
The watch analyzes your performance using strokes gained methodology, comparing your results to handicap-appropriate benchmarks across different aspects of the game.
Detailed statistics include driving distance, approach accuracy, short game performance, and putting efficiency, providing actionable insights for targeted practice sessions.
The data syncs with the Shot Scope app for deeper analysis and long-term trend tracking.
GPS and Course Management
Beyond analytics, the G6 provides accurate distances for 36,000 preloaded courses, complete with detailed hole maps and hazard information.
The watch offers front, middle, and back green distances along with layup recommendations and hazard locations, similar to the capabilities of a shot scope, to support strategic course management decisions.
GPS accuracy matches premium competitors, while the clear display ensures easy reading in various lighting conditions throughout your round.
Game Improvement Integration
The combination of real-time GPS data and comprehensive performance tracking makes the G6 particularly valuable for golfers focused on improvement rather than just convenience.
The watch identifies strengths and weaknesses in your game while providing benchmarks for measuring progress over time.
Integration with coaching apps and performance platforms extends the value beyond the course, creating a comprehensive system for improving golf performance for dedicated golfers.
Bushnell Ion Elite Golf GPS Watch
Best GPS Golf Watch
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: No
- Color Display: Yes
- Display Size: 1.3″ diameter
- Weight: 1.9 ounces
- Battery Life: 18 hours
- Courses: 38,000+
Pros
- Clear color display visibility
- Reliable GPS accuracy standards
- User-friendly button interface design
Cons
- Limited smartwatch functionality integration
- Basic feature set compared
The Bushnell Ion Elite focuses on delivering reliable GPS golf functionality with a clear color display that enhances visibility and usability on the course.
This straightforward golf watch provides accurate distances across 38,000 preloaded courses while maintaining the durability and reliability expected from Bushnell’s golf equipment heritage.
The 1.3-inch color screen provides excellent readability in various lighting conditions, while the button-operated interface ensures consistent performance without the complications of touchscreen use.
Golfers seeking dependable GPS technology without unnecessary complexity will appreciate the Ion Elite’s focused approach.
GPS Performance and Accuracy
The Ion Elite delivers precise distance measurements to greens, hazards, and key course features with the GPS accuracy that has made Bushnell a trusted name in golf rangefinding technology.
The watch automatically recognizes golf courses from its database of 38,000 options worldwide, providing front, middle, and back green distances along with hazard information for strategic planning.
Course updates ensure you’ll always have current information, while the reliable GPS performance works consistently across different terrain types, including challenging hilly courses.
Display and Interface Design
The color display provides clear visibility of distance information and basic course details, making it easy to reference yardages during play quickly.
Button operation eliminates potential touchscreen issues while ensuring the watch responds reliably in various weather conditions.
The interface prioritizes essential information over complex features, enabling golfers to access the necessary data quickly without distraction from their game focus.
Practical Golf Focus
With 18 hours of battery life, the Ion Elite handles multiple rounds while maintaining consistent GPS performance throughout play.
The watch emphasizes golf-specific functionality over broader smartwatch features, appealing to golfers who want dedicated golf technology rather than multi-purpose devices.
The reliable construction and comfortable 1.9-ounce weight make it suitable for regular course use while providing the accurate distances needed for confident club selection decisions.
Garmin Approach S12
Best Value Golf Watch
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Specifications
- Touchscreen: No
- Color Display: No
- Display Size: 0.9″ diameter
- Weight: 1.2 ounces
- Battery Life: 30 hours
- Courses: 42,000+
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight comfortable design
- Exceptional 30-hour battery life
- Budget-friendly Garmin reliability
Cons
- Very basic feature set
- Small display size limitations
The Garmin Approach S12 represents the most affordable entry point into Garmin’s GPS golf watch ecosystem, delivering essential distance measurements in an ultra-lightweight package that many golfers barely notice during play.
This minimalist golf watch provides accurate yardages across the whopping 42,000 preloaded courses while maintaining an impressive 30-hour battery life that easily covers multiple rounds without charging.
At just 1.2 ounces, the S12 provides exceptional comfort for golfers seeking GPS functionality without the bulk or complexity of feature-rich models.
Essential GPS Functionality
The S12 focuses exclusively on core distance measurements, providing front, middle, and back green yardages along with basic hazard distances for fundamental course management.
The GPS accuracy maintains Garmin’s reputation for reliable performance, ensuring consistent distance information for club selection decisions.
Course recognition happens automatically, eliminating setup requirements and allowing immediate use upon arriving at any golf course worldwide.
Minimalist Design Philosophy
The small 0.9-inch monochrome display prioritizes battery efficiency over visual appeal, ensuring clear readability in bright sunlight while maximizing power conservation.
Button operation provides a reliable interface control without touchscreen complications, making the watch suitable for all weather conditions and playing situations.
The ultra-lightweight construction makes the S12 one of the most comfortable GPS watches available for extended wear during long rounds.
Value and Simplicity
With exceptional 30-hour battery life, the S12 requires minimal charging attention while delivering consistent GPS performance round after round.
The budget-friendly pricing makes Garmin GPS technology accessible to golfers seeking basic functionality without paying for advanced features they won’t utilize.
This watch appeals to golfers who want dependable distance measurements from a trusted brand without the complexity or cost of premium models.
TecTecTec Ult-G Golf Watch
Best Golf Watch for Beginners
Specifications
- Touchscreen: Yes
- Color Display: Yes
- Display Size: 1.2″ diameter
- Weight: 1.7 ounces
- Battery Life: 25 hours
- Courses: 38,000+
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Good 25-hour battery performance
- Lightweight comfortable design
Cons
- Limited brand recognition
- Rather basic build quality
The TecTecTec Ult-G offers compelling value in the GPS golf watch market by delivering essential functionality at an accessible price point that makes GPS technology available to budget-conscious golfers.
