10 Best Golf Watches 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Approach S70 Golf Smartwatch is designed to enhance the golfing experience with numerous advanced features. One of its standout strengths is its full-color CourseView maps, offering access to over 43,000 courses worldwide. The high-quality 1.2” AMOLED display delivers exceptional detail, making it easier to visualize courses and plan shots effectively. The advanced virtual caddie and PlaysLike Distance features provide precise club recommendations and distance calculations, taking into account factors like wind and elevation, which can significantly improve game strategy and performance.

Additionally, the green contour data is a unique feature that can help with putt alignment by offering insights into the slope and topography of greens on select courses. With a battery life of up to 16 days, it’s reliable for extended use without frequent charging. The watch is also durable and waterproof, suitable for all weather conditions on the course.

However, the advanced features and high-quality display may come at a premium price, potentially making it a less attractive option for casual golfers or those on a budget. While the additional power bank and charging accessories included in the bundle add value, they may not be necessary for everyone. The watch’s relatively small screen size of 1.4 inches might also be a limitation for users who prefer larger displays. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Approach S70 is a robust and feature-rich golf smartwatch that can greatly benefit serious golfers looking to enhance their game.

The Garmin Approach S12 is a solid choice for golf enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-use GPS watch. With over 42,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide, it offers extensive coverage, making it suitable for both casual and serious golfers. The high-resolution display is sunlight-readable, ensuring you can easily view crucial information outdoors. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 30 hours in GPS mode, which is great for long rounds or multiple games without needing a charge.

A standout feature is the ability to keep score directly on the watch and upload it via the Garmin Golf app, fostering engagement through weekly leaderboards. Additionally, the watch can track your shot distances if paired with compatible club tracking sensors.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the watch excels in golf-specific features, it may lack some advanced health or fitness tracking features that other smartwatches offer. Some users might find the interface a bit basic since it primarily focuses on golf functionality rather than multi-sport capabilities. The screen size, at only 0.9 inches, may also feel small for those used to larger displays. In terms of design, the Garmin Approach S12 is lightweight and has a modern round shape, but it may not be as stylish for non-golf-related occasions. Lastly, while it’s water-resistant up to 164 feet, it’s important to handle it with care to maintain its durability.

The Approach S12 is an excellent golf watch for those who prioritize GPS accuracy, course coverage, and battery life. Golfers who want a simple and effective tool for their game will likely appreciate its strengths, while those seeking a multi-functional smartwatch may want to explore other options.

The Garmin Approach S62 is a top-tier golf GPS watch that excels in several critical areas for golfers. One of its standout features is the large and vibrant 1.3” color touchscreen display, which is 18% larger than its predecessor, the Approach S60. This makes it easier to read information on the course. The screen is also scratch-resistant and comes with interchangeable bands, which adds to its durability and versatility. In terms of battery life, the watch performs admirably with up to 20 hours in GPS mode and up to 14 days in smartwatch mode, ensuring it lasts through multiple rounds of golf without needing a recharge.

The GPS accuracy is impressive, supported by over 41,000 preloaded course maps worldwide, making it easy to navigate any golf course you play on. Features like the Virtual Caddie, which suggests clubs based on your performance and factors in wind conditions, and Hazard View, which helps you quickly assess potential hazards, provide valuable assistance during play. The PlaysLike Distance feature adjusts for elevation changes, giving you more accurate distance readings, and the Green View function lets you manually position the pin for better approach shots.

Additionally, the watch offers Garmin Pay for convenient, contactless payments, and smart notifications, making it a versatile companion off the course as well. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The watch's premium price point might be a barrier for casual golfers. Also, while it offers a host of features, some users might find the learning curve steep, especially if they are not tech-savvy. Despite these minor issues, the Garmin Approach S62's combination of robust features, durable build, and advanced golfing assistance makes it an excellent choice for serious golfers looking to improve their game.