Golfshot Golf GPS App helps golfers play smarter by showing real-time distances to the green using your phone or smartwatch. It works on iPhone, Android, and Apple Watch, and maps over 45,000 golf courses around the world. 

The app gives accurate yardages, tracks your scores, and even helps calculate your golf handicap.

With the free version, you get basic GPS and scorekeeping. The Pro version adds 3D maps, auto-shot tracking, and club recommendations. 

Over 4 million golfers use Golfshot because it’s easy to use and saves strokes. It’s made by Shotzoom, and you can use it even without internet,  making it one of the best free golf GPS apps for all skill levels.

What is Golfshot Golf GPS (Shotzoom’s Flagship Golf App for iPhone, Android & Apple Watch)

As a pro golfer who’s played courses from California to Scotland, I rely on tools that help me stay focused and play smarter. That’s where the Golfshot App by Shotzoom Software comes in.

The Golfshot Golf GPS App is a powerful sports app for golf that works on iPhone, Android, and even your Apple Watch. 

It gives you real-time GPS yardages to the front, middle, and back of every green, so you know exactly how far to hit.

One thing I love? It covers over 45,000 golf courses around the world, from local public courses to major championship venues. 

If I’m playing in Florida or Japan, I can trust Golfshot to have my course mapped.

Golfshot isn’t just a rangefinder; it also tracks your shots, keeps your scorecard, and even calculates your handicap. 

It’s made by Shotzoom, a well-known name in golf tech, and they’ve really packed this app with tools that both beginners and pros can use.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I use my phone as a golf GPS?” or “What’s the best free golf GPS app?” Golfshot is the answer I always recommend.

Golfshot Golf GPS App – Free vs Pro Features Comparison

Note: This feature comparison table is based on data from the official Golfshot website, verified Reddit user reviews, and recent user feedback on the App Store and Google Play.

How Does the Golfshot Golf GPS App Work on iPhone, Android & Apple Watch

If you’re wondering how Golfshot helps you on the course, let me break it down. I’ve been playing golf for years, and I’ve tested dozens of apps. 

The Golfshot GPS App stands out because it’s accurate, easy to use, and doesn’t eat up your phone data.

Golfshot Uses GPS to Show Yardages to the Green

Golfshot uses the GPS chip already in your phone or smartwatch. When you open the app on the course, it finds your exact location. 

Then, it shows you how far you are from the front, center, and back of the green, which helps you pick the right club for every shot.

Even as a pro, I still depend on those yardages to avoid short shots or overshooting the pin. It’s great for beginners, too, because you don’t need a laser rangefinder, just your phone or watch.

Offline Golf Course Mapping – 45,000+ Global Courses Preloaded

One of the best things about Golfshot is that you can download any course before you play. Once it’s saved, you don’t need Wi-Fi or mobile data on the course; it works completely offline.

With over 45,000 courses mapped, I’ve never had trouble finding a course, whether I’m in Florida, the UK, or even Japan. The maps are detailed and show every fairway, bunker, and water hazard.

3D Flyover View & Satellite Maps Help You Plan Smarter In Golf Play

The 3D Flyover is a game-changer. Before each hole, I like to use it to see the full layout, where the hazards are, how the fairway bends, and where to place my drive. 

The satellite view adds real-world visuals so you can picture each shot before you hit it.

This kind of course visualization helps beginners and pros make smarter decisions, especially on new or complex courses.

Accurate Yardage Calculation Using GPS + Course Data

Golfshot combines live GPS location with pre-mapped course data to calculate distances in real-time. It’s usually accurate within 1–3 yards, even compared to my laser rangefinder.

You can see distances not just to the green but also to hazards, doglegs, and layup spots. That helps me shape my shots better and avoid trouble zones.

Does Golfshot Use a Lot of Data or Battery While Using It

Once your course is downloaded, Golfshot uses very little data. You don’t have to worry about your internet plan. I’ve played full 18-hole rounds using just 3–5% of my mobile data.

