Avid golfers fully understand the importance of using a GPS device to improve their golf game. A golf GPS device helps to take a golfer’s game to the next level. Even the best golfers claim that using a GPS wristwatch, handheld device, or GPS mobile app changed their game for the better.
The best golf GPS devices serve as a helpful tool for managing the course, allowing golfers to gather the right intel before taking a swing. In the past, the options for golf GPS devices were limited. All that has changed, though, and now golfers have hundreds of options, ranging from high-tech GPS watches to helpful rangefinders.
Deciding on the best golf GPS for you won't be easy, but this unbiased review on golf GPS devices can help. Our reviews cover watches, handheld units, and mobile apps all designed to help improve your golf game one stroke at a time.
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Golf GPS Devices Compared
Image | Product | Key Features | Number of Preloaded Courses | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
GolfBuddy Voice | Voice Technology | 38,000+ | ||
No products found. | Approach Z80 | Amazing Accuracy, Slope Assistance | 41,000+ | |
Bushnell Hybrid | Fully Integrated Laser/GPS Display | 36,000+ | ||
Bushnell Phantom | Bluetooth, Magnetic Mounting Technology | 36,000+ | ||
Garmin Approach X40 | Activity Tracking Capabilities | 41,000+ | ||
Garmin Fenix 5 Plus | Multisport Watch with Maps, Metrics, and More | 41,000+ | ||
Bushnell Neo Ion | Bluetooth, Long Battery Life | 35,000+ | ||
No products found. | Garmin S60 | Swing Analysis with TruSwing Technology | 41,000+ |
Advantages of Using Golf GPS Tracking Devices
The main advantage of using a golf GPS tracking device is that it can improve your golf skills. Saying that it can take your game to the next level is an understatement.
A lot of golfers don’t realize that having a bird’s eye view of the course allows for more strategic gameplay. Playing for position is much more important than playing for distance, and a GPS can help with this.
Here are some of the more specific advantages to investing in a golf GPS tracking device:
Choosing a High-Quality Golf GPS Device
Display Quality
What’s the point of investing in a golf GPS device if you can’t even see what’s being displayed on the screen? Screen size and display clarity are two very important considerations when choosing your high-quality golf GPS device. Players looking for the clearest overview of every hole need a device with crystal clear graphics. For the best display features, look for a device with a digital or LCD touch screen display.
Accuracy
One of the perks of using the best golf GPS device is that it provides the exact distance to each and every hole. This allows a golfer to choose the right club, and also avoid any course obstacles along the way. The best devices are nearly exact when it comes to location and distance accuracy, at least within a yard or two.
Accuracy has a lot to do with the golf course mapping features of a device.
Critical Golf says that “courses may be mapped by the device manufacturer, by a third party hired by the manufacturer, or by an end user either on the course or in their home. Depending on which mapping method is employed by the manufacturer, you can wind up with wildly different distance readings.”
Durability
Even if you're not generally rough on things, investing in a durable product is a must. On the flip side, it's also essential to find a portable and lightweight device that won't be a hassle to carry around or wear while on the course. A watch GPS device is more compact and lightweight than a handheld rangefinder.
Some golfers also feel that they are more durable since they stay in a fixed position, securely attached to the wrist during gameplay. Although handheld devices have their perks, they have a higher likelihood of becoming damaged. This is also a risk for mobile devices containing golf GPS apps.
App Integration with Smartphone
If you do choose to improve your golf game with an app, you’ll need to consider app integration. How well does the app work with your smartphone, if it even is compatible at all? The app you choose needs to be compatible with your specific smartphone. In other words, an app that is meant for Android devices won’t work on an iPhone.
App integration also refers to how easy it is to use the GPS application from a mobile device. Is it easy to navigate through the different functionalities of the app while on the course? Does the app provide you with relevant tips on how to improve your game? Answering yes to both of these questions is a must before paying for a golf GPS app download.
