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The Apple Watch Ultra 2 stands out with its highly accurate dual-frequency GPS, which helps golfers track their location very precisely — an important feature for navigating golf courses and measuring distances. Its rugged titanium case and sapphire front crystal ensure strong durability, while 100m water resistance adds extra protection against rain or sweat. The large 49mm superbright Always-On Retina display offers clear visibility outdoors, making it easy to glance at stats even in bright sunlight.
Battery life is impressive for a smartwatch, lasting up to 36 hours in typical use and extending to 72 hours in a low-power mode, so it can reliably last through long rounds or multiple days of play. Beyond golf, the Ultra 2’s advanced workout metrics, health tracking, and safety features like fall detection add value for active users. However, it lacks golf-specific apps or preloaded course maps that some dedicated golf watches offer, which might be a downside if you want detailed golf course coverage straight out of the box.
The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a robust, feature-rich smartwatch that offers excellent GPS precision and durability, making it a strong choice for golfers who want a versatile device that supports a wide range of outdoor activities and health monitoring. Its higher price and relatively large size might not appeal to those seeking a simpler, more affordable golf watch.
Great Choice
The Garmin Approach S44 is a sleek golf GPS smartwatch designed for avid golfers. One of its standout features is the 1.2” color AMOLED display, which offers vibrant visuals that bring the 43,000+ preloaded courses to life on your wrist. This watch excels in providing accurate distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, as well as navigation around hazards, making it a valuable tool on the course.
The slim design and lightweight build (1.5 ounces) add to its appeal, ensuring it is comfortable to wear throughout the day. Additionally, the watch is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to receive smart notifications directly on your wrist, which can be convenient when you want to leave your phone behind during a game. The S44 also supports pairing with optional club trackers for shot-tracking capabilities and offers an advanced stat tracking and handicap calculation feature through the Garmin Golf smartphone app.
There are some drawbacks to consider. The battery life, while decent at up to 15 hours in GPS mode, may require frequent charging for extensive use. Additionally, the watch's water resistance rating is not specified, which might be a concern for those who play in varying weather conditions. Lastly, while the watch offers a wide range of features, some users might find the need for a Garmin Golf membership to access enhanced course maps an added expense.
The Garmin Approach S12 is a solid choice for golf enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-use GPS watch. With over 42,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide, it offers extensive coverage, making it suitable for both casual and serious golfers. The high-resolution display is sunlight-readable, ensuring you can easily view crucial information outdoors. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 30 hours in GPS mode, which is great for long rounds or multiple games without needing a charge.
A standout feature is the ability to keep score directly on the watch and upload it via the Garmin Golf app, fostering engagement through weekly leaderboards. Additionally, the watch can track your shot distances if paired with compatible club tracking sensors.
There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the watch excels in golf-specific features, it may lack some advanced health or fitness tracking features that other smartwatches offer. Some users might find the interface a bit basic since it primarily focuses on golf functionality rather than multi-sport capabilities. The screen size, at only 0.9 inches, may also feel small for those used to larger displays. In terms of design, the Garmin Approach S12 is lightweight and has a modern round shape, but it may not be as stylish for non-golf-related occasions. Lastly, while it’s water-resistant up to 164 feet, it’s important to handle it with care to maintain its durability.
The Approach S12 is an excellent golf watch for those who prioritize GPS accuracy, course coverage, and battery life. Golfers who want a simple and effective tool for their game will likely appreciate its strengths, while those seeking a multi-functional smartwatch may want to explore other options.