10 Best Golf Watches 2025 in the United States

The Garmin fēnix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar is a high-end multisport GPS watch designed for golf enthusiasts who require reliable and detailed course data. It offers excellent GPS accuracy enhanced by multi-band SatIQ technology, ensuring precise location tracking on the course. The watch supports thousands of preloaded golf courses worldwide, making it ideal for players who travel or play at varied locations. Its 1.2-inch round display is clear and bright enough for outdoor visibility, a key feature when checking distances or course layouts in sunlight.

A standout feature is solar charging through a scratch-resistant sapphire lens, which significantly extends battery life and allows users to spend more time on the course without concern. The battery lasts for weeks in smartwatch mode, a strong performance compared to many competitors. Durability is addressed with a tough fiber-reinforced polymer case complemented by a steel or titanium bezel, plus water resistance, so the watch can withstand rough outdoor conditions and weather. Additional features such as a built-in flashlight and advanced health tracking enhance versatility beyond golf, supporting multisport training and everyday use.

The relatively small 1.2-inch screen might feel cramped for those who prefer larger displays. Although the watch offers many advanced metrics for fitness and endurance, some users may find these features overwhelming if they are seeking a straightforward golf watch. This Garmin model is well suited for golfers who value precise GPS, long battery life, and rugged design alongside extensive training tools, though it may be more complex than necessary for casual players.

The Garmin Approach S50 is a solid choice for golfers looking for a reliable GPS watch with plenty of helpful features. Its bright 1.2-inch AMOLED color display makes it easy to see course details and distances, which is a big plus when you're out playing. With over 43,000 preloaded courses and accurate GPS, you’ll get precise distances to the front, middle, and back of greens, as well as hazards like bunkers and water. The Playslike Distance feature is especially useful, adjusting yardages for elevation changes to give you a more realistic shot estimate.

Battery life is decent, offering up to 10 days in regular smartwatch mode and around 15 hours when using GPS continuously, which should cover several rounds before needing a charge. The watch is lightweight with a comfortable nylon strap, making it easy to wear all day. Beyond golf, the S50 includes wrist-based heart rate monitoring, stress tracking, and even preloaded workouts to help improve your strength and flexibility—helpful for injury prevention and better performance. Garmin Pay and music streaming through popular services add convenience, letting you handle purchases and entertainment without your phone.

A limitation is the watch’s North America-focused course maps, which might be less useful if you play internationally. Also, club tracking requires buying extra sensors, which can add to the cost. While the watch is designed to be durable and water-resistant, it’s best to check specific ratings if you plan to use it in wet conditions often. The Approach S50 successfully balances smart golf features with general health tracking and lifestyle extras, making it a great option for golfers wanting an all-around GPS watch that’s easy to use and packed with helpful tools.

The Garmin Approach S44 is a sleek golf GPS smartwatch designed for avid golfers. One of its standout features is the 1.2” color AMOLED display, which offers vibrant visuals that bring the 43,000+ preloaded courses to life on your wrist. This watch excels in providing accurate distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as navigation around hazards, making it a valuable tool on the course.

The slim design and lightweight build (1.5 ounces) add to its appeal, ensuring it is comfortable to wear throughout the day. Additionally, the watch is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to receive smart notifications directly on your wrist, which can be convenient when you want to leave your phone behind during a game. The S44 also supports pairing with optional club trackers for shot-tracking capabilities and offers an advanced stat tracking and handicap calculation feature through the Garmin Golf smartphone app.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The battery life, while decent at up to 15 hours in GPS mode, may require frequent charging for extensive use. Additionally, the watch's water resistance rating is not specified, which might be a concern for those who play in varying weather conditions. Lastly, while the watch offers a wide range of features, some users might find the need for a Garmin Golf membership to access enhanced course maps an added expense.