Preloaded Courses
No matter if you purchase a watch, handheld, or mobile GPS app for your golfing needs, you should have complete access to thousands of preloaded golf courses. These should come preinstalled on the unit or app. If you know which courses you enjoy playing most, make sure that these courses are included in the device you choose. There’s a good chance that they will be since most devices come with over 25,000 preloaded golf courses around the world.
Functionality/Convenience
Some golf GPS devices rank higher in functionality than others. Functionality depends on a few things, like the steps for setup, how easy it is to navigate the GPS features, and how to sync stored information with other devices. The speed of operation is another key feature. A slow-to-load golf GPS could have you waiting around all day instead of actually playing the game you love.
Extra Features
In the past, golf GPS devices were strictly used for distance and location navigation. Now, they have the potential to help with every aspect of a player’s game. The best devices come with a variety of extra features, like a voice-activated rangefinder, language preferences, and adjustable distance readings based on slope.
Battery Life, Charging Equipment
There’s nothing more annoying than a GPS golfing device dying halfway through the game. Considering battery life and charging doesn’t apply if you choose a golf GPS app. But it does play a huge role if you choose a watch or a handheld device. Look for a device that features at least 8 hours of battery life. Some even come with a portable USB charger and cable for on-the-go device recharging.
Price & Warranty
Depending on device accuracy and extra features, a golf GPS device can range anywhere from $100 to $500 or more. Cheaper devices are unlikely to come with features like slope assistance, and they are often less durable than the pricier models. The amount you spend is entirely up to you, but the beauty is that there is just one initial payment.
Once you’ve purchased your device, there are no annual fees to keep the GPS active. This is because the course maps can be downloaded for offline mode before you arrive at the course. There’s no need to pay for monthly data like you would be required to do for a GPS tracking device. Find a watch, handheld, or rangefinder that comes with a warranty. Warranties for golf GPS devices range from 90 days to 2 years.
8 Best Golf GPS Devices Reviewed
1. GolfBuddy Voice
Best Rated Golf GPS
Golf GPS Device Type | Versatile (Belt, Wrist, or Handheld) |
Smartphone Compatibility | No |
Battery Life | 9 Hours |
Key Features | Voice Technology |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 38,000+ |
Warranty | 90 Days |
The GolfBuddy Voice is our top pick for best-rated golf GPS. The main reason for its #1 ranking is the powerful audio technology. Players receive simple audio distance measuring updates for each hole. This means you won’t even need to take the device out of your pocket to gather intel while navigating the course. There are 8 preloaded language options to choose from.
In addition to audio capabilities, GolfBuddy Voice offers a dynamic green view for seeing the back, front, and center of the green. This lets players gauge the shape of the green and any hazards along the way. When you come to the course with the device fully charged, you’ll get 9 hours of battery life. You’ll be able to get 2 or even 3 rounds of golf in before having to recharge.
The visual display screen comes with a full set of enhanced features. For greater versatility, golfers have the option to purchase an array of GolfBuddy accessories, like the watch wristband or belt clip. Upon purchase, players get the change to enjoy access to over 38,000 preloaded courses around the world. If a new course opens near you, it’s possible to automatically update your GolfBuddy for free.
As the #1 trusted voice GPS for golfing, this talking GPS device will serve as your new best friend on the course. The main downside for golfers is that the device doesn’t offer tons of extra features. This is to be expected on a device so small, though. If you're looking for a simple, easy to use, and affordable device to improve your game, the GolfBuddy Voice is our top pick.
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2. Approach Z80
No products found.
Best Garmin Handheld Rangefinder
Golf GPS Device Type | Rangefinder |
Smartphone Compatibility | No |
Battery Life | 15 Hours |
Key Features | Amazing Accuracy, Slope Assistance |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 41,000+ |
Warranty | 1 Year |
The Approach Z80 Garmin Handheld Rangefinder isn’t the most affordable option for golfers looking to boost their game, but it’s a pretty amazing tool nonetheless. This rangefinder provides the most accurate laser distance measurements, measuring up to 350 yards within 10 inches of the flag. Most GPS rangefinders claim to measure within 1 yard of the flag. If you’re looking for the most detailed and accurate measurements, the Approach Z80 can give them to you.
