Best Garmin Golf Watches in 2025 – S12, S42 & S70 Compared
Looking for a golf watch that offers accuracy, features, and ease of use? Garmin continues to lead the golf tech scene in 2025 with its premium line of golf-focused smartwatches. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned golfer, Garmin’s lineup offers something for everyone. In this guide, we compare the top three Garmin golf watches: the Approach S12, S42, and S70.
Contents
Why Choose a Garmin Golf Watch?
Garmin golf watches are known for their:
- Preloaded course maps (over 43,000 worldwide)
- AutoShot tracking and club suggestions
- Accurate GPS with hazard and green view
- Great battery life and sunlight-readable displays
They seamlessly blend performance with simplicity, making them favorites among amateur and pro golfers alike.
Best Garmin Golf Watches in 2025
1. Garmin Approach S12
Best Budget Golf Watch for Simplicity
Key Features:
- High-resolution sunlight-readable screen
- 43,000+ courses preloaded
- Yardage to front, middle, and back of green
- Scorekeeping and shot distance
- Battery: Up to 30 hours in GPS mode
- Waterproof: 5 ATM
Why It’s Great:
If you’re just starting out or want a no-fuss golf companion, the S12 is affordable, easy to use, and highly accurate.
Price (May 2025): ~$149
2. Garmin Approach S42
Best Mid-Range Pick with Smartwatch Features
Key Features:
- 1.2″ color touchscreen display
- AutoShot game tracking
- Smart notifications
- Activity tracking (steps, sleep, etc.)
- Yardage plus hazard view
- Battery: Up to 15 hours in GPS mode, 10 days smartwatch
Why It’s Great:
Perfect for golfers who want a stylish watch that can double as a daily wearable with smart features.
Price (May 2025): ~$249
3. Garmin Approach S70
Best Premium Golf Watch with AMOLED Display
Key Features:
- 1.4″ AMOLED high-res display (also available in 1.2″)
- Virtual Caddie with club suggestion
- PlaysLike distance and wind data
- Full-color course maps
- Fitness tracking and multi-sport mode
- Battery: Up to 20 hours GPS, 16 days smartwatch
Why It’s Great:
Designed for golfers who want it all. Gorgeous screen, precise data, and robust golf and fitness tracking.
Price (May 2025): ~$649
Garmin Golf Watch Comparison Table
| Feature | Approach S12 | Approach S42 | Approach S70 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | Monochrome | 1.2″ Color Touch | 1.2″ / 1.4″ AMOLED |
| Courses Preloaded | 43,000+ | 43,000+ | 43,000+ |
| Virtual Caddie | No | No | Yes |
| Smart Features | No | Yes | Yes |
| Fitness Tracking | Basic | Yes | Advanced |
| Battery (GPS Mode) | Up to 30 hrs | Up to 15 hrs | Up to 20 hrs |
| Waterproof | 5 ATM | 5 ATM | 5 ATM |
| Price | ~$149 | ~$249 | ~$649 |
Which Garmin Golf Watch Should You Choose?
- Go with S12 if you want a budget-friendly, purpose-built golf watch.
- Pick S42 if you want something stylish with added smart features.
- Choose S70 if you want the most powerful golf smartwatch with high-end display and advanced data.
Final Thoughts
Garmin offers a golf watch for every level of player in 2025. Whether you’re looking to simplify your game or want to dive into advanced golf analytics, the S12, S42, and S70 all deliver on performance and accuracy. Choose the one that fits your play style and budget, and elevate your game this season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are Garmin golf watches legal in tournaments?
A: Most Garmin watches are legal under USGA rules if slope and wind features are disabled during play.
Q: Can Garmin golf watches track shot distance automatically?
A: Yes, models like the S42 and S70 include AutoShot tracking.
Q: Do all Garmin golf watches come with lifetime course updates?
A: Yes, all three models come with free lifetime updates for preloaded courses.
Q: Are they waterproof?
A: Yes, all models are water-resistant up to 5 ATM.
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