Golf Tech Accessories Archives » rizacademy https://rizacademy.com/category/golf-tech-accessories/ GOLF FOR LEGACY Thu, 10 Dec 2020 09:08:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://rizacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-golf-logo-1-32x32.png Golf Tech Accessories Archives » rizacademy https://rizacademy.com/category/golf-tech-accessories/ 32 32 Golf simulator for home cost, DIY and reviews https://rizacademy.com/golf-simulator-for-home-cost-diy-and-reviews/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=golf-simulator-for-home-cost-diy-and-reviews Thu, 10 Dec 2020 09:08:33 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=4439 Golf simulator for home allow you to practice and play a virtual round of golf on courses 24/7, in the comfort of your home, regardless of what the weather is doing outside. If you watch The Golf Channel or ESPN, it’s quite likely you’ve caught a glimpse of a PGA Tour Professional practicing at home on their indoor golf simulator. How much […]

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Golf simulator for home allow you to practice and play a virtual round of golf on courses 24/7, in the comfort of your home, regardless of what the weather is doing outside. If you watch The Golf Channel or ESPN, it’s quite likely you’ve caught a glimpse of a PGA Tour Professional practicing at home on their indoor golf simulator. How much Golf simulator for home cost? Or how to do Golf simulator for home DIY?

What are the types of Golf Simulators?

There are three main types of golf simulators, each with there own pro’s and con’s. 

Photometric – photometric-based golf simulators, such as the SkyTrak and Foresight Sports GC2, are camera based systems that take high speed images of the ball immediately after impact. The images that are taken are then analyzed to obtain the measurements needed to render shot shape and distance. This type of golf simulator can be used both indoors and outdoors, providing added flexibility. One drawback is that these systems typically do not capture club data such as angle of attack, smash factor, etc. Data captured includes: speed, back spin, side spin, distance off center, and more.

Ball Speed

ball speed measurement from golf simulator

Measurement of golf ball’s velocity after impact. It is the main component in creating distance.  

Total Spin

total spin measurement from golf simulator

Total spin is the amount of spin created around the tilt axis. Spin will determine the shape and lift of the shot.

Distance Off Center

distance off center measurement provided by golf simulators

The initial angle relative to the target line. Combined with side spin, determines the final position range relative to target.

Infrared – Infrared (IR) golf simulators, such as the Optishot, emit a light signal to capture the position of the clubhead through the swing.

Since they capture clubhead information to render shot results, it is not required to use a real ball. In our experience, these types of systems are not as reliable tracking as a Photometric or Radar based system. 

Radar (Doppler) – This type of golf simulator, such as the Voice Caddie SC300, uses doppler radar technology for tracking.

Doppler radar is also used by other industries to track objects, most famously aircraft and weather systems.

In a radar based simulator, a microwave signal is emitted from the unit and bounces back from the golf ball after impact.

Because it needs to be able to see it travel in flight post-impact, these types of simulators operate best outdoors. They can be used indoors as well, but results for tracking are always better outdoors.

What is the minimum Golf Simulator Space measurement?

One of the most common questions we receive from customers early on in the buying process is “how much space do I need”. Space requirements can vary from customer to customer based on their height & swing, as well as equipment used (screen, mat, projector, etc).

While there’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, it is our experience that a typical simulator setup is able to fit into most spaces.  You will need a space with minimum dimensions of: 

  • 12′ Width
  • 12′ Length
  • 9′ Height  

Golf simulator for home cost & DIY

This is the level that I was most interested in. I know most of you reading this are not going to be able to invest $10,000 – $70,000 in a home golf simulator.

Budget range

If you are on a tight budget but want a full simulation experience, you can do it for well under $5,000.

the mat and projector you use can significantly vary in quality. If you you to  you can purchase this mat for $70 (you will need to cut out a space for OptiShot in it), and get a projector as low as $65. Be aware that the durability and quality will be greatly sacrificed here.

Optishot – $300, Mat – $70, Projector – $65 = $435

Technically you could get yourself into a basic home golf simulator for around $500 (if you have a computer that can run the OptiShot software already). Be aware that accessory costs like projector mounts and cable could add about $50- $200 more to your cost.

Mid Range – Under $10,000

If you have a bigger budget then you can get a much more accurate simulator, and increase the quality of all the materials you will use.

If you have some more money to invest in a unit like SkyTrak, then you will want to make sure the rest of the materials you use are going to last. Here is a potential package you can use:

Mat – $350, Projector – $500, Impact Screen – $350, Skytrak – $2000, Software – $100-$200/yr =  $3400 (you also might require a computer or tablet to run the Skytrak software)

High End – $10,000 and beyond

When your budget gets beyond $10,000 a lot more options open up for you regarding accuracy, software, and the quality of your setup.

You can now purchase launch monitors from Foresight, Trackman, and Flightscope. Additionally, there are more premium packages from high-end home golf simulator companies like Full Swing GolfSwingTrack and TRU GOLF. At these levels, you can expect to get much more accuracy concerning ball flight as well as your swing information. Additionally, the simulation software becomes much more robust.

What is the best Golf simulator for home?

1. SkyTrak Bronze PackageBest Cheap Golf Simulator for Under $5000

SkyTrak Bronze Golf Simulator Package

When we say “cheap” golf simulator, it is important to note that we are not referring to the quality of the simulator, rather we are referring to the simulator’s cost and how it is relatively affordable compared to other golf simulators.

At a price of $4799, the SkyTrak Bronze Package is a fun and affordable option for budget conscious golfers, and is our choice as the Best Affordable Golf Simulator For Under $5000.

This bundle comes with the SkyTrak launch monitor, a golf mat, a net, side barriers, projection screen, HD projector, Projector Shield enclosure, and all required cabling.

With so many features for under $5000, the SkyTrak Bronze Package is a great value, and our recommendation for Best Golf Simulator For The Money.

The software (one of the main features) is also included with purchase, and provides access to various game improvement modules such as bag mapping and wedge matrix, along with a virtual driving range and multiplayer closest to the pin and long drive challenges. 

2. SkyTrak SIG10 Golf SimulatorBest Indoor Golf Simulator for Home

SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator

This complete bundle is built around the highly reviewed SkyTrak Launch Monitor – voted Best Value Golf Simulator by Golf Digest three years running for its performance and accuracy.

The SkyTrak SIG10 Package is our most popular golf simulator package, delivering an accurate and realistic experience, and our selection for best indoor golf simulator for home use.

SkyTrak is a photometric based tracking system that captures ball data including: carry distance, total distance, backspin, side spin, distance off center, launch angle, and more.

In addition to the Skytrak, a metal protective case, and simulation software (allows you to play 12 famous golf courses), a 10’W golf simulator enclosure with impact screen & floor projector mount are included.

Starting at $7499.99, you simply will not find another golf simulator bundle at this price point that features everyitem you need as the SkyTrak SIG10 Simulator, which is why it is our choice as the Best Indoor Golf Simulator for home.

Your choice of upgraded mat and Optoma HD 1080p projector (with HDMI cable) round out the SkyTrak SIG10 Package.

3. SkyTrak Flex Space PackageBest Home Golf Simulator for a Flex Space

skytrak flex space package

Priced at $5789.99, you will be hard pressed to find another setup that is designed specifically for flex spaces as the SkyTrak Flex Space Package, which is why it is our choice as the Best Home Golf Simulator for home flex room.

The SkyTrak Flex Space Package is ideal for those that will be using their unit in a shared room, and our selection for best home golf simulator for a flex room.

Whether your area is the garage, basement, or a media room you share with the family, this setup is perfect for those that need their room restored after each use. Everything in the SkyTrak Flex Space bundle is lightweight and portable, and can be setup or put away in minutes.

The bundle is built around the best launch monitor on the market, the SkyTrak Golf Launch Monitor – and also includes the metal protective case, and software.

What truly makes this ideal for a Flex Space is the HomeCourse Retractable screen. This screen mounts to the ceiling, extends down and out while in use, and with the push of a button the screen retracts returning your space back to its original form.

Also included is a 6′ x 10′ golf mat that can be rolled up and stored when not in use, an HD 1080P projector, and the ProjectorShield Projector Enclosure.

4. SkyTrak Training PackageBest Outdoor Golf Simulator

When looking for an outdoor golf simulator, you will want to explore options that are portable and can be setup and taken down easily and quickly.

The SkyTrak Training Package is a solid option. It offers one of our more portable options, and our selection for best outdoor golf simulator for sale.

The SkyTrak Training bundle includes the SkyTrak Launch Monitor, metal protective case, and the game improvement software.

For the golf net you have the choice between the Net Return Pro or Home Series Net. Side barriers are also included, letting you swing your golf club freely without fear of mis-hits.

Also included in the SkyTrak Training setup is the large mat from The Net Return. This golf mat is very portable, and one of the key features is that can be rolled up similar to a rug for storage. 

An optional item you may want to consider is this iPad stand to hold your iPad for tracking your stats while you use the simulator.

Starting at $3299.99, the SkyTrak Training bundle is one of the best portable simulators under $5000, and our top pick for best outdoor golf simulator.

5. Best Commercial Golf SimulatorTrugolf Vista 10

The Trugolf Vista 10 is our leading option for businesses, and our selection for best commercial golf simulator for sale.

This high end commercial grade simulator offers lots of features including stunning HD graphics, Trugolf’s proprietary TruTrack2 tracking system (calculates club data including launch angle), and the E6 connect simulation software.

PGA Tour Pros, teaching professionals and golf shops around the country love the recently added skills challenge feature to track performance and also use Trugolf simulators for club fitting and bag mapping. 

E6 Connect’s extensive golf course library (27 courses on basic plan), and Trugolf’s multiplayer capabilities – including peer to peer gaming, also makes this a top option with Commercial Indoor Golfing Centers and residential golfers. 

Priced at $15995, the Trugolf Vista 10 delivers a realistic experience that has plenty of options which work great for commercial applications, and is our choice as the Best Commercial Golf Simulator.

Upgrade to the Vista 10 Pro version and receive everything in the Vista 10 PLUS an upgraded computer, audio speaker, and side nets and walls for a more premium golf experience.

6. Best Expensive Golf SimulatorHD Golf Simulator

Our HD Golf Simulator is the ultimate entertainment package, and with a cost of $69,035 is easily the most expensive golf simulator we offer.

This top of the line offering is jam packed with features to deliver the perfect mix of entertainment and accuracy, and includes HD Golf’s Multi-Sport software package.

Multi-Sport includes access to 11 sports (baseball, football, soccer, etc) and supports multiplayer functionality.

Golf simulation is equally as impressive. HD Golf combines high resolution images with geophysical and satellite data to create a high definition, 3D photo realistic reproduction that is so crystal clear, you’ll think you’re at the golf course. 

Golf course play supports simultaneous multiplayer.

Other premium golf simulator

Golfzon’s Vision Premium

At the premium price level is Golfzon’s Vision Premium. The system’s sensors capture your swing, impact and spin, not only displaying your ball flight but recording key data points, which are stored via the cloud on various electronic devices. While most simulators have a stationary, one-surface mat, Vision Premium boasts a moving platform, which provides uphill, sidehill, downhill lies along with three hitting surfaces (fairway, rough, sand). With 190 elegant courses and dozens of practice arcade games, boredom will not be an issue.

Premium: Golfzon Vision Premium, starting at $46,000
More Information


Foresight Sports

Foresight stands tall in the luxury position. The company’s “Sim-in-a-box” product comes with a screen, projector, hitting mat, computer cart and desktop, offering easy assembly. That ease belies the top-of-the-line experience. Foresight users can practice on the range or specific holes, compete with other users around the globe at St. Andrews, Merion and Pebble Beach, and save data from every session to mark their progress.

Luxury: Foresight Sports, starting at $10,150
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Full Swing Golf

Full Swing Golf’s simulator offers 13 other sports, such as baseball, basketball, soccer and hockey. Similar to its golf configuration, you can use your equipment in these games and compete against your previous score. Perfect for golf addicts who need to appease their kids or merely want to diversify their workout routine.

Multisport: Full Swing Golf, starting at $39,900

SkyTrak

In the value section, SkyTrak has established itself as the industry standard. Rather than a permanent display, SkyTrak is a portable simulator, essentially a launch monitor that can be hooked up (wirelessly) to a smart tablet or personal computer. But don’t let the lack of bells and whistles fool you. SkyTrak is also compatible with The Golf Club Game, which offers 150,000 courses—like Bandon Dunes, Erin Hills and Chambers Bay, plus those created by users—and live tournaments for competition with friends or online challengers.

Value: SkyTrak, $1,999, plus $100 per year for software
More Information

Editor’s recommendations

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What is the best golf drivers of all time in 2020? https://rizacademy.com/best-golf-drivers-of-all-time-in-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-golf-drivers-of-all-time-in-2020 Fri, 24 Jul 2020 06:12:15 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=540 What is the best golf drivers of all time in 2020? The best driver has to be a combination of the longest driver and the most forgiving driver for a fitter to recommend it for play. Every year, our committee of 15 top club fitters weigh in and vote for the best drivers in golf […]

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What is the best golf drivers of all time in 2020? The best driver has to be a combination of the longest driver and the most forgiving driver for a fitter to recommend it for play. Every year, our committee of 15 top club fitters weigh in and vote for the best drivers in golf in four categories.

2020 has proven to be another big year for drivers across the board as designers and engineers from every OEM further push the limits of materials, structure, and shape to boost moment of inertia (a measurement of forgiveness) and speed, while also fine-tuning center of gravity to provide better performance.

We are in the era of not just maximizing distance but also minimizing the penalty of common misses for each player. This is why, now more than ever, custom fitting is essential to helping you see results on every swing you make.

What is the best golf drivers of all time in 2020?

Below are the four categories for 2020 best drivers. In addition, we have great quotes from our fitter panel for each winner. Why was it so good? You’ll find out with specific comments from the best fitters in the industry.

Here are the winners!

TaylorMade SIM driver – best golf drivers of all time

2020 TaylorMade SIM driver’s adjustable weight. TaylorMade SIM has both Twist Face and Speed Injected face technology. SIM has a carbon crown.SIM moves the weight back to extremes for better MOI and lower CG.

TaylorMade SIM: The TaylorMade SIM (Shape in Motion) series is the result of engineers taking proven design concepts and combining them into three different drivers. The standard model SIM offers hosel (loft) and center of gravity adjustment to fine-tune specs for each individual player while also maintaining a very stable and low spin platform. Multi-material construction makes this TaylorMade’s most advanced driver to date.

From the fitters

This driver offers great ball speed and a massive amount of adjustability. The players that we are seeing benefit the most from this driver have above-average swing speeds and are in need of spin control. Ball speed across the face is very consistent and for those golfers that miss lower towards the heel, it maintains a ton of speed and keeps spin low … Con: The Standard SIM is not the most forgiving driver in the SIM family but considering the other options available in the line you can find a club head for any golfer.

This is one of the lowest-spinning TM drivers ever—in some cases, depending on player dynamics, we need to loft up to see optimal results. The moveable weights are extremely useful when fine-tuning for ball flight and directional control. Thanks to our ability to build from scratch, being able to adjust the back and sliding weights gives us lots of options for length too.

This is the epitome of a classic low-spin driver with a great shape. It’s a better driver than the M5 with improved ball speed and more forgiveness all over the face. Depending on the player’s speed and dynamics, it’s not just a low handicap driver—it can really help dispersion.

The firm feel attracts the better players, and I think a big part of the acoustics is the weight channel close to the face. Less consistent strikers can benefit from this club, thanks to the adjustability and spin reduction, but the SIM Max might be a better option for golfers that need a bit more help with around the face contact.  For golfers that struggle with a consistent miss or want to eliminate one side of the course, the adjustability makes it a fantastic club to dial in and adjust as a golfer’s swing potentially changes.

A great driver for golfers who struggle with spin consistency and need to lower spin. The driver is so good that I generally start with the neutral settings and fine-tune loft before getting into the settings. Compared to the previous generation TaylorMade drivers, the lower loft option of eight degrees allows us to close the face and keep lofts lower, something we couldn’t do before.

One of the fastest, most-adjustable drivers on the market, and thanks to the adjustability, I can get this driver into almost any golfer’s hands. It’s such a great head and lower spin—I wish it came in a 12-degree head.

This is the most forgiving moveable weight driver from TaylorMade ever. It offers high ball speed and low spin. We like to consider this club the best tour caliber driver on the market because it checks all the boxes. On the other hand, it is still a great driver for more average skilled golfers because the dispersion is very tight thanks to the reduced spin and Twist Face.

This driver brings TM back to the spin-dropping power of the SLDR but in a much easier to hit driver, thanks to heel and toe stability and Twist Face. It’s a pure spin killer. This driver is a big improvement over the previous M5 in terms of sound and actual ball speed.

Callaway Mavrik Sub Zero driver – best golf drivers of all time

Mavrik SZ features a dual-weight system that optimizes speed and launch conditionsThe Mavrik Sub Zero also features Jailbreak technology for increased ball speeds. The Mavrik Sub Zero face was designed using AI.A light carbon crown is a key component of the increased ball speeds.

Callaway Mavrik Sub Zero: The driver artificial intelligence helped to build. The Mavrik Sub Zero combines higher MOI into a lower spin package. The Sub Zero is the lowest spinning of the three models in the Mavrik line where the key design feature is Cyclone Shaping to improve aerodynamics over the previous Epic Flash. Improved clubhead speed can help golfers produce faster ball speeds, which in the end results in more distance.

From the fitters

  • High-speed players create more spin, and the Mavrik Sub Zero does a good job of controlling that spin ratio. Improved sound over last year with similar ball speeds off the face, I think Callaway once again has the best driver in golf.
  • It has a lighter head weight compared to other drivers in the low-spin category—this offers us the ability to fine-tune using additional weights or hotmelt but also means if we are building longer, drivers we can maintain swing weight and help some players gain speed. It’s a low-spin head with great ball speed retention around the face. SOUND is AMAZING and a big improvement over the Epic Flash … Con: The lighter head can also be an issue when working with some counterbalanced shafts at standard length or if building under length.
  • Amazing ball speeds especially around the face away from the sweet spot, but this great ball speed also means misses have a greater chance of going further offline. It’s a very neutral driver that can be made more fade biased thanks to stock flatter lie angle the adjustable hosel to go even flatter.
  • The whole Mavrik line launches higher than its predecessors and higher to loft than other drivers in this category. Even with the slightly higher launch, this driver still maintains lower spin and one of my top-three quickest heads. This driver in the “weight forward” position makes it one of the lowest-spin heads in a fit.
  • Similar to SIM in terms of launch conditions (low launch and low spin) but with just a bit more spin and height for most players. This is a great clubhead for mid-to-lower handicaps, but higher handicaps that struggle with face contact should look more towards the standard Mavrik. For better players, this driver is a real winner when you get the settings dialed.
  • This is one of the only heads to keep up with the SIM and the performance. It is a ridiculously fast head that is very efficient around the whole face. The aerodynamics work well and with the heavyweight towards the back can really boost forgiveness. The Mavrik Sub Zero is a way better head than the Epic Flash SubZero in the forgiveness department. The only thing would be that its not quite as low spin as the SIM.
  • Really hot all around the face for ball speed, and depending on the golfers, this driver and the SIM battle it out for top ball speed. It’s as low spinning as previous Epic Flash Sub Zero side by side, but with the Mavrik you gain extra forgiveness, and we can use the adjustability to get to the lower spin rates. Less than perfect strikes still get great performance, especially better than previous Sub Zero drivers.
  • I find it to be a slightly more left-biased of the low spin heads which is great for players that occasionally miss right or want to have a “players” driver that is easier to draw. Dispersion compared to the previous generation Epic Flash Sub Zero is greatly improved. Golfers have been loving the new sound and feel of the entire Mavrik line.

TaylorMade SIM Max driver – best golf drivers of all time

With a big portion of weight pulled back and deep, the SIM Max launches high with plenty of forgiveness.The new topline of SIM MAX was inspired form feedback from the Tour.
The High MOI of SIM Max is aided by Twist Face technology.Like SIM, SIM Max has loft/lie adjustability to fine-tune launch and flight preferences.

TaylorMade SIM Max: The SIM Max offers all of the advantages of the low spin standard model SIM but in a driver that offers greater forgiveness, thanks to the removal of the sliding weight track to reposition more discretionary weight around the head. The SIM Max also has a slighter deeper face, which offers golfers looking for vertical stability better dispersion too.

From the fitters

  • The Max offers all the ball speed of the standard SIM but with added forgiveness, making it a great driver for players that need a touch of spin or have dynamics that keep spin naturally low (generally players that have an upward angle of attack)…looks and sounds so solid … Con: Less adjustability with no sliding track but you still get extra forgiveness.
  • Rockstar! Long, high, straight. Twist Face has gotten better and better since its introduction, and we are now seeing shots missed out on the toe that would normally miss much more right hold their line and stay closer to the target line … Con: Depending on dynamics, some slower speed players don’t maximize the available performance in the head.
  • It’s a great driver for the golfer that tends to miss left because of the roll of the face, and the paint on the toe creates an open look. It can be a real confidence booster to swing away and not have that left miss. Just like with the SIM, the loft options and two-degree sleeve allow us to help players get dialed into loft and face angle look. Also, I feel the need to mention: Twist Face works! I have found that golfers that miss lower on the heel keep it closer to the middle and keep ball speed up compared to others we test.
  • The SIM Max plays to the trend of lighter-weight drivers to help golfers get more left and right directional control. It’s an easier driver to turn over than the standard SIM and very forgiving…with the right shaft. It is easily one of the top two in ball speed. It’s a much easier driver to fit than the previous M4/M6 models.
  • This head can do everything the SIM can but with a bit more forgiveness and a touch more launch. In the low-spin category of drivers, this in on the shortlist for most forgiving.

Titleist TS3 driver – best golf drivers of all time

TS3 offers a CG optimizer to tune-in flight preferences.The thin face of TS3 creates a hot yet stable driver.
The deeper face footprint of TS3 aids in its lower spin profile.Simple top line and clean overall look make TS3 the choice of many of the world’s top players.

Titleist TS3: In 2019, the Titleist Speed Project ushered in a new era for performance in Titleist metal woods.  The TS3 has continued to be a staple in fittings by offering big gains for players making the switch from previous generation Titleist drivers.