Battery life is also pretty good. I suggest lowering your screen brightness and turning on the battery saver if you use it for 4+ hours straight. On my Apple Watch, I get 18 holes comfortably on a full charge.

Golfshot’s GPS Tech Is Built for Real Golfers

Whether you’re asking, “How does Golfshot calculate yardage?” or “Can I use Golfshot offline on the course?” the answer is: it works smart and reliably.

With real-time GPS, offline access, 3D flyovers, and precise distances, Golfshot is one of the most complete and beginner-friendly golf rangefinder apps on the market. It’s like having a caddie in your pocket.

Is Golfshot Accurate (Real-World GPS Testing)

Is the Golfshot Golf GPS App Accurate Compared to a Laser Rangefinder

As someone who plays in tournaments and practices almost daily, I care a lot about yardage accuracy. I’ve tested Golfshot GPS on both iPhone and Apple Watch, and here’s what I found.

When I compare it to my Bushnell laser rangefinder, Golfshot is usually within 1 to 3 yards of the same distance. That’s really good for a golf GPS app, especially one that runs on your phone or watch.

How I Tested Golfshot’s GPS Yardages (Laser vs App on Real Courses)

I played a full 18 holes with both tools:

• First, I used my laser rangefinder to check the distance to the center of the green.
• Then, I opened the Golfshot app on my phone and compared the number.

Most of the time, Golfshot matched the laser. If the numbers were off, it was usually by just a couple of yards, nothing that would change my club decision.

So yes, Golfshot is very accurate for most players, even if you’re serious about your game.

What Affects Golfshot’s Accuracy (GPS Signal & Phone Type)

Keep in mind that your phone model and GPS signal can change how accurate the app is.

Here’s what I’ve noticed:

• Newer phones like the iPhone 14 or the Galaxy S24 work better than old ones
• If you’re under trees or in a valley, GPS might be a little slower
• On a clear fairway, Golfshot is nearly perfect

If you’re using a smartwatch, like an Apple Watch, it also depends on how good the GPS chip is in the watch. I recommend using your phone for more precise distances if you’re in a tight match.

Is the “Plays Like Distance” Feature Accurate (Golfshot Pro Only)

If you upgrade to Golfshot Pro, you get something called Plays Like Distance. This gives you distances that adjust for slope, like when you’re hitting uphill or downhill.

I tested it on a course with big elevation changes, and honestly, it felt really close to what my laser showed when slope mode was on. 

It won’t be perfect in all cases, but it gives you a smart estimate that helps with club selection.

So yes, even Plays Like Distance is accurate enough for real-world play, especially for weekend golfers or casual tournaments.

What Are Real Golfers Saying About Golfshot Golf GPS App

I also checked places like Reddit’s r/golf and The Hackers Paradise forums, and most players agree:

• “It’s scary accurate for a phone app.”
• “My Apple Watch GPS worked great for 18 holes.”
• “Only a few yards off my Bushnell, totally playable.”

Many beginners and mid-handicap players trust it 100% for club distances. Even some pros in my local club switched from lasers to Golfshot during practice rounds.

How Well Does the Golfshot GPS App Work on iPhone, Android & Apple Watch

I’ve used Golfshot on all kinds of devices, iPhones, Android phones, and even my Apple Watch during rounds. 

No matter what platform you’re using, Golfshot gives you helpful GPS data, score tracking, and distance info right when you need it.

Let’s talk about what works best and what to expect on each device.

Golfshot on iPhone vs Android – Which App Works Better for GPS Golf Tracking

Both versions of the app, iPhone and Android, do a great job of showing yardages, hole layouts, and course maps. You’ll see your distance to the front, middle, and back of the green, plus distances to hazards and layup spots.

