Garmin Approach G12
A compact GPS option for golfers who prefer not to wear a watch. Read the review and check the exact model before ordering.
Golf GPS Buying Centre
Choose the right GPS for the way you play.
Start with the format. GPS watches offer wrist-based convenience; handheld GPS devices provide a larger dedicated screen and clearer course mapping.
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GPS Watches
Glanceable distances, scoring, course maps and optional shot tracking directly on your wrist.
Browse six GPS watches →02
Handheld GPS
Larger displays, dedicated course navigation and straightforward distances without wearing a watch.
Browse six handheld devices →Golf watches are not all GPS watches
If you mean Rolex, luxury watches or the watches associated with professional golf rather than distance-measuring technology, visit our separate editorial section.
Explore Watches Golfers Wear →Watch or handheld: the decision in one minute
Pick a GPS watch if you want front, middle and back distances at a glance while walking to the ball. Pick a handheld if you would rather inspect a larger hole map, move a target on screen or avoid wearing a watch. A laser rangefinder is a different tool: it measures the flag or another visible target, while GPS can show hazards and the shape of a blind hole.
For most golfers, the useful question is whether you need a map on every hole or only a fast yardage. A basic watch can answer the second question without the size, charging routine and cost of a mapping model. A handheld earns its place when you regularly plan carries or lay-ups from the course map.
Five checks before choosing
- Screen and controls: can you read the yardage outdoors and use the controls with one hand during a round?
- Course information: check that the courses you play are covered and whether you need hazard distances, movable targets or only green yardages.
- Battery routine: compare golf-mode endurance with the number of rounds you play between charges. All-day smartwatch use is a separate consideration.
- Tracking: automatic shot tracking is worthwhile if you will review the rounds afterwards; otherwise avoid paying for a feature you will ignore.
- Ownership: check any app, membership or accessory requirement as well as the device price. Verify the current retailer listing before buying.
Where to start by budget
Below £300, compare the Shot Scope X5, Garmin Approach S44 and Bushnell iON Elite on the features you will actually use. The price band can change with retailer offers. If you want detailed mapping and a broader smartwatch experience, compare the higher-priced Garmin models against what the extra spend buys on the course.
GPS choices under £300 → · Compare GPS watches → · Compare handheld GPS →
A compact GPS option
Prefer not to wear a watch? Read our separate G12 review.
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