Professional golfers have long used expensive equipment, teams of experts, and a lot of time to bring tiny improvements to their game.
Today though, those experts can look for new jobs thanks to the impressive range of Golf GPS devices now available.
Wearable technology found its way into the golf world too, showing you how far you hit the ball, analysing your swing, telling you what club to use, and more.
On top of that, golf GPS devices come with a myriad of preloaded golf courses, so you can see detailed maps, distances, and even 3D flyovers.
Our top pick: Garmin Approach G30
Garmin Approach G30 is a reliable handheld golf GPS ideal for beginners and pros alike.
This sleek and compact device comes with a 2.3-inch colour touchscreen display and incorporates over 40,000 preloaded courses worldwide.
High sensitivity in acquiring satellites ensures you’ll get real-time data regarding distances to greens, doglegs, and hazards.
We also like the full-colour course mapping with a touch targeting feature.
Moreover, the Green View feature helps improve distance accuracy.
Packed with all the features needed to boost your golf game, this golf GPS brings all you could wish from a best-in-class pick.
Pros
- Precise yardage with colourful layup arcs
- Up to 15 hours of battery life
- Smartphone connectivity
- Digital scorecards
- Multiple mounting options
Cons
- The belt clip design could be better
Also great: Garmin Approach G10
Approach G10 is the cheaper version of our top pick. A golf GPS ideal for the novice, with over 40,000 preloaded international golf courses.
This device can be your trustworthy companion in tournaments.
A long-running lithium-ion battery lasts for up to 15 hours on a single charge, perfect for those long weekends of golf.
Furthermore, the robust case is waterproof and resistant to immersions of up to 10 metres.
Despite not connecting with your phone, G10 connects with your computer via USB cable, allowing access to Garmin Connect for post-game analysis.
Affordable and dependable, this GPS brings excellent value for the money.
Pros
- Acquires satellite links in minimum time
- Belt clip-on feature
- Precise estimation of distances
- Lifetime free golf course updates
Cons
- The user manual omits some information, yet the device is easy to use
- Small GPS may be easy to lose
Callaway Eclipse Golf GPS
A great alternative to the Garmin is Callaway Eclipse, an innovative golf GPS designed to clip on your belt and accompany you everywhere.
The unique design with reversible and removable clip brings convenience and versatility.
Despite the tiny dimension, this GPS packs a wealth of features, from an accurate layup and carry distances to front, centre, and back of green distances, doglegs, and hazards.
Available in black and white, the device also incorporates an auto-hole advancement feature and shot distance measurement.
Ideal for beginners and intermediate golfers, the unit also tracks and saves scores for quick post-game analysis.
Pros
- Over 30,000 preloaded courses worldwide
- Satellite-set time and date
- Reversible and removable clip
Cons
- The battery may drain when not in use
Bushnell Neo ION Golf GPS Watch
If you’re after unrivalled ease of use and don’t mind spending more, the Neo ION by Bushnell could be the best golf GPS for you.
Unlike the other units in this list, this is not a handheld device but a convenient watch. You will no longer have to worry about losing it on the course.
An attractive old-school design reminds us of the digital watch phase from the early 2000s.
Neo ION is ideal for the advanced golfer. It comes in two colour choices and boasts over 35,000 preloaded courses.
Long battery life and quick recharge add further value while the comfortable fit makes it pleasant to wear.
Pros
- Up to 4 hazards or layup distances per hole
- Easy-to-read display
- Long battery life of up to 16 hours
- Legal for tournament play
Cons
- It could be a little trickier to learn to operate
IZZO Swami 5000 GPS
Affordable and boasting an attractive design, the IZZO Swami 5000 is a golf GPS perfect for both beginners and experienced players.
Its slim profile and larger-than-average display make the device easy to use and transport.
With over 30,000 preloaded courses, this handheld GPS is perfect for both tournaments and casual playing.
Other attractive features include a magnetic charger and long lasting battery, auto-hole advancement, and shot distance measurement.
Pros
- Supports four different languages
- Saves and displays your scores
- Durable, waterproof construction
Cons
- Excellent power management but the display may be dimmer than expected
Verdict
While all devices above deliver true value for money, our favourite is the Garmin Approach G30.
Produced by one of the industry’s leaders, this golf GPS comes with over 40,000 preloaded courses and a wealth of essential features.
A coloured touchscreen display, smartphone connectivity, and lightweight design with multiple mounting options are just some highlights.
Maybe a little too complex for the novice, this is no doubt the best golf GPS for all those who aim for performance.
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What To Look For In A Golf GPS
Golf GPS devices are rather new on the market, so it can be difficult to know which features are essential.
To help you in your quest, we’ve broken down the most important things to consider before buying.
Functionality
All golf GPS come with features of their own, but depending on your skill level, you may or may not need them.
- If you’re a beginner, look for a device with few features, like shot distance, step counters, and course maps. This will provide you with all necessary data to improve your game without confusing you.
- Intermediate players need all the above, but you’ll also appreciate additional features like swing data, scorecards, and hazard warnings.
- Expert golfers undoubtedly need all data available to boost their strategy. An advanced golf GPS must, therefore, include features regarding touch targeting and shot tracking.
Ease of Use
A golf GPS should be the perfect companion, not a distraction. The last thing you want is a GPS that requires a degree in engineering to operate.
Yes, you’ll need some time to learn your new gear’s features, but if it’s taking you more than a couple of hours, you have the wrong GPS.
Battery
Another thing you don’t want is a golf GPS that dies on you at the wrong moment.
If you like to spend entire days out on the course, check the battery life before investing.
Some of the best devices have batteries that last for at least 12 hours. Others may come with in-car chargers so you can charge them on the way out to the course.