In my experience:

• iPhone feels smoother, and loads the map a bit faster
• GPS is a bit more stable on newer iPhones (like the iPhone 13 or 14)
• Android works great, but on cheaper phones, GPS can be a little slower to update

No matter which phone you use, Golfshot is accurate and playable for all 18 holes.

How Good Is Golfshot’s Apple Watch GPS Integration (Real-Time Yardages + Scoring)

Here’s where Golfshot really shines: Apple Watch support.

When I’m walking the course, I don’t like pulling out my phone for every shot. With Golfshot on my Apple Watch, I can just look at my wrist and instantly see:

• Distance to green
• Hole number and par
• My current score
• What shot am I on

You can also track your shots, check your scorecard, and move through holes without touching your phone. It’s simple, clean, and super fast.

Does Golfshot Work on Android Watches (Wear OS)

Right now, Golfshot does not support Wear OS (Android smartwatches) as well as it supports Apple Watch.

Some Android watches can display basic notifications or mirror your phone screen, but they don’t show full GPS yardages or allow scoring from the watch.

So, if you’re using a Samsung Galaxy Watch or Pixel Watch, you’ll need to rely mostly on your phone for full functionality.

Best Golf GPS App for Apple Watch, iPhone & Android

If you’re asking “Does Golfshot work on Apple Watch?” or “Which phone is better for GPS golf tracking?” here’s what I’d say:

• For the best experience, use Golfshot on iPhone + Apple Watch
• Android works great, too, but GPS may vary by phone model
• Apple Watch integration is smooth, fast, and super helpful in mid-round

No matter what device you’re on, Golfshot is one of the most complete and easy-to-use GPS golf apps available today.

What Do You Get With Golfshot Pro (Premium Tools for Smarter Golf)

I’ve used the free version of Golfshot for years, but when I started playing in more tournaments and needed better stats, I tried Golfshot Pro. 

After one round, I could tell it was built for serious players who want real feedback, better planning, and fewer strokes.

Here’s what you unlock with Golfshot Pro, and how I use each feature on the course.

How Does Golfshot Pro Track Your Shots Automatically (Swing ID™ Technology)

With Golfshot Pro, you don’t have to guess how far your shots go anymore. It comes with something called Swing ID™, which uses your phone or smartwatch to automatically track your swing motion.

Every time I hit the ball, the app records it and then shows:

• How far did it go
• In what direction does it travel
• Which club do I use

It’s not perfect every time, but for most rounds, it gives a really good view of my shot patterns. Great for improving consistency and fixing weak areas.

Can Golfshot Track Your Handicap (Official vs Unofficial Scores)

Yes, Golfshot Pro has a handicap tracker that works in two ways:

1. For casual play, it calculates your unofficial handicap based on your scores
2. In the U.S., you can also link your GHIN account to post official handicap scores

I like this because I don’t need a separate app for my handicap anymore. It keeps everything in one place, even the rounds I play with friends.

What Are the Advanced Golf Stats You Get (Strokes Gained & More)

With Pro, you get access to advanced stats like:

• Fairways hit
• Greens in regulation
• Putts per round
• And the big one: Strokes Gained Analysis

“Strokes Gained” tells me which part of my game is helping or hurting my score. For example, I learned that my driving was solid, but my short game needed work. That helped me focus my practice better.

If you’re wondering, “Does Golfshot Pro give you detailed stats?” the answer is yes, and they’re super useful.

Do You Get Green Maps with Contours (Putting Made Smarter)

This is one of my favorite features: Green View with contours.

On certain courses, Golfshot Pro shows you the shape and slope of the green so you can plan where to land your ball and how to read putts. 

It’s like having a yardage book built into your phone.

It won’t make every putt drop, but it helps you see which way the green breaks, which can save a stroke or two.

How Does the Digital Caddie Work (Club Recommendations & Planning)

The Digital Caddie feature recommends which club to use based on:

• How far you’ve hit that club in the past
• Wind, elevation, and lie (if data is available)
• Distance to target

It’s like having a smart friend on the course who knows your game. I’ve used it in casual rounds, and it’s surprisingly good at picking the right club, especially when I’m between choices.