From the fitters

  • All-around performers that can work for a lot of golfers. The TS3 keeps up to any driver on the market, once you get it dialed in. It’s very accurate, and thanks to the adjustability and loft option, it’s not just a “better players” driver.
  • This is the absolute best all-around driver Titleist has ever made. Great forgiveness, center of gravity adjustability for ball flight control, and hosel adjustments make this an easy-to-fit driver. Maybe slightly more geared to the mid-to-lower handicap, but almost anybody can fit into this. The only negative thing I could say is its potentially not the best drivers for higher spin players that need greater hosel adjustability.
  • The CG adjustability and the hosel sleeve make this the perfect candidate to help golfers that struggle with a hook miss. One of the great things about Titleist is all of the loft options and the fact that the TS series drivers sound so good. It’s my favorite Titleist driver ever, but still more geared to a lower handicap.
  • This driver looks like a sleek sports car and delivers with results. The hosel adjustment makes getting players into the right head and loft combo easy, but it can be a spinnier driver for players that miss lower on the face compared to some other clubs. For lower spin players looking for a consistent flight, this one often comes out on top.
  • This driver gets overshadowed because it’s on the second year of Titleist’s traditional two-year cycle, but it is a wonderful neutral driver with lots of settings and can really help golfers that miss more left. You get a lot of spin control with all of the settings, but I wouldn’t classify it as a “spin killer.” If you want that in the Titleist line, you have to go TS4.
  • A “classic-looking driver” with all the bells and whistles—it’s a total sleeper ball speed machine. It offers medium to low spin in a much more forgiving package than Titleist has ever offered. To me, the TS series is the best Titleist drivers ever made!
  • All-around for ball speeds, the TS3 can keep up to any other driver in the market. It works well for so many players and excels for golfers with a neutral to upward AoA with the driver. Great draw and fade adjustability with the Sure Fit hosel and weight system. It’s not the lowest spinning driver in the lineup, that title belongs to the TS4 but that’s why the Titleist line up is great, there is a driver for everyone.
  • Classic Titleist look with updated speed. Forgiving for golfers of all abilities, yet still workable to the best players in the world as well as the top amateurs.

Cobra SpeedZone driver – best golf drivers of all time

SpeedZone drivers feature the latest iteration of Cobra’s milled Infinity Face.The face extends over the top of the carbon wrap crown.
The T-Bar chassis was inspired by race cars.The sole of the Cobra SpeedZone driver features two weights to dial in launch and spin.

Cobra SpeedZone: To infinity and beyond! Since its introduction in late 2019, the Cobra SpeedZone with Infinity Face has been a huge success. Cobra engineers focused on improved geometry and mass shifting, along with implementing new manufacturing techniques to precisely control face thickness around the edges of the face, including topline and sole. This allows Cobra to have some of the highest quality control standards for face thickness in the market.

From the fitters

Extremely forgiving with tight dispersion and great ball speed—this is my best all-around driver for 2020. This driver is neutral in weighting and can get more fade bias with setting adjustments. It’s in the top 10 percent in ball speeds, from everything we have tested.

The SpeedZone is another fantastic driver that offers top-end ball speed and gets VERY close to the Ping G410 Plus in the category of forgiveness. Its a perfectly neutral head which works well for players that like to work the ball and helps us in fittings. The thing you have to watch for, depending on the player and their dynamics, the Cobra is one driver where if you get the combo wrong it can be too low spin on mishits resulting in lost carry distance.

This is the sleeper of the year! Even with all the technology and performance, it still seems underrated. Spin control and consistency on mishits are really good, and the sole design is brilliant, since no matter how you adjust loft, it sits square…speaking to “sitting square” the topline on the SpeedZone is extremely easy to align for players that struggle with lining up off the tee compared to other drivers with very round toplines and paint breaks.

This head is really low spin—basically on par with the TaylorMade SIM driver but with extra forgiveness. For golfers that are already low spin, you can creep into “too low spin” territory very quickly so you have to be careful, of the loft and shaft combination. Feedback from a lot of players is that the milled face and carbon construction makes the driver feel really solid.

Although similar, this is a nice step forward from the previous F9, and like the SIM, it fits into the lower-spin category, where it is a fantastic club for higher speed players and those that want to eliminate the left side. To me, the secret of this head is finding the right shaft for slightly faster players and tweaking the weights in the sole to get the head weight up even more. It becomes very stable and still maintains the lower-spin properties.

Another ball speed monster from Cobra. I would say the only downside is the workability compared to others and shape since we see most high-speed golfers gravitate towards more classic looking drivers.

This is a very low spin driver that gets really low with the heavier weight in the front weight port. With the slightly heavier weights, this driver becomes just seems to want to go straight. The only drawback I have found is for players that tend to miss with a fade or push those misses can become bigger with the club, since it can be a bit more difficult to turn over.

BEST DRIVERS FOR 95-105 MPH 

Callaway Mavrik driver – best golf drivers of all time

Back weight equals high MOI which makes Mavrik very easy to hit.Artificial Intelligence was used to create a face that was playable to all four corners.
Although it’s forgiving, Mavrik gives the player a Tour-inspired shape and clean lines.

Callaway Mavrik: This driver is the flagship of the Mavrik line and offers of most aggressive aerodynamic Cyclone Shaping. It hits the perfect balance of lower (ish) spin—but not too low with forgiveness and higher MOI. Most golfers looking at the Mavrik series will end up with this in the bag thanks to its fitting versatility.

From the fitters

This club is very easy to hit, and it’s a great driver for a huge part of the golfing population. Head to head against the SIM Max, these are the two drivers that most golfers are going to look at, but for players that miss more around the face, the ball speed retention is second to none.

Almost anyone can fit into this driver, and for those that need a little extra help hitting a draw, it can be tweaked to be a big help. The mid-spin profile creates a lot of options, but for the highest ball speed players it can start to become a bit too easy to turn over—this isn’t a bad thing, it just means golfers should move into the SZ head instead.

A perfect blend of moderate spin control, ball speed, and added forgiveness. For players that love the Mav SubZero but need a touch more spin, this club looks the part and performs.

Great all-around driver, tied for fastest ball speed with SIM Max. The ball speed around the face is fantastic, and you can fit almost anybody with this driver. Muted sound compared to previous generation is a big improvement. With the CG being a bit higher, we don’t get the extremely low spin as other drivers, but the deviation is low.

My best fitting driver. Stable and works for the majority of players. Consistent spin with excellent ball speed and forgiveness. You can hit it all over the face and get really good numbers with this driver.

Ball speeds are consistent around the face, spin rates are lower compared to others at this speed, and it’s very forgiving. What’s not to love?

Of all the drivers in 2020, this one has the best potential to create the most ball speed. It’s a great driver for your average golfers but just like other drivers in the market, adjustability makes a great club for golfers needing a bit more directional help too.

Similar category to SIM Max in that its a touch higher launch and bit higher spin but still very much on the lower end of what we see available in terms of drivers in the market. Compared to the previous generation Rogue and Epic Flash it has a bit more spin head to head but that also helps make it more accurate.

Wonderfully forgiving driver with a small inherent draw bias because of the internal weighting and the static lie angle. The dispersion is higher because ball speed on off-center hits is still high. This is a great driver for mid-to-higher handicaps and golfers who square the face but have an inconsistent strike pattern.

TaylorMade SIM Max driver – best golf drivers of all time

With a big portion of weight pulled back and deep, the SIM Max launches high with plenty of forgiveness.The High MOI of SIM Max is aided by Twist Face technology. The new topline of SIM MAX was inspired form feedback from the Tour.Like SIM, SIM Max has loft/lie adjustability to fine-tune launch and flight preferences.

TaylorMade SIM Max:This is the second category the SIM Max finds itself in. This proves that when an OEM designs a well-rounded head, fitters are going to take advantage. The other benefit not yet mentioned about the removal of the sliding track is it simplifies the options for the golfers—because many golfers that buy a club off the rack don’t want to worry about ever adjusting any moveable weights.

From the fitters

Day-to-day, we see the fastest ball speeds of any driver with the SIM Max, plus it’s an extremely stable head … It’s so easy to dial in perfect launch conditions once you get the correct loft.

This driver offers very similar performance numbers to the SIM with additional forgiveness and a touch more spin. It offers less adjustability, but it’s a small sacrifice to gain a higher MOI.

I use this driver, so I may be a bit biased here, but it’s super forgiving and from a fitting perspective the SIM Max is one of the most versatile drivers for a number of golfers. Think SIM but with a bit more launch and the added benefit of tighter misses.

Flat-out consistent. It works just as well for average speed players as is does with golfers on the higher end. In the TaylorMade SIM line, this is by far the most all-encompassing driver head.

This driver reminds me of the great original TaylorMade M2—you can get great results that launch higher and with less spin for more players. This driver truly excels on lateral misses on the face – if you are missing heel and toe it still seems like it wants to find the fairway and I guess that’s the power of the Twist Face’s extra bulge and roll.

Ping G410 Plus driver – best golf drivers of all time

Trajectory Tuning 2.0 offers 8 hosel positions to adjust ball flight and loft.The “creased crown” with turbulators and Dragonfly technology beneath. The first moveable weight track in a Ping driver for dialing in CG and ball flight.T9S+ precision-machined Fast Forged face.

Ping 410 Plus: The G410 Plus is the standard for which other drivers are measured against for forgiveness—regardless of performance characteristics. The G410 has three models in the line but the Plus is the all-around performer, and it’s no surprise to find it on the list.

From the fitters

The G410 Plus clicks every box for all-around performance and is massively forgiving. It’s easy to see why so many players use it and why it’s even a big seller off of the rack. When you put this driver head to head with other clubs it might not be the leader in every category, but where it doesn’t lead its easily top 3. The only negative thing I’ve heard from some golfers is the turbulators are still a visual distraction – but after a few swings, most golfers don’t even notice them.

Absolute forgiveness leader or as we call it a “forgiveness monster!” This is the perfect driver for players that really struggle with consistent center contact and still need help. The ball speeds off this driver are amongst the highest but it’s not a leader. It’s a perfect mid-spin head that can be dialed in to fit to almost any player.

This driver is almost always in the Fairway! It’s not the pure longest driver but it is far and away the most forgiving driver on the market. Sure it doesn’t have the same “sexy” story as some other clubs but if you are looking for a driver that is always going to give you an approach shot then this is it! Good shots are great and bad shots and still pretty good.

The 410 Plus is a great all-around driver that is just plain easy to hit. Spin numbers are always in check, and there are lots of options with the hosel and weight adjustment to max out variables

The G410 Plus just hits frozen ropes! It’s the MOST forgiving driver on the market and when you add in all of the adjustable settings with the hosel and moveable weight it can be dialed to fit any golfer and create a much tighter shot dispersion. You can hit this thing all over the face – left right up or down, there is a good chance you’re going to find the short grass.

The forgiveness of this driver sells itself. It holds its start line better than any other driver on the market. The higher MOI comes on the tails of a heavier overall head weight so some builds can be harder with some shafts but thanks to custom fitting and building this is not a common problem, the only thing we have noticed is lower face strikes spin more that other driver.

This is the most forgiving driver period. It’s a bit higher launch and higher spin which puts it in the category with Sim Max, but its more versatile thanks to all the adjustability. The ball speed drops around the face as you move away from the center BUT couple that with the extremely high MOI and it keeps balls closer to the target line and in the short grass more often.

Cobra SpeedZone Xtreme driver – best golf drivers of all time

The forgiveness-focused SpeedZone Xtreme features one six-gram weight in the rear of the sole.SpeedZone drivers feature the latest iteration of Cobra’s milled Infinity Face.
Aerodynamic 360 carbon wrap crown.SpeedZone drivers feature the latest iteration of Cobra’s milled Infinity Face.

Cobra SpeedZone Xtreme: The SpeedZone Xtreme is built on a slightly larger platform than the standard model which allows more weight around the perimeter. A 17-gram weight at the very rear combined with multi-material head creates the highest MOI Cobra has ever had while still maintaining and a high launch/low spin profile.

From the fitters

  • This is a juiced-up SpeedZone that maintains lower spin rates and offers greater stability. We don’t get the same spin control with the single weight, but it still allows for easy final customization. Going shorter and with a heavier weight makes this club an MOI monster.
  • Sound, shape, and performance are A+ with this head. All the great benefits of the standard SpeedZone but with added forgiveness and a touch more spin.
  • This driver truly is a more forgiving SpeedZone with a bit more spin for players of equal speed and way more forgiveness. For players in this swing speed range, a driver with a little extra spin means more carry and more total distance. It’s the closest competitor in forgiveness to the PING G410 Plus, which is a big compliment – but with less spin.
  • This head offers forgiveness close to the highest we see of all the drivers in 2020, add that to the available ball speed and you have a driver built to help golfers hit more fairways and hit it longer.
  •  Cobra has done a great job separating this driver from the standard SpeedZone. It has a bit more spin, offers higher MOI and is just a very solid club for players that might not have all the speed at the top end. Its also very neutrally weighted which is great because not all slower players are looking for a draw-biased club.
  • This driver is like a lower spinning G410 Plus. The loft adjustability helps us dial in the flight window and the spin stays lower because of the CG placement in the head. Even though it is a max forgiveness head it is very neutral in ball flight.
  • This has been a really good driver for a lot of golfers this year. It’s got a ton of forgiveness, plus with all the hosel options its easy to dial in. It also keeps the spin down for a lot of players – especially misses lower on the face.

Callaway Mavrik Max driver – best golf drivers of all time

As with all recent offerings, the Mavrik Max is equipped with Jailbreak technology.2020 Callaway Mavrik Max features a T2C Triaxial Carbon Crown allows for additional weight savings.
The Flash Face is made from FS2S titanium, an extremely strong material that’s 6 grams lighter than traditional titanium.Interchangeable weights offer “Max draw” or “Max forgiveness” settings

Callaway Mavrik Max: At 460cc’s, the Max has the largest footprint from address because of its more shallow profile which makes it the easiest to launch of the three Mavrik models. It shares all the same features of the other drivers in the line including Flash Face 2.0, and Jail Break but in a more player-friendly package. Two weights (14g and 2g) offer either a maximum MOI setting or maximum draw with the weight position in the heel.

From the fitters

  • This driver is closer to the standard Mavrik for spin rates than some people think—especially in the standard weight configuration. The Max is also not as draw-biased as it may appear from the weights and its easily the 2nd or 3rd most forgiving driver out there. But, put that heavy weight in the heel and adjust the hosel and it becomes a slice killer.
  • For those mid-range players who need a little help creating a draw flight the Callaway Mavrik Max is a great head. Very easy to swing because of its slightly lighter head weight and a lot of forgiveness.
  • For golfers with mid to lower swing speeds that need launch and additional carry, I fit this driver a lot. Thanks to the adjustable weights you can set the Mavrik Max up to be a hugely forgiving bomber.
  • This is the second most draw bias driver on the market after the Sim Max D. This driver creates the tightest dispersion pattern of the Mavrik line and is great for golfers that need increased carry.
  • Like other drivers in the larger footprint category it gets up into the air quicker – relative to loft, but the magic is that it still keeps spin on the lower end to help keep misses in the fairway. If you need more carry this is one of my top drivers.
  • The Mavrik MAX is very close to the standard Mavrik in overall performance but with additional draw bias for those players that need help eliminating the right miss and need a touch more spin. Even if you are a lower handicap, this is a driver to try depending on your shot preference because thanks to the weight and hosel adjustability you can really dial it in.
  • When going head to head against the Sim Max D this thing is a more versatile club. The best thing about this club is that just because its the “game improvement” club in the line, thanks to the looks and the adjustability it can be fine-tuned to build a super forgiving “players” (lower handicap), driver.

BEST DRIVERS FOR SWING SPEEDS OF 94 MPH AND BELOW

TaylorMade SIM Max driver – best golf drivers of all time

With a big portion of weight pulled back and deep, the SIM Max launches high with plenty of forgiveness.The new topline of SIM MAX was inspired form feedback from the Tour.
The High MOI of SIM Max is aided by Twist Face technology.Like SIM, SIM Max has loft/lie adjustability to fine-tune launch and flight preferences.

TaylorMade SIM Max: The SIM Max showing up in every speed category shows not only how good the driver is but its adjustability and loft offerings can fit a wide range of players.

From the fitters

  • Total package.. good ball speed, great inertial properties to promote proper launch and spin and stability. Long, forgiving, and consistent – what else could you really want?
  • Very forgiving! With it being such a low spin head for moderate clubhead speeds its important to consider choosing a higher loft than other drivers. 1st or 2nd in ball speeds easily!
  • Super forgiving and it offers both a neutral and draw bias option with the adjustable sleeve without appearing to change the face angle too much.
  • This is my clear cut number one most fit driver. Looks, spin, launch forgiveness – this driver is like Goldilocks getting the porridge at just the right temperature.

Callaway Mavrik Max driver – best golf drivers of all time

As with all recent offerings, the Mavrik Max is equipped with Jailbreak technology.2020 Callaway Mavrik Max features a T2C Triaxial Carbon Crown allows for additional weight savings.
The Flash Face is made from FS2S titanium, an extremely strong material that’s 6 grams lighter than traditional titanium.Interchangeable weights offer “Max draw” or “Max forgiveness” settings

Callaway Mavrik Max: You shouldn’t be surprised to see the Mavrik Max driver in this category. The shallower more draw-biased shape makes it easier for moderate speed golfers to create the necessary spin to keep the ball in the air longer for increased carry. Callaway has addressed this need for more spin across the entire Max line, and with modern golf ball tech, it’s a winner.

From the fitters

  • Callaway Mavrik Max gives you the ability to move weight to the heel and keep the face squared up to allow moderate players a great look from address.
  • The Max is very forgiving. It’s top one or two in ball speed on off-center hits in my fittings, and it also has a bunch of great stock shaft options.
  • The Mavrik Max is the most anti-push/right miss driver of 2020. It starts off in a mostly neutral looking package but if you combine the more upright lie angle with the ability to aggressively close the face, it’s not going to miss right very often. For how high it launches, it’s still a pretty low-spin driver, which also helps reduce ball flight curvature.
  • A super forgiving driver that can be configured at a neutral as needed, or it can be set up for the MEGA DRAW! Even though it can be set for a draw, the spin stays lower than a lot of other draw drivers. You can miss all over the face and still see a lot of performance, which is what makes it so helpful to a lot of players.

Titleist TS1 driver – best golf drivers of all time

High MOI thanks to a large tungsten weight in the extreme rear of the sole.Ultra-thin titanium crown in a modern shape.
Variable face thickness.

Titleist TS1: Titleist utilized the TS frame and made it faster with the TS1 by lightening the entire club from head to grip, allowing players every opportunity to gain speed. The shallower profile and longer front to back shape increase MOI and also help with spin retention—a necessity for moderate speed players.

From the fitters

  • A total sleeper again. Titleist isn’t well known for this category, but with the lighter head design, forgiveness, and enhanced ball speeds, it is really good for slower swing speeds.
  • The TS1 is a great performing lightweight driver. This could make me sound like a broken record but it’s just very forgiving and easy to launch.
  • The perfect driver for slower swing speed players that can be built in a lightweight package. Thanks to the fitting process some players that are looking for that extra help can still benefit from the design with a standard weight shaft. It’s mega-forgiving and one of the highest launching heads relative to loft on the market.
  • If you are a slower speed golfer looking to add carry and gain back some lost distance this is a must-try. The stock shaft options compliment the head extremely well for the target golfer. Every slower sleep player that has come into a fit seeking most distance has gained with this driver.
  • This driver works exactly as advertised. It launches like the Mavrik Max but offers a much more neutral bias and spins less. It’s has a really tight dispersion pattern and is great for mid to lower end clubhead speed players.
  • Great light head, works perfectly for low-speed players. The stock air speeder shaft is a great compliment to this driver off the rack.

Ping G410 Plus driver – best golf drivers of all time

Trajectory Tuning 2.0 offers 8 hosel positions to adjust ball flight and loft.The “creased crown” with turbulators and Dragonfly technology beneath.
The first moveable weight track in a Ping driver for dialing in CG and ball flight.T9S+ precision-machined Fast Forged face.

Ping 410 Plus: A great design will always be a great design. The G410 Plus continues to be one of the most forgiving drivers on the market, and with an all-around-performance design, it’s no surprise to find it again on the 2020 list.

From the fitters

  • I feel like this driver is top 3 in all kinds of categories. The G410 Plus is easy to hit, feels great, and it looks good…honestly what more could you want? The available adjustability and a good variety of stock shafts make this my top pick.
  • Like all Ping drivers, it is super forgiving, but this one is also super adjustable. Thanks to the new weighting system and the available “flat setting” we are seeing fantastic results in getting players missing better and tightening up dispersion as well as being long.
  • This is your meat and potatoes easy-to-hit driver that can help any golfer that misses around the face. The great thing about this driver is its ability to be adjusted and “grow” with golfers. If you have a right miss and get it dialed in to help, and then through a swing change or improvement you start to miss more left, the adjustability in the hosel and the weight around the perimeter are easy to understand and get dialed back in.
  • Our number-one seller! The best all-around performing driver. Very stable with low spin and great ball speed retention on heel-toe misses. Ping defies the theory of low spin has to be low MOI.

XXIO Prime driver

A 6g weight that’s low and deep enhances forgiveness.The Super-Tix PLUS titanium face features a sweetspot that is 103% bigger than the previous model.

XXIO Prime: The Prime series from XXIO is all about premium golf club performance and components. By utilizing advanced lightweight construction throughout the club, it allows moderate swing speed players to maximize all of their potential distance.

From the fitters

  • XXIO Prime is excellent for anybody with moderate clubhead speed. We can always find a little more clubhead speed and ball speed with a Prime driver – or any club for that matter.
  • Great for the slower swing speed players looking to increase launch and spin—and it just doesn’t want to go right!
  • This driver fits the intended market perfectly – it is the easiest to swing club. It’s fantastic at promoting a draw and great for slower speed players looker for every last yard.
  • XXIO Prime far exceeds the performance of all other clubs in this category thanks to the total package of head and shaft.
  • These drivers excel at delivering more distance, tighter dispersion, and carry. For the lowest speed golfers, we cant beat these drivers no matter what combo we build. It can help with the right miss and for a lot of players too. We call the XXIO Prime the fountain of youth driver!

MOST FORGIVING/STRAIGHTEST  

Ping G410 Plus driver

Trajectory Tuning 2.0 offers 8 hosel positions to adjust ball flight and loft.The “creased crown” with turbulators and Dragonfly technology beneath.
The first moveable weight track in a Ping driver for dialing in CG and ball flight.T9S+ precision-machined Fast Forged face.

Ping 410 Plus: If you feel like you’ve seen this before—you’re right. The Ping G410 Plus was rated our number one most forgiving driver in 2019, and it continues to lead the pack. The high-MOI design produces consistent results all over the face and with the adjustability for shot shape, you have the ultimate fairway finder.

From the fitters: “Ping has always been one of the most forgiving and straightest drivers on the market” …  “For the last 4 generations or drivers, when we think straight, we think Ping! The design says confidence at address and it delivers.”

Cobra SpeedZone Xtreme driver

The forgiveness-focused SpeedZone Xtreme features one six-gram weight in the rear of the sole.SpeedZone drivers feature the latest iteration of Cobra’s milled Infinity Face.
Aerodynamic 360 carbon wrap crown.SpeedZone drivers feature the latest iteration of Cobra’s milled Infinity Face.

Cobra SpeedZone Xtreme: The SpeedZone Xtreme’s shape and geometry create an extremely high MOI. The great “hack” with this driver is that, thanks to the adjustable rear weight, when it’s played at a shorter length the additional mass (14g vs standard 6g) takes the MOI even higher, and makes it the most stable driver Cobra has ever produced.

