8 Best Golf GPS To Improve Your Game

Some look like watches, some are handheld, and some even talk to you like a golf speaker.

These GPS units also have strong battery life, usually lasting 15 to 20 hours, so you can use them for many rounds. Some are subscription-free, while others may charge for extra features.

In this guide, we’ll show you the top golf GPS devices in 2025, from high-tech ones for advanced golfers to simple and affordable ones for beginners. No matter your level, there’s a perfect GPS for your game!

Why You Need a Golf GPS in 2025

A modern golf GPS doesn’t just tell you the distance to the pin. It gives you real-time tracking, hazard awareness, and strategic insight. 

With sub-yard accuracy and over 40,000 preloaded courses, these devices turn every shot into a confident choice.

Top 8 Golf GPS Devices Ranked & Reviewed

Golf GPS Comparison Table (2025)

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the retailer or bundle offer. Subscription details reflect current offerings as of 2025; always check for updates before purchasing.

Best Golf GPS Devices of 2025: Top Picks for Every Golfer

Explore the most accurate and feature-packed GPS devices to help you make smarter decisions on the course.

 Garmin Approach S70 Golf GPS – Best Overall Golf GPS Watch

Summary: With a vibrant AMOLED display and preloaded data for over 43,000 courses, the S70 offers precise yardages, shot tracking, and comprehensive fitness tracking, making it a versatile companion on and off the course.

• Best For: Golfers desiring a premium, all-in-one GPS watch.

Key Features:

• AMOLED Display: The 1.4″ touchscreen is ultra-bright and easy to see in direct sunlight, helping golfers read data clearly on the course.
• PlaysLike Distance: Adjusts yardages based on uphill or downhill shots, giving more realistic measurements for better club selection.
• Virtual Caddie: Recommends clubs based on your past shots and wind speed, making smart decisions easier.
• 43,000+ Courses: Covers virtually every major course worldwide with accurate satellite mapping.
• Fitness Integration: Includes heart rate, sleep tracking, and sports modes ideal for active lifestyles.

Pros:

• A bright screen is easy to read under the sun
• Gives real-time yardage and smart club suggestions
• Over 43,000 preloaded golf courses from around the world
• Tracks your health like heart rate and steps
• Great battery life, perfect for full-day golf rounds

Cons:

• Expensive if you only play sometimes
• Some features might feel too much for beginners

Reasons to Buy:

• One of the best wearable golf GPS devices with top-tier distance accuracy and smart caddie support
• Helps improve shot strategy and makes every round more efficient

Reasons to Avoid:

• You may not use all the advanced tools if you’re just learning the game

Note: The Garmin Approach S70 stands out as the premier choice for golfers seeking a blend of advanced features and sleek design.

SkyCaddie LX5 Golf GPS – Best for Detailed Course Mapping

Summary: Featuring a bright 1.39-inch color touchscreen and preloaded with over 35,000 courses, the LX5 delivers accurate yardages and dynamic hole views, enhancing course management.

• Best For: Golfers seeking precise course visuals.

Key Features:

Ground-Verified Course Maps: Offers the most accurate hole layouts because SkyGolf walks the courses manually for mapping.

Dynamic HoleVue: Interactive, zoomable maps let you plan shots visually instead of just trusting numbers.

Auto Shot Distance Calculation: Tracks how far you hit each club, helping with real-time learning.

Health Features: Includes a step counter and heart rate monitor for overall fitness tracking.

Pros:

• Shows clear maps of every hole, so you can plan each shot
• Easy-to-use touchscreen works even with gloves
• Tracks basic health data like steps and heart rate
• Offers dynamic green views and hazard layouts

Cons:

• Needs a yearly subscription after 12 months
• The screen might feel big for small wrists

Reasons to Buy:

• Great for players who prefer visual course management
• Makes it easier to see hazards and fairway shape before you swing

Reasons to Avoid:

• If you want a GPS device without extra fees, this might not be for you

Note: The SkyCaddie LX5 excels in providing detailed, ground-verified course maps, offering golfers unparalleled insights.

Garmin Approach G80 – Best GPS with Integrated Launch Monitor

Summary: This handheld device offers detailed course maps, PlaysLike Distance, and tracks metrics like club head speed and ball speed, making it a comprehensive tool for practice and play.

• Best For: Golfers seeking practice and on-course performance tracking.