This tool alone makes Golfshot Pro worth it if you play often or want to lower your scores.

Is Golfshot Pro Worth It (Final Thoughts from a Golf Pro)

If you’re asking, “What does Golfshot Pro include?” or “Is Golfshot Pro worth the upgrade?” here’s my answer:

• Yes, if you want shot tracking, handicap support, green reading tools, and a digital caddie all in one app
• Yes, if you want to learn from your rounds and improve over time
• And yes, if you already love the free version and want even more control over your game

For me, Golfshot Pro replaced 3 other apps I used before. It’s like a full golf coach inside my phone.

How Does Golfshot Compare to Arccos, 18Birdies, and Other Free Golf GPS Apps

As a golf pro who’s tested almost every GPS app out there, I can say this: Golfshot holds its own against the best, whether you’re a casual player or someone who plays every weekend.

I’ve used Golfshot, Arccos, and 18Birdies, and each one has its strengths, but the big question is: Which one gives you the best value?

Let’s break it down.

Golfshot Pro vs. Arccos – Which Golf GPS App Is More Practical

Arccos is a great system, but it comes with one big difference:
It requires sensors that you attach to every club. Those sensors track shots, club usage, and stats, but they cost extra and need to stay paired with your phone.

Golfshot Pro, on the other hand, uses only your phone or Apple Watch to track shots using Swing ID™. That means no extra hardware, no batteries, and no setup time.

In my experience:

• Arccos is great for deep stat analysis and club tracking
• Golfshot is better for convenience, simplicity, and cost
• For players who don’t want gear on their clubs, Golfshot is the clear winner

Golfshot Free vs 18Birdies Free – Which Free GPS App Is Better

If you’re looking for a totally free GPS app, both Golfshot Free and 18Birdies Free offer core features like:

• Front/middle/back distances
• Scorekeeping
• Course maps

But here’s what I noticed:

• Golfshot Free feels more stable and gives faster GPS updates
• 18Birdies has a more fun, social feel, but many features are locked unless you pay
• Golfshot also has more accurate mapping on the older courses I play

So, if you want a free app with fewer ads and a cleaner design, Golfshot Free is better for serious golfers.

What Makes Golfshot Different from Other Golf GPS Apps

The biggest difference I’ve found

Golfshots can track shots using your phone only.
You don’t need club sensors or extra wearables. Just swing and go.

That makes it the best phone-only shot-tracking app I’ve used. It’s great for players who don’t want to carry gadgets or spend extra money, but still want the benefits of smart stats and round tracking.

Golfshot’s Real Value: Free or Pro – Is It Worth It

If you’re asking, “Is Golfshot Pro better than Arccos?” or “Which is the best free GPS app for golf?”, here’s what I’d say:

• Best all-around value: Golfshot (Free or Pro)
• Best for gadget lovers: Arccos (with sensors)
• Best social golf app: 18Birdies (fun but limited unless you pay)
• Best phone-only GPS app: Golfshot

Golfshot vs. Arccos vs. 18Birdies – GPS Golf App Comparison Table

Note: The information in this comparison table is based on verified details from the official websites of Golfshot, Arccos, and 18Birdies, as well as real-user reviews from forums like Reddit’s r/golf, The Hackers Paradise, and recent updates on the App Store and Google Play.

Can You Use the Golfshot Golf GPS App Without Internet (How Offline Mode Works)

I play on a lot of courses where the Wi-Fi is weak or there’s no signal, especially in rural or mountain areas. So one of the first things I tested with Golfshot was: Can I use it offline?

The answer is yes, and it works great.