From the fitters: “Like every year, Cobra is producing an amazing driver, which seems to fly under the radar. Amazing ball speed forgiveness all over the face. Tends to flight lower and kill spin compared to most products.” … “Arguably one of the straightest drivers of all time.”

TaylorMade SIM Max driver

With a big portion of weight pulled back and deep, the SIM Max launches high with plenty of forgiveness.The new topline of SIM MAX was inspired form feedback from the Tour.
The High MOI of SIM Max is aided by Twist Face technology.Like SIM, SIM Max has loft/lie adjustability to fine-tune launch and flight preferences.

TaylorMade SIM Max: The SIM Max has made its way into every category on our best drivers ranking. Although it doesn’t offer the same adjustability as others, it proves that a versatile clubhead designed to be well rounded can be a winner for almost any golfer.

From the fitters: “I love to fit with this driver because you are able to adjust the two weights for a player that hits it straight, or for someone that fades the ball. Add that to a driver that has great ball speeds you have a great combination made to hit more fairways.”

Titleist TS2 driver

High-launch, low-spin profile, assisted by rearward weighting.Ultra-thin face.
Ultra thin, clean titanium crown.

Titleist TS2: The TS2’s continued success on our best driver list is proof that Titleist’s commitment to re-engineering their metal woods to maximize performance has paid off with the Speed Project. It also proves that a well-fit driver can be hard to beat.

From the fitters

  • They have made a really forgiving driver that fits more players than just the single-digit handicap. This driver with a square-looking face and hosel options make it one of the straightest.
  • This is my Titleist sleeper. Where the TS3 is geared more towards a mid to lower handicap that needs lower spin, the TS2 is a great head for mid to lower handicaps looking for the extra spin and control with the driver. Thanks to the adjustable hosel and all of the available lofts this is another driver that although designed for a specific demographic can be fit to almost anyone.
  • The TS2 fits a wide spectrum of players. I like to call this club the perfect driver for the “trunk slammer/doesn’t like to practice golfer” that wants performance and forgiveness, in a traditionally shaped head design.
  • This is the best driver in the Titleist line for the most number of golfers. It offers a touch more spin than the TS3 but still keeps numbers in control for players with higher swing speeds. It has a square look at address that appeals to the traditional golfer but the performance catches a lot of people off guard. This club excels compared to previous generation Titleist drivers on heel and toe misses which keeps more golfers in the short grass. Overall it’s a very stable mid-spin driver that can also help golfers with higher dynamic loft thanks to loft options and hosel adjustability.
  • This is my driver! It works very well for a large range of golfers and just like other Titleist products, the loft options and Sure Fit sleeve make it a lot easier to get just right once we have the shaft and unadjusted loft optimized. Thanks to the extra spin we can get players extra carry from a very neutral head.
  • Great ball speed and forgiveness in a traditional-looking package, it’s a great driver for the right player and keeps up to any other driver on the market.

Callaway Mavrik Max driver

As with all recent offerings, the Mavrik Max is equipped with Jailbreak technology.2020 Callaway Mavrik Max features a T2C Triaxial Carbon Crown allows for additional weight savings.
The Flash Face is made from FS2S titanium, an extremely strong material that’s 6 grams lighter than traditional titanium.Interchangeable weights offer “Max draw” or “Max forgiveness” settings

Callaway Mavrik Max: By building the Mavrik MAX on a high MOI platform packed with technology, it’s easier for golfers to hit fairways. When you put all of the adjustability features together—including the hosel adjustment and heel weighting—it doesn’t take long for a fitter to dial in specs built for distance and finding fairways.

From the fitters: “Customers feedback tends to say this is one of the straightest drivers on the market and I agree. Its slight draw bias and lighter overall weight helps the average players square the face too.” … “The Mavrik Max is one of our go-to clubheads across the board regardless of the clubhead. Being so straight makes this driver check all the boxes.”

best golf drivers of all time

Editor’s recommendations

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2020 PGA Tour Golf Putting Mat https://rizacademy.com/2020-pga-tour-golf-putting-mat/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2020-pga-tour-golf-putting-mat Fri, 20 Mar 2020 13:27:18 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=490 There is a variety of awesome and highly reliable brands that manufactures golf putting mats. The design includes the ability to alter the green by inserting wedges, as well as ball return feature to held you maintain the correct stance between shots. PGA TOUR golf putting mat is notable among them and perfect practice golf […]

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There is a variety of awesome and highly reliable brands that manufactures golf putting mats. The design includes the ability to alter the green by inserting wedges, as well as ball return feature to held you maintain the correct stance between shots. PGA TOUR golf putting mat is notable among them and perfect practice golf mat for trainer, beginner, professionals and even golf passionate people.

PGA TOUR ‘Augusta’ Golf Deluxe Putting Mat

PGA TOUR 'Augusta' Golf Deluxe Putting Mat

The PGA Tour Pro Sized Putting Green uses a Pro-putt professional standard artificial turf that replicates putting on a smooth green. Produced from the highest grade materials, it provides outstanding durability with the very best roll characteristics of artificial putting greens.

This superb PGA Tour putting mat will help you to improve your short game, either at home or at the office this accessory is a must. At 1.5 x 3.0 meters this mat is one of the biggest on the market, plus has smooth and rough artificial turf to help simulate real conditions faced around the greens. The mat has regulation sized holes with removable flags, and comes with PGA TOUR Academy Training DVD, Guide Alignment Ball, Poker Chip, Ball Alignment, Ball Marker, and Pen Set.

This 4.9ft x 9.8ft putting mat is one of the biggest available on the market, includes three holes with flags and also simulates rough for a variety of different short game shots. The cups are regulation size to perfectly simulate real holes on the golf course and include removable flags to help you lock on to your desired target hole. The mat also includes a PGA Tour Academy Training DVD, Guide Alignment Ball, Poker Chip Ball Marker, Ball Alignment and Pen Set.

The PGA Tour Putting Mat Features:

  • 1.5 x 3.0 Meter Deluxe Putting Green
  • Regulation Sized Holes & Removable Flags
  • Simulates Soft & Rough
  • Extra PGA Tour Accessories

PGA Tour Unisex’s St. Andrews Golf Deluxe Putting Mat, Green

PGA Tour Unisex's St. Andrews Golf Deluxe Putting Mat, Green

This huge putting mat is the perfect addition to any games room Or modern office. At a massive 3 meters by 0.75 meters (2.5ft x 9.8ft) this is one of the biggest putting Mats available today. The 2 holes With flags are situated a Different positions for a variety of shots. With a raised artificial Turf outer border to keep you on the Green and inner high quality faux Green Simulates The action on the course. Improve your putting skills and get your score down, great for use with training aids and alignment tools to improve your putting. The majority of shots on the course are made on the Green, improve your putting skills from the fairway and the rough. For use indoor and outdoors, care Instructions inside. Designed to smooth Out to give a consistent level.

Features

0.75M x 3M (2.5ft x 9.8ft) large Deluxe putting Green area with four tone and double gradient grassRemovable mini flags and regulation sized putting cup diameterTwo gradient high quality turf, simulates The soft and rough of a courseA superb tool for practicing your putting both indoors and outdoorsIncludes additional Extras PGA academy training DVD, guide alignment ball, ball alignment and pen set

Specifics

Color: GreenSize: 75 x 300cmStyle: St. AndrewsMaterial type: PlasticSeason: EvergreenSport: GolfIncluded components: 1 x 75 x 300 Grass Mat, 2 Regulation putting size cups, 2 x putting flags, 1 Alignment Golf Ball, 1 Pen and Ball Marker, 1 PGA TOUR DVDBrand name: PGAItem Weight: 8.22 KgShipping Weight: 8.5 KgItem model number: PGAT159Date First Available: 5 Sept. 2017


PGA Tour 6ft Putting Mat with Collapsible Putter Alignment Guide Golf Ball

PGA-Tour-6ft-Putting-Mat-with-Collapsible-Putter-Alignment-Guide-Golf-Ball
  • Sand and lake traps with target flag
  • Smooth, authentic grass surface
  • Slight incline enhances firmness with each stroke
  • Collapsible putter
  • Perfect for the home or office
  • Includes official PGA TOUR Academy training DVD
  • Sand and lake traps with target flag
  • Smooth, authentic grass surface
  • Slight incline enhances firmness with each stroke
  • Collapsible putter
  • Perfect for the home or office
  • Includes official PGA TOUR Academy training DVD

Features: Deluxe artificial turf with 3 water and sand hazards on a slight incline to promote firmness of stroke Includes collapsible putter, guide ball and target flag


PGA Tour ‘Pebble Beach’ Golf Deluxe Putting Mat

The Pebble Beach has a large putting area 1.5m x 3m (4.9ft x 9.8ft) and has a professional standard putting green that creates a surface that will play smooth and true all year round. Pebble Beach offers a consistent stimp speed and is often specified by professional golf designers.

  • 8mm Heavy Duty EVA non-slip base.
  • Green Pile Height – 10mm PP(Polypropylene), UV-Resistant.
  • Four Tone Grass Pile Height – 30mm PE (Polyethylene), UV-Resistant.
  • Weather resistant – for indoor & outdoor use.
  • Three PGA TOUR branded removable mini target flags are included for that authentic putting green look.

PGA Tour Three Hole Putting Mat

Practice your chipping and putting on this kidney shaped golf green. If the ball does not fall into the cup the foam incline mat returns the ball to the golfer. Poly grass surface simulates Bermuda Grass to give authentic feel. This large green features three holes to create different challenges. The deluxe artificial turf reproduces tournament standard greens. A superb tool for practicing your putting both indoors and outdoors. Added hazards are placed either side of the holes to increase difficulty and catch missed shots.

Editor’s recommendations

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Golf simulator comparison chart 2020 https://rizacademy.com/golf-simulator-comparison-chart-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=golf-simulator-comparison-chart-2020 Thu, 19 Mar 2020 18:06:06 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=484 Golf simulators allow you to practice and play a virtual round of golf on courses 24/7, in the comfort of your home, regardless of what the weather is doing outside. As the technology matures, the gap between virtual golf and the real thing continues to narrow. Don’t get us wrong, an indoor golf simulator will never replace playing a round at your local […]

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Golf simulators allow you to practice and play a virtual round of golf on courses 24/7, in the comfort of your home, regardless of what the weather is doing outside. As the technology matures, the gap between virtual golf and the real thing continues to narrow. Don’t get us wrong, an indoor golf simulator will never replace playing a round at your local golf club, but it goes to show how realistic the experience is becoming. Find our Golf simulator comparison chart 2020 to know everything that you need.

With its rise in popularity and a growing home golf market, the number of companies producing simulators has increased. More options means more competition for the manufacturers. Know details in Golf simulator comparison chart 2020.

Golf simulator comparison chart 2020

1. SkyTrak Launch Monitor2. Rapsodo R-Motion3. OptiShot 24. PhiGolf WGT Edition5. Tittle X Micro
Specifications
ManufacturerSkyGolf GPSRapsodoOptiShot GolfPhiGolfTittle Golf
Provided DataBall Speed, Club Speed, Launch Angle, Side Spin, Carry Distance, Side AngleClub Speed, Ball Speed, Smash Factor, Swing Path, Distance, Launch AngleSwing Path, Clubhead Speed, Face Impact Angle, Shot Shape, Distance, Swing Tempo, Face Area ContactDistance, Face Angle, Attack Angle, Swing Path, Head Speed, Swing TempoHead Speed, Swing Type, Carry Distance, Swing Path
Golf Course Selection181515112
Save Game OptionYesYesNoYesN/A
Features
Closest-to-the-Pin3D Motion TechnologyOnline PlaySmart Device CompatibleBluetooth 4.0
Session HistoryInstant Data Screen ReadoutsGreat Shot Tracking7-Hour Battery LifeOLED Display
Target PracticeUSB RechargeableHigh-Quality Sensor HardwareClosest to the Pin ChallengeInstant Swing Analysis
Multiple Camera AnglesAutomatic Shut-OffMac and Windows PC CompatibilityApproach GameSmart Device Compatible
Multi-Color Short TrackersBluetooth DonglePutting Game
Club Compare
Warranty & Suppport
Product Warranty6 Months1 Year1 Year1 Year1 Year
Customer Support
User Manual

1.Best Indoor Golf Simulator comparison for Home – SkyTrak SIG10

SkyTrak SIG10 Golf Simulator

The SkyTrak SIG10 Package is our most popular golf simulator package, delivering an accurate and realistic experience, and our selection for best indoor golf simulator for home use. This complete bundle is built around the highly reviewed SkyTrak Launch Monitor – voted Best Value Golf Simulator by Golf Digest three years running for its performance and accuracy.

SkyTrak is a photometric based tracking system that captures ball data including: carry distance, total distance, backspin, side spin, distance off center, launch angle, and more.

In addition to the Skytrak, a metal protective case, and simulation software (allows you to play 12 famous golf courses), a 10’W golf simulator enclosure with impact screen & floor projector mount are included (Golf simulator comparison chart 2020).

Your choice of upgraded mat and Optoma HD 1080p projector (with HDMI cable) round out the SkyTrak SIG10 Package.

Starting at $7299.99, you simply will not find another golf simulator bundle at this price point that features every item you need as the SkyTrak SIG10 Simulator, which is why it is our choice as the Best Indoor Golf Simulator for home.


2. Best Commercial Golf Simulator comparison – Trugolf Vista 10

trugolf vista 10 golf simulator

The Trugolf Vista 10 is our leading option for businesses, and our selection for best commercial golf simulator for sale.

This high end commercial grade simulator offers lots of features including stunning HD graphics, Trugolf’s proprietary TruTrack2 tracking system (calculates club data including launch angle), and the E6 connect simulation software.

PGA Tour Pros, teaching professionals and golf shops around the country love the recently added skills challenge feature to track performance and also use Trugolf simulators for club fitting and bag mapping. 

E6 Connect’s extensive golf course library (27 courses on basic plan), and Trugolf’s multiplayer capabilities – including peer to peer gaming, also makes this a top option with Commercial Indoor Golfing Centers and residential golfers (Golf simulator comparison chart 2020). 

Priced at $15995, the Trugolf Vista 10 delivers a realistic experience that has plenty of options which work great for commercial applications, and is our choice as the Best Commercial Golf Simulator.

Upgrade to the Vista 10 Pro version and receive everything in the Vista 10 PLUS an upgraded computer, audio speaker, and side nets and walls for a more premium golf experience.


3. Best Cheap Golf Simulator comparison – SkyTrak Bronze Package

SkyTrak Bronze Golf Simulator Package

When we say “cheap” golf simulator, it is important to note that we are not referring to the quality of the simulator, rather we are referring to the simulator’s cost and how it is relatively affordable compared to other golf simulators.

At a price of $4599, the SkyTrak Bronze Package is a fun and affordable option for budget conscious golfers, and is our choice as the Best Affordable Golf Simulator For Under $5000.

This bundle comes with the SkyTrak launch monitor, a golf mat, a net, side barriers, projection screen, HD projector, Projector Shield enclosure, and all required cabling.

The software (one of the main features) is also included with purchase, and provides access to various game improvement modules such as bag mapping and wedge matrix, along with a virtual driving range and multiplayer closest to the pin and long drive challenges (Golf simulator comparison chart 2020). 

With so many features for under $5000, the SkyTrak Bronze Package is a great value, and our recommendation for Best Golf Simulator For The Money.


4. Rapsodo R-Motion

Rapsodo R-Motion Image

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Ball speed, club speed, swing path, launch angle, smash factor, distance
  • Golf course selection: 15
  • Requirements: Windows 10 x64 OS, Intel Core i7 processor, 8 GB RAM, DirectX 11, NVidia GTX 970
  • Power: Rechargeable non-standard battery, provides up to 4 hours of continuous use
  • Warranty: 1 year

What the R-Motion delivers is an incomparable golfing experience at a relatively cheap price, allowing you to polish your golf skills from the comfort of your own home. It is powered by a rechargeable battery that provides up to 4 hours of runtime.

Additionally, to save battery life, it turns off automatically when you have not used it for a pre-set amount of time. There are no less than 15 different real-life courses you can select and play on, courses that are 3D rendered to look as realistic as possible (Golf simulator comparison chart 2020).

What sets this simulation device apart from most competitors is its ease of use, all that you are required to do being to attach the tracker below the club grip. The rest of the operation will be handled by the automatic shot system.

Among the important shot data it gathers, enabling you to analyze your game in depth so that you can make proper changes for the better, we have ball speed, club speed, smash factor, launch angle, distance, and swing path.

These instant data screen readouts allow you to finally take your golf game to the next level so the next time you are on an actual course in a competitive game with friends, you will impress them with your low handicap. Since we are on this subject, know that up to 4 players can simultaneously use it. Therefore, you can play a fun game of golf with friends or family members indoor all year round.

PROS

  • Allows you to play with you real golf clubs – better accommodation and more accurate practice
  • Reliable precision and feedback offered as soon as you strike the ball
  • Designed to be perfect for beginners as well as professional players
  • Swing tracking model monitors all aspects of your swing

CONS

  • Limited app memory – only tracks the pattern of your last swing
  • A single clip is included with the purchase

5. OptiShot 2

OptiShot 2 Image

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Swing path, face impact angle, face area contact, shot shape, swing tempo, clubhead speed, distance
  • Golf course selection: 15
  • Requirements: Windows 7 or newer OS, Mav OS X 10.8
  • Power: Connect to PC/laptop via USB cable
  • Warranty: 1 year

The OptiShot 2 is a more compact and affordable option to go with. Of course, it lacks a lot of the features and innovative elements than the upper mentioned better-ranked models come with, but this does not mean you won’t get everything you need if you go with it.

This relatively cheap model provides useful data regarding your shots and swings, like swing path, face area contact, swing tempo, shot shape, distance, clubhead speed, and face impact angle (Golf simulator comparison chart).

It allows for a maximum of four people to play on it at once, so you can have fun and play golf with your loved ones whenever you want. It offers a wide selection of 15 golf courses you can choose from.

Best of all, these are real courses that are rendered and simulated, so when the weather gets nice or you have the time, you can play on the real-life courses you have already practiced on at home. Therefore, you will not get bored of practicing and playing on it as it ensures course diversity.

The games you can play if you go with it are Match Play, Stable ford, Alternate Shot, Best Ball, Better Ball, and Stroke Play. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs, and it features great sensor hardware in order to be as accurate as possible and to even allow you to putt. Due to the fact that it features online play, you can play with your friends online even when each one of you is in their own homes. In addition, it comes with a 1-year warranty.

PROS

  • Calibration feature allows you to customize the settings for the club you are using at that moment
  • Self-explanatory help windows eliminate doubts regarding shot data
  • Affordable purchase – reasonably priced considering its specs and features
  • Large grass pad makes it convenient to use

CONS

  • The swing pad is a tad fragile
  • Not the best option for putting practice

6. PhiGolf WGT Edition

PhiGolf WGT Edition Image

PhiGolf WGT Edition

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Distance, attack angle, face angle, head speed, swing path, swing tempo
  • Golf course selection: 1
  • Requirements: iOS 9.0 and up, Android 5.0 and up, Bluetooth 4.1 and up
  • Power: Rechargeable lithium polymer battery, provides up to 7 hours of continuous use
  • Warranty: 1 year

Providing with an immersive game experience so that you may practice your skills just as well as you would have on an actual course, the PhiGolf WGT Edition provides an unparalleled practice session for any golfer.

WGT or World Golf Tour is the #1 online video golf game, and with the integration of the PhiGolf sensor into the system, you can swing the club to realistically play the game as if it were real life. You can place the sensor on the included swing trainer provided with the purchase as its shortened length makes it ideal for indoor practice (Golf simulator comparison chart).

With it, you can actually pick between two golf simulator apps, the PhiGolf app and the WGT app, so you can go with the one that feels more entertaining for you. You can choose to play solo and focus on the areas that you find problematic or you can choose online play and compete with friends to see who is the most skilled.

As it is a multi-platform system, you can use a tablet, smartphone, or an AppleTV to play and practice. There are 7 game modes that you can select between – Practice, Online Multiplayer, Putting Game, Competition, Stroke Game, Approach Game, and Nearest to the Hole.

You can play 3, 9, or 18 holes on famous courses from all around the world with it. The life of the sensor’s battery is up to 7 hours, so you can get a hefty practice before you must recharge it. Furthermore, it takes only 1.5 hours for the battery to fully charge.

Seeing how the sensor weighs a third of an ounce, it is basically undetectable when you swing. The data it collects as you play include distance, face angle, attack angle, swing path, head speed, and swing tempo. Easily connectible to iOS and Android smart devices, it is a system we recommend you look into for convenient golf practice year round.

PROS

  • Battery life of up to 7 hours allows long, uninterrupted practice sessions
  • Can be connected to Android and iOS smart devices
  • Comes with a swing trainer that boasts the ideal length for indoor practice
  • Provides 7 game modes for you to select between

CONS

  • Some users complain there are issues with the connection quite often
  • Some report that the sensor isn’t always reliable

7. Tittle X Micro

Tittle X Micro Image

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Head speed, swing path, swing type, carry distance
  • Golf course selection: 12
  • Requirements: Bluetooth 4.0 and up, iOS 8.0 and up, Android 4.3 and up, Windows 8.1 OS or up
  • Power: Lithium polymer battery
  • Warranty: 1 year

We have to start off by praising what is surely one of the most appealing aspects of this purchase, more precisely the convenient, cheap pricing. Of course, we must underline the fact that it is not a pretentious investment either as it only requires for the computer you install the software on to run Windows 8.1 or 10. It also works with Android and iOS, so you can even use the software on your smartphone or tablet.

As it endorses indoor use, it allows you to practice golf all year long from the comfort of your home or office. Moreover, it is a viable choice even for those with limited free space as the short swing stick does not require a hearty amount of room to be swung. It includes over 12 TruGolf fantasy courses and ranges for you to practice with in order to provide variety so that you never actually get bored of using it.

As we approach the end of this mini review, we must put an accent on the fact that it is suited for all skill level players of all ages. Thus, regardless if a child or an adult uses it, the comfort level of the player remains the same.

Furthermore, it provides a welcoming environment and practice for beginners who are looking to improve their swings, as well as providing those who are more experienced with the chance of polishing their game when off-course.

PROS

  • Comes with more than 12 TruGolf fantasy courses to practice with while enjoying variety
  • Presents a perfect opportunity for beginners to upgrade their skills and for pros to practice when they’re at home
  • The short swing stick allows you to practice in small spaces without a problem
  • The accompanying software can be installed on two different computers
  • More reasonably priced when compared to competitors

CONS

  • Not as feature-rich as the models presented before it
  • Asking price is a bit high

8. P3ProSwing Grasstop PKG10000

P3ProSwing Grasstop PKG10000 Image

P3ProSwing Grasstop PKG10000

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Hit distance, carry distance, angle of attack, swing path angle, club face angle, toe/heel height, swing tempo, impact shot, club head speed, front and side body/arm positions, launch angle of the ball
  • Golf course selection: 20
  • Power: AC adaptor
  • Warranty: 1 year

Ensuring high accuracy due to the technology used in its manufacturing, this is a reliable system to practice with from the comfort of your home. It picks up numerous swing data in order to aid you to figure out what aspects need to be improved and how.

