10 Best Golf Watches 2025 in the United States

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out with its highly accurate dual-frequency GPS, which helps golfers track their location very precisely — an important feature for navigating golf courses and measuring distances. Its rugged titanium case and sapphire front crystal ensure strong durability, while 100m water resistance adds extra protection against rain or sweat. The large 49mm superbright Always-On Retina display offers clear visibility outdoors, making it easy to glance at stats even in bright sunlight.

Battery life is impressive for a smartwatch, lasting up to 36 hours in typical use and extending to 72 hours in a low-power mode, so it can reliably last through long rounds or multiple days of play. Beyond golf, the Ultra 2’s advanced workout metrics, health tracking, and safety features like fall detection add value for active users. However, it lacks golf-specific apps or preloaded course maps that some dedicated golf watches offer, which might be a downside if you want detailed golf course coverage straight out of the box.

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a robust, feature-rich smartwatch that offers excellent GPS precision and durability, making it a strong choice for golfers who want a versatile device that supports a wide range of outdoor activities and health monitoring. Its higher price and relatively large size might not appeal to those seeking a simpler, more affordable golf watch.

The Garmin Approach S44 is a sleek golf GPS smartwatch designed for avid golfers. One of its standout features is the 1.2” color AMOLED display, which offers vibrant visuals that bring the 43,000+ preloaded courses to life on your wrist. This watch excels in providing accurate distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as navigation around hazards, making it a valuable tool on the course.

The slim design and lightweight build (1.5 ounces) add to its appeal, ensuring it is comfortable to wear throughout the day. Additionally, the watch is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to receive smart notifications directly on your wrist, which can be convenient when you want to leave your phone behind during a game. The S44 also supports pairing with optional club trackers for shot-tracking capabilities and offers an advanced stat tracking and handicap calculation feature through the Garmin Golf smartphone app.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The battery life, while decent at up to 15 hours in GPS mode, may require frequent charging for extensive use. Additionally, the watch's water resistance rating is not specified, which might be a concern for those who play in varying weather conditions. Lastly, while the watch offers a wide range of features, some users might find the need for a Garmin Golf membership to access enhanced course maps an added expense.

The Garmin Approach S70 Golf Smartwatch is designed to enhance the golfing experience with numerous advanced features. One of its standout strengths is its full-color CourseView maps, offering access to over 43,000 courses worldwide. The high-quality 1.2” AMOLED display delivers exceptional detail, making it easier to visualize courses and plan shots effectively. The advanced virtual caddie and PlaysLike Distance features provide precise club recommendations and distance calculations, taking into account factors like wind and elevation, which can significantly improve game strategy and performance.

Additionally, the green contour data is a unique feature that can help with putt alignment by offering insights into the slope and topography of greens on select courses. With a battery life of up to 16 days, it’s reliable for extended use without frequent charging. The watch is also durable and waterproof, suitable for all weather conditions on the course.

However, the advanced features and high-quality display may come at a premium price, potentially making it a less attractive option for casual golfers or those on a budget. While the additional power bank and charging accessories included in the bundle add value, they may not be necessary for everyone. The watch’s relatively small screen size of 1.4 inches might also be a limitation for users who prefer larger displays. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Approach S70 is a robust and feature-rich golf smartwatch that can greatly benefit serious golfers looking to enhance their game.