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Garmin Approach S70 review: is it worth the premium?
How we assessed it: research-based, using manufacturer specifications, independent published testing, owner experience where useful and comparative analysis. How we review
The strongest all-round premium GPS watch for golfers who want detailed mapping, a bright AMOLED display and course-management features such as a virtual caddie.
Typical price: £449–£600 · Where to buy ↓
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What independent testing reveals
Golf Monthly found the S70 comfortable to swing in, with clear course maps and intuitive controls. Its practical appeal is having useful golf information and everyday fitness features together on your wrist. The larger model was the one tested, so try the available sizes if comfort is a priority.
Source: Golf Monthly — Mike Bailey, with Joel Tadman.
Read the detailed findings and test limitations
The reviewer liked the improved maps and adjustable pin position. Green contours showed the main slopes rather than every subtle break, so they were a guide rather than a substitute for reading the green.
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 S70 is expensive, but it is the most complete GPS watch in this shortlist. Buy it for the display, mapping and polished on-course experience—not simply because it has the longest feature list.
Buy it if
- You play regularly and want detailed course mapping
- You value a premium display and straightforward controls
- You want golf features alongside everyday smartwatch functions
Look elsewhere if
- You mainly need front, middle and back yardages
- You play only occasionally or have a strict budget
- A smaller, simpler watch would suit you better
Where to buy
HotGolf — £449 · Price checked 1 Nov 2026 · Check price ↗
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: 96/100. 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
- Large, high-resolution AMOLED display
- Detailed colour course maps
Main trade-offs: High purchase price; More functionality than occasional golfers need.
Evidence: TechRadar review. How we use evidence · How we score
Key specifications
| Sizes | 42 mm and 47 mm |
|---|---|
| Display | AMOLED touchscreen: 390 × 390 (42 mm) or 454 × 454 (47 mm) |
| Battery, smartwatch mode | Up to 10 days (42 mm) or 16 days (47 mm) |
| Battery, GPS mode | Up to 15 hours (42 mm) or 20 hours (47 mm) |
| Courses | 43,000+ preloaded |
| Golf features | Virtual caddie club suggestions, 3D hole views, shot tracking and scoring, PlaysLike Distance |
| Garmin Golf membership | Optional; adds green contours and extra features (£8.99 a month or £89.99 a year) |
| Weight and water rating | 44 g (42 mm) or 56 g (47 mm); 5 ATM |
| UK RRP at launch | £549.99 (42 mm) or £599.99 (47 mm); launched May 2023 |
Manufacturer and retailer figures, checked September 2026. Sources: TechRadar review
Why it stands out
The S70’s case rests on its display and mapping: a large AMOLED touchscreen, detailed colour course maps with 3D hole views, a virtual caddie and PlaysLike Distance, backed by Garmin’s golf app. That is far more depth than a basic yardage watch — worth paying for only if you will use it.
Pros and cons
What works well
- Large, high-resolution AMOLED display
- Detailed colour course maps
- Quick access to yardages and hazards
- Smartwatch features for everyday wear
What to consider
- High purchase price
- More functionality than occasional golfers need
- Large case may not suit every wrist
- Best value depends on using its advanced 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 S50Our score 92/100 · Typical price: £319–£400Most of the S70’s experience for about £130 less.
Check prices
Shot Scope X5Our score 91/100 · Typical price: £220–£280Automatic shot tracking with no subscription.
Check prices
Garmin Approach S44Our score 89/100 · Typical price: £239–£300A bright AMOLED Garmin at a much lower price.
Check pricesCompare it
Questions buyers ask
Is the Garmin S70 worth the premium price?
It is easiest to justify for regular golfers who will use the detailed mapping, bright display and broader Garmin feature set. Occasional golfers can spend considerably less without losing the essential yardage information.
Should I buy the S70 or the Garmin S50?
Choose the S70 for the most complete mapping and premium experience. Choose the S50 when you want a modern Garmin watch at a more accessible price and do not need every advanced feature.
Can the S70 replace a laser rangefinder?
For many golfers it can provide all the course-management information they need. A laser remains useful when you specifically want an exact line-of-sight distance to a chosen target.
Is the S70 suitable for beginners?
Yes, but it may be more product than a beginner needs. A simpler Garmin model is usually better value unless the golfer specifically wants premium mapping and expects to use the watch frequently.