If you’re deciding between an Apple Watch and a Garmin for golf, here’s the bottom line: Garmin is the better choice for serious golfers, while the Apple Watch is ideal if you want a multi-purpose smartwatch that also works for golf.
- Garmin excels in golf-specific features like preloaded courses, automatic shot tracking, and long battery life (up to 30 hours in GPS mode). It’s ready to use out of the box, with no need for extra apps or subscriptions.
- Apple Watch relies on third-party apps (like Golfshot or Arccos) for golf functionality, which often require additional costs. However, it integrates seamlessly with your iPhone and offers excellent fitness and lifestyle features.
- Battery life is a key difference: Garmin watches last multiple rounds, while the Apple Watch (even the Ultra) typically needs charging after one long game.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Garmin (e.g., Approach S62/S70) | Apple Watch (e.g., Ultra 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Golf Tools | Built-in | Requires apps (e.g., Golfshot) |
| Battery Life (GPS) | 15–30 hours | 6–17 hours |
| Preloaded Courses | 43,000+ | App-dependent |
| Shot Tracking | Automatic (AutoShot) | Manual or sensor-based |
| Price Range | $199.99–$649.99 | $249–$799 + app fees |
If golf is your priority, Garmin offers a better golf-first experience without additional subscriptions. If you value versatility and already own an iPhone, the Apple Watch is a solid all-around choice.
Apple Watch vs Garmin Golf Watch Comparison: Features, Battery Life, and Pricing
Apple Watch for Golf Players
Golf Features
The Apple Watch takes its golf game to the next level by relying on third-party apps for tracking and analysis. Some popular choices include Golfshot, Arccos Caddie, Hole19, GolfLogix, and SwingU. These apps transform the watch into a GPS rangefinder, offering precise course data right on your wrist.
One standout feature is swing analysis, powered by watchOS 10’s high-frequency motion API. Golfshot’s "Swing ID" feature, for example, tracks critical metrics like tempo, rhythm, backswing, and wrist path. Alex Flores, Chief Growth Officer at Golfshot, highlights its impact:
"Innovative features including Auto Shot Tracking and Swing ID – both powered by Apple Watch and sophisticated machine learning – truly help golfers improve their game by giving real-time, personalized data".
Shot tracking capabilities vary between apps. Arccos Caddie, for instance, uses physical sensors attached to club grips (priced at $199 for the set) and offers automated shot detection along with AI-driven club recommendations that consider slope, weather, and altitude. Meanwhile, Roundabout eliminates the need for extra hardware, using AI "breadcrumbs" to predict shot locations, with subscription tiers ranging from $19.99 to $119.99 annually.
For players working on their putting, GolfLogix offers 3D flyovers and heat maps that illustrate green breaks and speeds, making it easier to read putts. Many of these apps also allow you to leave your iPhone in your golf bag, delivering GPS distances and score tracking directly on the watch .
| App Name | Key Strength | Courses | Annual Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golfshot | Swing Analytics (Swing ID) | 46,000+ | $69.99 – $89.98 |
| Arccos | AI Rangefinder & Sensors | 40,000+ | $199 (Sensors + 1yr) |
| TheGrint | Official Handicap & Social | N/A | $39.99 |
| GolfLogix | Green Heat Maps | 35,000+ | $59.88 |
| SwingU | Budget/Free Option | 13,000+ | Free / $99.99 |
| Roundabout | Auto-Shot Detection | N/A | $19.99 – $119.99 |
GPS Accuracy and Usability
The Apple Watch’s performance on the golf course heavily depends on its GPS capabilities. Models like the Apple Watch Ultra 2 shine in this area, offering enhanced GPS accuracy and a 3,000-nit display that remains visible even in bright sunlight . However, if you rely on your iPhone’s GPS and leave it in the cart, yardage readings may become less reliable as you move away.
Navigating the watch’s touchscreen can require more interaction compared to dedicated golf watches, but features like the "Double Tap" gesture on Series 9 and Ultra 2 make one-handed use easier – handy when carrying clubs or wearing gloves.
In terms of course coverage, Golfshot provides GPS data for over 46,000 courses worldwide, Arccos spans 40,000+ courses, and SwingU’s free version supports around 13,000 courses .
