For golfers looking to improve their game and track their performance on the course, a GPS golf watch can be an invaluable tool. These high-tech wearables provide accurate distance measurements, course mapping, shot tracking, and other helpful features to enhance your golfing experience.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll review the top golf GPS watches available in 2025 and explore other innovative golf tracking technologies.
Why Use a Golf GPS Watch?
Before diving into the specific models, let’s look at some of the key benefits of using a golf GPS watch:
- Accurate distance measurements to greens, hazards, and layup spots
- Preloaded course maps for thousands of golf courses worldwide
- Shot tracking and performance analysis
- Score keeping and stat tracking
- Improved course management and strategy
- Time savings compared to using a handheld GPS device
- Convenient wearable form factor
Now let’s explore the top golf GPS watch options for 2025:
1. Garmin Approach S70 – Best Overall
Key Features:
- Brilliant 1.4″ AMOLED touchscreen display
- Preloaded with 43,000+ courses worldwide
- Virtual Caddie feature for club recommendations
- Green contour data for over 8,700 courses
- PlaysLike Distance feature accounts for slope
- Tracks shots automatically
- 20-hour battery life in GPS mode
- Doubles as a smartwatch with notifications
Pros:
- Extensive suite of advanced golf features
- Excellent display quality and visibility
- Long battery life
- Versatile for on and off course use
Cons:
- Expensive
- May be overwhelming for some users
- Occasional GPS accuracy issues reported
The Garmin Approach S70 stands out as our top overall pick due to its combination of advanced golf-specific features, brilliant display, and versatile smartwatch capabilities. The Virtual Caddie and PlaysLike Distance features provide strategic insights to improve your course management. With automatic shot tracking and extensive stat tracking, it’s a powerful tool for analyzing and improving your game.
While pricey, the S70 justifies its cost for avid golfers who will take advantage of its full feature set. More casual players may find some of the advanced functions unnecessary.
2. Bushnell Ion Elite – Best Accompanying App
Key Features:
- 1.28″ color touchscreen
- Slope-adjusted distances
- Moveable pin placement
- Hazard and layup yardages
- Scoring capabilities
- 12+ hour battery life
- Pairs with excellent Bushnell Golf app
Pros:
- Very accurate distances, comparable to laser rangefinders
- User-friendly interface
- Great value for the feature set
- Helpful companion smartphone app
Cons:
- Somewhat bulky design
- Charging connection can be finicky
The Bushnell Ion Elite impresses with its accuracy and intuitive interface. The slope functionality provides adjusted yardages accounting for elevation changes. We especially like the comprehensive Bushnell Golf app that pairs with the watch for more detailed course information and performance tracking.
While not as feature-packed as some premium options, the Ion Elite nails the essentials at a more affordable price point. It’s an excellent choice for golfers focused on accurate yardages and basic scoring.
3. Shot Scope G5 – Best Budget Option
Key Features:
- Simple, intuitive interface
- 36,000 preloaded courses
- Front/middle/back green distances
- Hazard information
- Shot distance measurement
- Digital scorecard
- 2+ rounds battery life in GPS mode
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Easy to use
- Versatile sporty look
Cons:
- Basic screen graphics
- Limited advanced features
For golfers on a budget, the Shot Scope G5 delivers core GPS functionality at an attractive price point. The simple interface focuses on providing accurate yardages and basic scoring without overwhelming users with complex features.
While it lacks the bells and whistles of premium models, the G5 covers the essentials well. It’s a great entry-level option for casual golfers or those new to using GPS watches on the course.
4. Garmin Approach S62 – Most Feature-Rich
Key Features:
- Large 1.3″ color touchscreen
- Virtual Caddie for club recommendations
- Wind speed and direction display
- Green View with manual pin positioning
- Tracks shots automatically
- 41,000 preloaded courses
- 20-hour battery life in GPS mode
- Multisport modes for other activities
Pros:
- Packed with advanced golf features
- Stylish, premium design
- Versatile for use beyond golf
- Excellent battery life
Cons:
- Expensive
- Steep learning curve to master all functions
- Hole map graphics could be improved
The Garmin Approach S62 is the ultimate golf watch for tech-savvy players who want every bell and whistle. The Virtual Caddie and wind data provide strategic insights, while automatic shot tracking enables in-depth performance analysis.
Beyond golf, the S62 functions as a fully-featured smartwatch and fitness tracker. This versatility helps justify the high price tag for golfers who will wear it daily. However, casual players may find the extensive feature set overwhelming and unnecessary.