As it allows multi-player use, up to 8 people can use it at once, so you and your friends or family can have fun together and compete with each other to see who is the best player. Due to the fact that it even provides online play, you can set up a private or public game, enter daily online competitions, or participate in virtual tournaments.

Swing Analytics

A thorough analysis of your swings and play style is important in order to improve and lower your handicap, so it is mandatory for as many data as possible to be picked up by the system. As it comes with a sensor pad that features 65 infrared sensors which reflect light back to the pad sensor from your club, you are provided with an in-depth analysis of all swing aspects that matter. The detailed information includes angle of attack, swing tempo, ball speed, back and side ball spin, sweet spot, club head face angle, club head speed, hit distance, toe/heel height, and more.

Mention-Worthy Features and Specs
  • You can play on virtual Championship courses regardless if you are online or offline.
  • Delivers a 99.9% accuracy when it comes to data gathering to ensure precision in analysis.
  • Product is backed with a 1-year warranty offered by the manufacturing company.
Virtual Courses

There is a total of 20 virtual courses put at your disposal by the system, so you will enjoy variety when it comes to the scenario you are looking at while playing. Seeing how these are Championship courses, you get to practice in a realistic environment, learning the path you have to follow when competing on the real thing so that your shots are more precise and you won’t be caught off-guard.

PROS

  • 20 courses to choose between
  • Online play feature allows you to play with friends or strangers over the internet
  • Allows a maximum of 8 players at once
  • 65 infrared optics ensure precise measurement of shot data
  • It allows you to view your swing through the impact zone

CONS

  • Too simplistic in comparison with more expensive products
  • Some complained that the videos don’t capture the whole swing

9. Electric Spin GolfPro GP8411ML

Electric Spin GolfPro GP8411ML Image

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Acceleration, path, face angle, club head speed, and more
  • Golf course selection: 7
  • Requirements: iOS, Windows, PlayStation 3
  • Power: Direct connection to PC/laptop via cable
  • Warranty: 3 months

A great option for any eager golf player who wants to practice at home or at the office, the GolfPro delivers everything you need for a smooth and enlightening practice session. The TruFeel technology the device incorporates along with the Surlyn ball attachment work together to accurately reproduce the physics behind free-ball impact.

Thus, you will not be able to tell the difference between the real-life experience of playing golf and the simulated one if you are using the GP8411ML. A detail worth mentioning is the fact that the device allows a perfect simulation of long clubs with the help of a wedge as long as the ceiling is 8 feet high.

It comes with a remote caddy which endorses a convenient use, eliminating any required interaction with a mouse or a keyboard. There are no less than 7 different golf courses put at your disposal to choose between, so you will have diversity from this point of view and playing or practicing surely will not get boring at all.

You can choose from 3 different fun mini-games to spice things up when playing with loved ones – Fairytale golf, Demolition golf, and BlockGolf. There are three challenge modes you can enter to enhance training sessions as well, more precisely the target challenge mode, the chipping challenge mode, and the distance challenge mode. In addition, the high-speed signal processing technology used allows it to track shot data like acceleration, club head speed, path, face angle, and more.

PROS

  • Accurate sound reproduction guaranteed by tethered surlyn ball
  • Challenge modes are put to your disposal to enhance skills faster
  • 7 different courses you can choose between
  • Supports three game formats – Fairytale golf, Demolition golf, and BlockGolf
  • Remote caddy makes using it more convenient

CONS

  • No information regarding product warranty
  • Does not feature the save game option

10. Tittle X Trugolf E6

Tittle X Trugolf E6 Image

Specifications:

  • Provided shot data: Club speed, distance, ball speed, launch angle, swing path
  • Golf course selection: 12
  • Requirements: Bluetooth 4.0 BLE, Android 4.3 or higher, iOS 8 or higher, Windows 7 or higher
  • Power: Rechargeable lithium polymer battery, provides up to 5 hours of continuous use
  • Warranty: 1 year

You can experience real-life golf with this affordable option which allows you to play at any time in the privacy of your own home. It is designed for both intermediate and experienced golfers due to its multiple playing conditions. Tittle X Trugolf E6 is very compact, meaning that it will not occupy much space in your home. It connects to a vivid 3D simulator like the TruGolf 6 cloud.

Tittle X Trugolf E6 an be paired with either a golf club or the provided Swing Stick and the sensors will analyze your movements and detect your shots. The data is then sent to its software and displayed within realistic golf courses.

This means that you will get the chance to try many types of courses and practice different shots, all at a fraction of the price you would spend on a more advanced system. Keep in mind that setting it up will require a smartphone and a PC but within a few minutes, it should be ready to use.

As it allows up to 4 players at a time, you get the chance to enjoy a fun and soothing golf game with your loved ones from the comfort of your own home. The 12 realistic 3D rendered golf courses that you get to practice on will have you feeling like you are outside playing rather than inside the house. When it comes to swinging data it analyzes, club speed, launch angle, swing path, distance, and ball speed are included.

PROS

  • Puts no less than 12 realistic golf courses at your disposal
  • Allows you and your family to play and practice together
  • Rechargeable battery lasts for up to 5 hours of continuous play
  • Best quality to price ratio – affordable option

CONS

  • Not as feature-rich as other models
  • Not as accurate when used on your own clubs

Golf Simulator Buying Guide

The Importance of a Golf Simulator

A simulator can be a very effective tool in helping golfers improve their performance. Technology has come a long way in a very short period of time, and as a result these units provide a level of accuracy and realism which mirrors a real world environment. 

The data provided by a simulator allows golfers to get very prescriptive and make informed decisions regarding their golf game such as swing, shot shape & trajectory, golf club equipment, etc.

Some may see a golf simulator as a luxury, but there are very practical reasons why one would own one.

Provides Accurate Data – most simulators will calculate shot results instantly, providing you with a range of valuable information you can use to practice and make improvements with any club. Data that is reported out can include: clubhead speed, back spin, side spin, carry distance, total distance (carry + roll), flightpath, distance offline, and much more.

Allows For Practice 24/7, Day or Night – a simulator is a versatile tool in that it can be setup indoors which means it can be used at anytime, regardless of the time of day or the weather outside – providing an unparalleled golf experience. This is especially useful for those that like to practice after the sun goes down, or those that live in an area with prolonged winters. 

Bag Mapping Exercise – the technology allows you to perform bag mapping for each of your clubs in a driving range environment. With bag mapping you will know exactly how far you hit each golf club in your bag, and removes any guesswork out on the golf course. 

Skills Assessments – several simulators come with skills assessment challenges. These assessments can be used by golfers to fine tune particular parts of your game. For example, SkyTrak offers a game improvement package that includes a wedge matrix feature. The wedge matrix can be used to work on your short game and practice pitches, half shots, 3/4 shots, and full shots with your wedges and other clubs. 

Full Golf Course Play – stunning graphics provide a vivid experience and allow you to enjoy playing golf in the comfort of your home with friends and family. Allows you to play on numerous famous courses, and some simulation software even allow you to create and design your own courses.

Editor’s recommendations


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PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 https://rizacademy.com/phigolf-mobile-and-home-smart-golf-game-simulator-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=phigolf-mobile-and-home-smart-golf-game-simulator-2020 Thu, 19 Mar 2020 16:59:20 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=478 PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 is a fun golf game which one can be beneficial for improving your game and helping new golfers get into the game. The PhiGolf is a small 9-axis motion-sensing gadget that fits into the top of an included swing stick. The sensor can be transferred to […]

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PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 is a fun golf game which one can be beneficial for improving your game and helping new golfers get into the game. The PhiGolf is a small 9-axis motion-sensing gadget that fits into the top of an included swing stick. The sensor can be transferred to other clubs as long as you can insert its spike into the top of the club. It weighs just 10g, and it is small enough for it not to be noticeable in use. The sensor will then transmit your swing data over to a compatible app on your phone via Bluetooth.

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020

The original PhiGolf was designed to be used with the Phigolf App, which allowed you to play golf on realistic 3D golf courses around the world. However, this app never really took off with just 96 reviews on Google Play.

PhiGolf cleverly decided to team up with WGT Golf (World Golf Tour) to get it working on their app. This is the number 1 free golf game on both Android and iOS with over 170k reviews on Android along and a score of 4.2.

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020

What is the PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 Specification?

  • Phigolf Sensor: 9-Axis club sensor
  • Compatibility: iOS 9.0+ / Android 6.0+
  • Battery: 4 hours life, full charge in 2 hours
  • Bluetooth: BLE 4.1 – Works up to a distance of 10m from source
  • Swing Stick: 62cm / 24.4 inches
  • Works with 2 Apps: WGT Golf (1 course free, $1.99/month for full access) & Phigolf (completely free!)

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020

While the game is free to play, it has adopted the annoying microtransaction feature allowing you to upgrade your virtual golf clubs and golf balls to improve your game. With this app, you can experience more than 15 championship golf courses, including Pebble Beach, Bandon Dunes, Chambers Bay and St Andrews.

You can play single-player full 18-hole stroke play and quick 9-hole closest-to-the-hole golf games, as well as drive ranges and more. However, a more fun way to play is via head-to-head against friends or other players with live chat and competitive leaderboards in multiplayer games.

Playing in Topgolf mode lets you compete with up to six players and scoring points by hitting targets in the outfield. Playing a golf simulator on a 6-inch device is not ideal, but the WGT app is compatible with Airplay and Chromecast, allowing you to cast the game to any compatible TV.

The sensor itself is small and unnoticeable and screws into the top of the grip of your club. Weighing at 10 grams you will hardly notice it is there and doesn’t get in the way of your swing. The only other technical side is the app that needs to be downloaded, either on tablet or smartphone.

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator can be played on a big screen TV or a smart TV by simply mirroring the app onto the TV.

Where will you play PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator?

Phigolf WGT Edition is compact and portable so you can play wherever you go! Use indoors and outdoors, create the ultimate golf game simulator set-up in your living room, office, hotel room, backyard, games room or bar! Ideal for use indoors and outdoors.

Play on the worlds best courses from your own home, simulating the best golf holidays. Become the envy of your friends when you’ve spent Friday night in the comfort of your man cave playing your own championship at Bethpage Black, golf holiday no longer necessary!

Get the beers in the cooler, turn-up your music, order a pizza or two and get set to recreate the Topgolf experience at home with a Phigolf WGT Edition! Finally play golf year-round in any season with a full entertainment package in a box, no tee time needed.

The great news is that golf simulators these days are designed with advanced technologies. They provide highly accurate analysis for all factors associated with ball and club as well. You can expect the right analysis for direction, speed, and swing as well.

These golf simulators allow users to enjoy incredible gaming experience while sitting within their comfort zone. As these latest software units work perfectly on almost every gadget, players can enjoy their most loved golf sessions on the go. No matter whether you are sitting at the office, are enjoying an adventure tour with friends or getting lazy at home on a rainy day. These golf simulators can entertain you in all conditions. However, players often find it difficult to choose the best indoor golf simulators for home. If you are also facing the same difficulty, we advise you to check the top-notch product collections on this page.

How to Set-Up this home golf simulator

Once the sensor is charged and fitted into the golf grip you switch it on at the same time as you open the app. This way the sensor and your device will ‘pair’ together and you’re good to go!

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020

Know usage and be smarter

Once you have had a few swings to get used to the feeling of swinging a golf club indoors (seems strange at first and worried I’d hit something with a full swing but fear not!) you can start to play around with some of the different features and games involved. The club changing option is also a good feature as everyone is hitting the clubs different distances.

Swing Analysis – PhiGolf analyzes and provides on the 3D view all types of data required for swing coaching – head speed, swing path, tempo, face angle, attack angle and estimated distance. This is a really useful function if you fully understand all the attributes that go into your golf swing. It may also be worth screenshotting these and sending them off to your pro!

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020



Putting Analysis – You can view the line of putting you have made. By using the unique putting line of PhiGolf, you can learn how to find the correct putting line and practice to increase consistency. I’m not 100% convinced by this function as far as distance control is concerned but it should help you getting the putter starting and finishing on a better path.

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 Putting Analysis



Stroke game – Play a game with your friends or family on a real 18-hole course. You can play a 3-hole round, and up to 4 players can enjoy a round of golf. It’s great to add a fun side with the games, but again with chipping and putting I’m not 100% on the accuracy and obviously you can’t replicate the real thing but nonetheless it is really good fun to be able to play some courses in the comfort of your front room.

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 Stroke game



Driving range mode – In the Driving Range mode, you can select a club and distance to practice swing or putting. This is probably the mode you might use when you first give the PhiGolf a try. Just hitting balls on the range with a little bit of shot tracer thrown in for good measure. You can also change clubs depending on what you want to hit.

PhiGolf mobile and home smart golf game simulator 2020 Driving Range



Nearest mode – In the Nearest mode, you win the game if your ball is nearest to the hole. In this game mode, there is no limitation on the number of players or attempts. This is the mode that I think I am most interested in as I plan to work on my wedges a lot during the winter months. 120 yards and in and having that consistent feel of hitting different numbers cant be a bad thing!

Nearest the pin mode on Phigolf



Online multi-game – You can play games with users in other countries. Play a game on the match list or create a match room with your friends to enjoy an online golf.


What are the other best home golf simulator (reviews) 2020

1.OptiShot2 Golf Simulator

OptiShot2 Golf Simulator

The OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator allows users to enjoy all practice sessions with full comfort. It is not just a video game; rather it offers much more than that with lots of amazing features. This simulator comes with a swing pad made up of hard artificial grass with marked ball positions. With this arrangement, players can enjoy realistic gameplay hours through special software.

Full swing golf simulator reviews reveal that it provides reliable accuracy for club factors including path, alignment, speed, and head position as well. The software is capable enough to calculate distance, direction, flight and final position of the ball (best home golf simulator reviews).

There are fifteen pre-loaded courses with a 3D environment, and they are monitors through exact maps. It works perfectly on Window and Mac devices so players can ensure incredible gaming experience online.

Pros:

  • Offers great course selection.
  • Designed with in-depth customization.
  • Excellent tracking system.

Cons:

  • Peripherals and courses are quite expensive.
  • UX seems a little bit outdated.

2. Rapsodo R-Motion and Golf Club Simulator

Rapsodo R-Motion and Golf Club Simulator

By using this advanced Rapsodo R-Motion and Golf Club Simulator, you can enjoy awesome gaming experience for the long run. This simulator can help you play your favorite game even in the winter season with full confidence.

It has an advanced interface with lots of amazing features that can ensure complete entertainment to the golf lovers. The Rapsodo R-Motion and Golf Club Simulator provide detailed analysis over ball speed, club speed, swing path, launch angle, and distance (best home golf simulator reviews).

The Rapsodo R-Motion simulator is designed to provide accurate details about trajectory as it considers all essential factors such as draws, fades, pulls, pushes, slices and hooks as well. This Indoor golf simulator for home works perfectly on PC and Windows OS as well.

Pros:

  • This simulator comes with 15 top courses, clip and trackers as well.
  • Provides accurate ball data and club data.
  • Allow players to enjoy multiplayer mode game with friends.

Cons:

  • Little expensive.
  • It doesn’t support iOS devices.

3. The Net Return Pro Series Multi-Sport Golf Net

The Net Return Pro Series Multi-Sport Golf Net


The Net Return Pro Series Multi-Sport Golf Net comes with high-quality features that ensuring an incredible gaming experience. The stainless-steel type push button assembly with rugged and sturdy design make it more suitable for the long run. Moreover, a durable polyester type bag allows easy storage and transportation.

Every piece of this unit is designed to ensure high performance; moreover, the durable and elegant frame make it more suitable for routine needs. The handy push-button arrangement with quick color-connect system technology ensures incredible performance. Moreover, even beginners also find it easier to assemble and disassemble (best home golf simulator reviews).

Users find the Net Return Pro Series golf simulator the best for home as a portable and compact choice for tiny apartment style living areas. Furthermore, the ball return feature ensures the automatic return of the ball after each and every shot. A lot of uses consider it to one of the most golf simulators available.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight unit.
  • Loaded with incredible ball return technology.
  • Easy to assemble and use.

Cons:

  • Quite expensive.
  • Need some improvement over accuracy.

4. Zepp Golf 2 3D Swing Analyzer

If you are excited to improve your swing, it is good to start practicing with Zepp Golf 3D swing Analyzer. This is designed to ensure realistic home golf simulation. The bright yellow sensor on this device give it a more elegant look, and the high-end features make it the best choice for efficient data collection.

This premium unit ensures rock-solid performance on Mac and PC as well. You can download the Zepp app from the Google Play store and Apple App store as well. The great news is that Zepp Golf 2 ensures amazing performance on tablets, smartphones, and Apple watch as well. 

It is possible to connect your analyzer to different devices using Bluetooth that establishes a low energy connection. With these Affordable golf simulators for home, you can ensure great battery life performance for all gaming hours (best home golf simulator reviews).

Pros:

  • Excellent in-app interfaces.
  • Possible to record your own swing.
  • Efficient scoring system.

Cons:

  • It has some trouble with accuracy.
  • Need some improvement for the length and speed analysis.


The Ultimate Golf Simulator Buying Guide

Because a golf simulator can be a major investment, it is important for you to compare options to determine which one will work best for you. The wide variety of customizations available means that anyone can find the perfect match.

Size and Portability

Golf simulators tend to be very large. When considering the purchase of a golf simulator, a major factor will be how much space you have available in your home to dedicate to this feature. Although all simulators are different, the average dimensions are about 12 x 12 feet. It is recommended to have a ceiling that is at least nine feet high.

Because most people are limited with space, a lot of consumers will purchase a portable golf simulator. This type of option is usually easy to take apart and set back up, making it ideal for people who will only use the simulator during specific times of the year.

Portable simulators also tend to be more affordable. With some reaching prices of $20,000 or more, golf simulators can get quite pricy. Most options on the lower end of the price scale are still excellent options suitable for most people.

Screen vs. Net

You may not realize it, but a golf simulator has many parts, some of which are completely optional. By looking over all the features, you can determine which ones you are willing to live without. This can be helpful for those on a strict budget.

The required basics included golf simulator, launch monitor, mat, screen, projector, and a computer or iPad to run the software.

For some quick savings, the screen and projector can be swapped out for a net. When playing, you will hit your ball into the net, rather than the screen, and you can view the simulation on a TV or monitor. You will still be able to see all the different variables it records, including speed, path, angle and more.

Swapping the screen for a net is fine for some people, but some may argue that without the screen, it won’t feel like much of a simulator. For those who are focused on improving their game, all that matters is if the simulator accurately records your movements and reports them back to you in a simple-to-use interface.

It may surprise you to learn that more than half of all golf simulator owners have a net instead of a screen. Additional accessories include club racks, alignment sticks, ball trays and seating. If you are keeping an eye on cost, these accessories can always be purchased at a later point.

Available Golf Courses

Although this is an unnecessary feature, most golf simulators have the option of simulating different famous courses throughout the world. It can be a fun feature, but don’t let it be the deciding factor.

Approximate Times

If you purchase a portable golf simulator, it takes around 15 minutes to set up for net options, and about a half hour for simulators with a projector.To play 18 holes, you can expect it to take about an hour.

Foresight

If you’re ready to invest in a golf simulator, consider Foresight. It has professional equipment for people who take the game very seriously. For this brand, consider a budget of around $10,000 or more.

Features on Foresight products typically include a quick and easy set-up, verifiable accuracy and all-in-one simplicity, as well as the flexibility to be used inside or out. The state-of-the-art image processing captures thousands of images of your golf ball to deliver precise readings of your shot.

Perfecting Your Game

Golf simulators can be a great way for you to practice. Discovering what swing works best for you can take a little bit of trial and error. The software that comes with golf simulators can report back data to help you perfect your shot faster.

Once you have perfected swinging, you will be able to learn how to shape your shots and select the proper golf club for each scenario. Getting to the green has never been easier.

Editor’s recommendations

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Are golf watches worth it? https://rizacademy.com/are-golf-watches-worth-it/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=are-golf-watches-worth-it Wed, 12 Feb 2020 13:36:22 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=467 Most of the golfers are brand ambassadors of luxurious watches brand. They represent as an icon for that particular brand. Some watches really high tech golf watches while others are construct on costly metals even may be from metals those used in space. But are golf watches worth it? Justin Rose wrist watch Hublot Big Bang […]

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Most of the golfers are brand ambassadors of luxurious watches brand. They represent as an icon for that particular brand. Some watches really high tech golf watches while others are construct on costly metals even may be from metals those used in space. But are golf watches worth it?

Justin Rose wrist watch Hublot Big Bang Unico

Currently ranked number one, Justin Rose finished in a tie for second in the 2015 Masters Tournament and picked up other wins throughout 2015 and 2016.

Justin Rose Wears a Hublot Big Bang Unico - are golf watches worth it

Rose can be seen wearing a Hublot Big Bang Unico. The watch features a skeleton dial, ceramic bezel and King Gold case. Rose was thrilled to partner with Hublot and has said that the brand “is [his] number one choice as a consumer” making the pairing very authentic. Are these golf watches worth it?


Dustin Johnson

Currently leading the golf rankings at world number two, Dustin Johnson wears a Hublot watch. In 2016, Johnson had quite the year with his first Major title after winning the US Open. Just days after winning the WGC Mexico City in March 2017, Hublot and Johnson announced his partnership with the sporty watch brand.

are golf watches worth it

“I am honored to join the distinguished list of Hublot Ambassadors, especially since I have always been such an admirer of their timepieces. Each one is so unique…”


Rory McIlroy wrist watch Omega Seamaster

Another leading golfer, and currently ranked world number three, is Rory McIlroy. The Northern Irish golfer held the world number one spot for 95 weeks before Jordan Speith slid in and took it over.

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Golf for the Masters - are golf watches worth it

Rory McIlroy has been an Ambassador for Omega the last few years. He wears the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Golf. This unique piece was inspired by the greens, transferring the green color onto the Seamaster name, minute track and central seconds hand. The watch features the Co-Axial calibre 8500 which is anti-magnetic up to 15,000 Gauss. Are these golf watches worth it?

In 2017, Omega released a new version of the Aqua Terra Golf, featuring orange accents and a black and orange striped NATO strap.


Brooks Koepka wrist watch

Rolex ambassador Brooks Koepka Daytona Sky-Dwller... are golf watches worth it

Sliding into the top 4 is Brooks Koepka, who was world number one for a brief period in 2018. He has previously won the US Open and the PGA Championship. The Rolex ambassador has been seen sporting a Sky-Dweller and a ceramic Daytona with these wins. He has also been known to wear a Sea-Dweller, among other Rolex models. Are these golf watches worth it?

Koepka is just one of the many young golfers joining the Rolex New Guard, the new generation of elite golfers following the Big Three.


Justin Thomas wrist watch

After starting to play golf when he was two, it’s no surprise that Justin Thomas currently sits in position number five in the world rankings. He became the third youngest player to make the Wyndham Championship cut in 2009 with a first round score of 65. He made the jump from amateur player to pro in 2013 and has played in over 75 different event; including his debut at the Masters in 2016.

are golf watches worth it

This young player is friends with Jordan Spieth, with whom he also shares a sponsorship with Rolex. He sports a Yacht-Master and Daytona, when he’s not playing golf which fits into his personal motto: “No excuses. Play like a champion.” Are these golf watches worth it?