Battery Life and Durability
Battery life is a crucial factor for golfers. While standard Apple Watch models may struggle to last through an 18-hole round when using GPS, the Ultra 2 can handle extended play with up to 12 hours of battery life. John Hawley, CTO of Golfshot, shared his thoughts:
"To run a workout or monitoring motion data and to have that big bright display you can see out in the sun and have battery to spare is really pretty amazing… With the Ultra, it’s no problem".
Durability is another strong point for the Ultra 2, which features a rugged titanium case and flat sapphire crystal display designed for outdoor use. While standard models are water-resistant enough for rain, they’re not as tough as the Ultra 2. These hardware features make the watch a reliable companion for both golf and other outdoor activities.
Fitness and Lifestyle Integration
The Apple Watch isn’t just for golf – it’s a multifunctional smartwatch that fits seamlessly into your daily routine. It tracks key health metrics like heart rate and calorie burn, syncing effortlessly with the Apple Health ecosystem. Cellular models even let you stay connected on the course, with the ability to receive calls, texts, and notifications without your iPhone.
The watch also integrates with other Apple products, including AirPods and Apple Pay, and connects to portable launch monitors like the Full Swing KIT and Flightscope Mevo+. This allows you to toggle clubs and view performance metrics directly from your wrist. Whether you’re on the course or off, the Apple Watch offers a blend of golf-specific tools and everyday convenience.
Pricing and Subscriptions
Apple Watch models range in price from $249 for the SE to around $800 for the Ultra 2. Beyond the hardware, app subscriptions add to the overall cost:
- Golfshot Pro: $69.99 – $89.98/year
- Arccos Caddie: $199 (Sensors + 1yr)
- 18Birdies Premium: $99.99/year
- TheGrint Pro: $39.99/year
- GolfLogix: $59.88/year
- Hole19 Premium: $49.99/year
- Roundabout: $19.99 – $119.99/year
When budgeting, make sure to account for both the watch itself and the ongoing app subscriptions.
Garmin Golf Watches for Golf Players
Golf Features
Garmin packs its golf watches with tools designed to make your game more seamless – no extra apps needed. Most models come preloaded with over 43,000 golf courses from around the world, so you can dive right in without downloading anything.
For those looking for an edge, premium models like the Approach S70 and S62 include a Virtual Caddie. This feature acts as your personal advisor, analyzing your past shots and factoring in wind speed and direction to recommend the best club for each shot. Another standout tool, PlaysLike Distance, adjusts yardages based on elevation, temperature, and air pressure, giving you a more accurate read for tricky uphill or downhill shots.
Garmin AutoShot™ takes the guesswork out of tracking your shots by automatically recording distances during your round. Afterward, you can review your performance in the free Garmin Golf app to identify areas for improvement. For approach shots, Green View allows you to place the pin manually for precise yardages, while PinPointer acts as a compass during blind shots, guiding you toward the green.
| Model | Key Golf Features | Preloaded Courses | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach S12 | Yardage (front/middle/back), Scorekeeping | 42,000+ | $199.99 |
| Approach S42 | AutoShot, Smart Notifications | 42,000+ | $299.99 |
| Approach S62 | Virtual Caddie, PlaysLike, Wind Data | 41,000+ | $499.99 |
| Approach S70 | AMOLED Map, Virtual Caddie, Green Contours | 43,000+ | $549.99 – $649.99 |
Most features, including the essentials, work without a subscription. However, advanced tools like Green Contours (which shows slope directions on greens) and Enhanced CourseView maps require a Garmin Golf membership, priced at $9.99/month or $99.99/year.
GPS Performance and Ease of Use
Garmin’s golf watches stand out for their precision GPS technology, which is the same used in their aviation and marine equipment. This ensures accuracy within +/- 4 yards of actual distances. Paul Liberatore, founder of Golfers Authority, highlights this capability:
"Precision stands at the forefront of the Approach S62’s GPS capabilities, providing accuracy that rivals traditional laser rangefinders and on-cart systems".
Unlike the Apple Watch, which may depend on your iPhone’s GPS and lose accuracy if left in the cart, Garmin watches feature built-in GPS. This means it measures distances directly from your wrist, updating yardages automatically as you move between holes.
