Home › GPS watches › Garmin Approach S50
Garmin Approach S50 review
How we assessed it: research-based, using manufacturer specifications, independent published testing, owner experience where useful and comparative analysis. How we review
The Garmin watch we would recommend to most golfers who want a modern AMOLED display and useful course guidance without paying S70 money.
Typical price: £319–£400 · Where to buy ↓
We may earn a commission if you buy through our retailer links, at no extra cost to you. How our links work.
What independent testing reveals
Golf Monthly’s Dan Parker found the S50 so light and comfortable that it barely intruded on his swing, with a clear screen and useful score reminders. The adjustable fabric strap was a particular strength for him. Some richer mapping functions needed a paid membership, so include those in the ownership decision.
Source: Golf Monthly — Dan Parker.
Read the detailed findings and test limitations
He used it over multiple rounds and for a month away from the course. Sampled yardages were generally within a few yards of his reference, while pairing with a Garmin laser added reassurance. This does not establish a precise accuracy limit for all rounds.
The report describes the model and software available during its original test. Check the version, current software access and supplied equipment before buying; historical prices are not current purchase terms.
The 30-second verdict
The S50 sits in the most useful part of Garmin’s range. It brings a bright AMOLED display, strong golf guidance and everyday fitness features into a lighter, more approachable package than the flagship S70. For most regular golfers, this is the sensible Garmin choice.
Buy it if
- You want a current-generation Garmin with a bright AMOLED screen
- You play regularly but do not need every flagship mapping feature
- You want one watch for golf, fitness and everyday wear
Look elsewhere if
- You want the deepest course mapping and premium features of the S70
- You only need simple front, middle and back yardages
- Shot tracking value matters more than Garmin’s wider ecosystem
Ready to buy?
If this is the model you have decided on, check the current Amazon UK price, stock and delivery before ordering.
Check today’s price on Amazon →We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Our score and verdict remain independent.Where to buy
Check the retailer for the current price. We may earn a commission from these links, at no extra cost to you. Retailer order never changes our scores. How our links work
Why this score
Our score: 92/100. Evidence-led editorial assessment drawing on manufacturer documentation, independent published testing, owner experience where useful, current UK market information and comparative analysis. The score is our buying judgement, not a measured performance margin.
What supports the recommendation
- Bright, modern AMOLED display
- Balanced golf and everyday features
Main trade-offs: Less detailed mapping than the S70; Still more expensive than basic GPS watches.
Evidence: Garmin press release · Andy's Golf Blog. How we use evidence · How we score
Key specifications
| Display | 1.2-inch colour AMOLED touchscreen |
|---|---|
| Battery, GPS mode | Up to 15 hours |
| Courses | 43,000+ preloaded |
| Golf features | Front, middle and back distances, Hazard View, PlaysLike Distance |
| Fitness and health | Heart rate, Body Battery, sleep and stress tracking |
| Smart features | Notifications, Garmin Pay and music streaming |
| Works with | Garmin CT10 club sensors, Approach Z30 laser and the Garmin Golf app |
| Launched | January 2025 |
Manufacturer and retailer figures, checked September 2026. Sources: Garmin press release · Andy's Golf Blog
Why it stands out
The S50 fills the gap below the flagship S70: an AMOLED screen and Garmin’s current golf software, without the S70’s price or its full feature list. It keeps the features most golfers use every round and trims those many players would rarely touch.
The AMOLED display is the most visible upgrade over older mid-range Garmin models, giving maps, yardages and menus a more modern presentation. It still provides useful golf information beyond basic distances.
Pros and cons
What works well
- Bright, modern AMOLED display
- Balanced golf and everyday features
- Garmin Golf app ecosystem
- More approachable than the flagship S70
What to consider
- Less detailed mapping than the S70
- Still more expensive than basic GPS watches
- Not the strongest pure shot-tracking value
- Casual golfers may not use its wider features
What you’ll also need
- Garmin Approach CT10 club sensorsAdds automatic shot tracking. Check Garmin’s list that your watch supports them.Search Amazon ↗
- Screen protectorCheap protection for a watch you wear every round. Buy one made for your exact model.Search Amazon ↗
- Spare Garmin charging cableKeep one in your golf bag for days you forget to charge.Search Amazon ↗
These links open Amazon’s search results so you can choose the size, version and seller. They are general suggestions, not products we have reviewed. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Owning it: warranty, returns and rules
| Manufacturer warranty | Garmin’s standard limited warranty is one year from the date of purchase. Warranty terms ↗ |
|---|---|
| Using it in competitions | Distance-measuring devices are allowed in most UK competitions under Rule 4.3a. Switch off slope, “plays like” and club-advice features, and check the competition terms: a committee can ban devices with Model Local Rule G-5. |
| Your rights when buying online | Bought online from a UK retailer, you can cancel within 14 days of delivery (Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013). If it is faulty you have 30 days to reject it for a full refund, and up to six years (five in Scotland) to claim for a fault that was there at delivery (Consumer Rights Act 2015). |
| Returns at the retailers we link to | Scottsdale Golf: 30 days from receipt, in original condition with packaging and an unused registration card. HotGolf: 14 working days from the day after delivery, unused, and you pay return postage. Amazon UK: most items sold by Amazon can be returned within 30 days. Affordable Golf: check its returns page before ordering. Always remove your personal data from GPS devices before returning them. |
Warranty and returns terms checked 5 October 2026. Retailers and manufacturers can change them, so check before you buy.
Alternatives to consider
Garmin Approach S70Our score 96/100 · Typical price: £449–£600The best maps and screen, for about £130 more.
Check prices
Garmin Approach S44Our score 89/100 · Typical price: £239–£300A simpler, cheaper AMOLED Garmin.
Check prices
Shot Scope V5Our score 90/100 · Typical price: £199–£240Shot tracking and stats with no subscription, for less.
Check pricesCompare it
Questions buyers ask
Is the Garmin S50 worth buying?
Yes. It is the most balanced modern Garmin for golfers who want a bright display and useful golf features without paying for the full S70 package.
Should I buy the S50 or S70?
Choose the S70 if you will use its deeper mapping and premium features regularly. Choose the S50 when you want the modern Garmin experience at a more sensible price.
Is the S50 better than the S62?
The S50 is newer, simpler and has a more modern display. The S62 offers deeper mapping, but only becomes the stronger buy when discounted substantially.
Is the S50 suitable for beginners?
Yes, particularly for beginners who want a watch they can continue using as their golf develops. A basic GPS watch is cheaper, but the S50 is easier to grow into.