Rickie Fowler wrist watch

Another golfer with eclectic style on the golf course, he is also known for his collection of Rolex watches. He has been sponsored by Rolex for a few years and has quite the collection.

are golf watches worth it

The current world number nine has three Milgauss, two Submariners, one Deep Sea and two Daytonas! He has been known to show off various pieces from his collection across his social media accounts. He has more recently been spotted wearing a white dial ceramic Daytona. Are these golf watches worth it?


Paul Casey

Another top player who sports a Rolex is Paul Casey. In 2015 and 2016, Casey tied in 6th and 4th respectively. After turning Pro in 2000, the English golfer has almost 20 wins under his belt across the PGA, European and Asian tours.

are golf watches worth it

Off the course, Paul Casey wears a variety of Rolex models from Deepsea Sea-Dwellers, Explorers and Datejusts. Casey marks the 7th top 20 golfer sponsored by the iconic brand, including Phil Mickelson. Are these golf watches worth it?


Tiger Woods wrist watch

One of the most well known golfers, became the Masters’ youngest winner ever when he was just 21 years old in 1997. His skill and style helped bring attention back to the golfing world and drive up the spirit of competition. He holds the record for world number one with 683 weeks, followed by Greg Norman at 331 weeks.

Tiger Woods Deepsea Sea-Dweller Rolex

Woods joined other top golfers as a Rolex ambassador in October of 2011. He can be seen wearing the Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller. The watch has become his trademark timepiece off the course.

In 2018, Woods has been making a strong comeback in the early tournaments and is making his first start at Augusta for the first time since 2015. This appearance, and a T2 and T5 in five events this year, has made the 2018 Masters one of the most anticipated. While holding onto current world ranking #12, Woods is still a fan favorite when he is on the course.


Jason Day wrist watch

Hailing from Australia, and ranked current world number eleven, Jason Day is another golfer sporting a Rolex watch. For the 2016 Masters, he was battling a bulging disc in his back. Day slid in front of Spieth just a week and a half before the Masters in 2016 when he won the WGC – Dell Match Play.

Rolex DeepSea for the Masters - are golf watches worth it

When he’s not swinging a club, Day can be seen wearing a Rolex Sea-Dweller. This extreme watch can reach a depth of 4,000 feet (1,220 meters). The distinctive black dial allows for easy readability. The unidirectional rotatable bezel is engraved with 60 minute graduations, allowing for accurate and safe dive monitoring.


Bubba Watson wrist watch

After winning the Masters Tournament twice (2012 and 2014), Bubba Watson has become a fan favorite. Watson is one of the few golfers who wears his watch while on the course. His watch of choice? A Richard Mille RM038, nicknamed the Bubba Watson Victory Watch.

Bubba Watson and two Richard Mille Watches - are golf watches worth it

This Richard Mille watch is white with a skeleton dial with a green inner flange designed to match the green of the golf course. He also has one with a green bezel to match his Masters green jacket. He wears a Richard Mille watch while playing because they are known to be extremely light and shock resistant. But are these golf watches worth it?


Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson is just inside the top 20 ranked golfers, found at 18th overall. He is one of just 16 golfers to have won at least three of the four professional majors, including three Masters titles in 2004, 2006 and 2010.

Phil Mickelson Wears a Rolex Cellini Danaos - are golf watches worth it

Phil Mickelson can be seen wearing a Rolex Cellini Danaos, one of the more formal watches not only for Rolex but seen on athletes. He wears the Cellini while on the course and has been seen wearing a Datejust off the course. His Cellini is a manual wind watch. Being manually wound, the watch is not affected by the shock produced by striking a club against the golf ball.

In the early tournaments of 2018, Phil has been spotted wearing the only Rolex with an exhibition caseback, the Prince.


Jordan Spieth wrist watch

Jordan Spieth was a previous world ranked number one player, and held the title for a total of 27 weeks. Spieth is currently ranked world number 33. The young player has won both the Masters and the US Open, although he had a famous flop at the 2016 Masters.

Rolex Exploer II worn by Jordan Speith - are golf watches worth it

Speith can be seen sporting a white dial Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II when he is not playing golf. The modern Explorer II features a large orange 24-hour hand, mirroring the original Explorer II from 1971. This timepiece was designed to exceed in extreme conditions but is stylish enough to wear anywhere. For Speith, the white dial and orange hand pair perfectly with his green Masters jacket.


Adam Scott

Winning the Masters in 2013, Adam Scott represents one of the elite golfers. Currently ranked at world number 29, the Australian is not only a role model for other golfers, but he is also deeply involved with philanthropy and supporting Australian children.

Adam Scott Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller - are golf watches worth it

Found on his wrist is a Rolex. When he won his first Masters, and was the first Australian with this honor, he was seen wearing a Rolex Deepsea Sea-Dweller. The Deepsea is designed to reach a depth of 12,800 feet (3,900 meters). While he doesn’t need the water resistance on land, the Deepsea is another watch perfectly complementing the green Masters jacket.


Danny Willett

Congratulations to Danny Willett on his win at the Masters on Sunday April 10th, 2016. This win brought Willett his first title in the United States and the first major of his career. The 2016 Masters was only his second appearance, tying at 38 in his debut last year.

Danny WIllet receiving his Green Masters Jacet with an AP watch - are golf watches worth it

Willett almost didn’t play the 2016 Masters; his wife was due to give birth to their first child on April 10th but the baby was born early. He was not going to play if his wife was still pregnant. With his win, Willett became the second Englishman to win the Masters. Legendary Nick Faldo was the first Englishman to carry the title. Willett is currently ranked world number 78.

Danny Willett is an ambassador to Audemars Piguet. He wore a Steel Royal Oak Chronograph and embraces the Audemars Piguet philosophy, “To break the rules, you must first master them.”  In the past few years, Willett has continue to improve his game and refine his style by combining power and technique.


Branden Grace

In 2016, Branden Grace partnered with Audemars Piguet to help fill out the brand’s “Dream Team” of golf ambassadors. The South African won his first four European Titles in 2012 and went on to win two Majors in 2015.

are golf watches worth it

In 2017 Grace added a brand new Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph to his collection of watches. Grace was also one of the 10 players who played in the “Midnight Masters” video produced by Audemars Piguet showcasing a unique way to play the game.


Sergio Garcia

Currently ranked at #27 world wide is Sergio Garcia. Between 200 and 2009, Garcia spent over 300 weeks in the top 10 rankings. Even with being a strong player and winning the Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2017, Garcia has yet to win a Major title, that is – until he took home the green jacket at the Masters in 2017.

He did however, win when he became a brand ambassador for Omega. He can be seen wearing a “Black Black” Dark Side of The Moon. Most recently, with his Dubai win, he is now the proud owner of a Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m with rose gold case and brown leather strap which he won alongside the trophy and winner’s check.

Update: Congratulations to Sergio Garcia on his first Major win in 2017! He first played Augusta in 1999 as an amateur and finally took home the Green Jacket after a playoff round against Justin Rose. Garcia was spotted wearing a blue Seamaster Professional GMT from Omega as he put on his new jacket.

Since the big win in 2017, Garcia has been seen wearing the green Seamaster Aqua Terra “Golf” more frequently – the green matches perfectly with his jacket!


Henrik Stenson

The Swedish golfer has been a pro since 1999. Over the years, he gained the nickname “Iceman” on the greens because of his nerves of steel. He is currently ranked world number 38.

To match his nerves of steel, he wears an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph in steel. Both Audemars Piguet and Henrik Stenson have nothing but good things to say about their partnership. Stenson pushes the limits in his golf game while Audemars Piguet pushes the limits in watchmaking.


Martin Kaymer

Martin Kaymer is another top golfer who is an ambassador to Rolex. Currently ranked 190th, he has previously spent a total of 8 weeks a number 1. He can be spotted wearing a Rolex Daytona.

Andrew “Beef” Johnston

A fan favorite who may not be playing The Masters is Andrew Johnston. He won over the hearts of Audemars Piguet in early 2017. Johnston seduced the brand’s CEO Francois-Henry Bennahmias “by his infectious smile and enthusiasm for the game.”

The Big Three

The associate between Rolex and Golf extends past the players currently on tour and reaches back to the 1960s. It was in the 60s that Rolex sponsored the “Big Three” players. These players include: Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player.

Between these three players, they have a combined 34 Majors, including 13 wins at the Masters. The rivalry between the three players helped commercialize golf and bring in fans, making golf into the sport we know today.

All three golfers sport the Rolex Day-Date, one of the most iconic models from the brand, which lines up with the three iconic golfers. The Day-Date model has been long associated with important and influential people in the world.


Arnold Palmer

Part of the Big 3 players, Arnold Palmer not only wore the iconic Day-Date, but he also opted for the sporty Submariner, GMT Master II and Sky-Dweller before he passed away in September of 2016. Arnold had an unorthodox style of playing golf which bolstered a legion of fans known as Arnie’s Army. He will be missed in the golfing world.

Be sure tune into the 83rd Masters Tournament to see the top golfers, and their watches, beginning April 8th for the practice rounds and April 11th for the tournament days. The final round will be played on Sunday, April 14th so be sure to watch the intense last few holes of the top players. If nothing else, watch the winners ceremony after the last hole when the iconic Green Jacket is presented!

Editor’s recommendations


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What is the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch in 2020? https://rizacademy.com/cheapest-garmin-golf-gps-watch-in-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cheapest-garmin-golf-gps-watch-in-2020 Tue, 11 Feb 2020 14:01:16 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=461 It is important to remember that no two players are exactly alike in terms of golf skill, on-course needs, or personal preferences. In the end, your buying decision may differ from another player in your foursome, your golf instructor, or your long-time playing partner. What is the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch in 2020? Regardless […]

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It is important to remember that no two players are exactly alike in terms of golf skill, on-course needs, or personal preferences. In the end, your buying decision may differ from another player in your foursome, your golf instructor, or your long-time playing partner. What is the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch in 2020?

Regardless of your motivation for incorporating a golf GPS watch into your game, you will certainly benefit from learning as much as you can about the best devices on the market. Educated golfers who are in-the-know (and willing to implement high-tech accessories like cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch) stand a much better chance of maximizing their true golfing potential. Let’s take a look at the details of each individual golf GPS (cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch) watch so that you can match the perfect accessory to your particular needs and desires.


Garmin Approach S60 Golf GPS Watch – cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Garmin Approach S60 Golf Watch Review

There’s a new kid on the block.  Garmin has finally released the Garmin Approach S60 golf watch and it does not disappoint.  This golf watch is jammed to the brim with impressive technology and is leaps better than the already impressive Garmin Approach S6.  Garmin has definitely taken the golf watch to the next level and offers you its patented accuracy with new multi-sport functionality.  Without sacrificing the quality of any features that make Garmin golf watches the best, they’ve added a ton more.  The features of the Garmin s60 are unmatched by competitors and Garmin has proved (once again) that they reign supreme in the world of golf watches.  As long as you don’t mind the price tag, this watch will provide you with everything you need on and off of the golf course.  

The Garmin S60 provides yardage to all positions on the green and any obstacle on the golf course.  It also features drag and drop technology that gives you the exact yardage and the exact shape of every green – a huge improvement.  The touchscreen of the Garmin s60 is high resolution and presents extremely clear images.   We haven’t found, nor have we heard of, any drawbacks in the technology of this golf watch and, to be honest, we’re a little blown away.  With that said, let’s get into the details:

Functionality

Hazard Yardage

As you’d imagine, the Garmin s60 displays the yardage to all layup positions, hazards, and doglegs on the course.   The clear color touch screen allows you to easily spot hazards.  Garmin introduced this technology with the Garmin S6 and, if anything, has refined the accuracy and clarity.   You can narrow yardages down to exact numbers, leaving no guesswork.  Want to know how many yards it is to the front, middle, and back of the bunker?  No problem.  The same goes for any other hazard and any portion of any fairway or green.  This technology is extremely valuable when playing a golf course for the first time.  We’ve all estimated the yardage to a creek only to come up short and lose a golf ball.  With this golf watch, that’s no longer a problem.

PinPlacement Technology 

Much like the Garmin S6, the Garmin Approach S60 golf watch’s touchscreen allows you to move the flagstick to any location on the green. This gives you exact yardages to any ridge or shelf on any portion of any green.  This is a great improvement that prevents you from placing the ball on the wrong level or portion of the green.  Estimating the yardage to the pin and leaving the ball on the wrong portion of the green can leave you with mini-golf type putts.  As we all know too well, these positions tend to end in the dreaded three-putt all too often.

Another advantage of this technology is that it helps you dial in the exact yardage from blind positions.  If you know the pin positions for the day, you can simply adjust the pin location on the watch (back, middle, or front) and pull a more appropriate club from your bag instead of guessing.

Golf Course Coverage

Garmin has never cheaped out and charged customers fees for downloading courses to the golf watch or downloading watch updates.   With the Garmin S60, they have continued the trend of providing customers with a golf watch pre-loaded with tons of courses.  Much like the Garmin S6, the Garmin S60 comes pre-loaded with over 40,000 different golf courses across the globe.  You can head to the golf course and use it as soon as it’s charged.   The Garmin S60 auto-recognizes courses as soon as you enter golf mode.  And an improvement between this watch and the Garmin S6 is that it recognizes golf courses even faster.

Watch Face

The Garmin S60 features a fully color 1.2” (30.4 mm) diameter display size with 240 x 240 pixels.  This is a fairly significant improvement over the Garmin S6 which boasted 180 x 180 pixel resolution.  The watch weighs 1.8 oz and includes 1 GB of memory.  As we said before, everything displayed on this watch is crystal clear.  The Garmin S6 blew people’s minds and the resolution on this golf watch is even better.  You can be fully confident that you will be able to fully interact with this golf watch without being frustrated by the functionality of the screen.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Battery Life

Despite offering more power, more features, and more pixels, the Garmin s60 golf watch does not sacrifice any battery life.  The S60 will last for up to 10 hours in GPS mode and up to 10 days in smart mode before needing a recharge.   This means that you can play two full rounds with this golf watch before recharging.  The battery on this golf watch is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that plugs right into your computer or any usb charging unit.  If you just use the watch as a basic watch, it can last much longer than 10 days, but it really depends on how you use it.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Changeable Watch Bands

One of the basic, but really cool features of the Garmin Approach S60 is the ability to change the watch bands really easily.   This golf watch is already a very nice looking device that can be worn in any setting, but with the addition of changeable watch bands, you can easily switch between a leather and a silicon watch band.  You can also switch the colors around and generally make the watch appropriate for multiple different occasions.  With this added feature there’s no reason to have a “work watch” and a “play watch.”  This golf watch will fit into (and impress people in) any scenario.

Swing Training & Analysis

Because the Garmin S60 is also compatible with TruSwing technology, it also features swing speed and club path analysis.  This will allow you to figure out your swing speeds with various clubs without the need to go to a trainer or to a golf store where they’ll guilt you into buying something.  The club path feature is also fantastic for analyzing your swing plane.  It will tell you if you’re coming in too steep (causing a slice or pull) or to flat (hook and/or skull).  TruSwing also offers a ton of other analysis of your golf swing.  Buying this watch without TruSwing is still a great deal, but you can’t fully take advantage of the benefits without it.

Scorecard and Stats Feature

This Garmin S60 allows you to keep your score on the watch itself.  This is a great feature that eliminates the need for scorecards.  Because the watch comes with 1GB of memory it will store several rounds of golf before needing to be uploaded to a computer for analysis.  This feature really gives you an accurate picture of your golf game and what your real handicap is.  No more faking your score and guessing your handicap.  This golf watch offers you real analysis that you can compare with your buddies through the Garmin connect phone app.

Bluetooth and Connect IQ

The Garmin S60 is fully Bluetooth compatible and can pair with any Bluetooth capable device.  It will display your text messages, phone calls, ESPN alerts, emails, song selections, and anything else you can connect to via Bluetooth.  The technology is seamless and the interface/usability of the watch’s Bluetooth feature is one of the best improvements from the Garmin S6.   This golf watch will even give you the weather and will countdown how much time you have before it rains.  Kind of ridiculous…

Multi-Activity Tracker

Another one of the great new features (sensing a trend yet?) with the Garmin S60 is its activity tracking technology.  Not only will this golf watch accurately track your heart rate (with the purchase of an accessory), but it will also track activities other than golf.  This golf watch comes preloaded with technology that can accurately track you while skiing, snowboarding, XC Skiing, stand up paddle-boarding, rowing, indoor rowing, swimming, walking, running, riding a bike, as well as other activities.  Garmin basically took some of the best technology from their running and overall activity watches and added it to this golf watch.  When you consider that Garmin charges about $600.00 for their activity watches, the price tag for the Garmin Approach S60 suddenly becomes appealing instead of burdensome.

Other Features

The Garmin S60 is packed with a million other cool features.  Way too many to explain in detail in one review.  As you have likely gathered by now, this golf watch boasts significant improvements over the Garmin S6 (which is still an incredible golf watch).  Below are some (but not all) of the other features of the Garmin Approach S60:

  • Water resistant to 50 meters
  • Auto shot sensor for post-round analysis
  • Calorie burn calculator
  • Sleep monitoring
  • Exercise intensity tracker
  • Auto step goal based on daily activity
  • Customizable home screen (just like your phone or computer)
  • Digital scorecard
  • Handicap scoring

Style

Needless to say, the Garmin Approach S60 is a great looking watch.  In our opinion, this is Garmin’s best-looking golf watch to date.  It has a sporty yet sophisticated look that pairs well with gym shorts, jeans, or a suit.   For the days and nights that you want to dress it up, the watch bands are easily changeable to fit into any atmosphere.

PROS

  • Best features of any golf GPS watch on the market
  • No membership or subscription required.
  • 40,000+ pre-loaded courses
  • Accurate from anywhere on the course
  • Crystal clear screen
  • Super high-resolution color touchscreen
  • Customizable watch bands
  • Customizable home screen
  • Set the Bluetooth and other features to fit your preferences
  • Precise pin locations for accurate yardage
  • Digital Scorecard
  • Garmin Connect Technology
  • Activity tracking for multiple sports
  • Too many other cool features to list

Cons

  • Cost
  • Sometimes the watch picks up practice swings
  • So much technology that it takes a little effort to learn all of the features (but this is also kind of a pro)
  • Glass screen (we haven’t heard any complaints about this cracking, but we would love feedback if yours cracks)

Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch for you?

Buy this golf watch.  Period.  It’s the best golf watch on the market by far.  The improvements that Garmin has made to this golf watch over its impressive Garmin S6 justify the increased cost.  No other golf watch on the market features this much technology.  And no other golf watch on the market provides golf watch technology as clear and easy to use as the Approach S60.   Quite simply, it is the best golf watch money can buy and you won’t be disappointed.

Video:  If you’re concerned that this watch may be too complicated for you to use, check out the below helpful video, which explains how to use many of the Garmin S60’s features.   There are also many other videos that you can watch in the series that explain other features of the golf watch:


Garmin Fenix 5 Golf GPS Watch Review

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Garmin has done it again.  Just when you think they’ve made the best golf gps watch in the Garmin S60, they come out with the Garmin Fenix 5.  To be clear, the Fenix 5 is more than a golf gps watch.  It’s a multisport watch that is designed to take a beating and keep on ticking.  Garmin not only focused on jamming the Fenix 5 with technology, but they also made several versions in several sizes so that you can tailor the Fenix 5 to your specific style and needs.  While the Garmin S60 rains supreme in the world of the best golf watches, the Garmin Fenix 5 is by far the best multisport watch for golfers.  This is a small, but important distinction.   Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch in 2020?

The golf features of the Garmin Fenix 5 are solid.  You don’t have to worry about the watch sacrificing golf features to jam in features for rowers, runners, and swimmers (with the exception of preloaded courses).  The Garmin Fenix 5 provides yardages to the entire green and to all obstacles on the golf course.  It also has pin drop technology that gives you precise yardage for all golf shots.  As you’d expect with a premium sports watch, the Fenix 5 has a high resolution screen.  To top it off, the battery life of this watch is insane.  It easily beats the competition and provides you with hours and hours of use.  Overall, the Fenix 5 is a phenomenal choice for any golfer looking for a durable yet stylish mutlisport watch.  As long as you don’t mind the price tag, this is definitely the one of the best golf watches money can buy. With that said, lets get into the details:

Golf Functionality

Hazard Yardage

You’re probably wondering if the Garmin sacrificed some of the best golf watch features when creating the Fenix 5 multisport watch.   For the most part, they didn’t.   The Fenix 5 accurately and clearly displays just about any yardage position that you could ever want on a golf course.   The clear color screen allows you to easily spot positions on the course that may be of interest.  The Garmin S6 and S60 both have this technology and Garmin keeps getting better and better at refining it.   On the Fenix 5, you can literally figure out the yardage to just about every position on the golf course.

  PinPlacement Technology 

Just like the Garmin S60, the Fenix 5 golf watch allows you to use the screen to move the flagstick to any portion of the green.  This technology provides you with precise yardages to any level or corner of any green.  This is a great feature for pitching and chipping around the greens.  We all know how frustrating it can be to pitch to the green and end up on the wrong level or portion.  If you’re anything like me, this typically ends in a three-putt.

Pin placement is also great for blind shots.  If you know the pin position of the golf course for the day, you can approximate it on the watch and get a better yardage from a hazard or other location off of the fairway.  Better yardage equals better scores, which is how you have more fun.

Golf Course Coverage

No golf watch is without its drawbacks.  The best golf watches typically come preloaded with about 40,000 golf courses.  This allows you to charge the device, drive to a golf course and start playing.  Pretty convenient.  With the Garmin Fenix 5, you’re golf round will require a little more planning.  This multisport watch requires you to download the golf course that you’ll be playing via the Garmin Connect mobile application before you can use it for golf-related activity on the golf course.  For those of you that don’t want to think about downloading a golf course before you play it (people like me), we recommend the Garmin S60.