How to Download a Golf Course for Offline GPS Use in Golfshot

Before heading to the course, I open the Golfshot app on my phone and:

1. Search for the course I’m going to play
2. Tap to download the course map
3. That’s it, the app saves it for offline use

Once downloaded, the app doesn’t need mobile data or Wi-Fi to give you yardages, hole maps, or distances. You can play the full round even if you’re in a dead zone.

This feature alone makes Golfshot one of the best offline golf GPS tracking apps out there.

Does Using GPS in Golfshot Drain Your Phone Battery Fast

GPS does use battery, but Golfshot is designed to run in the background efficiently.

Here’s what I’ve seen during 18-hole rounds:

• On my iPhone, it uses about 25–35% battery for a full round
• On older phones, it might go up to 40–50%, especially if the screen is always on
• On Apple Watch, it’s a bit less, but I still carry my phone for better accuracy

To make the battery last longer, I turn off other apps, reduce brightness, and avoid checking social media during play.

Should You Carry a Power Bank While Using Golfshot

If I’m playing back-to-back rounds or using Golfshot Pro with 3D flyovers and tracking, I bring a small power bank just in case.

A 5,000mAh battery easily charges my phone once. It fits in my golf bag and gives me peace of mind, especially during tournaments or long days.

So, while you can finish 1 round without charging, I recommend bringing backup power if you play multiple rounds or use older devices.

Golfshot Works Offline and Uses Battery Smartly

If you’re asking, “Does Golfshot need internet to work?” or “Will it drain my battery?”, here’s my pro answer:

• You can play offline as long as the course is downloaded
• GPS runs efficiently, but bring a power bank for long days
• Golfshot is one of the best GPS golf apps with offline support I’ve used

No signal? No problem. Golfshot has your round covered, from start to finish.

Is Golfshot Legal for Tournament Play (USGA Rules)

Can You Use the Golfshot GPS App During Golf Tournaments (USGA Legal or Not)

As someone who plays in club tournaments and local qualifiers, I always make sure the tools I use are USGA-legal. And yes, Golfshot can be used in tournaments, but you have to be careful which features you turn on.

Let me explain what’s allowed and what’s not.

Is Basic GPS Yardage from Golfshot Legal Under USGA Rules

Yes, the basic GPS features in Golfshot are completely legal in most tournaments.
That includes:

• Distance to the front, center, and back of the green
• Hole number, par, and scorecard
• Distances to hazards and layups

These are all allowed under the USGA Rules of Golf as long as you’re not using slope or elevation tools.

So, if you’re using Golfshot Free, you’re good to go in almost every amateur event.

Is the “Plays Like Distance” Feature Legal in Tournaments

No, the Plays Like Distance feature in Golfshot Pro, which adjusts for slope (uphill or downhill), is not legal in tournament play.

If you’re playing a competition round, you need to:

• Go into Golfshot’s settings
• Disable slope-based adjustments
• Use only the standard GPS distances

I’ve done this many times before. It takes just a few taps, and then your app becomes compliant with tournament rules.

So yes, Golfshot Pro is legal as long as you turn off slope features.

Are Green Contour Maps in Golfshot Legal in USGA Events

No, using green contour maps that show slopes, breaks, or detailed putt lines is not allowed during USGA-sanctioned events.

If your version of Golfshot includes these maps, just make sure:

• You don’t open them during the round
• Or, disable the Green View feature before you start

In casual play, it’s a great feature. But for tournament days, stick to the basics.

Is Golfshot Legal to Use in Golf Tournaments

If you’re asking,“Are golf GPS apps legal in tournaments?” or “Can I use Golfshot in competitive play?” here’s what you need to know:

• Yes, Golfshot is legal if you only use basic GPS yardage
• No, you cannot use slope or green contour maps in competition
• Turn off any features that adjust for elevation or putt breaks

I’ve played many legal rounds with Golfshot, just follow the settings, and you’re tournament-ready.

How to Cancel Golfshot Pro Subscription

How Do You Cancel the Golfshot Pro Subscription on iPhone or Android (Step-by-Step Guide)

I’ve used Golfshot Pro for many rounds, but sometimes you just want to pause the subscription, maybe for the off-season or if you’re trying out another app.

