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Golf GPS devices come in many forms, shapes and sizes. Be it handheld, watch or other configuration, these devices are designed to get you on target quickly. No more seeking out sprinkler heads or pacing off distances from yardage markers to get an approximate distance to the hole.
We hear you when you say, “I already have a laser rangefinder. Why would I need a golf GPS, too?”
With a clear line of sight, a standard golf laser rangefinder can provide pinpoint accuracy to a given target. On the flip side, the varying models of golf GPS devices can provide you with as little as center-of-the-green distances to complete hole layouts/flyovers, green contours, front-middle-back green distances, hazard distances, score/fitness tracking, etc.
Maybe you don’t need a GPS and a laser rangefinder but, then again, maybe you would benefit from both. While top-level players will probably not really use a GPS device for pinpoint accuracy, they may use one for general hole layout especially on blind tee and approach shots or when the flag is out of sight.
We tested 17 golf GPS devices to find the one that may give you an edge over the members in your weekly foursome or to guide you around that bucket list course.
Here are the best golf GPS devices of 2025.
We’ve tested and analyzed GPS devices for years to find the best of the best. The best golf GPS devices are intuitive with clear displays, accuracy, premium quality and user-friendly functionality. In addition, many GPS units will have additional features that help you in your day-to-day life on and off the course.
If a golf GPS lacks any of these attributes, you’re not getting the performance benefits nor the most bang for your buck from your equipment.
Maybe it’s time to consider adding a golf GPS device to your arsenal, either as your first piece of golf technology or to supplement your laser rangefinder.
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Fully integrated with a compatible smartphone, the Approach S70 is like a caddie on your wrist. You not only get course/hole layouts, distances, but wind speed and direction and so much more, too.
While the Garmin Approach S70 may be a "premium GPS golf watch", its stylish build and features are made for you on and off the course. Listen to music, track fitness, or pay for a purchase, the Approach S70 has you covered.
The advanced features of the Garmin Approach S70 come at a price. Unless you've got $700 to lay down on this tech, you may want to look elsewhere.
The Garmin Approach S70 is the “Best Overall” golf GPS watch of 2025. Garmin says “If golf is your world, this is your watch.” The Approach S70 is at home on and off the course.
Nearly every tester was blown away by the vibrant AMOLED display. Testers loved the bright screen and the ease of seeing it on the course even in sunny conditions. One tester even noted that with the addition of health and wellness features, sport and activity tracking as well as the golf functions, you have a complete package.
The Garmin Approach S70 golf GPS smartwatch sets a high bar for others to follow. While it has the accuracy one would expect from Garmin, it also hosts a multitude of features that are home on and off the course. On the course, the S70 is a virtual caddie set to maximize your course management and help you shoot your best score when your swing is up to it. Off the course, however, the S70 does not rest. Whether you’re paying for purchases, listening to music, tracking your health and wellness, counting your steps or a host of other lifestyle features, the Garmin Approach S70 is there every step of the way
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While the Garmin Approach S50 doesn't overwhelm on the course, it still tracks health and wellness, keeps you connected and provides you with enough information to plan your next shot on the course and balance your life off it.
The Approach Z30 rangefinder and Approach S50 pair to give you GPS yardages to the green and pin in the rangefinder's display.
If you're looking for a larger watch and/or increased graphics and detail quality on the hole maps, you may want to consider the Garmin Approach S50's big brother, the S70.
The Garmin Approach S50 is the “Runner-Up” golf GPS watch of 2025. The Approach S50 is a golf GPS smartwatch that goes beyond the course and will keep you connected to the outside world as well as track your health and fitness goals.
One tester summed up the S50 as “the golf smartwatch for the rest of us.” The S50 had enough golf features to satisfy the average golfer without the need for information overload. The Garmin Approach S50 could easily pass as an everyday smartwatch with its additional off-course features.