Enhanced GPS

The Garmin Fenix 5 takes GPS to the next level.  Even the best golf watches have simple GPS technology that is great for a golf course but not for challenging environments.  Because the Garmin Fenix 5 is designed for hard mountainous terrain, it comes preloaded with advanced GPS and GLONASS satellite reception.  This means that the watch will track you faster and more accurately than other golf GPS watches.  A great improvement on the Garmin S6 and the Garmin S60.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Watch Face

The Garmin Fenix 5 comes in three different case-housing sizes, but with one screen size.  The case housing sizes are the materials that make up the watch head (42MM, 47MM, and 51MM).  The actual screen size of the watch is 1.1 inches in diameter.  This is large enough to display all information clearly without being too bulky or flashy.  Its screen also comes in either glass or sapphire crystal depending on the model that you purchase.  The display resolution is 218 x 218 pixels, which is great, but slightly less than the Garmin S60 (240 x 240).  The watch weighs 67 grams if you get a silicone band and includes 64MB of memory (less than the Garmin S60).  As you can tell from the image above, you can also personalize the watch face just like you can on a computer screen.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Battery Life

The battery life is where this golf watch really stands out.  The Fenix 5 multisport watch destroys its competition in this category.   The Fenix 5 lasts up to 9 days in smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS mode, or 35 hours in its tracking battery saver mode.  In golf speak, this means that you can get five full golf rounds out of this watch without needing to recharge it – even if the golf rounds last nearly five hours each.  This is simply unheard of.  We think that the great battery life spawns from the watch’s multisport design.  This watch was designed for hiking and exploring the outdoors, it is built to last without a charge for safety reasons if a hiker gets lost.  The beautify of that for a golfer is that you can squeeze more golf rounds out of this watch.  Though you may not need it to save your life on the golf course, it can certainly save you strokes on the golf rounds where you didn’t have time to charge your watch beforehand.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Changeable Watch Bands

If you’re a watch person that really values style then you’ll love the Fenix 5.  It has a ton of different watches sizes, colors, and bands.  Because of its classic and sleek watch-head, you can slap a metal, silicon, or leather band on this watch for whatever occasion.  This is a work watch and a play watch.  It can be paired with suit or a pair of running shorts.  If you’re really looking for versatility, get the version of the watch that most fits your needs and purchase a watch band (or two) for those special occasions.  This is a much smarter approach than buying multiple watches for multiple occasions.

Swing Training & Analysis

Because the Garmin Fenix 5 is also compatible with TruSwing technology. If you’re familiar with this technology, it allows you to analyze just about every aspect of your swing.  Simply strap the truswing to your golf club, turn it on, and pair it to your mobile device (or watch).  The device will trace each golf swing from start to finish.  And it will provide you with amazing feedback on your swingpath, clubface angle at impact, swing speed, etc.

Scorecard and Stats Feature

This Garmin Fenix 5 allows you to keep your score on the watch itself.  There is no need for you to have a paper scorecard anymore.  And there is certainly no reason for you to have a scorebook that tracks the aggregate of your scores.  All of this can be done on your Garmin Fenix 5  and you can access the aggregate data through the Garmin Connect mobile application.  You can also break down the important stats about your game (putts per round, driving accuracy, chips, etc.).

Bluetooth and Connect IQ

The Garmin Fenix 5 is fully bluetooth compatible and can pair with any bluetooth capable device.  It will display your text messages, phone calls, ESPN alerts, emails, song selections, and anything else you can connect to via bluetooth.  The technology is amazing and the interface/usability of the watch’s bluetooth feature is a great improvement on the Garmin Approach S6.   It’s particularly useful if you typically receive a lot of text messages or emails while out on the golf course.  Instead of worrying about your phone chiming during a backswing, you can just silence your phone and check your golf watch.

Multi-Activity Tracker

By far the best aspect of the Garmin Fenix 5 watch is its multisport functionality.  It offers you an insane number of features for multiple sports.  This golf watch accurately tracks your heart rate and provides you with a ton of data that you can use to analyze your performance.  In addition to simple step counters and tracking running, this watch tracks athletic performance and training.  The watch is actually smart enough to let you know whether you’re training effectively, if you’ve peaked, or if you’re training too hard.  It’s like having a personal trainer on your wrist while you workout or play sports.  This watch tracks too many sports to mention here, but a few include: skiing, snowboarding, XC Skiing, stand up paddleboarding, rowing, indoor rowing, swimming, walking, running, riding a bike, hiking, rock climbing, etc.

Mapping & Navigation

We’re in the business of providing golf reviews so we’re not going to spend too much time on the non-golf related features of the Fenix 5.  However, we’d be remiss if we didn’t at least mention the mapping technology that is a part of this watch.   The Garmin Fenix 5 features a ton of mapping and navigation features.  It has full color TOPO U.S. mapping preloaded into the watch.  It also has compass features and a built-in altimeter, which measures elevation.

Other Features

The Garmin Fenix 5 is packed with a million other cool features as well.  Way too many to explain in this review.  As you have likely gathered by now, this watch can do just about anything that you want it to do if you’re into sports.  Below is a non-exhaustive list of some of the features of the Garmin Fenix 5:

  • Water resistant to 100 meters (better than any other golf watch)
  • Auto shot sensor for post-round analysis
  • Calorie burn calculator
  • Enhanced mapping
  • Sleep monitoring
  • Exercise intensity tracker
  • Customizable home screen
  • Digital scorecard
  • Handicap scoring
  • Personal Trainer Features
  • Enhanced GPS
  • Altimeter

Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch for you?

Buy the Fenix 5 multisport watch if you’re really into the outdoors and playing more sports than golf.  It’s the best multisport watch on the market by far.  It offers you so many cool features for so many activities that it’s well worth the money.  Although this watch isn’t as impressive as the Garmin S60 for strictly golf features, it is a close second while giving you a million other features. If you buy this watch we doubt you’ll be disappointed, its one of the best multisport watches on the market.


Garmin Approach S6 Golf GPS Watch

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Garmin Approach S6 Golf GPS Watch Review

Garmin’s Approach S6 golf GPS watch is one of their newer models and is a successor of the S5.  This watch is a high-end golf GPS watch with features that changed the golf gps watch market forever.  If you’re in the market for a color touchscreen golf watch and can’t afford the Garmin Approach S60, this is the product for you.  Quite simply, Garmin has mastered the golf GPS watch and has cornered the market on high-end products.  This is definitely one of the best golf GPS watches of 2019.

The Garmin S6 provides yardage to the front, middle, and back of the green with high resolution finishes unlike any other golf GPS watch.  This watch features a high-resolution color touchscreen, which allows you to drag the pin to any location on the green.  This feature allows you to dial in your shot down to the yard.  When you’re playing a course with a large green, no more guessing the distance to the “middle-back” portion of the green.

Functionality

Hazard Yardage

Like other high-end golf GPS watches, the Garmin S6 displays yardage to all layup positions and doglegs.  You can easily spot hazards on the touch screen of the watch and measure yardages to any portion of any hazard on a golf course – a feature unmatched by any other golf GPS watch on the market.  Regardless of what handicap you have, these features are going to shave strokes off of your game.  Unlike other golf GPS watches, because you can see the hazards and get detailed yardage on a color screen, you will even save strokes on golf courses that you have never played before.

PinPlacement Technology 

This golf GPS watch allows you to move the pin to precise locations on the green on a large touch screen giving you the most precise distances to the pin of any golf GPS watch on the market.  To get this advantage, simply touch and drag the pin to the exact location on the green.  If you find yourself in a position to hit a blind shot to the green, this function also allows you to electronically location the direction of the green.  This eliminates the need to walk all the way up to a point where you can see the pin, only to forget where to aim when you get back to your ball.  For information about this feature, check out the video below:

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Golf Course Coverage –

The Garmin S6 comes pre-loaded with over 40,000 different golf courses across the globe and does not require any type of membership/subscription fee or downloads of any kind.  Simply charge it up and head to the course.   The Garmin S6 also features automatic course recognition and the traditional hole advance feature that automatically places you on the next hole depending on your GPS location.

Watch Face

The Garmin S6 features a 4.5 cm x 4.5 x 1.42 cm screen that is 1” in diameter.  This screen is big enough to display the entire hole in full color at a 180 x 180 pixel resolution.  The watch weighs 1.6 oz (lighter than the Bushnell NEO-iON).  When looking at the watch you can easily see all of the yardages, hazards, etc., without feeling like you have a bulky computer on your wrist.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Battery Life 

According to Garmin’s website, the Garmin S6 will last for upwards of 10 hours on GPS mode and up to 20 weeks in watch mode.  To translate that into golf rounds, in my experience, this watch lasts for about 27 holes before you need to recharge it.  This is slightly less than other golf GPS watches that can typically last about 36 holes or longer.  That being said, other golf GPS watches do not feature a high-resolution color touchscreen, so you kind of have to pick your poison.  Either you have fewer features and a longer battery life or a lot of features and a shorter battery life.  To put it simply, my old Nokia brick cell phone’s battery lasted a lot longer than my iPhone battery does, but I still have an iPhone.

Swing Metrics 

My favorite unique feature of this watch is the swing metrics function, which is unmatched by any other golf GPS watch on the market.  There are three different functions of swing metrics, 1) SwingTempo, 2)Tempo Training, and 3) Swing Strength.

SwingTempo 

This feature of the Garmin S6 measures the relationship between upswing and downswing and expresses it as a ratio. In studies of successful golf swings, an ideal ratio of 3:1 has emerged, even with individual variations of speed. In plain English, this feature measures the tempo of your swing to train you to swing at the ideal tempo as measured and studied by golf professionals.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

TempoTraining

This feature uses the 3:1 ratio identified by the SwingTempo technology and gives you audible tones to synchronize your swing mechanics and fine-tune swing tempo. In plain English, it audibly signals to you during your swing so that you know how your swing matches an ideal tempo.  This feature is fantastic for the driving range, especially if you have a short and stubby swing that needs to be elongated for a smoother rhythm.

Swing Strength 

This feature gives you an idea of the swing power that you are exerting for any given swing.  This is another incredibly helpful feature for practicing on the golf range.  It can be used to improve your consistency when practicing shots using a ½ swing or ¾ swing when you’re trying to get a feel for those shots that are in between clubs.  It is especially helpful when practicing with your wedges to avoid the awful feeling of flying the green or leaving it short after placing the ball between 30-80 yards of the pin.

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Other Features 

The Garmin S6 is water resistant up to 50 meters and includes an odometer for step tracking during a round.  Although step tracking if a basic feature of almost all golf GPS watches these days, most watches are water resistant to only 10 meters (except for the Bushnell NEO-iON, which is waterproof).

Scorecard and Stats Feature 

This golf GPS watch allows you to keep the score on the watch itself, eliminating the need for scorecards and small pencils. This feature is a big improvement from the S2 version, as the S6 allows you to keep Stroke Play and Stableford scores, which can be downloaded to a computer and analyzed after the round. You can also keep track of the number of putts per hole, greens & fairways hit in regulation, as well as the average distance of various shots all on the GPS watch.  If you’re really into the stats, you can compare stats with other players online through Garmin Connect and simulate your best possible golf round by pairing all of you best scores on individual holes on a given golf course.  Stat nerd heaven!!

cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch

Bluetooth Feature 

This golf GPS watch is also equipped with a Bluetooth feature that allows you to pair it with your cell phone. This allows the user to receive emails, texts, alerts and other notifications right on the watch. The Garmin S6 displays whatever your iPad® or iPhone® (4s or later) can display wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Style –

The Garmin S6 is an athletic looking watch that has an almost futuristic feel to it. It’s light weight (1.6oz) and can be worn casually or with a business suit (depending on the color).  Although it does have a sportier feel to it, I don’t mind strolling into the office with this watch on my wrist (though it will definitely attract some attention).

PROS

  • Best features of any golf GPS watch on the market
  • Tons of pre-loaded courses
  • No membership or subscription required.
  • Accurate (even from the rough or out of bounds areas)
  • Easy to read and use
  • High-resolution color touchscreen
  • High level of personalization
  • SwingMetrics Technology
  • Movable pin locations for precise yardage
  • Uploadable scorecard feature for accurate round tracking
  • Exact yardage to different hazards
  • Bluetooth technology
  • Scorecard features
  • Garmin Connect Technology

CONS

  • Far less technology than the Garmin Approach S60
  • The touch screen can difficult to use if you have large fingers
  • Requires frequent recharging due to the large high resolution touch screen
  • Watch sometimes unlocks and switches to different modes

Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch for you?

  • This one is a great option if you don’t watch to spend the money on a Garmin Approach S60.  The Garmin S6 still packs a serious punch and offers you everything you need in a golf gps watch.  If you’re in the market for a high end golf watch and love fancy features and customization, this is a great option.  It’s far cheaper than the Garmin Approach S60 and will still blow all of your golf buddies minds.  From the golf range to the golf course, the Garmin S6 is solid and it offers almost every feature that you could want in a golf GPS watch.

Garmin Approach X10 Golf GPS Watch Review

During the 2018 golf season, Garmin expanded into the affordable golf watch market.  Historically, Garmin has made high-end golf watches packed full of cutting-edge features.  The Garmin Approach X10 is  Garmin’s more affordable version of the Garmin Approach X40, but it does not disappoint.  It comes loaded with all of the golf features that matter most and it won’t break the bank.  The Garmin Approach X10 comes preloaded with more than 41,000 courses worldwide.  If you’re a golfer who values an unobtrusive band over a fashionable watch then the Garmin Approach X10 may be the best golf watch for you.


Garmin Approach X10 Design

The Garmin Approach X10 is all about its sleek design. The golf watch weighs only 1.1 ounces and you can barely tell that it’s even on your wrist when you wear it.   It has a narrow screen that is sunlight readable with a singular button and a touchscreen display.  The Garmin Approach X10 also has a 5 ATM water rating, which means that you can wear the watch underwater up to 40 meters (or 130ft).  And if you’re hesitant about the narrow nature of the touchscreen, don’t be – it displays course information clearly.   The only drawback is that it can be difficult to navigate at times for people with large fingers.

Some of the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch features

The Garmin Approach X10 features yardage to the front, middle, and back of the green like all of the best golf watches.  It also features hazard yardages and yardage to layup positions on any hole that you’re playing.  Its auto-advance hole feature eliminates the need to manually advance to the next hole and its digital scorecard eliminates the need for a paper card and pencil.  But what’s surprising is that the Garmin Approach X10 also features Garmin’s drag and drop pin placement technology, which allows you to move the pin to any location on the green for exact yardage.  This is a feature typically found on Garmin’s premium line of products, but that you’ll also find on the X10.   Overall, the Garmin X10 is the best golf watch for the money for golfers looking for an affordable and low profile golf watch.

If you like this golf watch, but also want extra fitness tracking features, such as a heart-rate monitor, then you should check out the Garmin Approach X40.

Battery Life

The Garmin Approach X10 boasts phenomenal battery life.  Because of its slim profile and small screen, it can last up to 3 full rounds of golf (12 hours) in GPS mode.  This is better than almost any other golf watch out there (with the exception of the Garmin Approach S10).  When the golf watch is not in GPS mode, it can last up to 14 weeks without needing a recharge.

Pros

  • Affordable and Easy to use
  • Great performance
  • Waterproof
  • Great battery life
  • Very comfortable and light in weight
  • Updates and courses are added every year which are free of cost

Cons

  • No Bluetooth feature
  • No heart-rate monitor

Garmin Approach X40 Golf GPS Watch

Garmin Approach X40 Golf GPS Watch Review

Garmin’s Approach X40 golf GPS watch is their newest watch on the market.  It’s far slimmer and simpler than their Garmin S6 model.  With this watch, it appears that Garmin has made the decision to move away from fancy color screen technology towards a sleeker more athletic design. Despite this watch’s low profile, it comes loaded with a ton of cool features and is definitely worth checking out if you’re comfortable spending around $250.

The Garmin X40 provides the yardage to the front, middle, and back of the green like traditional golf GPS watches.  However, the X40 combines the popular step tracking/activity tracker/heart rate monitor technology into the golf experience.  If you’re in the market for a golf GPS watch and like fitness trackers and/or are fearful of a larger watch interfering with your golf swing, this is the golf GPS watch for you.  Garmin’s innovative approach to this golf GPS watch makes it one of the best golf GPS watches.

Functionality

Hazard Yardage

Like other high-end golf GPS watches, the Garmin X40 displays yardage to all layup positions, doglegs, and other hazards.  You can easily spot hazards on the watch screen and measure the distance to any portion of any hazard on a golf course.  Although the hazard yardage screen is a bit funky, it is accurate and efficient once you get the hang of it.

 Golf Course Coverage

Like other Garmin products, the X40 comes pre-loaded with over 40,000 different golf courses across the globe and does not require any type of membership/subscription fee or downloads.  Simply charge it up and head to the course.   The X40 features free course updates, so as Garmin improves its course rolodex, your rolodex grows too.

Watch Face

The Garmin X40 features a 1.00” x 0.42” display screen that is 160 x 68 pixels.  This is a much smaller screen than any other golf GPS watch on the market and mirrors the look and feel of an activity tracker.  However, don’t think that the small screen display is unable to convey critical information.  This sunlight-readable screen is big enough to display everything that you need to shave strokes off of your game.

Green View Display

The X40 golf GPS watch was specifically designed with Green View Display, which shows you the shape and contours of the green as you play each hole. In addition to seeing how the green slopes, you can move the pin around to get exact yardages to various portions of a green.  This feature allows you to really dial in your short game.  You can accurately pitch wedges to the flagstick and figure out how the ball will roll on the green without walking up to the green before your pitch like the pros.  This feature is definitely a great addition, and an unexpected one considering the size of the watch face.

Golf Band

The Garmin X40 golf GPS watch is the thinnest and lightest golf GPS watch on the market.  The slim band makes this a great option for golfers who have reservations about swinging a golf club with a watch on their wrist.  With the addition of activity tracking technology on a golf GPS watch, Garmin is clearly trying to cash in on the Fitbit and activity tracking craze. However, in doing so, Garmin may have unintentionally (or intentionally) eliminated a major concern of many golfers interested in golf GPS watch technology.  This watch’s low profile and slim band makes you forget that you even have it on your wrist.  If you have reservations about wearing a large watch while swinging the golf club, this is one of the best golf GPS watches.

This golf GPS watch is also water resistant up to 50 meters and is a great option for golfers with active lifestyles.

Activity Tracking/Heart Rate Monitor

The activity tracking technology in the X40 shows distance traveled, steps taken, calories burned, heart rate, and activity intensity.  The band measures your heart rate throughout the day and does not require the use of a heart rate strap.   The heart rate monitor checks your heart rate at varying levels of consistency depending on your level of activity.  When you engage in a physical activity, the heart rate monitor provides feedback more frequently as the device is attempting to provide you with accurate information.  However, when you are not engaged in an activity, the monitor checks your heart rate less frequently.

Overall, the devices is fairly useful for tracking heart rate when you are moving around but suffers from the limitations of a wrist-based heart monitoring device.

Battery Life

According to Garmin’s website, the Garmin X40 features a lithium-ion battery that will last for  upwards of 10 hours in GPS mode.  Put simply, I’ve found that the x40 lasts for up to three full golf rounds.   This is a bit better than Garmin’s S6 golf GPS watch, likely due to the smaller screen.  Three rounds of golf is above average for a golf GPS watch as other golf GPS watches typically last about 36 holes.  Because this golf watch has so many features jam packed into it, I give the X40 a slight edge in the battery department over most golf GPS watches on the market.

AutoShot Round Analyzer

A great feature of this golf GPS watch is the AutoShot Round Analyzer.  This feature automatically detects shots during the round from tee to green and is fantastic for post round analysis.   It allows you to figure out which holes you excelled or struggled on for a given round.  When looking at data historically, you can see how you have played various courses and holes throughout the year.

Other Features

Garmin Connect Golf Community

A new feature of the latest line of Garmin golf GPS watches is the Garmin Connect feature.  This feature allows users to track rounds, upload data to the internet, and compare the results with the Garmin community.   This gives the watch an almost video game like aspect that allows you to see how you stack up against the competition at most courses around the world.

Scorecard and Stats Feature

This Garmin X40 golf GPS watch allows you to keep the score on the watch itself (similar to the S6) and allows you to upload your scores and rounds to a computer for post-round analysis.  Additionally, if you play a course multiple times a year, the X40 allows you to patch together your best scores on each hole so that you can assemble your perfect round.

TruSwing Technology

The Garmin X40 golf GPS watch also has an optional feature called TruSwing.  This technology attaches to your golf club and gives you real-time 3-dimensional animations of your golf swing and other metrics that are great for figuring out how to optimize your game.  This feature is great for the golf range and provides helpful stats that shave strokes off of your game.

Bluetooth Feature

This golf GPS watch is equipped with a Bluetooth feature (much like the S6) that allows you to pair it with your cell phone and other Bluetooth capable devices. This allows the user to receive emails, texts, alerts and more right on your watch.  When an alert comes into your watch, the X40 will vibrate to send a signal to the user.

Style

This golf GPS watch is a sleek low profile golf watch that includes all of the features you want in a golf GPS device.  In addition to measuring your heart rate and offering activity tracking like a Fitbit, it eliminates the need for an additional activity tracking device.  The Garmin X40 is super lightweight at 1.1oz and has an athletic feel to it.  This watch is not the most stylish watch on the market but it certainly won’t offend anyone, and most people will likely assume that you have a Fitbit.   

 PROS

  • Some of the best features of any golf GPS watch on the market
  • Tons of pre-loaded courses
  • No membership or subscription requirement.
  • Accurate (even from the rough or out of bounds areas)
  • Activity Tracker for running, golfing, etc.
  • Heart rate monitor
  • TruSwing Technology
  • Movable pin locations for precise yardage
  • Uploadable scorecard feature for accurate round tracking
  • Exact yardage to different hazards
  • Bluetooth technology
  • Scorecard features
  • Garmin Connect Technology

CONS

  • Cost
  • The small screen takes a bit of getting used to and can be difficult to navigate
  • The shot distance calculator can be glitchy at times

Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch for you?

  • This golf GPS watch is the best option for a golfer with an active lifestyle.  It gives accurate yardage, has a great battery, and provides distances to the hazards.  But what makes this GPS watch one of the best golf GPS watches is the additional technology that is somehow jam-packed into this small device.  Not only does it measure your heart rate and offer activity tracking like a Fitbit, but it also provides the Garmin connect technology allowing you to connect with the golf community around you.  If you’re in the market for a high-end golf GPS watch, but love the technology of a FitBit, this is the golf GPS watch for you.

For more information, feel free to check out Garmin’s Promotional video below:


Garmin Approach S10 Golf GPS Watch Review

Garmin has manufactured the best golf watches for a long time now.   They have a long line of products that offer something for everyone.   One of Garmin’s newer additions is the Garmin Approach S10.   It’s a great golf watch and is one of the best golf watches for golfers looking for an affordable golf watch with slim profile.  Like other Garmin golf watches, the approach is pre-loaded with over 41,000 golf courses around the world.  It also comes with a high-resolution 1.3-inch screen.  Its slim profile and pure bang-for-your-buck efficiency makes the Garmin Approach S10 one of the best golf watches for the money.

Design and Features

The Garmin S10 Approach golf watch is a classic and simple looking watch.  It’s not bulky, it’s not flashy, it’s not trying to be something that it’s not.   Garmin is clearly offering a watch that looks like an apple watch.  Sim, unobtrusive, and light, the Garmin S10 comes with some great features.  To keep costs down, the screen is not a touchscreen.  You navigate the golf watch using four buttons placed along the sides of the watch-face.   The golf watch also features a comfortable silicone strap and is water-resistant up to 50m.