The good news is that canceling Golfshot Pro is easy. But remember, if you don’t cancel, it will auto-renew every year, and you’ll be charged again.

Let me walk you through the steps.

How to Cancel Golfshot Pro on iPhone (iOS App Store)

If you signed up using your iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app
2. Tap your Apple ID name at the top
3. Select Subscriptions
4. Find Golfshot in the list
5. Tap it and choose Cancel Subscription

Once you cancel, you’ll still have access until the end of the billing period.

How to Cancel Golfshot Pro on Android (Google Play Store)

If you subscribed through your Android phone or tablet:

1. Open the Google Play Store
2. Tap your profile icon (top right corner)
3. Go to Payments & subscriptions
4. Select Subscriptions
5. Tap Golfshot, then hit Cancel Subscription

Again, you’ll keep access until your plan runs out.

Does Golfshot Pro Auto-Renew (Yes – Here’s the Warning)

Yes, Golfshot Pro will auto-renew every year (or monthly, depending on your plan). That means if you don’t cancel, your card or account will be charged again, even if you haven’t used the app in months.

As a pro who keeps track of golf tools carefully, I always recommend setting a reminder a few days before your renewal date, just in case you want to cancel.

FCancel Early to Avoid Unwanted Charges Of The GPS app

If you’re asking “How do I cancel my Golfshot Pro subscription?” or “Does Golfshot charge me automatically?” the short answer is:

• Yes, it auto-renews
• Yes, you can cancel anytime in your phone settings
• No, you don’t lose access right away, you keep it until your paid period ends
  

I’ve done it myself. It’s quick and clean, and you can always resubscribe later when the next golf season starts.

FAQs

Is the Golfshot app really free?

Yes, Golfshot offers a free version that includes GPS yardages, score tracking, and access to over 45,000 golf courses. You can upgrade to Golfshot Pro for advanced features like 3D flyovers, club recommendations, and shot tracking.

How accurate is the Golfshot GPS App?

Golfshot is highly accurate, usually within 1–3 yards of a laser rangefinder. It uses your phone’s or smartwatch’s GPS signal and pre-mapped course data to provide real-time distance tracking.

Can Golfshot be used offline?

Yes. You can download courses in advance and use Golfshot in offline mode. Once downloaded, the app provides full GPS tracking without needing Wi-Fi or mobile data during play.

Does Golfshot work on Apple Watch?

Yes. Golfshot has full Apple Watch integration, showing yardages, hole info, and score entry directly on your wrist. It also supports auto shot tracking via Swing ID™ in the Pro version.

Is Golfshot GPS legal for tournament play?

Yes, Golfshot is USGA-compliant as long as slope-adjusted features like Plays Like Distance and green contour maps are disabled during play. The basic GPS and scoring features are legal in most tournaments.

Conclusion

I’ve used a lot of golf GPS tools over the years, from laser rangefinders to sensor kits, but Golfshot remains one of my go-to apps in 2024. If you’re a beginner learning the game or a seasoned player trying to track performance, Golfshot offers something for almost everyone.

The Golfshot Golf GPS App is a great choice for golfers in 2024. If you’re just starting out, the free version gives you everything you need, like yardage to the green, scorekeeping, and maps for over 45,000 golf courses. 

It works well on both iPhone and Android and even on your Apple Watch. If you want more features, like auto shot tracking, club tips, and green contour maps, you can upgrade to Golfshot Pro. 

It’s perfect for players who like to track their shots and improve their game over time. Just remember, if you don’t like subscriptions or use your phone a lot during play, the free version might be enough for you.

But for most golfers, Golfshot is one of the best golf GPS apps out there, and it’s one I still use every time I play.

Post Reference: 

Any reviews or comments on the GolfShot app?

Golf shot vs Arccos or other