In professional testing, the Garmin Approach S6 scored an impressive 96 out of 100 for accuracy, with measurements consistently within 4 yards of physical course markers. Plus, the transflective displays on most models stay clear in bright sunlight. The Approach S62, for instance, boasts a screen that’s 17% larger than its predecessor, making it even easier to read.
Battery Life and Rugged Design
Garmin complements its GPS precision with robust battery life and durable construction. The Approach S12, for example, offers an impressive 30 hours of GPS battery life, while the S62 and S70 provide up to 20 hours on a single charge. Brandon Tucker, Senior Managing Editor at GolfPass, raves about the S62’s endurance:
"The Approach S62 battery life is excellent! Hallelujah! … You can go on a weekend golf trip and not even bring the charger".
Premium models are built to last, featuring ceramic bezels and Corning Gorilla Glass for scratch resistance. All models are water-rated to at least 5 ATM (50 meters), making them suitable for rain, swimming, and more. If you’re looking for luxury, the MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) offers Grade-5 titanium construction and up to 16 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
Multisport and Health Features
Garmin golf watches go beyond the course, offering tools to monitor heart rate, sleep quality, stress levels, and even your Body Battery energy. Models like the Fenix 8 and Forerunner 970 are perfect for multisport athletes, combining elite training features for running, swimming, and cycling with Garmin’s comprehensive golf tools.
John Scott Lewinski from Golf.com sums it up perfectly:
"Garmin takes technology used to keep planes flying, boats sailing, or cars driving safely and squeezes it into a timepiece that tells you how far you need to hit your next golf shot".
The watches also sync with the free Garmin Golf app, where you can analyze strokes gained data and pinpoint areas for improvement after your round.
Cost and Value
Garmin’s lineup offers options for every budget, from entry-level to high-end models. The Approach S12, priced at $199.99, delivers essential features like yardages and scorekeeping, plus a standout 30-hour battery life. Mid-range models like the Approach S42 ($299.99) add conveniences like color displays and AutoShot detection.
For those seeking premium features, the Approach S62 is priced at $499.99, while the flagship Approach S70 ranges from $549.99 to $649.99. Multisport enthusiasts may lean toward the Fenix 8 AMOLED, priced between $1,039.25 and $1,099.99, or the luxury MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) at $2,300.00.
A major selling point is that most core golf features work without a subscription. Only advanced tools like Green Contours require the optional Garmin Golf membership at $9.99/month or $99.99/year.
5 Best Golf Watch for 2025 – Garmin vs Apple vs Amazfit – Tested on the Course!
Apple Watch vs Garmin for Golf
This section highlights the main contrasts in golf-specific features, usability, and overall functionality between Apple Watch and Garmin devices.
Golf-Specific Features
When it comes to golf, Garmin integrates its tools directly into the watch – no need for additional downloads. With over 43,000 preloaded courses, AutoShot tracking to log distances automatically, and premium features like the Virtual Caddie (available on higher-end models), Garmin is ready to go right out of the box.
On the other hand, the Apple Watch relies on third-party apps like Arccos, The Grint, or Golfshot for golf functionality. While Garmin tracks shots automatically, Apple Watch users must input data manually or use external sensors. Premium Garmin models also provide advanced tools like PlaysLike Distance and built-in wind data, features that Apple Watch only offers through apps.
| Feature | Garmin (S62/S70) | Apple Watch (with app) |
|---|---|---|
| Golf Software | Built-in | Third-party apps required |
| GPS Accuracy | High | High |
| Shot Tracking | AutoShot (automatic) | Manual or sensor-based |
| Virtual Caddie | Yes (S62, S70, MARQ) | Via paid apps |
| Wind/Weather Data | Built-in | App-dependent |
| Preloaded Courses | 43,000+ | Downloaded via app |
These differences create distinct experiences on the golf course.
Usability and Course Experience
Garmin watches are quicker when you need information during a round. Testing shows that accessing yardages and course data with Garmin requires just a couple of button presses, while Apple Watch users may face delays due to touchscreen navigation.
Garmin’s combination of a touchscreen and physical buttons ensures smooth operation, even with gloves or in bad weather. Its transflective displays are easy to read in bright sunlight, even though they’re less vibrant than Apple’s OLED screens. The Apple Watch, while responsive, relies heavily on its touchscreen, which can be tricky to use with gloves. Additionally, Garmin’s AutoShot handles tracking automatically, whereas Apple Watch users often need to make manual adjustments mid-round. Garmin devices can function independently, while the Apple Watch may need a nearby iPhone to conserve battery life.