Not over the moon about a bulky golf smartwatch but still in the market? The Garmin Approach S50 may be your answer with its sleek profile. While the S50 may not disappear on your wrist, it is noticeably less bulky than some other models. Don’t let its smaller size fool you, however, as this one still performs and may be the middle ground for most golf enthusiasts. While the S50 may share Garmin’s AMOLED screen along with their flagship S70, its golf features are pared down a bit. The S50 performs off the course, too, allowing you to access emails, texts, alerts and music. The Garmin Approach S50 could replace your everyday watch on and off the course.
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Out of the box, the Bushnell iON Elite is a full-color GPS golf watch that gets you into the game quickly at a price point that won't break the bank.
The Bushnell iON Elite is a very capable golf GPS watch with color touchscreen, preloaded courses, accuracy and other features to keep your game moving and help you evaluate your next shot.
Even though the Bushnell iON Elite is at home on the course, it lacks the other smartwatch features you may be looking for.
The Bushnell iON Elite is the “Best Value” golf GPS watch of 2025. The Ion Elite with color touchscreen, plentiful features and Bushnell’s slope-compensated distances is ready to help you take your game to the next level.
Testers reported that if you don’t need or want a watch with a bunch of extra features and gives you what you need on the golf course, the Bushnell iON is for you. One tester said, “Straight to the course and the task at hand without all the fluff.”
If you’re looking to step into the golf GPS watch world and not sure a full-blown smartwatch is for you, the Bushnell iON Elite may be the answer. Rest assured, however, that while the iON Elite may not have all the bells and whistles to keep you connected to the outside world, it’s more than capable on the course. If all you need is easy-to-access and accurate distances around the course with the capability to track your score, the iON Elite has you covered. Five digital buttons around the screen provide quick access to green view, score, current view, hazard view and shot-tracking options. If you’re not looking for much more information or on a limited budget, the Bushnell iON Elite should be on your short list of considerations.
While the SkyCaddie PRO 4X may not be a flesh-and blood-caddie, it does deliver information and laser-accurate distances to meet the needs of both professional and recreational golfers.
The SkyCaddie PRO 4X features a four-inch LCD touchscreen with full-color HD graphics that provides a clear visual experience.
Even though the SkyCaddie PRO 4X will give you the basics right out of the box, the capability and features really pop with one of the reasonably priced memberships.
The SkyGolf SkyCaddie PRO 4X is the “Best Overall” golf GPS handheld of 2025. While the PRO 4x features a compact design, it also boasts a long list of stroke-saving features to provide golfers with both accuracy and ease of use.
“These graphics are amazing” raved one tester. Others note there is more than enough information featured on the SkyCaddie PRO 4X to get you around the course with confidence and ease. Many groaned about the addition of a membership plan but felt it was something they could get used to based upon the functionality/features of the PRO 4X.
The SkyCaddie PRO 4X packs all the features of the larger PRO 5X into a more compact body for those of you looking for a smaller-profile GPS handheld. The PRO 4X features a four-inch touch screen with full-color HD graphics that provide a great visual experience on the course. With ground-verified, error-corrected maps, there is more than just good looks as the PRO 4X is accurate to boot. While it is true that you’ll need a membership to unlock the PRO 4X’s full functionality and features, it may just be the virtual caddie you need to help you achieve your full potential on the course.
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The distances on the Garmin Approach G80 were spot-on and the touch-sensitive screen lets you pick any spot on the hole to get carry, layup and hazard distances, as well as, distances to various points on the green.
With the ability to play "virtual rounds" on the Garmin Approach G80, you can play the first few holes of a course to get you into the right mindset and flow.
With its large screen, the Garmin Approach G80 is a prime candidate for green contour data, but this feature is only available with a Garmin Golf membership.
The Garmin Approach G80 is the “Runner-Up” golf GPS handheld of 2025. With more than 43,000 preloaded courses, touch targeting, integrated launch monitor and much more, the Approach G80 may be the “ultimate golf partner” you’ve been looking for.
