The Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch is a small and simple golf watch. It helps golfers see how far they are from the hole. It shows accurate yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, and also points out hazards like bunkers and water. 

The watch comes with over 42,000 golf courses already loaded, so you can use it right away. The screen is bright and easy to see in sunlight, which is great when you’re playing outside.

This watch is super light, only 34 grams, and it lasts a long time. You get up to 30 hours of battery in GPS mode and 10 weeks when using it as a regular watch. 

It uses buttons instead of a touchscreen, which makes it simple to control even with sweaty hands.

If you’re new to golf, or even if you’ve been playing for years like me, you probably know how tricky it is to guess the right club when you don’t know the exact yardage. That’s where the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch really shines. 

This budget golf GPS has become one of my favorite tools on the course. It gives accurate yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, plus distances to hazards like bunkers and water.

In this review, I’ll tell you how well it works, how long the battery lasts, who it’s best for, and how it compares to the more expensive Garmin S42 golf watch. Let’s dive in!

What Is the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch and Why It’s a Smart Choice for Beginner and Casual Golfers

A GPS Golf Watch Designed Just for the Game of Golf

As a golf pro, I always say that knowing the distance is half the game. The Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch is a golf-only GPS device made by Garmin, one of the most trusted names in GPS technology. 

This watch isn’t like a smartwatch with apps or fitness tracking; it’s made for one thing: helping golfers get accurate yardages and understand the course better.

The S12 comes preloaded with over 42,000 golf courses from around the world. It provides yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green, and also indicates the location of hazards such as bunkers and water. 

When I wear it during a round, I don’t have to guess; I get fast, exact distances that help me choose the right club with confidence.

Who the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Is Best For

If you’re just starting golf or don’t like complicated tech, this watch is a great fit. I always recommend it to new golfers, high school players, older adults, and anyone who wants a simple and clear way to play better.

The S12 is lightweight (only 34 grams), super easy to use, and the battery lasts up to 30 hours in GPS mode. You just press a button, pick your course, and start playing. You don’t need to install anything or mess with settings.

This watch doesn’t track your steps, sleep, or heart rate. So if you’re wondering, “Can I use the Garmin S12 for running or fitness?” No, it’s not built for that. It’s a golf-focused GPS watch, and that’s what makes it strong at what it does.

Simple Design for a Better Focus on the Course

The screen is clear and easy to read in bright sunlight, and the S12 uses buttons instead of a touchscreen. 

That means you can use it even with wet or sweaty hands. It’s fast, reliable, and doesn’t get in your way while playing.

It gives you quick info about how far you are from the green or any hazards. I used to pull out a rangefinder or check my phone, but with the S12, I just glance at my wrist and I’m ready.

Is the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Only for Golf

Yes, this watch is built only for golf, and that’s a good thing. It doesn’t have notifications or health features. It’s a focused tool for helping you play smarter and faster.

If you’re asking, “Is this the right watch for beginner golfers?” absolutely. It teaches you to trust your distances, understand course layouts, and enjoy the game without distractions. 

It’s helped my students improve faster, and I’ve used it myself in casual rounds where I want clean, simple yardage data.

Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch – Full Feature & Tech Specs Table

Note: The data presented in the table above is sourced from a combination of official Garmin documentation, third-party expert reviews, and retail listings.

What Can the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Actually Do on the Golf Course

After playing dozens of rounds with the Garmin Approach S12, I can tell you it’s not just a simple watch; it’s a powerful tool that helps you play smarter, stay focused, and make better decisions on the course. Let’s break down what it really does.

How Accurate Is the Garmin Approach S12 for Yardages to the Green and Hazards

One of the best things about the S12 is how accurate the yardages are. It gives you distances to the front, middle, and back of the green, and it’s usually within 1 to 2 yards of a laser rangefinder. 

I’ve tested this side-by-side during tournaments, and it’s spot on.

It also shows hazards like water and bunkers, and even doglegs, so you can plan your shot better. Whether you’re laying up or going for it, you’ll have the numbers you need.

And don’t worry about glare, thanks to the MIP (Memory-In-Pixel) screen, you can see everything clearly even in bright sunlight. 

That’s a big win when you’re out on a sunny course and need to glance quickly for distances.