Key Features:

• Integrated Launch Monitor: Measures club speed, ball speed, tempo, and smash factor no separate device needed.
• Practice & Virtual Rounds: Let’s you play simulated rounds or driving range sessions for training and fun.
• 3.5” Touchscreen: Big and clear, perfect for handheld use without straining your eyes.
• Quick Club Distance Feedback: Instantly see your average yardage per club.

Pros:

• Built-in launch monitor measures swing speed, ball speed, and tempo
• The touchscreen shows accurate distances and elevation changes
• Let you play virtual golf rounds at home or on the range
• Comes with auto club distance tracking

Cons:

• Bigger than a watch, so it may not suit walkers
• Higher cost due to advanced features

Reasons to Buy:

• Ideal if you want to analyze your game and track practice progress
• Combining a golf GPS and training tool in one device

Reasons to Avoid:

• If you’re only looking for simple yardage data, it’s more than you need

Note: The Garmin Approach G80 uniquely combines GPS functionality with a launch monitor, catering to golfers focused on improving their swing.

SkyCaddie SX550 – Best Handheld GPS for Visual Learners

Summary: With over 35,000 preloaded courses and dynamic hole views, the SX550 enhances strategic planning and shot execution on the course.

• Best For: Golfers preferring detailed visuals on a larger screen.

Key Features:

• 5.5” HD Touchscreen: Massive, sharp screen makes navigation and strategy incredibly easy.
• IntelliGreen Technology: Rotates the green view based on your angle of approach for precise aiming.
• Multiple Zoom Levels: Zoom into bunkers, water hazards, and landing zones before swinging.

Pros:

• Huge screen shows hole-by-hole visuals and shot targets
• Green contour data helps with putting and approach shots
• Zoom in on bunkers, water, and lay-up zones
• Strong GPS signal even in remote or wooded courses

Cons:

• You’ll need to pay for a yearly subscription
• Too big to fit in a pocket or wear

Reasons to Buy:

• Perfect for golfers who want complete course visuals
• Great for those who like to plan every shot and avoid hazards

Reasons to Avoid:

• Not for players who want a simple, compact GPS

Note: The SkyCaddie SX550 offers a large, high-definition display, providing golfers with vivid course visuals and accurate yardages.

Bushnell Wingman View – Best GPS for Entertainment

Summary: This speaker provides audible distance readings and allows you to enjoy music on the course, enhancing the overall golfing experience.

• Best For: Golfers who enjoy music during play.

Key Features:

• Audible Yardages: Press a button and hear your distance—no need to stop and check your screen.
• Premium Speaker Quality: Plays music via Bluetooth while giving voice distances.
• Magnetic Mount: Attaches easily to a golf cart frame for quick access.
• LCD Display: Displays distances and track info for backup visual reference.

Pros:

• Plays music and gives spoken directions to the green
• The magnet attaches easily to golf carts
• Works with the Bushnell Golf app for score and hole info
• Fun and easy to use for casual players

Cons:

• No swing tracking or advanced data
• Less helpful if you don’t use a cart

Reasons to Buy:

• A fun choice for players who enjoy music while playing
• Useful if you want hands-free GPS distance updates

Reasons to Avoid:

• Not ideal for improving your game or walking the course

Note: The Bushnell Wingman View combines high-quality audio with GPS functionality, adding entertainment to your rounds.

Blue Tees Player – Best Magnetic GPS  With Good Speaker

Summary: This speaker delivers audible distance readings and music playback, enhancing your golfing experience with convenience and entertainment.

• Best For: Golfers seeking a blend of music and GPS features.

Key Features:

• Magnet Lock System: Stays secure on the cart, no matter how bumpy the ride.
• Audio Distances: Get spoken yardages to front/middle/back while enjoying music.
• 40,000+ Courses: Global coverage without extra cost.
• IPX7 Waterproof: Plays through rain or drink spills with no damage.

Pros:

• Gives audio yardages for the front, middle, and back of the green
• Strong magnet mount keeps it secure
• Waterproof and weather-ready
• Works on over 40,000 global courses

Cons:

• Doesn’t show maps or stats—just voice guidance
• No game or swing tracking tools

Reasons to Buy:

• Good for quick, simple distance feedback
• Great for golfers who ride and want portable, voice-guided GPS

Reasons to Avoid:

• Not built for stat tracking or screen-based play

Note: The Blue Tees Player offers powerful sound and GPS functionality, with a magnetic mount for easy attachment to carts.