5. SkyCaddie LX5 – Best Accuracy
Key Features:
- Large 1.39″ full-color touchscreen
- Ground-verified course maps
- IntelliGreen technology for precise green info
- Dynamic HoleVue with moveable targets
- 35,000+ preloaded courses
- Up to two rounds battery life
Pros:
- Extremely accurate distances and course mapping
- Large, bright display
- Intuitive touchscreen interface
- No annual fees
Cons:
- Expensive upfront cost
- Bulky design
- Battery life could be better
SkyCaddie is renowned for their highly accurate course maps, and the LX5 leverages this strength. The large color touchscreen beautifully displays the detailed HoleVue graphics. For golfers who prioritize pinpoint yardages and clear visual information, the LX5 is tough to beat.
The main downsides are the chunky design and mediocre battery life compared to some competitors. But for pure accuracy and visual presentation of course data, the SkyCaddie LX5 is a top performer.
6. Garmin Approach S12 – Best Simplicity
Key Features:
- High-resolution monochrome display
- 42,000 preloaded courses
- Front/middle/back green distances
- Hazard and layup yardages
- Digital scorecard
- 30-hour battery life in GPS mode
- Available in multiple colors
Pros:
- Simple, easy to use interface
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Excellent battery life
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Basic black and white display
The Garmin Approach S12 strips golf GPS functionality down to the essentials. Its simple interface focuses on providing accurate yardages and basic scoring without complicating things. For golfers who just want reliable distances without the bells and whistles, the S12 delivers.
The extended 30-hour battery life is a standout feature, easily lasting multiple rounds between charges. While it lacks advanced functions like shot tracking or detailed graphics, the S12 nails the basics at an attractive price.
Beyond GPS Watches: Innovative Golf Tracking Technologies
While GPS watches are incredibly popular, there are other exciting technologies available to help golfers track their game and equipment:
Golf Balls with Built-in Trackers
For those who struggle with losing balls or want detailed flight data, golf balls with built-in trackers are an innovative solution. These high-tech balls contain miniature sensors that can track ball flight, spin rate, and even help locate lost balls. While still a developing technology, it offers exciting possibilities for game improvement and reducing lost ball frustration.
AirTag for Golf Bags
Worried about leaving your expensive golf bag behind or having it stolen? Consider using an Apple AirTag for your golf bag. This small tracking device can be discreetly attached to your bag, allowing you to locate it using your iPhone if misplaced or stolen. It’s an affordable way to add peace of mind to your golfing experience.
AirTag Golf Balls?
While not currently available, the concept of AirTag golf balls has generated buzz in the golfing community. The idea of using Apple’s tracking technology in golf balls is intriguing, but challenges with size, durability, and impact on ball performance make it unlikely in the near future. For now, dedicated golf ball tracking technologies are the best option for those seeking smart golf balls.
Smart Water Bottles
Staying hydrated on the course is crucial for maintaining performance. Smart water bottles can help by tracking your water intake and reminding you to drink regularly. Some models even integrate with fitness apps to provide personalized hydration recommendations based on your activity level and environmental conditions.
Choosing the Right Golf GPS Watch
When selecting a golf GPS watch, consider the following factors:
- Budget: Prices range from under $200 for basic models to $500+ for premium options.
- Features: Decide which functions are must-haves vs. nice-to-haves for your needs.
- Battery Life: Consider how long the watch lasts in GPS mode between charges.
- Display: Determine if you prefer a basic monochrome screen or a full-color touchscreen.
- Size and Comfort: The watch should be comfortable for all-day wear on the course.
- Accuracy: Look for models known for reliable distance measurements and course mapping.
- Ease of Use: Consider the learning curve required to utilize all functions.
Conclusion
Golf GPS watches have become indispensable tools for many players looking to improve their course management and overall performance. Whether you’re a casual weekend golfer or a serious player, there’s a GPS watch option to fit your needs and budget.
Our top overall pick, the Garmin Approach S70, offers the best combination of advanced features, display quality, and versatility. However, budget-conscious golfers may prefer the simplicity and value of the Shot Scope G5.
As technology continues to advance, we’re seeing exciting new options like smart golf balls and tracking devices for equipment. While these technologies are still evolving, they offer promising ways to further enhance the golfing experience and improve performance.
Ultimately, the best golf GPS watch or tracking technology is the one that fits your specific requirements and helps you enjoy your time on the course. Consider your needs, budget, and playing style to find the perfect solution for your game.