Sunlight Readable Screen

This high-resolution screen on the Garmin Approach S1 is sunlight readable.  This means that you can easily see the watch screen (and the information on it) on bright sunny days on the course.  A huge issue with some golf watches is the glare that reflects off of the screen’s surface in direct sunlight.  This the watch hard to read and can be really frustrating.  The Garmin Approach S10’s screen is somewhat like an Amazon Kindle screen in that it doesn’t reflect glare when you stare into it.  This is a simple but great feature of this golf watch.

Battery Life

The Garmin Approach S10 boasts an excellent battery life.  Many golf watches survive around 20 holes before requiring a recharge with better performing watches lasting up to 36 holes (two rounds).  The Garmin Approach S10 can last up to 54 holes (three full golf rounds) while in GPS mode before requiring a charge.  This is better than any other golf watch on the market, making the Garmin Approach S10 one of the best golf watches for long battery life.  If you’re not playing golf, this golf watch can last up to 14 weeks in normal watch mode.

Yardage and Course Coverage

The Garmin Approach S10 will give you the yardage to the front, middle, and back of the green and will give you yardages to various hazards that you’ll find on the golf course.   The golf watch will also measure each of your shots and features a digital scorecard eliminating the need for paper scorecards.  The golf watch will auto-detect your movement to the next hole and unlike other golf watches, doesn’t seem to get confused while you’re on the golf course.  While this golf watch isn’t packed with a ton of bonuses or extras, it offers you everything you need when playing.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Great battery life
  • Water-resistant
  • Affordable
  • Good overall performance

Cons

  • Can be slow in picking up the course details
  • Doesn’t come with any standout features

Garmin Approach S2 Golf GPS Watch

Garmin Approach S2 Golf GPS Watch Review

The Approach S2 is one of the best golf GPS watches on the market year after year.  This is why (not so) surprisingly, it is still one of the best golf GPS watches.  It has staying power – plain and simple.  The Garmin S2 golf GPS watch provides the yardage to the front, middle, and back of the green and gives you yardage to two layup areas on a given hole.  This golf GPS watch is also one of the most affordable golf GPS devices on the market.  If you are on a budget, have a simple game and value consistency, this is the watch for you.

Functionality

Hazard Yardage –

This watch does not offer yardage to bunkers or over ponds and similar hazards and it does not give you the width of the fairway.  In that regard, the watch is limited in its capability.  If you’re a golfer that is hungry for every detail of the course, you may consider purchasing the Garmin Approach S6.  However, for the budget-conscious weekend golfer, this watch has tremendous value.

Technology

Garmin is currently selling the Garmin x40 golf GPS watch so the S2 is not exactly “new” technology.  However, it is a smart and affordable alternative to some of the more expensive watches.  With 38,000 different golf courses across the globe loaded into the watch, you’ll be hard pressed to find a course that isn’t covered.  The Garmin S2 also features a built-in digital scorecard, which allows you to enter your scores directly into your watch with ease.  No more logging scores in scorecards with pencils and pens, only to lose the scorecard and the valuable round data.

Watch Face

The Approach S2 has a one-inch monochrome LCD with 64 x 32 pixels.  The watch offers front-middle-back yardage, yardage to the layup position and the dogleg, and a scorecard for digitally keeping your score in real time (and uploading your rounds to the computer later on).

Battery Life 

The Garmin S2 boasts a battery life of about 36 holes of golf while you’re actively using the golf GPS function.  This is enough for a long day on the golf course with your friends.  But remember, it must be fully charged for you to get this much golf out of it.  If you’re not using the GPS function, the watch will stay powered for about three weeks without needing a charge.

Style

This is a versatile watch that can be worn casually or to work.  The black model is not clunky or flashy, but is nice enough to get noticed by anyone paying attention.  If you’re into a bit more flash, the Garmin S2 golf GPS watch comes in a variety of colors.

PROS

  • Affordable
  • Tons of pre-loaded courses
  • Accurate (even from the rough or out of bounds areas)
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to wear
  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Scorecard function
  • Yardage to the dogleg and layup locations

CONS

  • Does not offer yardages to bunkers or lakes
  • At times you’ll have to manually adjust it to reflect the correct hole

Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch for you?

  • The functionality of a GPS watch is more important than a fancy layout or a touch screen and this watch makes your game more predictable for the right price.   This watch has been sold (new) on amazon for as low as $99.  Buy this watch if this is your first time purchasing a GPS watch or if you’re frustrated with another model.  Because this watch is predictable and offers great features, it is still one of the best golf GPS watches. If you’re interested in checking the current price on amazon.com, check out the link below.

Garmin Approach S20 Golf GPS Watch

Garmin Approach S20 Golf GPS Watch Review

Garmin’s Approach S20 golf GPS watch was released before the Garmin x40, but is still considered to be one of the newer golf watches on the market.  The S20 is not as slim or sleek as the x40, but has a larger watch face and comes with many of the same features.  With this golf watch, Garmin is attempting to appeal to consumers who are interested in an Apple watch. The design of this watch seems to mimic the Apple watch while providing some of the familiar features that Garmin provides in other golf watches. We rate the Garmin S20 as one of the best golf watches for golfers prioritizing battery life and cool practice range features.

The Garmin S20 provides the yardage to all portions of the green like other new-age golf watches.  Although the S20 doesn’t come with the heart-rate monitoring software of the X40, it still has all of the other cool features. What makes the S20 stand out from other golf watches is its super long battery life.  If you’re in the market for a golf GPS watch with great technology that boasts a great battery life, this is the golf watch for you.

Functionality

Hazard Yardage

The Garmin S20 golf watch gives you the yardage to all layup positions on the course, including the bunkers, doglegs, lakes, and other hazards.  The watch face on this golf watch is larger than the X40’s and measures the distance to any portion of any hazard on a golf course.  With the larger watch face, it’s a little easier to navigate the screen on this golf watch. It is also easier to see the data on the screen of this golf watch.

 Golf Course Coverage

Just like other Garmin golf watches, the S20 golf watch comes pre-loaded with over 40,000 different golf courses. This golf watch does not require any subscriptions or monthly fees. After purchasing this golf watch, you simply need to charge it and turn it on.   Like all Garmin golf watch products, the S20 features free course updates.

Watch Face

The Garmin S20 features a 0.9” x 0.9” (23 x 23 mm) display screen that is 168 x 68 pixels.  This is a much larger screen than x40 golf watch and mirrors the look and feel of an apple watch. The screen is sunlight readable making it easy to see the golf watch during the round. Although this golf watch does not have a touch screen, its simple design gives it an extended battery life and is large enough to display everything you need to better manage your golf round.

The Garmin S20 golf watch features a breathable and lightweight watchband that is very lightweight for its size at 1.5 0z. The golf watch is also waterproof (as opposed to water resistant) to 50 meters.

Green View Display

The S20 golf GPS watch also features the green view display feature. This feature provides the shape and contours of the green on every golf hole. You can also move the pin around to place the pin in different areas of the green giving you near-perfect yardage to the target.  This is a great feature of the golf watch and pushes it into the “high-end” category.

Activity Tracking

The S20 is jam packed with cool activity tracking technology. This S20 golf watch does not come with a heart rate monitor like the X40, but is still great for tracking daily step counts and running. The golf watch can also be set to remind you to move around after being stagnate for a period of time. If you sit at a desk for a living, this is a great feature to get you on your feet at regular intervals.

Battery Life

The battery life on the Garmin S20 golf watch is its stand out feature. According to Garmin’s website, the Garmin S20 features a lithium-ion battery that will last for 15 hours on full GPS mode before the golf watch needs to be recharged. This is 10 hours longer than the Garmin X40 and much longer than the Garmin S6.  Put simply, this is the best golf watch battery in the Garmin line of golf watches.

Other Features:

AutoShot Round Analyzer –

The Garmin S20 golf watch comes with the AutoShot Round Analyzer just like other new products in the Garmin line.  This feature automatically detects shots during the round and gives you data on all of your strokes.   This is a great feature of this golf watch and is a big reason why Garmin leads the field in golf watch technology.

Garmin Connect Golf Community

The Garmin S20 golf watch Garmin Connect feature tracks golf rounds and allows you to upload data to the internet. After doing so, you can compare your golf watch data with the Garmin community to see how you stack up.   This feels sort of like a video game feature allowing you to see how you compare to other golfers.

Scorecard and Stats Feature

This Garmin S20 golf watch allows you to keep the score on the golf watch. This feature saves you time and frustration that comes with recording the score on a scorecard and keeping track of it after your round. All Garmin golf watches come with this feature. It’s a great option for detail-oriented post-round analysis.

TruSwing Technology

The Garmin S20 golf watch also has an optional feature called TruSwing.  TrueSwing is a great practice feature that attaches to your golf club. TrueSwing gives you real-time 3-dimensional animations of your golf swing and other metrics that are great for figuring out how to optimize your game.  This feature is great for the golf range and provides helpful stats that shave strokes off of your game.

Bluetooth Feature

This golf watch is equipped with a Bluetooth feature (much like the X40 and S6). This familiar feature allows you to pair it with your cell phone and other Bluetooth capable devices. This allows the user to receive emails, texts, alerts and more right on your watch.

Style

The Garmin S20 golf watch has a fairly sleek and stylish look and feel. Garmin has a habit of mimicking the style of popular watch technology and this golf watch is no different. The S20 golf watch is Garmin’s version of the Apple watch. As such, it’s a pretty stylish watch that can be worn to the office and in casual settings. Although the golf watchband is athletic looking, it has a high end feel that will do well in most settings.

PROS

  • Great battery life
  • 40,000+ of pre-loaded courses
  • No membership or subscription requirement.
  • Precise pin locations
  • Activity Tracking technology
  • Heart rate monitor
  • TruSwing Technology
  • Accurate
  • Digital scorecard feature
  • Exact yardage to different hazards
  • Bluetooth technology
  • Waterproof
  • Garmin Connect Technology

 CONS

  • A little expensive
  • Does not include a touch screen
  • Must purchase other Garmin products to take advantage of TrueSwing and other features

Is this the cheapest Garmin golf GPS watch for you?

This golf watch is the best option for a golfer looking for a product that can last multiple rounds.  The Garmin S20 is accurate, has reliable features, and is compatible with Garmin’s best golf watch technology.  To take full advantage of this golf watch, you should buy the Garmin TruSwing Technology.

For more information, feel free to check out Garmin’s Promotional video below:


Why Use Golf Watch Technology?

As golfers, we’re always looking to improve our games.  While we may not play quite like Jason Day or Dustin Johnson, we can definitely manage our games like them.  And the simplest, most effective way to manage your game and lower your scores is to have accurate yardages and information provided by the latest in golf watch technology.

How will a golf watch help my game?

We’re all looking to shoot lower scores because golf is more enjoyable when you’re busy making birdies and pars.    In order to see more circles on the scorecard we need accurate information.  A golf watch is essentially a caddie for non-professionals.  As yourself, when was the last time you watched a pro play without a caddy?  Even the best golfers in the world can’t hit perfect golf shots every time they strike a ball.  But one thing both professional and amateur golfers alike can do to play better golf is obtain accurate yardages.

You may think you can obtain yardages from sprinkler heads on the golf course, but there is a trend to remove them.  Even if you’re lucky enough to find one, yardage markers often have only the yardage to the middle of the green.  This leaves golfers without the true distance to the pin.  The last thing you want to do when hitting a golf shot to the green is guess the yardage.  It’s difficult enough to hit a wedge to a scoring distance, but if you’re guessing yardages it becomes almost impossible.

Although some courses have GPS yardage systems on their carts, these carts are not prevalent enough to rely on.  Additionally, if you like to walk the golf course, they won’t help you during your round.  These golf cart GPS systems also tend to be less accurate than the latest golf watch technology.

Golf watch technology is getting sophisticated

Golf watches like the Garmin S6 feature color touch screens allowing you to move the pin anywhere on the green.  The advanced technology in these golf watches allow you to obtain laser sharp yardages.  No more guessing involved.  They make the most difficult game on the planet a little easier – something every golfer can appreciate.  In golf, a subtle change can mean all the difference in the world.  It’s safe to say that if the professionals could use golf watches in tournament play, they most certainly would.

I just play for fun, so why use a golf watch?

It’s true, not every golfer cares about their score at the end of the day.  As a matter of fact, a lot of golfers don’t keep score.  Golf is about more than shooting a low number.  Good times with friends, some solid shots, and maybe a birdie or two should be good enough.  This type of thinking will certainly help your psychological health.  While a chunked wedge isn’t the end of the world, playing an  slow round can still be very annoying.  Thankfully, innovations like golf watches are speeding up the game.  It’s not necessary to spend time looking for yardage markers when you have a golf watch strapped to your wrist.  A device that feeds you accurate yardages from any spot on the course.  Golf watches save you time and effort so you can focus on  joking with friends and hitting quality shots.

Can a golf watch make my swing better?

Unfortunately, simply wearing a golf watch won’t make your swing into a carbon copy of Justin Thomas’.  And a smashed 340-yard high draw may not be your next tee shot.  But the good news is that many golf watches come equipped with features designed to improve your swing.  Some golf watches feature tempo trainers.  Basically, the golf watch makes audible beeps to signal three key moments in the golf swing.  If you ever find yourself “getting quick” or “rushing” your swing, a range session with a golf watch can help out quite a bit.  High-end golf watches (namely, the Garmin line of golf watches) can give you a glimpse of your swing power and other helpful technology.

However, golf watches are not perfect technology.  They won’t tell you your clubhead speed, and strapping your golf  watch to your driver head is a bad idea.  But there is no question that golf watches can do a lot to help your game.

Which golf GPS watch should I use?

There area wide variety of golf watches and the best one for you depends on your style and budget.  There are a handful of core features that pretty much all golf watches have in common.  They tend to come with thousands of pre-loaded courses, they give you yardages to the front, middle, and back of the greens, the watch displays are easy to read, and they’re lightweight so they feel comfortable on your wrist.  High-end golf watches separate themselves from other golf watches by offering advanced features.  These features include swing aides, other relevant information like the distances to hazards, more preloaded courses, color displays, longer lasting batteries, and touch screens.  For example, the Garmin S6 has a touchscreen allowing  you to move the pin to obtain even more precise yardages.

The technology in these watches is beyond impressive.  While the most economical golf watches hover around $99, the most advanced watches can cost over $300.  There are a number of manufacturers out there but Garmin owns the majority of the market and makes quality watches across the complete price point spectrum.  The best golf watch for you is largely dependent on how much you’re comfortable spending.  We consider the Garmin S6 to be one of the best golf watches on the market.  It boasts the most advanced features of any golf watch and has a stylish look and feel.  If you’re comfortable spending over $300 on a golf watch, the Garmin S6 or similar golf watch should be high on your list.

Editor’s recommendations


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What is the best golf GPS watch with hazards in 2020? https://rizacademy.com/best-golf-gps-watch-with-hazards-in-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-golf-gps-watch-with-hazards-in-2020 Tue, 11 Feb 2020 09:10:56 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=453 Having accurate yardage to various sections of the green, hazards, and layup areas is incredibly valuable and can definitely shave a few strokes off of your game.  For all intents and purposes, a golf GPS watch is essentially a caddie that is strapped to your wrist who has walked the course a thousand times. What is […]

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Having accurate yardage to various sections of the green, hazards, and layup areas is incredibly valuable and can definitely shave a few strokes off of your game.  For all intents and purposes, a golf GPS watch is essentially a caddie that is strapped to your wrist who has walked the course a thousand times. What is the best golf GPS watch with hazards in 2020? Adding a gps watch to your game is one the greatest things you can do to make better decisions on the course.

Our aim is to help readers pinpoint the perfect golf GPS watch that will navigate the challenges of just about any golf course in the world.  Although most golf GPS watches have similar standard features, not all golf GPS watches are created equal.  Many offer unique features tailored to a particular type of player or a golfer’s lifestyle, while others have fewer features but are more affordable. What is the best golf GPS watch with hazards in 2020?

Whether you’re looking for a golf GPS watch that will accurately measure the distance from tee to green at all of your local courses, or you’re interested in a golf GPS watch that features a digital scorecard, course odometer, and other “bells and whistles,”  our reviews are constructed to provide you with analysis explaining what the market has to offer and the pros and cons of each golf GPS watch. 

GPS golf watches may not be quite as stylish as the fashionable timepieces favored by some. But they will enhance your enjoyment of the game.

There are various ways to get GPS-based information on the course. What is the best golf GPS watch with hazards in 2020? Use a GPS golf watch if you are comfortable having a wristband on when you swing. If not, consider a clip-on device like the GolfBuddy Voice 2. 

Mobitee Golf takes a different approach. Their tracking device clips right onto your golf glove. It gathers data that’s compiled and displayed in the Mobitee app.

GPS watches for golf improve your game in various ways. Many include capabilities that deliver the following:

  • More exacting club selection
  • Analysis of golf stats and data
  • Exercise tracking on and off the course

What is the best golf GPS watch with hazards in 2020?

As you compare GPS golf watches, you’ll find that most of them offer the following features:

  • Yardage to the front, middle and back of the green
  • Distance to various hazards
  • Free automatic course updates
  • Rechargeable battery good for two or more rounds

The watch market is very competitive. Some models get discontinued while others get upgrades. If you’re looking for a great piece, here are some recommendations. 


Garmin Approach S10 – the best golf GPS watch with hazards

The Approach S10 is a lower-cost Garmin golf watch that still gets the job done. It comes pre-loaded with more than 41,000 courses worldwide, the same as Garmin’s more upscale designs. This sleek, lightweight watch is comfortable to wear both on and off the course. The wide, ventilated band accommodates a wider, squarish screen. The high-resolution display is easy to read in the bright sun. The 1.2-oz Approach S10 is water-rated to 50 meters (164 feet).

When you keep your score on the watch, it will compile various statistics for you, including round summary, distance played and total time. Upload scorecards through the Garmin Connect or Garmin Express platforms. Use the free Garmin Golf app to participate in leaderboards. Or, set up a “tournament,” and ask your friends to join in.

There’s a choice of three colors: Granite Blue, Powder Gray and Black. Get 12 hours of use per charge in GPS mode. That will easily get you around an 18-hole course at least twice. In Watch Mode only, you’ll get up to 14 weeks of battery life. 


Bushnell Ion2

The tournament-legal Bushnell Ion2, the best golf GPS watch with hazards, is an updated design. It comes pre-loaded with 36,000-plus international courses. The Ion2 delivers automatic course recognition along with automated course updates. There are no download costs or subscription fees.

The reversible, dual-injected silicone band is thin and comfortable. Play three rounds on a single charge. When the battery runs low, it takes about 2.5 hours to fully recharge.

The easy-to-read display gives you distances to the front, center and back of the green. The Ion2 also provides up to four hazard/layup distances for each hole, while the display updates as you move on to the next hole.

The Ion2 is also an activity tracker. The pedometer counts steps on and off the course. Keep track of distance, duration of activity and average speed.

The Bushnell Golf app comes with your purchase. It provides both 2D hole layouts and 3D flyovers. All hole illustrations include distances. You can also keep track of your scores and tee times in the app. The device also comes with a USB charging/sync cable and a one-year manufacturer’s warranty.

The Ion2 Bushnell golf watch comes in two color combinations: silver/green and black/blue. 


Callaway GPSy

Callaway GPSy Golf Watch on wrist

The Callaway GPSy offers much of what you’d expect in a full-featured GPS golf watch. It comes pre-loaded with more than 30,000 courses in dozens of countries. The 2.24-oz device automatically recognizes the course you’re playing. You get automatic hole advance as well.

The GPSy provides distances to the front, middle and back of each green. It also displays distances to doglegs and to the front and back of hazards. The Scorekeeper app will track your scores, greens in regulation and putts per round.

The 1.28-in display provides both analog and digital time. A fully charged battery will give you 10 hours of use in GPS mode, enough to cover two 18-hole rounds. In Time Mode, you’ll get about 40 days worth of battery life.

The Callaway GPSy Sport Watch is available in white and black.


GolfBuddy Voice 2

The water-resistant Voice 2 is the latest incarnation of the popular GolfBuddy Voice. First of all, the Voice 2 is not a GPS golf watch per se. Simply clip it to your belt, pocket or hat. If you like the idea of a watch, clip it to the wristband (sold separately). Or clip it to other accessories like the retractable clip, universal cart mount and belt clip.

As the name implies, the Voice 2 delivers key information via voice. Choose a male or female voice available through the complimentary GolfBuddy Manager app. Tap the primary button to get the distance to the middle of the green. For the yardage to the front and back of the green, hold the button down. The screen displays the shape of the green and all three yardages. Like most GPS golf watches, the Voice 2 offers automatic course and hole recognition. Green View tech displays pin locations for more precise yardages.

Fourteen hours of battery life will easily cover two or even three rounds. The GolfBuddy Voice 2 is a multilingual device. Eight languages are pre-loaded, and three more are available. Select from four color combinations: rose/white, blue/white, silver/white and black/black. 


TomTom Golfer 2

The Golfer 2 SE is slimmer than the original TomTom Golfer. This TomTom golf GPS watch comes with more than 40,000 courses pre-loaded. Enjoy the convenience of the automatic scorecard function. Shot detection is automatic.

TomTom Golfer 2 GPS golf watch on wrist of golfer swinging club

The watch features a dedicated button for green view with manual pin position. With green view, you’ll quickly figure out the right approach shot. It displays the layout of the green as well as hazard locations. Use the TomTom Sports app to sync this TomTom GPS golf watch to your phone. It will automatically update golf course information whenever you connect. Gain valuable insights from your post-game analysis.

The TomTom Golfer 2 is a multi-function GPS golf watch. However, it is not an activity tracker, and there are no smartphone notifications.

In GPS mode, it’s possible to play two 18-hole rounds on a single charge. The wristband (gray or black) comes in two sizes. 


GolfBuddy WTX+

GolfBuddy WTX+ Smart Golf GPS Watch Product

The slim, lightweight GolfBuddy WTX+ is a feature-laden golf GPS watch and activity tracker. It comes pre-loaded with more than 38,000 international courses. Use the free GolfBuddy smartphone app to get no-cost updates via Bluetooth. As with most medium-to-higher priced golf GPS watches, you’ll get automatic course and hole correction. You’ll also get distances to the front, middle and back of the green along with distances to hazards. With green view, get yardages measured from the player’s position.

Notifications are automatically sent to your GolfBuddy watch from your smartphone. The built-in pedometer tracks your activity on and off the course. The WTX+ is both USGA and R&A compliant. Use it for both handicap and tournament play.

The WTX+ comes with a crisp 1.2-in color LCD display. The outer screen is interchangeable. In GPS mode, you’ll get eight hours of battery life, somewhat less than that delivered by some competing models. BUY NOW


Garmin Approach X40

The Garmin Approach X40 is an all-in-one golf and fitness tracking device offering smart connectivity. The Approach X40 comes preloaded with more than 41,000 courses worldwide. New courses and updates are automatically added via Garmin Express. It is an app for managing all your Garmin devices. There are no setup fees or subscription costs with the Approach X40.

This Garmin golf watch displays the yardage to the front, middle and back of the green. Distances are accurate even if you find yourself under a tree. It also displays the distance to hazards. AutoShot tracking calculates shot distances. Access the data for further analysis after your round.