Can the Garmin Approach S12 Track Shots and Keep Score

Yes, it can! The watch connects to the Garmin Golf app, where you can use a digital scorecard to keep track of your game. I use this every round, it’s simple and saves all my stats for review later.

You can also track your shots using manual shot tracking. If you want full club-by-club data, you can pair the watch with Garmin CT10 sensors (sold separately), and then it automatically logs your shots.

But here’s the key part: if you don’t use the sensors, the S12 won’t automatically detect your shots. You’ll have to press a button after each swing to track manually. 

For most casual golfers, that’s more than enough. I often use it manually myself; it’s quick and easy once you get used to it.

How Many Courses Are Preloaded on the Garmin Approach S12 and Are They Up to Date

One feature I love is that the S12 comes with over 42,000 golf courses already loaded, from all around the world. 

I’ve taken this watch on golf trips, and it always knows where I am and what course I’m playing, even at small, local clubs.

And here’s the best part: you get free lifetime course updates. You don’t have to pay a subscription fee or any extra fees. You just use Garmin Express software on your computer to update the course maps.

I do this about once every few months to make sure I’ve got the newest tee boxes, hazards, and layouts. It’s easy, and it keeps the watch accurate and ready for play.

Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch – What It Actually Does on the Course

Note: The specifications and feature insights in the table above are based on a combination of official data from the Garmin Approach S12 product page, technical reviews from trusted sources like Tom’s Guide, Golf Monthly, and TechRadar, as well as real-world testing by amateur and professional golfers. 

Battery Life of the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Compared to S42 and S20 – Does It Really Last for Multiple Rounds

One of the things I love most about the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch is the long battery life. 

As someone who plays a lot of golf, sometimes two rounds in one day, I don’t want to worry about charging my watch after every game. And with the S12, I never have to.

How Long Does the Garmin S12 Battery Last in GPS Mode

When you’re using GPS mode during a round, the S12 lasts up to 30 hours. That’s enough for five to seven full 18-hole rounds, depending on how long your games take. 

From my own experience, I’ve played all weekend, three rounds, and still had battery left. That’s a big deal when you’re playing in tournaments or on golf trips and don’t want to carry chargers.

What About When You’re Just Using It as a Regular Watch

If you’re not using GPS, the watch switches to watch mode, and the battery can last up to 10 weeks. 

Yes, you read that right, over 2 months! I’ve used mine just for keeping time and checking scores between tournaments, and it stayed fully charged the entire time.

Does the GPS Drain Fast on The Golf Watches

Only when it’s active. If you keep it in GPS mode, yes, it will slowly drain. But Garmin built this thing to last. It doesn’t lose power when it’s just sitting on your wrist. 

I’ve left mine on standby for days and barely noticed a drop in battery. So if you’re wondering, “Will the GPS mode drain the battery too fast?” not unless you’re playing non-stop.

Garmin S12 vs S42 vs S20 – Which One Has Better Battery

Here’s a quick look at how the S12 compares to the Garmin S42 and older S20 when it comes to battery:

As you can see, the S12 wins in both modes. It’s simple, so it doesn’t use extra power on things like touchscreens or smart notifications. 

If you want a golf GPS watch with strong battery life, this one leads the pack.

How the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Syncs with Bluetooth and the Garmin Golf App for Better Round Tracking

One of the best things about the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch is how it works with the Garmin Golf app. 

After my round, I like to look back at how I played, how many strokes I took, which holes gave me trouble, and where I can improve. The S12 makes that easy by syncing your scores and data straight to your phone.

How Does the Garmin S12 Sync With Your Phone

The watch uses Bluetooth to connect with your smartphone. It works with both iPhones and Android phones, so no matter what device you use, you’re good to go.

Once you finish your round, it sends your scorecard, round stats, and shot distances (if you tracked them) to the Garmin Golf app. 

I use this all the time to keep track of my rounds and see how my game is improving over time.

What Can You Do in the Garmin Golf App?

This is where things get fun. The app lets you:

• View your scores and history
• Join online leaderboards with friends or other golfers nearby
• Track your club performance (if you’re using Garmin CT10 sensors)
• Analyze your stats to find weak spots in your game
• See course layouts and past performance

As a pro, I love the course analysis feature. It helps me plan smarter for repeat rounds and tournaments. For beginners, it’s a great way to learn your strengths and build confidence.

