10 Best Garmin Golf GPS Devices 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Approach R50 is a premium golf launch monitor and simulator featuring a bright 10-inch color touchscreen for easy interaction both on the course and at the range. It uses a 3-camera system to provide detailed swing metrics such as ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate, offering precise feedback to help golfers improve their game. The device supports an extensive course library of over 43,000 courses via the Home Tee Hero platform, enabling virtual rounds and online competitions, though this requires an active subscription. Battery life is about 4 hours, suitable for typical practice sessions, but may need recharging for extended use.

Portability is enhanced by an included carrying case, although the device weighs around 9 pounds, which may not be the lightest option. The built-in barometer improves accuracy by adjusting distance calculations based on atmospheric conditions, enhancing outdoor performance. Users can also connect the R50 to a monitor or projector through HDMI for a larger viewing experience, a useful feature for home practice setups.

The device includes essentials such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity and touchscreen control. It is well-suited for serious golfers seeking detailed swing data and virtual play, while casual users may find the subscription requirement and device weight less convenient.

The Garmin Approach R50 Premium Golf Launch Monitor and Simulator is designed to help golfers improve their game by providing detailed swing metrics and shot analysis. It features a large 10-inch color touchscreen with good resolution, making navigation through courses and reviewing swings straightforward and visually clear. The device offers advanced measurements like ball speed, launch angle, and spin rate, using a 3-camera system to ensure precise data, which is excellent for players wanting in-depth feedback. It covers over 43,000 courses across North America, providing plenty of options for virtual play and practice.

Battery life is around 4 hours, which should be sufficient for a typical round of golf, though longer sessions may require recharging. The included Wearable4U portable 5000mAh power bank adds convenience for charging on the go. The device comes with 250 club tracking stickers to enhance accuracy, ensuring that club-specific data is reliable.

The touchscreen interface combined with Bluetooth connectivity offers a smooth user experience, although some features like virtual rounds require a subscription. The monitor is portable and comes with a carrying case, making it easy to bring to the course. While the product does not explicitly specify water resistance or ruggedness, its design and included case indicate suitability for typical outdoor conditions, though it may require careful handling in wet weather. This device is well-suited for golfers focused on detailed swing analysis and course simulation, particularly those aiming to improve their technique rather than casual GPS navigation alone. Some users may find the relatively short battery life and subscription requirement for certain features to be drawbacks.

The Garmin Approach S50 is a golf GPS smartwatch designed to enhance your time on the course by providing accurate distances and useful features right on your wrist. Its 1.2-inch AMOLED color display is bright and clear, making it easy to read course details and hazards, which is a big help when planning your shots. With over 43,000 preloaded courses mainly across North America, it offers extensive course coverage for most golfers. The battery life supports up to 15 hours in GPS mode—enough for a full day of golf—and extends to 10 days if used just as a smartwatch, which means less frequent charging is needed.

You get smart distance measurements to the front, middle, and back of greens, plus a feature that adjusts distances for elevation changes to give a truer shot yardage. The watch pairs with optional club trackers for detailed shot analysis, adding value if you want to dive deeper into improving your game. Beyond golf, it tracks heart rate and other health stats to help maintain overall fitness, which might be a bonus if you enjoy a well-rounded wearable. It also supports contactless payments and music streaming, making it versatile off the course.

The nylon strap is comfortable and lightweight, although some may prefer a more durable material for rougher use. The device is user-friendly with both touchscreen and button controls, simplifying navigation even for those new to golf GPS watches. Some users might find the battery life in GPS mode a bit limited if playing back-to-back rounds, but for most, it strikes a good balance. The Approach S50 mixes useful golf-focused tools with smartwatch conveniences, making it ideal for golfers who want accurate course info plus fitness and lifestyle features in one device.