The one comment that came up often with the Garmin Approach G80 was the fact that the majority of the handhelds features were available without the cost of an additional membership or subscription. One must note, however, that unlocking green contour data does require a Garmin Golf membership. Testers reported that if you don’t need help reading greens the Garmin Approach G80 features more than enough information to get the diehard golfer around the course with ease.
The Garmin Approach G80 is an all-in-one premium GPS golf handheld with integrated launch monitor that allows you to track club head speed, ball speed, smash factor, swing tempo and estimated distance. Don’t expect premium launch monitor level data but if this data makes your practice sessions more productive, it’s a win-win situation. Above all else, however, the Approach G80 handheld comes preloaded with more than 43,000 full-color CourseView maps of courses around the globe. With features like touch targeting, green view, “plays like” distances and pin pointer, you’re ready to conquer any course. Pair the Approach G80 to the Garmin Golf app and you now have the additional feature of green contour data to help you plan your approach shots and evaluate your putts on the green. The Garmin Approach G80 has your back on the course but the question is: Do you have the game to live up to its capabilities?
At around $150, give or take depending on sales, the Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope is for the price-conscious golfer looking for simple accuracy and slope-compensated distances.
The Phantom 3 Slope comes complete with the Bushnell BITE magnet that easily attaches to the golf carts upright. Problem solved.
The Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope does feature an easy-to-navigate black-and-white touch screen but if you need more detail, you'll need to consider syncing with the Bushnell Golf app.
The Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope is the “Best Value” Golf GPS handheld of 2025. Don’t let the Phantom 3 Slope’s diminutive size and low price point fool you as this thing packs a punch. With compensated distances that account for incline/decline, the Phantom 3 Slope allows you to stay focused on your game.
Testers reported that if you’re looking for an easy GPS device that you just turn on and go, the Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope should be your go-to. Every tester noted that you just turn on the Phantom 3 Slope and it instantly recognizes the course and hole you’re on. No button pushing or navigation to get to the right hole and course.
The Phantom 3 Slope is as simple to use as charging it up and turning it on. You can let the Phantom 3 Slope do the rest with auto course and hole recognition. Other features like slope-compensated distances, large easy-to-read front/center/back distances, distances to up to six hazards per hole and GreenView with moveable pin placement will provide most golfers with all the information they need. Furthermore, this comes in a pocket-sized, portable golf GPS with integrated BITE magnet. Attach the value-based Bushnell Phantom 3 Slope to your cart upright or just take it along with you and off you go.
There are a variety of GPS devices on the market and the list keeps growing. Outside of our top choices here are a few others to consider.
Golf GPS Handheld
Golf GPS Watch
Buying a new golf GPS doesn’t have to be hard. As confusing as it might seem, we’ve narrowed it down to the most important features to make your decision as easy as can be.
Not only do we want to make it easy, but we want you to get what you pay for. While golf GPS devices can be expensive, there are models for every budget and one that may be right for your game.
Here’s what you should look for when you’re on the hunt for a new golf GPS.
While accuracy in a golf GPS is not on par with that of a golf laser rangefinder, it should not be discounted. In ideal conditions, one should expect accuracy to within three or four yards from a golf GPS.
Not all golf GPS units, however, are created equal as some devices can vary in distance by up to 10 to 12 yards. This type of variation is a full club disparity for most golfers and could make the difference between being on the green or coming up short in a hazard or bunker.
Worried about accurate distances and wanting a GPS watch? The Bushnell iON Elite and GOLFBUDDY aim W12 stood out for repeatable distances and consistent accuracy.
If you’re not a fan of watches and a handheld GPS is more in line with your game, the SkyCaddie Pro 4X and Garmin Approach G20 Solar won’t disappoint when it comes to accuracy.
Displays should be vivid, bright and easy to read in varying lighting conditions.
Among the handheld devices, the Garmin Approach G80 and SkyCaddie PRO 4X with large mobile phone-like screens were easy to read and see in all but the brightest direct sunlight.