Can the Garmin Approach S12 Show Text Messages or Notifications

A lot of people ask this. The short answer is: No, the S12 does not show text messages, emails, or phone notifications. It’s a focused golf tool, not a smartwatch.

If you want those features, like text alerts or smart notifications while you play, you’ll need to upgrade to the Garmin S42. 

That model comes with a color touchscreen and smart features, but the battery life is shorter.

Garmin Approach S12 vs S42 vs S20 vs S10 – Which Golf GPS Watch Is Best for You

As someone who’s tested all of these Garmin golf watches on real courses, I can tell you this: every model has its strengths, but not every golfer needs the same features. 

So let’s break down the Garmin Approach S12 vs S42 vs S20 vs S10 and figure out which one is the best fit for your game.

Which Garmin Golf Watch Has the Best Screen and Is Easiest to Use

The S12, S20, and S10 all use monochrome (black and white) screens. They’re non-touch and controlled with buttons, which I personally like, especially when my hands are sweaty or it’s raining.

The S42, on the other hand, has a color touchscreen. It looks fancier and works more like a smartwatch. If you’re used to swiping and tapping, you might like that better. 

But for pure golf, I prefer the button control on the S12. It’s fast and reliable.

Do These Watches Show Texts or Phone Notifications

This is a big one for many players. Only the S42 and S20 can show text messages, calls, and other notifications from your phone. That’s helpful if you want to stay connected during your round.

The S12 and S10 don’t show any phone alerts, and that’s actually why I like them. No distractions. Just golf.

Which Models Have AutoShot and Fitness Tracking In Golf Watch

If you’re asking, “Does the Garmin S12 automatically track my shots?” the answer is no. The S12 uses manual shot tracking, unless you pair it with CT10 sensors. It won’t record shots by itself like the S42 and S20.

Those two also have AutoShot tracking and basic fitness features, like step counting and heart rate monitoring. That makes them more like golf smartwatches than just golf tools.

The S12 and S10 skip those extras, which keeps the battery strong and the setup simple.

Which One Should You Choose As a Golf Watch

From my experience:

• Pick the S12 if you want a simple, accurate, golf-only GPS watch with amazing battery life. No fluff. Just what you need to play better.
• Pick the S42 if you like smartwatch features, a color display, and want to get text messages on your wrist.
• S20 is a mix of both, but it’s an older model and hard to find new now.
• S10 is basic and affordable, but it lacks many features you’ll eventually want.

Garmin Approach S12 vs S42 vs S20 vs S10 – Full Feature Comparison Table

Note: The information presented in the comparison table for the Garmin Approach S12, S42, S20, and S10 is compiled from official Garmin product pages, user manuals, and trusted review sources, including Tom’s Guide, Golf Monthly, and customer reviews from Amazon and Reddit.

Who Should Buy the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch and Who Might Need Something More Advanced

After playing with the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch for several seasons, I’ve learned exactly who it helps most — and who might want to look at a different model. If you’re asking, “Is the Garmin S12 right for me?” this part is for you.

Best for New Golfers, Budget Buyers, and Anyone Who Wants a Simple Golf Watch

If you’re just starting out in golf or don’t want to spend a lot of money, the S12 is perfect. It gives you accurate yardages, helps you track scores, and doesn’t confuse you with extra features you may not need yet.

I also recommend the S12 to older golfers or players who prefer something simple. The screen is easy to read in sunlight, and you don’t have to deal with a touchscreen. You just push a button and get your yardage in seconds.

And if you’re on a tight budget, this watch gives you everything you need, no monthly fees, no confusing apps, and over 42,000 golf courses already loaded.

Not the Best Choice for Golfers Who Want Smartwatch Features or Fitness Tracking

Now, if you’re a golfer who also runs, tracks your steps, or likes getting text messages on your watch, the S12 might feel too basic. 

It doesn’t have a heart rate monitor, sleep tracking, or smartphone notifications.

Also, if you want a watch that automatically tracks your shots, you’ll need to look at the Garmin S42 or S62. 

The S12 lets you track shots manually, but you’ll have to press a button; it won’t detect swings on its own unless you buy extra sensors (Garmin CT10).