Battery Life and Durability
For golfers who play long rounds or multiple days, battery life and durability are key. Garmin watches excel here, with the Approach S12 offering up to 30 hours of GPS tracking and the S62 and S70 lasting around 20 hours – enough for several rounds without a recharge. As Brandon Tucker, Senior Managing Editor at GolfPass, points out:
"The Approach S62 battery life is excellent!… My Apple Watch 3 & 4s needed to be recharged every day no matter how much I was using the GPS. You can go on a weekend golf trip and not even bring the charger."
By comparison, standard Apple Watches last only 6–7 hours in GPS mode and require daily charging. The Apple Watch Ultra improves GPS usage to 12–17 hours, but it still doesn’t match Garmin’s multi-day endurance.
| Model | GPS Battery Life | Smartwatch Battery | Durability Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garmin S70 | 20 hours | 16 days | Ceramic bezel, Gorilla Glass |
| Garmin S12 | 30 hours | N/A | Sunlight-readable display |
| Apple Watch Ultra | 12–17 hours | 36–72 hours | Titanium, Sapphire crystal |
Garmin’s premium models include rugged materials like ceramic bezels, grade-5 titanium, and Gorilla Glass, with water ratings of at least 5 ATM (50 meters). Standard Apple Watches prioritize style, while the Apple Watch Ultra is designed for more demanding outdoor use.
Fitness and Everyday Use
Outside of golf, the choice between these devices depends on your lifestyle. The Apple Watch excels as a general-purpose smartwatch, offering features like calls, texts, Apple Pay, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. It also supports a wide range of apps beyond golf. Garmin, meanwhile, focuses heavily on sports and fitness tracking, offering tools like heart rate monitoring, sleep analysis, stress tracking, and Body Battery energy metrics. As Jon Webber explains:
"The Apple Watch is better for daily use and going to work. Garmin is built more for the outdoors and fitness tracking."
If you need a device that transitions seamlessly from work to the golf course, the Apple Watch may suit you. But for those prioritizing specialized sports features, Garmin delivers a more tailored experience.
Value for U.S. Golfers
When it comes to cost, Garmin and Apple Watches cater to different budgets and needs. Garmin’s entry-level Approach S12 starts at $199.99, while the high-end S70 ranges from $549.99 to $649.99. The luxury MARQ Golfer (Gen 2) is priced around $2,300. Apple Watch prices vary by model, but you’ll also need to budget for app subscriptions, which typically cost $30–$100+ per year for premium golf features.
Garmin stands out by including core golf features without requiring a subscription. Only advanced tools like Green Contours need the optional Garmin Golf membership ($9.99 per month or $99.99 per year). In contrast, Apple Watch users must pay for third-party golf apps from the start.
| Golfer Profile | Best Choice | Total First-Year Cost | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget-conscious | Garmin S12 | ~$199.99 | No subscriptions; 30-hour GPS battery |
| Weekend warrior | Garmin S42/S62 | $299.99–$499.99 | AutoShot tracking; multi-round battery |
| Apple ecosystem user | Apple Watch + golf app | $399+ plus $30–$100 | Seamless daily integration |
| Serious golfer | Garmin S70 | $549.99–$649.99 | Virtual Caddie; robust on-course features |
If you already own an Apple Watch and play golf occasionally, investing in a golf app makes sense. But if you’re buying a device specifically for golf, Garmin offers better value with its longer battery life, built-in features, and lack of recurring fees for essential tools. These factors are crucial for U.S. golfers seeking the best mix of performance and cost.
Choosing the Right Device for Your Game
When deciding on a device, think about how often you play, your off-course needs, and how invested you are in a particular tech ecosystem. Both the Apple Watch and Garmin watches offer accurate GPS and helpful golf data, but they’re designed for different types of golfers. Let’s break it down.
Who Should Choose Apple Watch?
If you’re already an iPhone user and want a device that can handle more than just golf, the Apple Watch is a solid choice. It’s perfect for managing calls, texts, and Apple Pay, making it a convenient option for casual golfers. Keep in mind, though, that Apple Watch relies on subscription-based apps for golf features, whereas Garmin comes with built-in tools right out of the box.
