7 Best Garmin Golf Watches 2025 in the UK

The Garmin Approach Z82 stands out as a highly accurate golf range finder, boasting precision within 10 inches of the flag and a range of up to 450 yards. This makes it an excellent choice for golfers who prioritize accuracy. The device also includes image stabilization, which helps in locking onto the flag and gives vibrational feedback once it is done, ensuring users have precise distance measurements.

The full-color 2-D CourseView mapping feature is impressive, covering over 41,000 courses worldwide and providing detailed overlays on the viewfinder. This can be very useful for those who play on various courses and need accurate course information. The Laser Range Arc feature adds another layer of utility by drawing an arc on the 2-D map to show everything in play at the measured distance, and the hazard view allows quick navigation through course hazards, adding to its functionality on the golf course.

However, there are a few areas that could be improved. The device is made of plastic, which may not feel as premium compared to other materials. Some users might find it less durable in the long run, despite its overall design. Additionally, while the GPS accuracy and mapping are top-notch, its battery life might not be as long-lasting as some other models in the market. The Garmin Approach Z82 is also somewhat bulky, weighing 476 grams, which may not be the most comfortable for all users to carry around during a long day on the course. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Garmin Approach Z82 is a solid choice for serious golfers who value accuracy and comprehensive course information.

The Garmin Approach S12 GPS Golf Watch is a solid choice for golf enthusiasts looking for a dedicated golf watch. Its standout feature is the GPS accuracy, providing precise yardage to various points on the golf course, including the front, back, and middle of the greens, as well as hazards and doglegs. This is complemented by its extensive course mapping with preloaded data on over 42,000 golf courses worldwide, a great advantage for golfers who play in different locations.

The watch's battery life is another plus, designed to last throughout multiple rounds without frequent recharging. The high-resolution, sunlight-readable display ensures visibility in bright conditions, which is essential for outdoor use. Moreover, its design is durable and waterproof, making it reliable in varying weather conditions.

However, the Garmin Approach S12 has some limitations. It does not offer advanced fitness tracking features, focusing more strictly on golf-specific capabilities. While it does allow for scorekeeping and syncs with the Garmin Golf app for leaderboard participation, those looking for comprehensive health and fitness monitoring might find it lacking.

Additionally, while it supports integration with Approach CT10 club tracking sensors for shot tracking, these are sold separately, adding to the cost if you want that extra functionality. The screen size of 1.3 inches is adequate but might be considered small for those preferring larger displays.

To conclude, the Garmin Approach S12 excels in providing golf-specific features with robust GPS and course mapping capabilities, making it suitable for golfers seeking precision on the course. However, it may not satisfy users looking for broader fitness tracking capabilities or those who prefer larger screens.