This lightweight golf watch provides accurate distances across 38,000 preloaded courses while maintaining solid 25-hour battery life for multiple rounds of play.
And for beginners unfamiliar with golf watchers, the 1.2-inch color touchscreen displays clear yardage information and basic course details, while the comfortable 1.7-ounce design ensures minimal distraction during your swing.
Golfers seeking entry-level GPS functionality will find the Ult-G provides good performance without premium pricing.
GPS Performance and Course Database
The Ult-G delivers reliable distance measurements to greens, hazards, and layup areas with GPS accuracy that meets the needs of most golfers for club selection and course management.
The 38,000-course database covers major golf destinations worldwide, with automatic course recognition eliminating the need for setup requirements.
While not as comprehensive as premium brands, the course coverage includes most public and private facilities that recreational golfers typically play at.
User Interface and Design
The color touchscreen offers sufficient visibility for reading distances during play, although the display quality doesn’t match that of premium models.
The lightweight construction and comfortable band make extended wear pleasant, while the straightforward interface keeps essential information easily accessible.
Build quality reflects the budget positioning but proves adequate for regular golf use with reasonable care and maintenance.
Budget-Friendly Price
At its price point, the Ult-G offers excellent value for golfers who want GPS functionality without significant investment in golf equipment technology.
The 25-hour battery life comfortably handles multiple rounds, while basic features meet the needs of recreational players seeking accurate yardages.
While lacking advanced features and premium build quality, the watch delivers reliable GPS performance that can improve course management and club selection for budget-conscious golfers.
How We Test the Golf Watches
Our comprehensive testing process evaluated eight of the best golf GPS watches across multiple courses and playing conditions to provide accurate assessments of real-world performance.
We tested each watch during actual rounds on various golf course types, from flat resort layouts to challenging hilly courses, measuring GPS accuracy against professional laser rangefinders and course markers.
Battery life testing involved extended use scenarios, including multiple consecutive rounds and standby periods, to verify manufacturer claims under realistic conditions.
Feature evaluation included testing touchscreen responsiveness in various weather conditions, button interface reliability with wet and gloved hands, and display visibility in bright sunlight and overcast conditions.
After putting these watches through rigorous testing, we assessed shot tracking accuracy, course database coverage, and smartphone integration capabilities where applicable.
We shared our thoughts and compiled our favorites for each type of watch to create this final list.
Each watch was worn during at least two rounds of golf across different courses to evaluate comfort, durability, and consistency of performance throughout extended use periods.
How to Choose the Best Golf Watch
GPS Accuracy and Course Database
The foundation of any quality golf watch lies in its GPS accuracy and comprehensive course coverage, as reliable distance measurements directly impact your club selection and course management decisions.
Look for watches with databases exceeding 40,000 courses worldwide to ensure coverage wherever you play, while GPS accuracy within 1 to 2 yards provides the precision needed for confident shot planning.
Advanced models offer detailed hole maps with green contours and hazard locations that enhance strategic decision-making on challenging layouts.
Display and User Interface
Consider display size, clarity, and interface type based on your preferences and typical playing conditions, as these factors significantly affect usability during rounds.
Color touchscreens offer intuitive navigation and detailed course visualization, but may struggle in bright sunlight or with wet hands. In contrast, button-operated interfaces provide reliable operation in all weather conditions.
Larger displays improve readability but increase weight and may affect comfort during extended wear.
Battery Life and Charging
Evaluate battery performance based on your typical playing frequency and charging preferences, as inadequate power management can leave you without GPS functionality mid-round.
Watches with 20+ hour GPS battery life easily handle multiple rounds without charging concerns, while shorter battery life may require daily charging for frequent players.
Consider charging method convenience and speed, as some models offer quick-charge capabilities for emergency power needs.
Additional Features and Value
Determine which advanced features provide genuine value for your golf game versus unnecessary complexity that increases cost without meaningful benefit.
Shot tracking, performance analytics, and fitness integration appeal to golfers focused on game improvement, while basic distance measurements may suffice for recreational players.
Consider whether the smartwatch’s functionality, smartphone integration, and day-to-day wearability justify the premium pricing compared to dedicated golf-only devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best golf watch to buy?
The Garmin Approach S70 represents the best overall golf watch for most players, combining excellent GPS accuracy, a comprehensive course database, advanced features, and reliable battery life.
Its large color touchscreen, shot tracking capabilities, and smartwatch integration provide exceptional value for serious golfers. Budget-conscious players should consider the TecTecTec Ult-G for basic GPS functionality.
Which watch is good for golf?
Several watches excel for golf, depending on your needs. The Garmin Approach S70 offers premium features and reliability, while the Voice Caddie T11 Pro provides excellent value with 40-hour battery life.
The Shot Scope G6 leads in performance analytics for game improvement. Your choice should be based on feature priorities, budget, and desired functionality.
What golf watch does Rory McIlroy use?
Rory McIlroy has been associated with TaylorMade golf equipment partnerships, though professional golfers often use custom devices not available to consumers.
Most tour professionals rely on laser rangefinders and course yardage books during competition rather than GPS watches. For recreational golfers, focus on proven models like the Garmin Approach S50 for reliable performance.
Is it worth getting a golf watch?
A golf watch offers significant value for most golfers by providing accurate distances, course management tools, and shot tracking capabilities that can enhance decision-making and lower scores.
The convenience of having yardages instantly available on your wrist eliminates guesswork and speeds up play.
With prices starting around $100 for solid GPS watches, you’ll find an excellent return on your investment, considering how the watch can help casual players.