Even though the watch category can be crowded, the Garmin Approach S70 watch with its super-bright and easy-to-read 1.4-inch AMOLED touch display stood out. Furthermore, the Garmin Approach S50 with slightly smaller bezel shares the same bright AMOLED technology as its big brother.
However, you’re not limited to just Garmin. Even though slightly smaller than the Garmin Approach S70, the GOLFBUDDY aim W12 and Voice Caddie T11 Pro both feature displays that are clear and bright, too.
Looking for a larger, unique display? Consider the Blue Tee Playmaker+ with its vibrant, oval AMOLED color touchscreen.
Generally, golf GPS devices attempt to acquire a satellite signal as soon as you turn them on. However, the rub comes with course and hole recognition.
Some units will give you a list of courses nearby to scroll through and select from. Other devices have auto course recognition yet leave you to select the hole to start on. Better yet, there are devices that not only hone in on the course, but the hole you’re on, too.
One device, however, really stood out for its simplicity of use. The Voice Caddie VC4 Voice Golf GPS required nothing more than to be powered up to recognize the course and hole we were on.
Additionally, the Garmin Approach G20 Solar, S50 and S70 were also fully capable of course and hole recognition to help get you into the game quickly.
When talking about functionality, it’s hard to forget discussing charging and battery life. Some are battery-operated, others are USB-rechargeable. One distinctive feature of the Approach G20 Solar is its solar-charging capability to “get unlimited battery life in sunny conditions”, according to Garmin.
Across the board, all the devices tested offered strong functionality and ease of navigation. None required us to download courses prior to use. Some were pushbutton and others touchscreen navigation, but with a little practice each was easy to navigate.
All GPS devices are capable of giving distances to targets. However, many of them don’t include pedometers, heart rate/fitness, monitors, green/putt views, wind speed/direction, round tracking, club selection, etc.
While some of the golf GPS devices offered these features in one complete package, others required phone and app connectivity to be fully functional. Whether you need or want these features is a personal choice. You’ll have to decide which fits the way you like to play golf and/or what’s important to you.
For the avid golfer looking for an everyday smartwatch, the Garmin Approach S70 and S50 GPS golf watches may be the answer. Not only are they at home on the course but they have many other features that will keep you connected off the course as well.
On the other hand, if you’re not into the golf GPS watch or not needing the other smart functions, consider the SkyCaddie PRO 4X handheld for your golfing needs. It has enough features for the avid golfer to get dialed in to your next shot. Additionally, the addition of SuperTags to your clubs will have you analyzing your game, swing and/or leveling up your practice sessions.
Golf GPS devices are tested by our expert staff in our state-of-the-art facility and on the course. Here, golf GPS devices undergo a series of rigorous tests, using strict protocols to ensure each device meets our standards before receiving a final score.
Golf GPS devices are scored based on the following criteria.
Accuracy: The goal is to test the consistency of the distances provided with multiple, serial measurements at targets of various known distances. While minor variations of +/- one or two yards were common across all models, some models varied significantly more by up to 10 or 12 yards.
Display: A golf GPS display should be well organized, intuitive and easy to see in varying light conditions. These devices were evaluated in full sun and in the shade to evaluate clarity and brightness. The displays were further evaluated for their layout and ease of touchscreen navigation.
Functionality: The best golf GPS devices offer ease of use with a simple powering-up of the device. Each golf GPS was put through the paces to identify its ease/rapidity of acquiring a satellite connection and listing the appropriate course(s). Some devices could be turned on away from the course, lock onto a satellite signal and display courses in the vicinity in short order. Other units, however, would not lock onto a satellite and/or display a course list until at or near the course.
Features: Golf GPS devices are fundamentally designed to give distances to various targets. However, in today’s fast-paced environment, we are looking for devices that do more than just the basics. We evaluated each device to discern its features and usefulness on and off the course.
GPS devices can be on par (at times) with laser rangefinders but have their limitations. Under ideal conditions, the most accurate golf GPS devices are accurate to within three to five yards. For most average golfers, this level of accuracy is sufficient.