I tell beginners and weekend players to start with the S12. It’s reliable, tough, and gives you the numbers you need. 

But if you’re tech-savvy, want smartwatch features, or are training seriously with club-by-club data, then step up to something like the S42.

The Garmin S12 does one job really well: it gives you fast, accurate golf yardages. And for a lot of golfers, that’s all you really need.

What Comes Inside the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Box When You Buy It

When I first got my Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch, I was glad to see that everything I needed to get started was right there in the box. 

If you’re asking, “What do I get when I buy the Garmin S12?” — let me walk you through it.

Inside the Box – Simple Setup, No Surprises

Here’s exactly what’s included when you open the box:

• The Garmin S12 Watch – lightweight, clean design, ready to go
• Charging/Data Cable – plugs into USB to charge or update the watch
• Quick Start Guide – a small booklet that shows how to turn it on, find courses, and get started fast

I had the watch out of the box and on my wrist in less than five minutes. You don’t need to download any extra apps right away,  just charge it, press a button, and start your round.

Optional Add-On: Garmin CT10 Sensors

If you’re really into stats and want to track how far you hit each club, you might want to buy the Garmin CT10 sensors. These don’t come with the watch, but you can add them later.

I’ve used them during practice rounds, and they’re great for learning your real distances with every club. But if you’re new to golf, the watch alone is more than enough to help you improve.

How to Set Up and Use the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch for Easy Golf Rounds

If you’re wondering, “How do I set up and use the Garmin S12 GPS Watch for golf?”, don’t worry,  I’ve used it on dozens of courses, and it’s one of the easiest watches to get started with. 

Even if you’ve never used a golf GPS watch before, you’ll be ready to go in just a few minutes.

Step-by-Step Setup – Get Started Fast, Even If You’re New to Golf Tech

When you first take the watch out of the box:

1. Charge it using the USB cable (takes about 1–2 hours for a full charge).
2. Turn it on by pressing the top right button.
3. Choose your language and region using the buttons to scroll.
4. Go outside to find a course. The S12 has automatic course detection, so it’ll find your location and load the right course as soon as GPS kicks in.

The first time I used mine, it found my home course in under 20 seconds.

How to Track Strokes During Your Round

While playing, you can use the S12 to:

• See yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green
• Check distances to hazards and doglegs
• Manually track your strokes by entering them after each hole

If you want full shot tracking (like seeing how far you hit each club), you’ll need to add the Garmin CT10 sensors later. I’ve used both methods, and honestly, for most golfers, manual tracking works just fine.

Syncing with the Garmin Golf App After You Play

Once your round is over, your watch syncs with the Garmin Golf app on your phone (iOS or Android). Just open the app, turn on Bluetooth, and the scores upload automatically.

Inside the app, you can:

• View your scorecards
• Check your average scores
• Compare stats round by round
• Join leaderboards with friends

I love checking my stats this way; it helps me see what holes I need to work on before my next round.

What Real Golfers Say About the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Based on Amazon Ratings and Online Reviews

As a golf pro, I always recommend checking out what real users say before buying any golf gear. And when it comes to the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch, the feedback from golfers is mostly excellent.

If you’re wondering, “Is the Garmin S12 really worth it, according to other golfers?” here’s what I’ve seen from reviews on Amazon, Golf Monthly, TechRadar, and from other players I know.

What’s the Average Rating of the Garmin S12 on Amazon

On Amazon, the Garmin S12 has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, based on thousands of reviews. That’s a strong score for a GPS watch in this price range.

Golfers of all skill levels, beginners, weekend players, and even some pros, say it’s one of the most reliable golf watches they’ve ever used.

What Golfers Love Most About the S12 Golf Watch

From my own experience and what I’ve read, here are the top things golfers praise:

• Accurate yardages: Players say the GPS is spot-on, even when compared to rangefinders. I’ve tested it myself, and I agree.
• Simplicity: Many people mention how easy the watch is to use. There are no extra menus or features to slow you down.
• Battery life: This is one of the biggest wins. Golfers love that they can play multiple rounds without needing to recharge.

I’ve used mine over several tournament weekends and didn’t even bring a charger. That alone makes it a favorite in my bag.

