Golf is a game of precision, patience, and skill. Every golfer is always looking for ways to enhance their game, whether it’s through practice, technique, or the right equipment.
One piece of equipment that’s increasingly becoming popular among golfers is the golf watch. These smart devices can do much more than just tell time—they track your performance, help with course management, and offer insights that can lead to better decision-making on the green.
In this article, we’ll review the top 5 best watches for golfers to improve their game in 2025.
These watches are equipped with features like GPS tracking, shot measurement, course mapping, heart rate monitoring, and more, giving you the tools you need to take your game to the next level.
Watches and Golfers: How Technology Can Improve Your Game
Golf watches are more than just trendy accessories. They’re designed to enhance performance by providing golfers with real-time data during their rounds.
With features like GPS, swing analysis, and distance tracking, these watches help players make informed decisions about each shot and manage their game more effectively.
In fact, many golfers now rely on these high-tech gadgets to monitor their performance and gain a competitive edge on the course.
Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned player, a golf watch can provide valuable feedback, reduce distractions, and even make your experience more enjoyable.
1. Garmin Approach S62 Golf GPS Watch
The Garmin Approach S62 is a high-performance golf GPS watch packed with features designed to enhance your game.
With a large, easy-to-read display, it offers detailed course maps and distances to hazards, doglegs, and green front, middle, and back areas. The customizable pin positioning is perfect for getting precise distance data, while its shot tracking capabilities allow you to monitor your game and improve over time.
Additionally, the heart rate monitor ensures that you’re not just focused on your golf game but also your overall fitness.
Key Features:
- 1.3-inch color touchscreen display
- Over 41,000 preloaded golf course maps
- Full-color course mapping and hazard view
- Customizable pin positions for better accuracy
- Golf course scorecard tracking and stat tracking
- Heart rate monitor and sleep tracking
- Smart notifications (calls, messages, etc.)
Pros:
- Accurate GPS data and detailed course maps
- Comfortable and durable design
- Long battery life (up to 20 hours in GPS mode)
Cons:
- High price point
- Larger size may not be suitable for smaller wrists
This watch is perfect for golfers who want detailed information on each hole, shot distance, and course layout. The GPS functionality and shot tracking capabilities allow you to make smarter decisions on the course, improving your overall game strategy.
See Garmin Approach S62 on Amazon
2. Bushnell Golf iON2 GPS Watch
The Bushnell Golf iON2 is a straightforward GPS golf watch offering essential features without the added complexity of more advanced models.
It comes preloaded with over 38,000 golf course maps and automatically recognizes courses when you arrive. The simple design makes it easy to navigate during your round, while the large display shows all the necessary information, including distances to hazards and the green.
The 15-hour battery life ensures that you won’t run out of power mid-round, and the step counter can help track your daily activity.
Key Features:
- Preloaded with 38,000+ golf course maps worldwide
- Auto course recognition and hole advance
- Large, easy-to-read display
- 15-hour battery life in GPS mode
- Step counter and activity tracker
- Digital scorecard feature
Pros:
- Affordable for golfers on a budget
- Simple, user-friendly design
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Limited smart features compared to other models
- No heart rate monitor
For golfers who want a no-fuss, reliable GPS watch, the Bushnell Golf iON2 offers key distance information to help golfers avoid hazards and select the right clubs. Its ease of use and durability make it a solid choice for those looking to improve their accuracy and consistency on the course.
See Bushnell Golf iON2 on Amazon
3. Suunto 9 Baro GPS Watch
The Suunto 9 Baro is designed for athletes who need a reliable, rugged watch that can keep up with various outdoor activities, including golf.
With its large display and high-quality sapphire glass, the watch provides clear and precise information, even in bright sunlight. Its GPS functionality allows for accurate course mapping, while heart rate monitoring ensures that you’re staying in top physical condition.
The watch also boasts a long battery life, meaning you can use it for multiple rounds without worrying about charging.
