The Garmin Approach S72 has arrived at Golf 360 in the 47 mm size, and the obvious question is whether it offers enough over the S70 to justify an upgrade.
My honest answer: it looks most interesting for golfers who want more feedback from practice as well as detailed information on the course. If you already own an S70 and mainly use it for yardages, you do not suddenly need a new watch.
The Garmin Approach S72 costs NZ$1,599 including GST in either 43 mm or 47 mm. The 47 mm has arrived, with the smaller 43 mm expected soon. This guide is based on Garmin's published specifications, rather than a hands-on review. Here is what has changed and who I think should consider it.
What is new on the Garmin Approach S72?
The S72 builds on the premium golf features of the S70, including full-colour CourseView mapping, Virtual Caddie and enhanced PlaysLike distances. Garmin lists more than 43,000 preloaded courses.
The headline additions are swing metrics, a dedicated driving range activity, golf biometric data, green reading, putting analysis and on-device aerial imagery. Some of those features require a paid Garmin Golf membership, which I will explain below.
There are hardware changes too. The S72 has a sapphire crystal lens, titanium bezel and ComfortFit fabric band, with a listed weight of 41 g for the 43 mm and 48 g for the 47 mm. Garmin's comparison lists the equivalent S70 models at 44 g and 56 g.
You also get a built-in flashlight, speaker and microphone. I would still choose around the golf information I will actually use.
Why the range practice features interest me
The S72's swing metrics include hand speed, backswing length and wrist rotation. The driving range activity records metrics for each swing, giving you something to compare during practice.
That could be useful when you are working on a specific change. For example, if you are trying to make your backswing more consistent, you can look for a pattern instead of judging the session entirely by the best ball you hit.
The important distinction is that these are swing metrics. The watch is not a replacement for a launch monitor measuring ball flight, carry distance and spin. Hand speed is also a different measurement from clubhead speed.
To build reliable club distances, I would still use measured ball-flight information. Our guide to measuring your golf club distances explains why your ordinary carry matters more than the one you absolutely flushed.
I would use the S72's feedback to support a clear practice task. A screen full of numbers is only useful if you know which number matters. It still cannot choose your target or make you go through your routine.
What changes when you are on the course?
The S72 retains the sort of course information that makes premium Garmin watches appealing: mapping on your wrist, adjusted distances and club recommendations through Virtual Caddie.
The new aerial imagery adds another way to view the hole. Seeing the shape of a landing area could help you plan a lay-up or decide where you have room to miss, provided the relevant imagery is available.
Green reading uses green contour data to suggest an aim point after you set the pin position. It is a potentially useful learning tool, but it depends on the available course data and an accurately placed pin.
Garmin's new golf biometric data lets you review heart rate alongside your round. That may reveal patterns, but a change in heart rate will not explain every poor shot.
My approach would be to use information that helps you make a decision, then put your attention back on playing. There is no prize for spending the longest time looking at your wrist.
Which S72 features need a subscription?
The S72's core golf GPS functions and preloaded CourseView maps do not require a paid Garmin Golf membership. You can use it for normal golf distances without subscribing.
Garmin's announcement identifies these features as requiring an active Garmin Golf membership:
- Green contour data.
- Green reading.
- On-device aerial imagery.
- Putting analysis metrics.
That membership is purchased separately. Course coverage also matters, so check the data available for the courses you play before buying specifically for one of those features.
Connected features can need a compatible smartphone. For example, Garmin's wind speed and direction information requires phone pairing. Music services may have their own subscription requirements too.
For a broader comparison of straightforward yardage watches and premium models, see our 2026 golf GPS watch buying guide.
Should you choose the 43 mm or 47 mm?
Both sizes cost NZ$1,599 including GST. The main differences are fit, screen size, weight and battery life.
| Specification | S72 43 mm | S72 47 mm |
|---|---|---|
| AMOLED display | 1.3 inch | 1.4 inch |
| Listed weight | 41 g | 48 g |
| GPS battery life | Up to 15 hours | Up to 20 hours |
| Smartwatch battery life | Up to 10 days | Up to 16 days |
| Colour options | Heritage Bronze; Blush Pink | Black / Approach Red; Fog Grey / Citron |
The 43 mm makes sense if you prefer a smaller watch. The 47 mm gives you a larger display and more battery capacity. Garmin's figures are maximums; actual battery life varies with settings and use.
I would choose around wrist comfort first. The best screen in the world is not much use if the watch annoys you every time you swing.
Is it worth upgrading from an S70?
If you use an S70 for distances, course mapping and Virtual Caddie, you already have a capable golf watch. The S72 does not make those functions disappear.
The strongest reason to upgrade is wanting the new practice and swing feedback, alongside the lighter listed weight and different materials. If green reading or aerial imagery is the attraction, include the separate membership in your decision.
Garmin's listed GPS and smartwatch battery figures are the same for the corresponding S70 and S72 sizes. I would not buy an S72 expecting a battery-life upgrade over the equivalent S70.
If you are moving from a basic or much older watch, the wider premium feature set may be more compelling. If you mainly want front, middle and back yardages, a simpler model may still be better value. Our Garmin watch comparison covers those choices.
Is the Garmin Approach S72 available at Golf 360?
The 47 mm Garmin Approach S72 has arrived at Golf 360. The smaller 43 mm model is expected soon. Check the S72 product listing for current size and colour availability before ordering.
Final thoughts: my honest verdict
The S72 looks like a meaningful addition for golfers who enjoy practising with feedback and want Garmin's newest premium golf features.
I would be more interested in what its swing metrics teach me than in owning it simply because it is new. An S70 owner who is happy with their current watch can take their time.
If you are ready to upgrade, choose a comfortable size and make sure the features you want are included or covered by the relevant membership. Then give the information a job: a better target, a clearer practice task or a more sensible club choice.
Browse our Garmin golf watches, or visit the team in Mount Maunganui. And when you come to our driving range, bring a practice goal as well as a bucket of enthusiasm.
FAQs
What is the New Zealand price of the Garmin Approach S72?
Both the 43 mm and 47 mm S72 cost NZ$1,599 including GST at Golf 360. The 47 mm has arrived, and the 43 mm is expected soon. Garmin Golf membership for the identified premium features is purchased separately.
What are the main differences between the S72 and S70?
The S72 adds swing metrics, driving range activity, golf biometric data and membership features including green reading, aerial imagery and putting analysis. It also has sapphire crystal, a titanium bezel and a ComfortFit fabric band. Corresponding battery-life figures are unchanged.
Does the Garmin Approach S72 need a paid subscription?
Core golf GPS functions do not. Green contour data, green reading, aerial imagery and putting analysis require an active Garmin Golf membership. Check course coverage for the features you want.
Does the S72 replace a golf launch monitor?
No. Its swing metrics provide a different type of feedback. Use a launch monitor for measured ball-flight information such as carry distance, ball speed and spin.
Is the Garmin Approach S72 in stock?
The 47 mm S72 has arrived at Golf 360. The smaller 43 mm is expected soon. Check the product listing for current stock by size and colour before ordering.
Happy golfing,
Scott