Looking into the device gives players a whole new perspective on over 41,000 worldwide courses. The Approach Z80 gives you a full-colored view of the course plus a Green View 2D overlay for the specific hole you’re playing. It provides distance measurements to the front and back of the green, but the real magic happens once a player activates the rangefinding laser.
As soon as the laser is activated, you’ll receive measurements to the flag within 10 inches. Not only that, but you’ll receive highly accurate distances to hazards at the same time. Since there’s no need to range the distance to the flag and hazards in separate device features, this speeds up gameplay. Instead of fiddling around with your device, you can access the information quickly and get back to the game.
The rangefinder even helps players to navigate through uphill and downhill slopes. If you struggle with this feature, the Garmin support team can walk you through the process. Aside from the high price tag, there is really nothing else to complain about when it comes to the Approach Z80. Some players don’t love the bulky design and much prefer a slim watch GPS device, but that’s all about personal preference.
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3. Bushnell Hybrid
Best Bushnell Handheld Rangefinder
Golf GPS Device Type | Rangefinder |
Smartphone Compatibility | Yes |
Battery Life | Up to 4 Years |
Key Features | Fully Integrated Laser/GPS Display |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 36,000+ |
Warranty | 2 Years |
Anyone looking for a complete solution to improving golf skills should consider this Bushnell Hybrid device. This has been called the best Bushnell handheld rangefinder by golfers all over the world. This is mainly thanks to the fully integrated display featuring both laser and GPS yardages. The device uses 1 CR2 3-volt lithium battery; you don’t have to worry about running out of battery on the course with the extra battery included.
Like most rangefinders, the Bushnell Hybrid claims to provide accuracy up to 1 yard. The Garmin mentioned above is accurate up to 10 inches, but the much higher price tag of the Garmin is a turn off for some players. The Bushnell is the more affordable solution, but you’ll just have to accept that it might not be as accurate. That said, up to 1-yard accuracy is still extremely impressive.
By purchasing the Bushnell Hybrid Bundle, you'll receive everything you could possibly want for improved gameplay. This includes the device itself, a carrying case, a carabiner, a wearable lens cloth, a golf brush, and 2 CR2 batteries. If there’s something else you need, you’ll find it at the Bushnell parts and accessories store.
Bushnell uses an advanced PinSeeker with Jolt Technology, which provides the user with short vibrating pulses to confirm that the laser has locked onto the flag. Once locked on, receive exact distance measurements within 1 yard. After purchasing the Bushnell rangefinder, you can use the Bushnell Golf App for even more cool features, like hole layouts with distance, 3D flyovers, and wireless course updates.
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4. Bushnell Phantom
Best Cheap/Budget Option
Golf GPS Device Type | Versatile (Handheld, Belt Clip) |
Smartphone Compatibility | Yes |
Battery Life | 10 Hours |
Key Features | Bluetooth, Magnetic Mounting Technology |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 36,000+ |
Warranty | 1 Year |
One of the most budget-friendly options on the market is the Bushnell Phantom. The Phantom is similar in size and features to the GolfBuddy device reviewed above, with amazing versatility. The device comes with a Bite Magnetic Mount, which means it can be mounted onto a golf cart for easy viewing. During gameplay, simply remove the device from the cart and clip it onto your belt.
The Phantom Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless course updates, so you never have to worry about not having access to relevant course information. Although the display screen is small, the large digits make it easy to read front, center, and back distances as well as hazard distances. You’ll quickly figure out how to use the device interface but refer to the Phantom user manual for any questions.
Included with purchase is the Bushnell Golf App so that you can connect the device to your smartphone for even more cool features. By downloading the app and pairing it with the device, you'll receive advanced 3D flyovers of the course and aerial reviews of course layouts with distance measurements. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
One negative relating to the Phantom is that the device does not indicate battery life. When the battery dies, players don't receive any notice. The perk, however, is that the battery is meant to last for 2 full rounds of golf. If you come to the course with the device fully charged, you should have no problem. For the amazing price, this basic and easy-to-use golf GPS gets the job done.