Wear it on and off the course. The slim, low-profile wristband is both comfortable and durable.

Vibrating smart notifications let you know about incoming calls, texts and emails. Stay connected both on and off the course. Your watch connects to your phone via Bluetooth so you can read those important messages when you’re on the go. It displays the current time/date. There’s also an alarm setting.

“Elevate” wrist heart rate technology measures heart rate at the wrist 24/7. Start your workout without adding a heart rate strap. The Approach X40 uses heart rate data to calculate the intensity of your physical activities and calories burned.

From the moment you tee off, the highly sensitive GPS receiver knows your distance to the pin. The versatile Green View accurately displays each green’s shape and layout. You’ll get accurate information even when you’re behind a green. Manually reposition the pin for the best shot selection.

The Approach X40 is compatible with Garmin’s TruSwing club sensor. Get 3D animations of your swing on your smartphone or tablet. You’ll better understand how swing mechanics impact ball flight. Use the Garmin Connect golf app to analyze your swing speed, club angles and more.

More features often mean greater battery drain in GPS golf watches. However, you can still play two full rounds per charge. In regular watch mode, a single charge will last five days. The Approach X40 is water-rated to depths of 50 meters (164 feet).

There is a good choice of colors. Select black/gray, white/black, frost blue/midnight blue or limelight/midnight blue. The wristband comes in two sizes. Use the Small/medium if your wrist circumference is between 5.4 and 7.6 inches. Use the Large if your wrist circumference is between 7.1 and 8.8 inches. 


Precision Pro GPS Golf Band

Precision Pro is known as a leader in golf rangefinders. It brings that expertise to its GPS Golf Band. The design offers an appealing combination of features. It is lightweight, and it costs less than many GPS golf watches. The waterproof silicone band weighs a single ounce, while the display is long and narrow. The Precision Pro design is an interesting option for players who value both comfort and simplicity. It’s ready to use right out of the box.

This Precision Pro golf watch comes pre-loaded with thousands of courses – more than 35,000, in fact. There are no monthly fees or download charges. The device automatically detects the course you’re playing. It automatically advances to the next hole as well. When fully charged, the battery delivers 10 hours of service in GPS mode.

You’ll get distances to the front, middle and back of greens. You’ll also learn the distance to up to four hazards that can come into play. The shot distance calculator allows you to determine how far you hit each shot.

The GPS band is also a fitness tracker that includes a pedometer and an odometer. The Precision Pro GPS Golf Band comes with a USB charger and a one-year warranty. It is available white and midnight blue. BUY NOW


SkyCaddie LINX GT

Sky Golf’s SkyCaddie LINX GT from Sky Golf is part of an integrated system. The rangefinder, game tracker, SkyGolf 360 Cloud service and SkyCaddie Mobile GPS work together. SkyCaddie Mobile delivers vivid, HD renderings of every hole. Get the information you need to choose clubs and plane with precision. Get distances to every hazard, and to all parts of the green.

Sky Golf offers a proprietary TruePoint GPS engine. The company asserts that it is up to three times more accurate than the GPS used in certain competing models. Access information you can trust on both your watch and your smartphone.

The SkyCaddie LINX GT is the first golf watch to come with a built-in SmartTag reader. Sky Golf’s innovative Smart Tags take data analysis to another level. When you add SmartTags to the end of each of your clubs, you get club-specific data. Each shot is “tagged” with the club name, distance and location. One-touch editing simplifies analysis after your round. Thanks to SkyCloud 360, it is even possible for friends, family and golf buddies to follow your round in real-time. It’s a nifty feature if you find yourself competing for the club championship.

The LINX GT’s advanced services come at a price. You’ll need to sign up for a SkyGolf membership. Choose from SkyGolf 360 Premium ($29.95/yr) or SkyGolf 360 Pro ($49.95/yr). Both plans include the SkyCaddie Mobile GPS app and SmartTag integration. 

Editor’s recommendations


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What is the latest golf GPS in 2020? https://rizacademy.com/latest-golf-gps-in-2020/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=latest-golf-gps-in-2020 Mon, 10 Feb 2020 18:07:42 +0000 https://rizacademy.com/?p=446 The best golf GPS watches are designed to boost your enjoyment of playing golf and to help you improve your game overall, especially on an unfamiliar course. Garmin, Bushnell and SkyCaddie are the big players in golf GPS watches, and there’s a pretty big variety in the types you can buy. What is the latest […]

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The best golf GPS watches are designed to boost your enjoyment of playing golf and to help you improve your game overall, especially on an unfamiliar course. Garmin, Bushnell and SkyCaddie are the big players in golf GPS watches, and there’s a pretty big variety in the types you can buy. What is the latest golf GPS in 2020? 

These golfing watches, most of which are rugged and waterproof in design,  accurately monitor your swing, in real-time, and keep an eye on putting form. Think of them as a personal golf instructor, right there at your wrist, whenever you need extra insight. A good golf GPS watch helps you refine nearly all aspects of your technique, dishing out tips on how to lower your handicap.

They store data from thousands of golf courses around the globe, so you can even use them when traveling abroad to get course-specific information. And, of course, they keep score, leaving you to completely focus on the shot in hand. What is the latest golf GPS in 2020?

So in a nutshell, the best golf GPS watches can enhance your skill and accuracy when playing. GPS location technology shows you how far you are from the pin at any time, while some of the top models offer advanced features such as the ability to highlight elevation changes. This helps remove the guesswork from your next shot.

What will I need to consider?

– Your routine A glance at a watch is much quicker than taking a device out of its case, so weigh up if extra detail or less disruption is most important to you.

– Your course If your course has lots of doglegs, blind tee shots, or you play at other clubs in matches or socially, then you might want the extra information a GPS offers over a laser.

– Added extras The larger GPS units often include scorecard and stat tracking capabilities, while some devices measure shots or steps taken, so bear all this in mind.

 Battery power Laser rangefinders run on powerful batteries that are easily replaced every six months to a year, while GPS devices normally need charging via a USB after two to four rounds, so consider which would be easiest for you on a week-to-week basis.

What is the latest golf GPS in 2020?

1. Garmin Approach S20 Golf GPS Watch

Best Golf GPS Device: Solid Watch for Novice & Advanced Golfers Who Love Statistics

Garmin Approach S20, GPS Golf Watch with Step Tracking, Preloaded Courses, Black

PROS

  • AutoShot records the statistics from your round as you play the course for automatic loading later onto your Garmin Connect account
  • A bright display with the opportunity to see several yardage readings on each hole
  • Tracks your activity for information on calories burned, distance walked, and other health-related stats

CONS

  • Doesn’t have a full readout that gives you a complete layout of the upcoming hole

Garmin has cornered the market on GPS watches for golfers. With a sophisticated display and terrific interactive information, the Approach S20 is one of the best GPS devices on the market today.

The S20 features a slim wristband that is durable and doesn’t suffocate your wrist as you play. It also features one of our favorite features, AutoShot, which actually auto-records the statistics from your round and uploads them automatically to your Garmin Connect account. 

The Connect feature gives you a home to see all of your stats for instant feedback as to why your round did or did not go well.

A great package that is extremely affordable, the S20 is a multi-function watch that golfers will love.


2. Garmin Approach X40 Golf GPS Watch

Best For Advanced Golfers: slim, accurate GPS watch

Garmin Approach X40, GPS Golf Band and Activity Tracker with Heart Rate Monitoring, Black

PROS

  • Does an exceptional job at showing distance to greens, hazards, and yardage needed to clear doglegs
  • Monitors heart rate so you can use the X40 off the course as a health tracker
  • AutoShot integration for helping you compile statistics that will help you improve

CONS

  • Slim design can be off-putting for golfers who like a larger display

The Approach X40 is a more compact GPS wristwatch that provides plenty of detail during your round. With a slender, yet clear display, the X40 has many of the same features that golfers have been enjoying on the more traditional S20 and S60 watches from Garmin.

The X40 does have tremendous app integration with the beloved Garmin Connect system, so all of your drives, putts, and yardage are recorded for analysis at your convenience.

The watch also works very well as a health tracker, providing instant updates on your heart rate and reminds you when you need to move if you’ve been stationary for too long. 

All the great golf features in the body of a first-rate health tracker, the X40 is a winner.


3. Bushnell Neo Ion Golf GPS Watch

Best For Mid-Level Golfers: Stylish with an extensive display

Bushnell Neo ION Golf GPS Watch, Black

PROS

  • Long battery life that will provide three rounds with every charge
  • Easy to read distances, including front, back, and center of the green readings
  • Preloaded with a whopping 36,000 courses from over 30 countries

CONS

  • Has a longer learning curve than other GPS golf watches

Featuring a long battery life and a larger display than most GPS golf watches, the Neo Ion from Bushnell is a durable gadget that handles itself well on the golf course. 

Preloaded with over 36,000 courses, the Neo Ion has a sporty design that fits well on the wrist.

The Neo Ion has some exciting features such as an auto course recognition that automatically moves your watch to the next hole as you move to the upcoming tee box. 

The watch also does a great job at giving you distances to all three areas of the green as well as hazard and layup yardages for those long par 5s.

Compact and lightweight, the Neo Ion is a solid GPS watch that delivers the goods.


4. GolfBuddy GB9 WTX+ Smartwatch Golf GPS

Alternative Choice For Mid-Level Golfers: Stylish with an extensive display, ideal for mid-level golfers

GolfBuddy GB9 WTX+ Smartwatch Golf GPS

PROS

  • A simple touchscreen interface that keeps all of the necessary information moving smoothly to help you with your shot selection
  • Preloaded with over 38,000 courses with free lifetime updates
  • Provides a wealth of information from yardage, pin selection, hazards, shot distance and a hole overview all as you play the course

CONS

  • The GolfBuddy App is not as detailed and user-friendly as Garmin and Bushnell’s systems

GolfBuddy has created a user-friendly watch that has a classic look yet provides advanced technology that rewards golfers on the course. 

With a slick touchscreen that keeps the information moving, the GB9 GPS watch gives the golfer everything they could need when playing a round.

From shot distance to broad overviews of each hole, the GB9 has one of the more detailed screens we’ve seen in a wristwatch. 

Although we were disappointed with GolfBuddy’s lack of a sophisticated app to integrate with the watch, the GB9 was still a useful gadget that delivered superior performance on the links.


5. Garmin Approach S60 Golf GPS Watch

Best For Low-Handicappers: Multi-Featured Watch

Garmin Approach S60, Premium GPS Golf Watch with Touchscreen Display and Full Color CourseView Mapping, Black w/Silicone Band

PROS

  • The long-lasting battery is a stunner with over 10 hours of power per charge
  • 40,000 preloaded courses give specific measurements quickly to your wrist
  • The quality of the band is exceptional and keeps the watch comfortable against your wrist

CONS

  • Doesn’t provide a broad variety of yardage readings like a rangefinder

The most elegant golf GPS watch on the market is the Garmin Approach S60. With a stunning display that gives almost 3D like images for the course you are playing, the watch does so many things it is hard to tell you which one is the best.

Not only does it work as a health tracker, but once you get on the course, the S60 excels with smartphone integration that updates courses wirelessly and works seamlessly with Garmin’s Connect online system for a statistical breakdown of your round.

What’s great about the S60 is that the watch gives you full-color maps of the green, fairway and complete hole so you’ll never be hungry for information. Innovative and stylish, the S60 is an incredible GPS watch that delivers stunning performance.


Best Handheld Devices

1. GolfBuddy Voice 2 Golf GPS/Rangefinder

Best For High Handicappers: Great compact device

GolfBuddy Voice 2 Golf GPS/Rangefinder

PROS

  • An advanced voice-enabled GPS device that gives clear readout via voice or text
  • Provides accurate distances to the front, back and center of the green on second shots
  • Snap-on clip keeps the Voice 2 secure against your hat or bag

CONS

  • Has a long load up time when you arrive at the course, so plan ahead when using

The Voice 2 from Golf Buddy is another popular version of their petite yet highly capable line of voice-enabled GPS devices. 

Golf Buddy has taken the Voice 2 and increased the battery life while keeping the same high contrast, large number display that gives users an exact yardage for their next shot.

Legal for tournament use, the Voice 2 is water resistant and comes with a battery that lasts up to 14 hours per charge, good for over two rounds of use. With eight languages pre-loaded, the Voice 2 delivers outstanding performance.


2. Bushnell Phantom Golf GPS

Best For Mid-Handicappers: Great handheld device

Bushnell Phantom Golf GPS

PROS

  • Garmin has installed a magnetic mount in the back of Phantom for easy mounting inside the cart
  • Easy to read screen delivers accurate yardage in large black numbers that contrast well with the display
  • Preloaded with 36,000 courses that automatically update through Bluetooth connection

CONS

  • Need an app on a smartphone to see the layout of the hole, so juggling two devices might not be appealing for some golfers

The Phantom from Bushnell is one of the most fun GPS handheld devices we’ve ever tested. Large and with a square shape, the well-designed readout makes the Phantom clear to read. 

With minimal buttons, the Phantom’s simplicity shines through as an excellent option for golfers of all skill levels, including mid-handicappers looking to make the jump into single digits.

When using the Phantom alongside Bushnell Golf app, the golfer gets a complete overview of the hole and precise distances to clear hazards and navigate tough dog legs. The app gives the golfers a 3D view of the hole and layout, bringing the Phantom’s yardage readout to life.


3. Garmin Approach G8 Golf GPS

Best For Low-Handicappers: Amazing smartphone-like GPS

PROS

  • The incredible 3-inch color interface makes the G8 one of the sleekest GPS devices we’ve ever seen
  • Integrates seamlessly with your iPhone for alerts to be pushed straight to the G8
  • Sees targets on the course with stunning clarity and accurate yardage readouts for precise shot making

CONS

  • Maybe too pricey for golfers looking for entry-level GPS devices

With a sleek and detailed display, the Approach G8 from Garmin is one of the most delightful and user-friendly GPS handheld devices we’ve ever tested. 

For golfers with some disposable income, the G8 will vastly improve your game from the tee box to the green.

Durable and tough, the G8 comes preloaded with over 41,000 courses with more being added each week. Golfers who seek the most information possible will do well by adding the G8 to their bag. 

With PinPointer technology, the G8 tells you exactly where the pin is on each hole, even if you can’t see it.

Once integrated with your smartphone, the G8 sends all alerts such as phone calls and text directly to the screen so you’ll never miss out on relevant information.


4. IZZO Golf Swami 5000 Golf GPS Rangefinder

Best For Mid-Level Golfers: Fun handheld GPS

PROS

  • Great look and feel when it sets in your hand with large display and buttons for easy use
  • Save your scores on the device for later viewing and analysis
  • Provides immediate shot distance and accurate readings for layup, hazards and green distance

CONS

  • Doesn’t have the app integration that most of Swami’s higher-priced GPS devices seem to feature

IZZO’s most popular GPS handheld device is the Swami 5000. With a fun look and feel, the 5000 is a colorful handheld gadget that provides the golfer with a vivid look at the hole ahead.

With over 38,000 courses preloaded onto the device, you can take the Swami 5000 just about anywhere in the world and be ready to go the moment you hit the links. 

Water resistant and with an improved battery, the 5000 provides the standard auto course recognition and hole advancement seen on most GPS devices at this price point.

With a stylish interface, the lightweight Swami 5000 is a great device for intermediate golfers of all ages.


5. Golf Buddy VoiceX Easy-to-Use Smart Talking Golf GPS

Best For Beginners: Solid clip-on GPS

PROS

  • Small with a handy clip-on attachment makes this easy to stick on your hat or bag
  • Clear readout display with yardage to all areas of the green for precise shot making
  • Syncs with a smartphone app to wirelessly update course information for up to the moment changes

CONS

  • Doesn’t have an app that keeps track of statistics and the software isn’t very advanced

The GolfBuddy VoiceX GPS handheld device is a compact gadget that packs a nice little punch on the golf course. 

With a clear and easy to read display, the VoiceX provides golfers with an array of relevant information like pin placement, shot distance and yardage to various areas of the green.

The VoiceX updates wirelessly as you approach the golf course, preloading the most current version of the course to your device. If you don’t want to have to punch buttons all day, then the VoiceX earns its name by audibly reading the distances to you in your choice of male or female voice.

Insanely affordable and perfect for the beginning golfer in your family, the VoiceX is a solid GPS device.


How to choose one of the latest golf GPS in 2020?

Display Quality

GPS devices and wristwatches are handy tools that use a screen to convey yardage and other pertinent information. Since the display is essential for passing this information along, the quality of the display is a critical feature.

But not all devices convey those details equally. Wristwatches have far less area to give the golfer a full spectrum of the yardage to the front and back of the green. 

The wrist-bound devices are different than handheld devices that could potentially give the golfer a fuller idea of what lies ahead on the fairway or green.

Handheld devices are known for having better display quality because the unit is larger for more screen room and the larger gadget can utilize better technology. 

For golfers who want a handheld that displays the entire hole, then the display becomes even more critical.

Accuracy

One of the benefits of owning a GPS golf device is that the yardage shown is relatively precise to allow you to choose the right club for your shot and avoid imminent hazards as well. 

Most companies that manufacture GPS devices state that their device provides an accurate measurement give or take a yard in any direction.

Whether it be a watch or device, knowing that the GPS will provide accurate readings for your next shot is quite essential to finding the right GPS unit. 

So after purchase, it is not a bad idea to continue to test and see if your unit is giving you accurate readouts within the stated margin of error.

Accuracy on GPS devices for golf is also dependent on housing the correct coordinates within the company’s app or website. 

If the course has recently undergone renovations, then the GPS devices may have old information causing it to display the wrong yardage on each hole.

Durability

Watches and handheld GPS devices must be durable to be worthy of purchase, but each gadget has its positives and negatives in this area.

Wristwatches do better with the stress of a round of golf. Since they are in a fixed position on the wrist, they tend to last longer than handheld devices. 

Watches are more compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry and far more likely to stay out away from damage on the course or perhaps even getting lost during a round.

Handheld devices are more apt to being damaged during a round. That doesn’t necessarily mean it will happen to all golfers who own a handheld gadget, but it is a warning that the durability of the device over the lifetime of the unit will be tested. 

Proper storage and finding a safe spot for the device to remain during driving or walking is crucial to keeping the unit secure.

App Integration

One of the latest features that seem to be getting more publicity is how the GPS device integrates with your smartphone. 

Whether it be on a website or a sophisticated app, finding a GPS that takes accurate readings on the course will open your post-round world into diving into the statistics that could give you insight on how to improve your game.

Perhaps your second shots are missing the green with a high frequency? Then the app will let you know as it takes into account the readings from your last several rounds. 

For the GPS device for golf to achieve elite status, it must have a solid foundation that can be used in an app or through a reliable website.

Courses Included

Every GPS device comes with thousands of preloaded courses already installed on the unit. 

Most companies vary in the sheer number of clubs featured on the device, but if you have a few courses that you primarily play, it would be wise to look ahead and see if those courses are present on the device.

If the device is consistently updated, then new courses that are popping up in your area will soon make their way onto your GPS watch or handheld unit.

Finding a device that comes preloaded with at least 25,000 courses won’t be difficult to find in the GPS market. Most have over 35,000 preloaded for immediate use. 

However you go with your GPS device, make sure that it has the courses that are important to you already taken care of on the device.

Why do I need a GPS device on the golf course?

Easy to use, advanced GPS devices can give golfers a large amount of information in a small unit. GPS devices allow golfers to not only see the layout of the upcoming hole but assist in helping them choose a strategy for what clubs you’ll need on each shot.

With clear displays and colorful backdrops, GPS devices provide golfers with a full array of insight into each shot before it occurs. 

Also, these devices not only show the golfer yardage and detailed maps but also have the capability of storing statistics on the round as the golfer plays all 18 holes.

For amateurs, detailed GPS devices can assist in helping them understand the yardage to the front, center, and back of the green. These devices can also give the golfer the precise distance to hazards such as water, sand and heavy rough.

What are the key characteristics I should look out for in a great golf GPS device?

There are five key features that golfers should look for in best golf GPS devices. Quality of display, accuracy of the readings, durability of the device, the app integration with your smartphone and how many pre-loaded courses come with the device are essential features that golfers must explore before buying a unit.

Since most GPS devices come in either a handheld device or wristwatch, the quality of the display is crucial to receiving all the information. 

Some handheld devices give you a complete picture of the hole before you play, a terrific advantage for golfers playing a course for the first time. Wristwatches are more concise with the information they show on their display and less comprehensive.

Finding a GPS device that is well known for being accurate is also an essential feature to research. Most of the advanced devices give a precise reading to the hole within one yard of actual distance.

Finding a device that is durable is vital for making sure that you get value for your money. With the rigors of traveling and playing with a golf bag causing potential damage, you’ll want to make sure your GPS device is cared for during travel and play.

And then the last two features involve the sophistication of the device’s technology. Most GPS devices integrate via an app on your smartphone. The application can tally stats like total strokes, driving distance, and the number of putts. 

Then this information is download to a website for a breakdown of your overall game. You’ll see where you need to improve to continue to shave strokes from your average.

Finally, each GPS device comes preloaded with courses from around the country. If you play one course the majority of the time, then you’ll need to make sure that the course’s layout comes preloaded onto your device.

Watch vs. Handheld: Which one should I pick?

In the debate between golf wristwatch devices versus handheld units, the answer comes down to preference.

For those who don’t want to carry around a handheld device, then the watch is a perfect alternative that gives accurate yardage while resting on your wrist. 

The downside to a wristwatch is that the display is small, so the information provided will be focused on the distance to the flag and other limited measurements.

Golfers wanting a complete experience may be inclined to lean toward choosing the handheld device. 

While some handheld units only give out yardage numbers, other devices provide a full layout of the upcoming hole, allowing the golfer to formulate a strategy that will dictate the correct club usage.

Which one is more convenient?

For convenience, it is hard to beat the wristwatch. The watch is compact, lightweight and doesn’t need attention. You just strap it to your wrist and then use it while you play.

The downside to the handheld device is that you must find a way to keep it handy while also not damaging it during play. Golfers who don’t like the handheld devices say maintenance is their number one complaint about the device.

Which one has more features?

Handheld devices win the battle on what device has more features. With a larger display and the ability to tally a host of statistics as you play, handheld GPS golf devices also work well with smartphone apps to give you a comprehensive overview of the layout and yardage to all areas of the course.

GPS watches are reasonably straightforward with the smaller display giving you yardage to the pin and possibly a couple of other areas of the green. 

However, you could find yourself lost when trying to decide the distance to possible bunkers or water hazards.

Do I need to pay extra fees to use my device on the golf course?

No, users of GPS devices do not have to pay extra fees to use their unit on the golf course. That said, the thing that most GPS users need to be aware of, is how their use of a GPS device possibly affects the play of others.

For example, if you are using your device for long periods and not taking your shot when it is your turn to play, then the unit can become a source of frustration for other golfers.

GPS device owners need to take the time to learn their devices before they step foot on the course. By shrinking the learning curve and understanding how to use the device during the round’s downtime, you’ll save time, strokes and the patience of your fellow players.

Editor’s recommendations


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