The displays of the varying models range from that of a watch face to full-size smartphone screens. The quality and clarity of both types of displays vary. Take your own eyesight into consideration when considering the various device types. Handheld GPS devices are better for those with vision issues.
Upon turning on the various golf GPS devices, one will quickly realize they are not all created equal. Some acquire a GPS satellite signal quickly while others languish. Some will automatically advance to the next hole while others require you to navigate/scroll through various screens/lists.
The disparity between the best and worst models was quite significant. Some couldn’t provide repeatable, accurate measurements, lacked quality optics and had fussy or overly complicated displays. Before you drop your hard-earned money on just any model, evaluate your needs/wants then try various models before committing.
To maximize your GPS devices’ accuracy and functionality, be sure to visit your manufacturer’s website for course and firmware updates.
| OEM | Model | Total |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin | Approach S70 – 47mm (Watch) | 9.9 |
| SkyGolf | SkyCaddie Pro 4x (Handheld) | 9.8 |
| Garmin | Approach S50 (Watch) | 9.7 |
| Garmin | Approach G80 (Handheld) | 9.7 |
| Voice Caddie | T11 Pro (Watch) | 9.7 |
| GolfBuddy | Aim W12 (Watch) | 9.7 |
| Bushnell | Ion Elite (Watch) | 9.5 |
| Blue Tees | Playmaker+ (Watch) | 9.5 |
| Voice Caddie | A3 (Watch) | 9.3 |
| Garmin | Approach G20 Solar (Handheld) | 9.2 |
| Shot Scope | V5 (Watch) | 9.0 |
| Bushnell | Phantom 3 Slope (Handheld) | 9.0 |
| Shot Scope | G6 GPS (Watch) | 8.9 |
| Rad Golf | Watch + (Watch) | 8.8 |
| Blue Tees | Ringer (Handheld) | 8.8 |
| Rad Golf | Hand + (Handheld) | 8.7 |
| Voice Caddie | VC4 Voice Golf GPS (Clip On) | 7.8 |
World-class testing requires world-class equipment. This is the gear we trust to help us fulfill our Most Wanted testing.
9 months ago
I bought the original Bushnell Phantom a few years back, under $100 then, and have loved it. Charge it up and go 18 today and 18 more tomorrow on that one charge. It’s plenty accurate and dead simple to use. If you use the magnet to attach to a cart upright, take care on bumpy cart paths or wilderness trekking. Highly recommended.
9 months ago
I had a Bushnell Ion Elite and hated it. It was difficult to read in the sunlight and using its features was balky. I switched to the Garmin Approach S12. They’re both less than $200. The S12 is easy to read in all light conditions. The battery lasts MUCH longer. It gives me more info. And switching screens is more intuitive.
9 months ago
Good article and informative. I like to carry a GPS and a laser. Use the laser when I can see the target and the GPS when I cannot.
9 months ago
Honestly, the question should be, “I already have a cellular phone. Why would I need a golf only GPS, too?” I have a free to me rangefinder and I find it takes too long to futz with. The Golf Pad GPS app and my Apple Watch give me exactly what I need to an accuracy level that works for my level of playing. Just tap the watch, see my yardages and select the club and go. Seriously, don’t most people carry a cell phone these days?
9 months ago
I agree. I use the free version of 18 Birdies on my iPhone connected to my Apple Watch and it gives me everything I need…for free.
JeanD
9 months ago
No ShotScope V5 or X5…which have no subscription fees, very accurate, full colour graphics,30K courses, brilliant and fast response from their support team…did I mention NO subscription fees???
Killer Carton
9 months ago
This is a huge miss, especially since you tote “Shot Scope is the Official On-Course Data Partner of MyGolfSpy.”
Hopp Man
9 months ago
They have the V5 and G6, you need to go to the second page of results. Or just type Shot in the search and you can see the results.
robert
5 months ago
shot scope is there richard