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5. Garmin Approach X40
Best Activity Tracker GPS Golf Watch
Golf GPS Device Type | Watch |
Smartphone Compatibility | Yes |
Battery Life | 5 Days (Activity Mode) or 10 Hours (GPS) |
Key Features | Activity Tracking Capabilities |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 41,000+ |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Yet another Garmin to make the list of the best golf GPS devices reviewed, the Approach X40 is perfect for tracking activity. As the best activity tracker GPS golf watch on the market, a player can track every aspect of gameplay, all from this comfortable-to-wear wristwatch device. It works as a high-sensitivity GPS by quickly acquiring satellite signals to show distance measurements and hazards.
This golf and fitness tracker comes together in 1 sleek band. After measuring the distance to the flag, a player can monitor heart rate and track the overall activity. The Garmin activity tracking technology reminds players to stay active, both on and off the course. The real perk of investing in a combination activity tracker/GPS golf watch is that you can keep it on all the time. It’s just like wearing a Fitbit or Apple Watch.
When off the course and the device remains in activity mode, the battery is expected to last up to 5 days. Once the GPS is activated, you can expect 10 full hours of battery. The main downside is the small display, which is just 1 x .42 inches. However, the displayed numbers are large enough to see simply by looking down at your wrist.
Some players love that this watch vibrates for incoming calls, texts, and other alerts, while others don’t love this feature. They find it distraction while on the course, but this can easily be avoided by switching off the device’s smart notifications. The Approach X40 manual gives you step-by-step instructions on how to do this.
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6. Garmin Fenix 5 Plus
Best Smartwatch with Golf GPS
Golf GPS Device Type | Watch |
Smartphone Compatibility | Yes |
Battery Life | 12 Days (Watch Mode) or 8 Hours (GPS) |
Key Features | Multisport Watch with Maps, Metrics, and More |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 41,000+ |
Warranty | 1 Year |
With so many wristwatch golfing devices to choose from, deciding on the best golf GPS watch for you can be challenging… until you come across the Garmin Fenix 5 Plus. The Fenix 5 is a multisport GPS watch, equipped with everything from wrist heart rate technology to detailed colored golf course maps. The watch can be used for traditional navigation on roads or navigating through a round of golf.
The rugged design of the Fenix 5 Plus features stainless steel, titanium, and diamond-like carbon, which basically makes this device one of the most durable on the market. It does so much more than just improve a golfer’s game. In addition to providing accurate distance measurements to the flag and hazards, the Fenix can sync with music streaming services like Spotify and Pandora. It even allows a user to make convenient payments, right from the watch.
To be completely honest, if you're just looking for a GPS device to enhance your golf game, paying the high cost of the Fenix 5 Plus isn't necessary. But if you're searching for an all-in-one tool for staying connected, this is a fantastic choice. The sleek design comes in multiple color options, and it looks good no matter where you choose to wear it.
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7. Bushnell Neo Ion
Best Bushnell Golf GPS Watch
Golf GPS Device Type | Watch |
Smartphone Compatibility | Yes |
Battery Life | 15 Hours |
Key Features | Bluetooth, Long Battery Life |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 35,000+ |
Warranty | 1 Year |
From this list of reviewed golf GPS devices, it’s obvious that Bushnell is a leading name in the industry. Millions of golfers have been using Bushnell devices for years, and many of them will continue to use Bushnell products for the rest of their lives. Whether you’re one of them or you’re new to the brand, you’ll love the Bushnell Neo Ion. This is the best Bushnell golf GPS watch, and not just for its sporty design.
The sleek and comfortable design features a reversible band and comes in several colors, including white/blue, charcoal/orange, and black/green. It comes with a silicone sports band, keeping it comfortable even after a full day on the course. The device itself features auto course recognition and auto hole advance. The screen displays easy-to-read front, back, and center distances with information on up to 4 hazards per hole.