Shot Scope V3 GPS – Best for Automatic Shot Tracking

Summary: This GPS watch offers accurate yardages and tracks over 100 performance statistics, helping golfers improve their game through data-driven insights.

• Best For: Golfers focused on performance analytics.

Key Features:

• Automatic Shot Tracking: Sensors on each club log every shot without needing input.
• Performance Dashboard: Sync to an app and review over 100+ stats like fairway hit %, GIR, and average club distances.
• No Subscription: Full features are available without monthly fees.
• Lightweight Design: Comfortable to wear even for long rounds.

Pros:

• Tracks each shot with club sensors, no manual input
• Shows 100+ game stats after each round
• No monthly fees, everything included
• Small and easy to wear

Cons:

• Not touchscreen, uses buttons
• Stats must be synced after the round, not live

Reasons to Buy:

• Great if you want to analyze your game and see where you can improve
• Gives full access to performance data without extra costs

Reasons to Avoid:

• Not for golfers who need real-time maps or swing speed tools

Note: The Shot Scope V3 excels in providing automatic shot tracking and performance analysis without subscription fees.

Voice Caddie T11 Pro GPS: Best for Advanced Features at a Competitive Price

Summary:
Designed for the serious golfer who wants pro-level data in a sleek watch format, the T11 Pro offers smart GPS, AI-powered yardages, and tournament-ready performance.

• Best For: Competitive players wanting premium features without ongoing costs

Key Features:

• Slope-Adjusted Yardages: Calculates elevation changes for smarter play (can be turned off for tournaments).
• Green Undulation View: Shows slope direction on the green—rare in most GPS watches.
• AI-Powered Yardage: Combines your past data, wind, and elevation to give the most accurate number.
• Touchscreen Interface: Easy to swipe through data, even with a glove on.

Pros:

• Shows slope-adjusted yardage and green slopes
• Uses past data and wind info to suggest clubs
• Has a tournament mode to stay rule-legal
• The touchscreen works fast and clearly

Cons:

• It can be tricky for beginners to use at first
• No fitness tracking included

Reasons to Buy:

• Perfect for serious players who want pro-level feedback
• Helps with club selection, putting strategy, and uphill/downhill shots

Reasons to Avoid:

• It may be confusing for casual players or first-time GPS users

Note: The Voice Caddie T11 Pro packs high-end functionality like slope-adjusted distances, green undulation data, and auto-shot tracking without a subscription fee.

How to Choose the Right Golf GPS (Buying Guide)

Choosing a golf GPS is all about finding what works best for how you play. Some players want something simple. Others want more features to help them learn and get better. Here’s how to decide.

1. GPS Watch vs Handheld vs App

Golf GPS Watches (like the Garmin S70 or Shot Scope V3) are worn on your wrist. They are light and easy to check while playing. They show yardages to the front, middle, and back of the green. Great for golfers who walk and want fast access to distance.

• Good for: Walking golfers who like quick, hands-free yardage
• Why it matters: It helps you play faster and focus more

Handheld Golf GPS Devices (like the Garmin G80 or SkyCaddie SX550) are bigger and have large color screens. They show full maps of the hole, where bunkers are, and where to aim.

• Good for: Golfers who use carts and want a bigger screen
• Why it matters: The map helps plan shots and avoid trouble

Golf GPS Apps on phones are cheaper and easy to start with. Apps like Hole19 or Golfshot work on your phone. But they can drain battery and are not always as accurate as a real GPS.

• Good for: Beginners or casual players
• Why it matters: It’s an easy way to get started, but not the best for serious games

2. Accuracy and Satellite Coverage

The best golf GPS gives you very accurate distances, usually within 1 yard. That means you know exactly how far it is to the green or hazard. Good devices connect to multiple satellites to stay accurate even if trees or hills are in the way.

• What to look for: Fast connection, steady signal, and real-time distances
• Top devices: Garmin S70, SkyCaddie SX550
• Why it matters: Accurate yardage helps you choose the right club and play smarter

3. Battery Life

Battery life is important, especially if you play full rounds or tournaments. Most GPS watches last about 10 to 20 hours in GPS mode. Handheld units and speakers also last around 10–15 hours.

• What to look for: Battery life that lasts a full 18-hole round
• Examples: Garmin S70 (20 hours), Shot Scope V3 (10 hours), Bushnell Wingman (10 hours)
• Why it matters: You don’t want your GPS to stop working halfway through your game

4. Extra Features to Consider

Many golf GPS devices do more than just give distance. Here are a few extra features that help you play better:

Shot Tracking
This records every shot you take and shows how far you hit each club. You can see stats after the round, like how often you hit the fairway or green.