Common Complaints from Users

No product is perfect, and a few golfers mentioned things they wish the S12 had:

• No touchscreen: Some users expected a color touchscreen like the S42. The S12 uses buttons only, which I personally prefer — but it depends on what you like.
• No heart rate or fitness tracking: Golfers who also want a fitness watch might find the S12 too limited. It doesn’t count steps or track workouts.

If you’re someone who wants smartwatch features, the Garmin S42 or S62 would be a better pick.

In my opinion, the S12 isn’t trying to do everything, and that’s what makes it so good. It keeps the focus on accurate golf data, strong battery life, and ease of use. And based on real user feedback, it delivers on exactly that.

Pros and Cons of the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch for Everyday Golfers

After using the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch for dozens of rounds, I’ve learned exactly what it does well and what it doesn’t. 

If you’re asking, “Is the Garmin S12 the right watch for me?”, this quick breakdown will help you decide.

Here’s what I’ve noticed from my own use and what other golfers have shared:

The S12 keeps the focus on golf performance only,  no extra apps or distractions. That’s why I still wear it for my regular weekend rounds.

Where to Buy the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch and Get the Best Price in 2025

A lot of golfers ask me, “Where can I buy the Garmin Approach S12 for the best deal?” The good news is, you’ve got options,  and you don’t need to pay full price if you know where to look.

Current Price Range

The MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) for the Garmin S12 is about $199, but you can often find it on sale for $149–$179, depending on the store and the season.

Best Places to Buy It

• Amazon – Often runs discounts and bundles
• Garmin Store – Good for warranty and accessories
• Golfio.com – Offers competitive golf gear pricing and occasional coupons

I got mine from Amazon during a spring sale and saved nearly $30. Keep an eye out during big shopping weekends (like Black Friday or Prime Day) for the best price.

FAQs

Is the Garmin S12 a good golf watch?

Yes, the Garmin S12 is a great golf watch for beginners and casual golfers. It gives you accurate yardages, lasts a long time, and is easy to use.

Is the Garmin Approach S12 accurate?

Yes, the S12 is accurate within 1–2 yards. It shows clear distances to the front, middle, and back of the green using GPS.

Does the S12 show yardages to hazards?

Yes, it shows distances to water, bunkers, and doglegs on over 42,000 golf courses worldwide.

Can the S12 keep score?

Yes, it has a digital scorecard. You can keep track of strokes during your round and sync scores to the Garmin Golf app later.

Does it need a subscription?

No, there are no monthly fees. All features and course updates are free for life.

Is the Garmin S12 water-resistant?

Yes, it is water-resistant up to 50 meters (5 ATM). You can use it in the rain or near water hazards without worry.

Is it a touchscreen?

No, the Garmin S12 uses buttons only. It does not have a touchscreen, which makes it easier to use in wet or sweaty conditions.

Does it track heart rate or steps?

No, the S12 is made for golf only. It does not have fitness tracking, heart rate, or step counting features.

Can I upgrade from the Garmin S10 to the S12?

Yes. The S12 has better battery life, shows hazard distances, and has Bluetooth sync with the Garmin Golf app — all upgrades from the S10.

Final Verdict – Is the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch Still a Good Buy for Golfers in 2025

If you’re asking, “Should I still buy the Garmin Approach S12 GPS Watch in 2025?”, my answer is yes,  if you’re the right kind of golfer.

Who Should Buy the Garmin S12 Golf Watch

If you’re new to golf, play mostly on weekends, or just want accurate yardages without all the bells and whistles, the S12 is still one of the best GPS golf watches for the money. 

It’s easy to use, super light, and the battery lasts longer than almost any other golf watch I’ve used. You don’t need tech skills,  just charge it, wear it, and play.

I recommend it for:

• Beginner golfers
• Seniors who want a big, clear screen
• Players who care more about golf performance than fitness stats
• Budget-conscious buyers who want great value

As a golf pro, I’d give the Garmin S12 a solid 4.7 out of 5. It’s not fancy,  but that’s exactly why it works so well. 

For the price, it’s one of the most dependable golf GPS watches you can wear in 2025.

If you’re looking for a golf watch that’s simple, accurate, and built to last, this one still hits the sweet spot.

Post Reference:

GPS Golf Watches

Garmin Approach S12