Some golfers don't love that this device doesn't include slope adjustments, but others actually prefer it this way. To legally use a device during a golf tourney, measuring slope is not allowed. If you plan on using this for a tournament, you’re in the clear according to the rules of the United States Golf Association.
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8. Garmin S60
No products found.
Best Garmin Golf GPS Watch
Golf GPS Device Type | Watch |
Smartphone Compatibility | Yes |
Battery Life | 10 Days (Watch Mode) or 10 Hours (GPS) |
Key Features | Swing Analysis with TruSwing Technology |
Number of Preloaded Courses | 41,000+ |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Any avid golfers who are shopping around for Garmin devices should consider the Garmin S60 device. This is, without a doubt, the best Garmin golf GPS watch, and it has a lot to do with the fact that it was designed for both on and off the golf course. You can go from home to the golf club and back again with the device securely strapped to your wrist.
This device was designed to provide helpful information during gameplay while also looking stylish off the course. The coolest feature of the Garmin S60 is the touchscreen display. Players can navigate through features like slope adjustments, Auto-Shot tracking, PinPointer, Swing Analysis, Touch Targeting, and more by merely touching the screen.
The screen was not only design for touch capability, but also for protecting a player's eyes from the sun. The sunlight-readable display is easy to read, even on the sunniest days. Players can clearly see precise yardages to greens, hazards, and doglegs along the way, and detailed full-colored maps of each hole. The device comes with over 41,000 preloaded courses and instantly updates when new course information becomes available.
Many golfers claim that this device actually did help to improve their game. Part of the reason for this is the post-game analysis offered by the Garmin Connect mobile app. Another reason is that this device comes with more sensors to improve detection accuracy. So if you’re hoping to improve your game with the best Garmin golf GPS watch, the S60 can help you to achieve that goal.
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How Golf GPS Systems Work
Nasa offers clear insight into how GPS devices work:
“GPS is a system of 30+ navigation satellites circling Earth. We know where they are because they constantly send out signals. A GPS receiver in your phone listens for these signals. Once the receiver calculates its distance from four or more GPS satellites, it can figure out where you are.”
All GPS systems work in this way, including devices meant for golfers. The specific instructions for use vary depending on the type of device you choose (watch, handheld, or app). But the overall process for tracking location is the same, no matter the device.
Types of Golf GPS Devices
Smartphone Golf GPS Apps
Golfing with an additional device isn't for everyone, which is where a smartphone golf GPS app comes into play. By downloading a GPS app for golfing onto your mobile device, you can use your phone for gameplay, no handheld, or watch GPS required.
Best Free Golf GPS App
The Hole19 Golf GPS & Scoring app is available on both iOS devices and Android devices. It provides players with accurate GPS distances, digital scorecards, status tracking tools, and over 42,000 courses to choose from. It’s as accurate as using a dedicated caddie. The best part of all? You get all this and more, completely free of charge.
Best Golf GPS App for iPhone
For any golfers in need of an iPhone golf GPS tool, Golfshot Plus: Golf GPS + AR is a top pick. The app uses augmented reality to experience the course in a brand new way. A player can visualize and plan the round with 3D previews of the entire course. It even utilizes Siri to activate the Voice Caddie feature, which provides info on each hole and real-time distances.
Best Golf GPS App for Android
If you don’t have an iPhone, downloading the Golfshot Plus app isn’t an option. The alternative is to download the Golf GPS Rangefinder: Golf Pad for Android devices. This free golf GPS tool functions as a rangefinder, scorecard, and shot tracker. The coolest feature is the satellite viewing with an aerial flyover. This offers amazing views of the course you’re playing - there are over 40,000 courses to choose from.
Watch vs Handheld: Which Is Best?
When it comes to the watch vs. handheld debate, the one you choose depends entirely on your personal preferences. Using a GPS watch is perfect for players who don't want to carry around a handheld GPS device from hole to hole.
However, not all players enjoy using a watch GPS due to the small size of the screen. If you’re looking for a more complete tool for navigating a course, a handheld device might be the better choice for you.