For those who already own an Apple Watch and only hit the course a few times a month, downloading a golf app might be a more budget-friendly option than buying a dedicated golf watch. The Apple Watch Ultra 3, for instance, has enough battery life for most rounds. Just make sure it’s fully charged before your game, and consider using airplane mode to conserve battery.
Who Should Choose Garmin?
If golf is your main focus, Garmin is built with you in mind. It’s ideal for frequent golfers who want a dedicated device with advanced features like Virtual Caddie, wind data, and AutoShot tracking – all available without requiring extra subscriptions.
Garmin also stands out for its impressive battery life. The Approach S12 lasts up to 30 hours in GPS mode, while models like the S62 and S70 can go for about 20 hours, which means you can play multiple rounds without worrying about recharging. As Jon Webber from Out of Bounds Golf notes:
"A Garmin watch does tend to offer more advanced golf features compared to an Apple Watch. In my experience, Garmin watches are also easier to use on the course."
Another plus? Garmin watches are designed for tough conditions. Their physical buttons work even when it’s wet or you’re wearing gloves, and the bright, sunlight-readable display ensures you’ll always have a clear view of your data. If you’re looking for a golf-first device that’s durable, reliable, and doesn’t need daily charging, Garmin is a great long-term option.
Custom Golf Apps for Better Performance
Whether you choose Apple or Garmin, you can take your game to the next level with custom golf apps. The Apple Watch’s open app ecosystem allows for specialized tools that integrate seamlessly with your iPhone, while Garmin’s golf-focused design provides a strong platform for advanced analytics. From tracking strokes gained to analyzing swing data or planning course strategies, these apps can help you get the most out of your device.
For those seeking tailored solutions, 2V Modules offers custom app development for both Apple and Garmin devices, making it easier to create personalized tools that fit your specific golfing needs. Whether you’re a casual player or a serious golfer, the right app can make all the difference.
FAQs
Why are Garmin watches a better choice for serious golfers than the Apple Watch?
Garmin watches cater specifically to golfers, packing in features like preloaded golf course maps, highly accurate GPS distance tracking, and automatic pin updates – all without needing any third-party apps. On the other hand, the Apple Watch relies on external apps to deliver similar golf-related data, adding an extra step for users.
When it comes to GPS precision, Garmin stands out, often measuring distances within just a few yards. Beyond that, these watches include advanced tools tailored for golf enthusiasts, such as shot tracking, swing tempo analysis, and automatic score syncing. Models like the Approach S62 also shine with their impressive battery life, lasting up to two weeks in smartwatch mode or through an entire round of GPS tracking without needing a recharge – a huge plus for those who spend long hours on the course.
Garmin watches are also built to handle the outdoors, offering rugged yet comfortable designs that hold up well during play. With these golfer-focused features, Garmin has established itself as the top pick for players looking to elevate their game.
What are the key differences in golf features between the Apple Watch and Garmin devices?
Garmin watches come equipped with built-in golf features that are perfect for players. These include preloaded course maps, automatic hole detection, distance-to-green measurements, hazard tracking, and detailed shot stats – all ready to use right out of the box. Models like the Approach series or golf-enabled Fenix watches ensure a smooth and golfer-focused experience.
In contrast, the Apple Watch relies on third-party apps like Hole19 or Golfshot to provide similar golf tools. This approach offers flexibility in app selection, but the overall experience depends heavily on the app’s design and compatibility with the watch. For those who prefer a ready-to-go solution, Garmin stands out with its simplicity, while the Apple Watch offers adaptability but requires extra effort to set up.
What additional costs should golfers expect when using third-party apps on the Apple Watch?
If you plan to use your Apple Watch for golf, you’ll need to invest in a third-party golf app, which often comes with an additional cost. Many popular apps are available as a one-time purchase, typically ranging from $30 to $40. However, some apps offer advanced features through subscription plans, which can exceed $140 per year.
When considering your budget, it’s important to factor in both the cost of the Apple Watch itself and the fees – whether one-time or recurring – for the app you select. Depending on your needs, these expenses can add up and make a noticeable impact on your annual spending for golf technology.
