Garmin has become one of the biggest names in golf technology, and for good reason.
Modern Garmin golf watches can help golfers with:
- distances
- hazards
- score tracking
- shot data
- course management
- and overall convenience on the course
But with several different Garmin golf watches available, choosing the right one can get confusing quickly.
This guide breaks down the Garmin golf watch range we currently stock at Golf 360 and explains which type of golfer each model is best suited to.
👉View our Garmin golf watches here
Why Golfers Love Garmin Watches
One of the biggest advantages of Garmin golf watches is convenience.
Instead of:
- pulling out a rangefinder every shot
- checking sprinkler heads
- or using your phone constantly
…you simply glance at your wrist and get quick information instantly.
For many golfers, that makes the game:
- simpler
- faster
- and more enjoyable
Garmin watches can provide:
- front, middle and back distances
- hazard yardages
- layup distances
- score tracking
- stat tracking
- and much more depending on the model
Garmin Approach S70
The Premium Flagship Option
The Garmin S70 is Garmin’s premium golf watch and genuinely feels very high-end.
The standout feature immediately is the screen quality.
It’s bright, sharp, modern-looking, and extremely easy to read on the golf course.
The S70 is designed for golfers wanting:
- premium features
- premium appearance
- advanced golf functionality
- and a more complete smartwatch experience
Best suited to:
- Serious golfers
- Frequent golfers
- Golfers wanting premium technology
- Players who enjoy detailed golf data
Standout Features
- Premium AMOLED display
- Detailed course visuals
- Advanced golf data
- Smartwatch functionality
- Excellent overall user experience
Garmin Approach S50
A Great Mid-Range Balance
The Garmin S50 sits nicely in the middle of the range.
It offers a strong balance between:
- features
- usability
- appearance
- and price
For golfers wanting more than just basic yardages, but not necessarily needing every premium feature available, the S50 makes a lot of sense.
Best suited to:
- Regular golfers
- Mid handicappers
- Golfers wanting a balance of features and value
👉 View the Garmin Approach S50 here
Garmin Approach S44
Simple, Modern & User-Friendly
The S44 is another really appealing option for golfers wanting modern Garmin technology without overcomplicating things.
A lot of golfers simply want:
- reliable distances
- easy usability
- and a clean interface
…and the S44 fits that role nicely.
Best suited to:
- Everyday golfers
- Golfers upgrading from older GPS devices
- Players wanting straightforward usability
👉 View the Garmin S44 here
Garmin Approach S12
Great Value & Simplicity
The Garmin S12 continues to be a very popular option because it focuses on simplicity and value.
Some golfers genuinely do not want:
- endless menus
- advanced stat tracking
- or complicated technology
They simply want:
- quick distances
- good battery life
- and easy operation
The S12 does exactly that.
Best suited to:
- Beginner golfers
- Social golfers
- Seniors
- Golfers wanting simplicity and affordability
What Golfers Like About the S12
- Easy to use
- Lightweight feel
- Strong battery life
- Great value pricing
Garmin Approach J1 Junior Watch
A Fun Introduction to Golf Technology
The Garmin Junior watch is a cool option for younger golfers getting into the game.
It introduces kids to:
- golf technology
- yardages
- and course awareness
…in a simple and approachable way.
For parents wanting to encourage junior golf participation, it can be a really fun addition.
Best suited to:
- Junior golfers
- Kids learning the game
- Golf families
👉 View the Garmin Approach J1 Golf Watch here
Garmin Watch vs Rangefinder
This is a question golfers ask all the time.
Honestly, both have advantages.
Garmin Watch Advantages
- Instant access to distances
- Faster play
- Hazard information
- Hands-free convenience
Rangefinder Advantages
- Exact pin distances
- Better for precise flag targeting
- Great for approach shots
A lot of golfers eventually end up using both.
Are Garmin Golf Watches Worth It?
In my opinion, yes.
Especially for golfers who play regularly.
Once golfers get used to:
- quick yardages
- hazard information
- and having GPS on the wrist
…it becomes hard to go back.
Garmin watches can help golfers:
- make decisions faster
- improve course management
- and stay more engaged with their game
Which Garmin Golf Watch Should Most Golfers Buy?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Watch | Best Suited To |
|---|---|
| S70 | Premium serious golfer |
| S50 | Strong all-round balance |
| S44 | Simple modern usability |
| S12 | Best value and simplicity |
| Junior Watch | Young golfers |
Final Thoughts
One of the best things about Garmin’s golf watch range is that there’s now an option for almost every type of golfer.
Some golfers want:
- premium visuals
- advanced tracking
- and smartwatch functionality
Others simply want:
- fast yardages
- simplicity
- and convenience
The key is choosing the model that best matches:
- how often you play
- how much information you want
- and how much technology you actually enjoy using
👉 View the Garmin Golf GPS Watch Range here.Â
And if you’re unsure which Garmin watch suits your game best, feel free to chat with the team at Golf 360.
FAQs
What is the best Garmin golf watch?
The Garmin S70 is Garmin’s premium flagship model with advanced features and a premium display.
Which Garmin golf watch is easiest to use?
The Garmin S12 is one of the simplest and most user-friendly options.
Are Garmin golf watches accurate?
Yes. Garmin golf watches provide very reliable GPS yardages and course information.
Is a Garmin watch better than a rangefinder?
They both have advantages. Many golfers eventually use both for different situations.
Are Garmin golf watches worth it for beginners?
Absolutely. Even basic GPS distances can help simplify club selection and improve confidence.
Happy golfing
Scott Pickett
PGA Professional
Founder - Golf 360
Mount Maunganui