Best Way to Use Golf GPS Devices
Golf GPS Watch
One of the most-loved features of a golf GPS watch is its ease of use. To start using the device, simply follow the manufacturer's setup instructions. Once the device is charged, and the setup is complete, you can use this video tutorial as a guide before starting a round of golf.
Golf GPS Rangefinder
Because a golf GPS rangefinder is larger in size, it often comes with more features than you would typically find in a GPS watch. Each rangefinder model is different from the next, so reading the device’s User Manual is more even more crucial if you opt for a handheld device. This getting started with the Garmin rangefinder can help to clear up any confusion.
Golf GPS Device Maintenance
Since a GPS watch device is securely strapped to a player’s wrist during each round of golf, the possibility of damage is much lower with this type of device. Regardless of the device type you choose, though, some maintenance is required to keep a golf GPS system in perfect working condition. Follow these tips for golf GPS device maintenance:
Common Issues & Fixes
The most common issues experienced by golf GPS devices are related to connectivity. When the device fails to connect to the overhead satellites, a player won’t be able to get a proper signal.
This could be due to poor weather conditions, like rain or cloudy skies, or large obstructions. To fix connectivity issues, you can try to reset your device. Information on resetting will be found in the device’s user manual.
People also Ask (FAQs)
How do I update my golf GPS watch?
Updating a golf GPS is essential for keeping your device software healthy, plus it keeps a player up to date on the latest and greatest golf courses around the world. For performing a watch update, take the Garmin GPS watch as an example. Start by connecting the device to a laptop/computer with a USB cable and following the on-screen instructions provided.
Can GPS work without an internet connection?
An internet connection isn’t required for a GPS watch to function. It’s possible to download course maps to a device beforehand, which means a player can navigate a course with no data or WiFi whatsoever.
Are golf GPS devices legal to use during tournaments?
In the past, GPS devices were strictly forbidden during golf tournaments. These rules recently changed to allow GPS devices to be used during tournaments. There are, however, certain restrictions, which players need to familiarize themselves with.
What does slope mean in a rangefinder for golf?
Slope for golf rangefinders refers to a change in elevation between 2 points. A hole with an uphill or downhill slope is something that every golfer needs to consider before teeing off. According to Fairway First Golf, a rangefinder “will give you two readings: the actual distance to the hole and an adjusted slope distance. That is, a distance to shoot for given the slope that the rangefinder has calculated.”
Can pro golfers use GPS devices?
Yes, and some of the best of them do! GPS devices in the PGA Tour first became allowed in 2017. Of course, some rules come along with using a golf GPS at a professional level.
Does golf GPS apps use data for iPhone?
A round of golf can take up quite a bit of time, so it's reasonable to wonder how much data your GPS app uses. Golf apps use a very small amount of data as long as course maps are downloaded to a device beforehand (while connected to WiFi).
Can golf watches fit both men and women?
Absolutely. Golfing isn’t just a man’s game, so golf GPS watches are designed to fit both men and women. However, it’s a good idea to read into the watchband size information if you have overly small or large wrists.
Which brands make the best golf GPS devices?
Garmin is a top contender for creating the best golf GPS devices. This makes complete sense since Garmin is the leader in the traditional GPS industry. Other top brands include Bushnell and GolfBuddy.
Does Apple watch do golf GPS?
Apple Watch isn’t just useful for getting fit and staying connected. The watch itself is not equipped with golf GPS capabilities, but there are plenty of golf GPS apps that are compatible with the Apple Watch. Browse the App Store for the best golf GPS app for Apple Watch, such as Golf GPS, Hole19, and Golfshot.
Does Fitbit Versa have a golf GPS?
Yes, the Fitbit Versa does have golf GPS capabilities. Some users have difficulty downloading golf GPS onto the watch, so you might need to reach out to the Fitbit customer support team.
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a handheld or watch GPS device for golfing, the GolfBuddy is an amazing choice. It doesn’t come with tons of features, but this makes it easy to use and highly accurate. The main thing we love about the GolfBuddy device is its versatility. It can be used as a handheld device, worn as a watch, or clipped to a belt.