• Found in: Shot Scope V3, Voice Caddie T11 Pro
• Why it matters: Helps you learn where you’re strong or need to improve

Wind and Elevation Adjustment
Some GPS units tell you how wind or uphill/downhill slopes change the distance. This makes the yardage more real and helps you choose better clubs.

• Found in: Garmin S70, Voice Caddie T11 Pro
• Why it matters: Gives more accurate numbers, especially on hills

Launch Monitor
This tracks swing speed, ball speed, and how well you hit. Great for practice and getting better at golf.

• Found in: Garmin G80
• Why it matters: You get instant feedback to improve your swing

Club Recommendation
Some GPS devices suggest which club to use based on your past shots, wind, and distance.

• Found in: Garmin S70, Voice Caddie T11 Pro
• Why it matters: Makes choosing a club easier and faster

Pro Tip

Think about how you play. Do you walk or ride a cart? Do you want something simple, or do you want to track your stats and improve your game?

• If you want something light and easy, try a GPS watch.
• If you want big screens and full maps, go for a handheld GPS.
• If you love music and golf, a GPS speaker could be fun.
• If you want to get better fast, use shot tracking or launch monitor features.

FAQS

What is the most accurate golf GPS device?

The Garmin Approach S70 and SkyCaddie SX550 are among the most accurate golf GPS devices available. Golf GPS devices use satellite systems like GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo to give you accurate yardages. They show how far you are from the front, middle, or back of the green. Some devices, like SkyCaddie, use real course maps that are checked by people walking the course. This makes it easier to see things like water hazards or sand traps, and helps you plan your shots better.

Do I need a subscription for a golf GPS?

Some golf GPS devices require subscriptions for advanced features. Some golf GPS devices, like SkyCaddie, need a yearly payment to get full course maps and updates. But others, like the Garmin Approach S70 and Shot Scope V3, come with preloaded golf courses and give you free updates without any extra cost. These models give you full features right away, and you don’t have to pay again each year.

Are golf GPS devices better than rangefinders?

Golf GPS devices and laser rangefinders help you in different ways. A golf GPS shows the distance to the green, hazards, and other parts of the hole. It can also have extra tools like shot tracking and map views of the course. A rangefinder gives very exact distance to the flagstick, which is helpful when you’re close to the green. Many golfers like to use both GPS and rangefinder together to get the best help during a round.

Can I use my Apple Watch as a golf GPS?

Yes, you can use an Apple Watch as a golf GPS if you install apps like Golfshot, Hole19, or Golf Pad. These apps can show you the distance to the green, tell you about hazards like water or bunkers, and even help track your shots. But if you want more golf-specific tools, a watch like the Garmin Approach S70 is made just for golf and has extra features that can help even more on the course.

What features should I look for in a golf GPS?

When selecting a golf GPS, consider the following features:

• Course Coverage: Access to a vast database of preloaded courses worldwide.
• Accuracy: Reliable yardage measurements to the front, middle, and back of the green.
• Battery Life: Sufficient battery to last through your typical round duration.
• Display Quality: Clear, readable screens, preferably with color and touchscreen capabilities.
• Additional Features: Shot tracking, hazard information, club recommendations, and fitness tracking can enhance your experience.

Are golf GPS devices legal in tournaments?

Golf GPS devices are generally permitted in tournaments, provided they comply with the rules set by the governing bodies. Devices that measure slope, wind speed, or other conditions may be prohibited unless those features can be disabled. Always check the specific tournament regulations before using such devices during competitive play.

How does a golf GPS improve my game?

A golf GPS helps you play better by showing how far you are from the hole. It can help you pick the right club and understand the layout of the course. Some GPS devices also keep track of your shots, so you can see what you did well and what you need to work on. This helps you make smarter choices and maybe even lower your score.

Conclusion:

The best golf GPS in 2025 delivers sub-1-yard accuracy, over 40,000 preloaded courses, and smart features like slope adjustment and shot tracking.

Top models like the Garmin Approach S70, SkyCaddie SX550, and Shot Scope V3 help golfers make faster, smarter decisions. If you prefer a watch, handheld, or speaker-style device, there’s a GPS to match your style and improve your game.

Post Reference:

A few popular GPS apps.

What is the best, simplest golf GPS out there