Are you only scratching the surface of your golf potential? Perhaps course management is what’s keeping you from the top of your game. It might be time to consider using a GPS device. GPS devices provide visuals of the course and are another tool in your arsenal to help you gather information before every shot. What is the best golf GPS of 2020?
While handheld options are still plentiful, more than ever before, GPS devices are available in wristwatch form and are equipped with extra features that keep track of your everyday activities. Not only can you find your way around the golf course, but you can also track how many steps it took and how many calories you burned along the way. So, even if you shoot in the 90s at least you know you hit your 10,000 steps for the day.
Buying guide – Best golf GPS rangefinder of 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.
1. GolfBuddy -Voice GPS
- By: GolfBuddy
- ItemWeight: NA
- Product Dimensions: NA
This is the best golf GPS rangefinder. It exceptional functionality aided by the unique features it possesses. Besides, it has 40000 preloaded courses installed. Also, it can be maneuvered into eight different spoken languages. It allows you to measure back, center and front about the target with the highest accuracy. It informs of the distance with accuracy and precision using audio format. Thus it is ideal for use in various greens.
Because golf is based on calculated risks, having a device that improves our accuracy is recommended. But, having a GPS-aided device makes more sense and improves the overall success in any game. But remember, not all Golf GPS rangefinder is worth every penny. However, the list above contains the top 10 best Golf GPS rangefinder in 2020 reviews. You can be sure that they will never let you down. Go ahead and upgrade your game with utmost accuracy.
2. Bushnell NEO XS Golf – GPS Rangefinder Watch
- By: Bushnell
- ItemWeight: 8 ounces
- Product Dimensions: NA
Having this device makes you ready to play just right outside the box as there is no membership required or download fees required. The auto course and auto hole -recognition ensure that every kick becomes a target to hit. It also comes with 33000 courses installed in it. The long battery life ensures that you continue enjoying three rounds of golf without having to recharge it. USB cable helps you to recharge and also update the courses.
3. Izzo Swami 4000 Golf GPS Rangefinder
- By: IZZO Golf
- ItemWeight: NA
- Product Dimensions: NA
This is a device committed to providing the best and most accurate results. It features an auto- hole and digital scorecard where you can review your performances. Also, it comes with 30000 worldwide preloaded courses. The screen is very easy to read even in bright sunlight. There is no subscription required, so you just charge and start enjoying the game.
4. Garmin Approach G3- Waterproof Touchscreen Golf GPS
- By: Garmin
- ItemWeight: 5.3 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 2.2 x 1.3 x 3.9 inches
It comes in a containment box. The box has four items. They include the Approach G3, belt clip, USB cable and a user manual. It features a detailed golf course map that provides the golfers with accurate and precise distances about the greens, fairways, hazards and any other point of the course. As you roam around the course, this device will adjust your position and show the relative distance between you and the targets. It comes at an affordable price than other traditional versions. But, it has a lot to offer.
5. Bushnell Neo- Ghost Golf GPS
- By: Bushnell
- ItemWeight: 8 ounces
- Product Dimensions: NA
This is a tournament legal pocket-sized easy to use golf GPS loaded golf rangefinder. It has a durable battery thereby you can play three games without the need to recharge. The auto course and hole -recognition is another basic feature of this device. It eases the reading of the distances to the front center, and back of the greens. It can accommodate four custom hazard and layup distances. It comes loaded with 30000 courses. The user interface is very easy to use.
6. Callaway u Pro MX plus GPS
- By: Callaway
- ItemWeight: NA
- Product Dimensions: NA
It has a pro-mode feature. This feature offers an actual aerial imagery that provides a more actual view of each hole. The aerial video flyover allows you to view each whole layout and hidden hazards. It does reload wit 20000 courses that include Basics and go mode. Its technology allows you to take measurements from any point that you use. You can also view your scorecard and shot tracking to give you an insight of your gaming.
7. Garmin Approach S2 GPS Golf Watch -with Worldwide Courses
- By: Garmin
- ItemWeight: 8 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 3.6 x 2.7 x 5.5 inches
It provides utmost comfort and convenience of use. The battery can last for three weeks when in watch mode and 8 hours when using GPS. Besides, the sensitivity is very high so as to track stronger signal strength even under trees. It provides accurate yardages on the front, back and the center of the green. It also works even for layups, doglegs with increase usability. It calculates and saves yardages of shots played from any point of the course.
8. GolfBuddy VS4- Golf GPS
- By: GolfBuddy
- ItemWeight: 1.02oz
- Product Dimensions: 1.76 x 1.78 x 0.49 inches
This is a simple distance measuring device that is GPS enabled. With just one click of a button, you will be able to hear the range of the front, and middle back of the green. You can clip it on your belt or cap. It comes with other accessories among them is that that you can use to wear it on your arm.
9. Golf Buddy Platinum II Golf GPS
- By: GolfBuddy
- ItemWeight: 3 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 7.5 x 6 x 3.2 inches
This is a golf rangefinder equipped with a touchscreen feature to help you navigate the whole course. It has 35000 pre-loaded courses. Besides it has an automatic hole and course recognition. This helps you take shots with high accuracy. It is enabled to have four-player score feature for tracking.it aids in calculating multiple targets and green. The body is robust enough and has water resistant features. Thus, it is ideal for any climate.
10. Voice Caddie VC – 200 Golf GPS Rangefinder
- By: VOICE CADDIE
- ItemWeight: NA
- Product Dimensions: NA
This provides a unique way that guides you to the green. An audio guide is a key aspect for this rangefinder. With just one automatic touch you enjoy an automatic course and hole – recognition as well. Besides, the body looks rugged, and it’s made of water-resistant materials. It has a clip on, hands-free design thus portability and comfort are superior. Also, it has an ergonomic design with a user-friendly interface. It is convenient as t can support different languages. With just a simple swipe it tells you the distance to the green. It ensures as low as 1.5″ x 1.85″ x .5” and Weighs: .8 oz. thus very compact yet sophisticated.
Questions & Answers
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.
How to update my Garmin golf GPS?
You have to connect your Garmin GPS golf watch with Garmin Connect app. Some models connect with Bluetooth while a few have WiFi Connectivity.
After you connect your watch, the Garmin Connect will provide the automatic updates. Based on the update size, you may have to wait from a minute to half an hour.
After the upgrade, you have to restart the device. Now you have all the latest information in your hand
Know More : Golf Course Updates (PC)
How to reset garmin golf gps?
soft reset
1. firstly press and hold power button and wait up to 30 seconds until device powers on/off.
2. release power botton.
The garmin Approach functioning properly now.
If the function not proerly work now you should need factory reset.
Factory Reset
1. press and hold power button and wait up to 30 seconds until device powers on/off.
2. press and hold the down botton and power botton.
3. Release both buttons and see “Clear user data” select Yes
now your approach see the default factory settings.