Key Features:
- 1.9-inch display with sapphire glass
- Over 80 preloaded sports modes, including golf
- 24/7 heart rate monitoring and sleep tracking
- 100-meter water resistance
- Route planning and GPS tracking
- Up to 120 hours of battery life in ultra-long mode
Pros:
- Excellent battery life for extended rounds
- Accurate GPS and route planning features
- Durable and built for various outdoor activities
Cons:
- Bulky design may not appeal to all
- The learning curve for some users
With features like advanced GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring, the Suunto 9 Baro helps golfers optimize both their course strategy and fitness. It’s ideal for those who want to keep track of their overall health while improving their performance on the course.
See Suunto 9 Baro on Amazon
4. Garmin Approach S42 Golf GPS Watch
The Garmin Approach S42 is a great option for golfers looking for a budget-friendly GPS watch with solid performance.
With over 42,000 courses preloaded, this watch provides precise course data, including distances to the green, hazards, and layup areas. It also offers a customizable green view, so you can manually adjust the pin position for better accuracy.
The sleek design and long battery life make it a great everyday watch, while the activity tracking feature keeps you on top of your fitness goals.
Key Features:
- 1.2-inch color touchscreen display
- Over 42,000 preloaded golf courses
- Green view with manual pin placement
- Smart notifications (calls, text, email)
- 15-hour battery life in GPS mode
- Activity tracking (steps, calories, heart rate)
Pros:
- Sleek, lightweight design
- Accurate course maps and pin positioning
- Affordable compared to premium models
Cons:
- Smaller display size compared to some competitors
- Limited advanced features for serious golfers
The Garmin Approach S42 is a solid choice for golfers who want accurate data without breaking the bank. Its simple design and reliable GPS performance help golfers select the right clubs and improve course management, making it ideal for players of all skill levels.
See Garmin Approach S42 on Amazon
5. TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra GPS Smartwatch
The TicWatch Pro 3 Ultra is a versatile GPS smartwatch that combines advanced golf features with the convenience of everyday smartwatch capabilities.
It offers a dual-display system, providing both an AMOLED and FSTN display for better battery efficiency. Golf-specific apps allow you to access course maps and GPS data, while heart rate monitoring tracks your fitness throughout the round.
The 72-hour battery life ensures that you’ll have enough power for multiple rounds or workouts.
Key Features:
- Dual display technology (AMOLED and FSTN)
- 20+ preloaded golf course maps
- GPS tracking and heart rate monitoring
- 72-hour battery life in smart mode
- Customizable golf-related apps and widgets
- Water-resistant up to 50 meters
Pros:
- Smartwatch functionality with golf-specific features
- Long battery life for extended use
- Stylish design suitable for everyday wear
Cons:
- Limited course maps compared to other models
- May require additional apps for full functionality
This smartwatch is perfect for golfers who want the best of both worlds: advanced golf features and everyday smartwatch capabilities. Its long battery life, GPS functionality, and heart rate monitoring help golfers improve their game while also staying fit off the course.
See TicWatch Pro 3 on Amazon
Practical Tips for Using Golf Watches
When it comes to improving your golf game, a golf watch can be a valuable tool. However, it’s important to remember that it’s just one part of the puzzle.
To get the most out of your golf watch, consider pairing it with other practices like regular lessons, proper warm-ups, and mental focus exercises. Make sure to update your watch’s course maps before each round, as courses can undergo changes like new hazards or altered tee positions.
Also, take advantage of the shot tracking and data analysis features available on many models to get insights into your strengths and weaknesses.
Finally, always wear your watch during your practice rounds to get used to its features and functionality before using it in a competitive setting.
Conclusion
Golf watches are more than just accessories; they’re powerful tools that can help you manage your game, track your performance, and ultimately improve your scores.
Whether you’re looking for a watch with detailed course maps, GPS tracking, or health monitoring features, the five watches listed here are among the best options for golfers in 2025.
By investing in one of these high-quality devices, you can gain valuable insights that will give you the competitive edge you need to take your golf game to the next level.