As technology keeps on dominating every aspect of our lives, it’s a no-brainer that it has catapulted the whole industry of golf to new heights as well. Advanced systems aren’t just exclusive to the development, engineering, and manufacturing processes of golf balls and clubs; it has definitely conquered monitoring or tracking methods as well through the rise of the Global Positioning System (GPS).
The general purpose of GPS technology is pretty straightforward. It functions through satellites tracking different locations, including the exact spot you’re in. When it comes to golf, it aims to display information such as the distance between you and certain areas of the golf course, especially obstacles and the green itself.
Since the demand for GPS technology has been increasing, more and more manufacturers are creating different ways to keep the system portable, accessible, and convenient. The handy ones are definitely perfect for that. To help you decide on which product to buy, we’re going to show you the best handheld golf GPS devices.
Table of Contents
Best Handheld Golf GPS Review
TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch
Looking like a regular wristwatch that displays time, the TecTecTec ULT-G Golf GPS Watch actually comes with a lot of incredible functions, which is totally unexpected from such a small device. It can actually provide you with thousands of data, especially the 38,000+ golf courses you can find globally. Because of that feature, hole progression is guaranteed to be automatic, proven to be helpful for real-time golfing.
With this GPS watch, you’ll be able to accurately analyze your performance as well. Just identifying your exact location can give you an accurate measurement of how long your shot is. It can even tell you how far the obstacles are so you can plan your next hits in order to avoid them.
We’ve already mentioned that this GPS watch has reliable accuracy in terms of performance analysis. But, how accurate is it exactly? It’s specifically accurate to +/- 1 yard.
However, the quality of the batteries and the charger can be considered the worst thing about this product. That’s because it affects the lifespan of the whole device despite the extra-durable surfaces.
Some units have batteries that drain in just a few days even though the device is just used as a wristwatch, not as a golf GPS gadget. The cable of the charger is also too unstable, which makes it difficult to get a more secure connection while charging.
Style-wise, some golfers don’t like the structure of this GPS watch. They think it’s too bulky.
Pros:
- Simple appearance
- Hi-tech and multipurpose despite the small structure
- Access to thousands of global data
- Automatic progression
- Analysis of all types of shots
Cons:
- Drained battery even with minimal use
- Unstable charger
- Too bulky around the wrist
SkyCaddie SX500
One of the most stunning golf GPS gadgets we’ve ever seen, the SkyCaddie SX500 has the biggest high-definition (HD) touch screen compared to other options similar to its design. The screen is specifically five inches and displays the most vivid graphics possible from a handheld GPS device.
Because of the large size of the touch screen, it can display a lot of functions like golf course selection, hole progression, and zoom. All of those features are automatic, making the touch aspect unnecessary sometimes.
Knowing that this golf GPS device has a setting called Big Number Mode makes the users appreciate the huge screen even more. Bigger digits will flash on the screen, depending on the function used, which significantly increases readability.
That’s very helpful for seniors and other people who have mild or serious vision problems. It will also allow you to mount the device on a golf cart so you can play freely and check the data from time to time without taking a closer look.
Some units become useless after the initial use, though. For some reason, they’re constructed wrongly, specifically the micro USB port that’s partially covered by the case. This stops you from recharging the battery.
The HD graphics have a downside, too. It takes much longer for them to completely appear on the screen, unlike the display of simpler GPS devices.
And, while more GPS gadgets are promoting free use to attract the masses, this one remains a product that requires an annual subscription. That expands its functions, which is good, but a lot of golfers still find it off-putting.
Pros:
- Stunning graphics
- Touch screen feature
- Large screen
- Can display a lot of data at once
- Extremely high readability level
Cons:
- Impossible to recharge if the case covers the USB port
- Longer wait for the graphics to fully appear
- Requires additional charges due to the subscription feature
Garmin Approach S10
Having a sleeker, more advanced look than the first option, the Garmin Approach S10 seems intimidating at first, especially for people who are generally uncomfortable using complex systems. However, it’s super-easy for almost everyone after all because of its simplicity.
More about the appearance of this lightweight GPS watch, it has an extremely high level of readability. That’s because it has a higher resolution than expected even when the screen is directly under sunlight.
Now, to the crucial features of this highly functional GPS watch. It provides more data on global golf courses than the first product. It can specifically access around 41,000 golf courses, which is clearly higher than 38,000. As a plus, it includes information about greens, obstacles, and other important physical factors that can affect your game.
More about the impact of this GPS watch whenever you’re playing golf, it can help you keep score. To be more specific, it can provide a summary of each round you make. You’ll instantly know the whole duration of your game as well as your entire range. You can even upload all of the results using Garmin Express.
Unfortunately, in just a few months, some units have blank screens already. This ultimately leads to total malfunction. And, even if this GPS watch functions normally, it doesn’t have a highly reliable hole progression feature.
Those problems aren’t the major ones in the end. The worst issue with this GPS watch based on the number of claims is the durability of its wristband. The band is made of silicone, which actually makes it comfortable, but the design of its screws is just so ineffective that it can easily break.
Pros:
- Sleek appearance
- User-friendly
- High readability even under direct sunlight
- Access to more golf courses
- Convenient scoring
Cons:
- Blank screen
- Flawed hole progression system
- Flimsy wristband
Bushnell Wingman GPS Speaker
A very unusual design, the Bushnell Wingman GPS Speaker is much bigger than other handheld options. However, its larger size also offers more benefits that you can’t get from the wristwatch type.
Let’s start by highlighting the fact that this GPS speaker is a revolutionary product. It’s considered to be the first-ever loudspeaker meant for tracking in the golf course with the primary purpose of giving you audible data.
Even as a loudspeaker alone, this product is such an exceptional device because of its crystal-clear audio. You can enjoy your favorite songs, podcasts, or audiobooks while playing. Whenever you need to know the distance in real-time, simply use the remote and then resume listening to your playlist afterward. You’ll never have a dull moment on the golf course anymore.
The number one problem with this type of product? It’s not as accurate as the usual handheld GPS devices. The difference can reach more than 10 yards.
The audio feature can also be an issue since the voice that mentions data doesn’t have a separate volume setting. It’s not as loud as the general audio. Turning it up will only make the music louder, which can definitely be distracting.
If you’re used to different technologies, you might still find the whole system of this product a hassle to operate. That’s because there’s no clear instruction on how to turn off the tracking process in your smartphone once a connection is made. This can drain your phone’s battery or affect your mobile data.
Pros:
- Unique GPS device
- Audible data
- Clear audio
- Quick mode switch
- Can last for multiple rounds
Cons:
- Low accuracy
- Not enough volume settings to achieve a louder voice prompt
- Nonstop tracking
Garmin Approach G10
The smallest one so far on this list of products, the Garmin Approach G10 looks extremely compact. That’s because it’s meant to be placed anywhere you want. You can put it in your pocket, clip it on your belt, or attach it to your bag.
If you’re particular about fashion, this GPS device has a pure black color. It doesn’t have distracting bright colors that can ruin your style if you want to attach it to your belt or bag. It can complement all types of outfits.
Don’t worry about the small size of this GPS device. Even though its screen is so compact, it actually functions with 128 x 128 pixels, which is enough to clearly display black-and-white graphics. That’s why it’s totally possible that it can access at least 40,000 golf courses worldwide and then quickly show you what you need.
There’s a slight design flaw, though. The button you should use whenever you need to turn on the device can be too sensitive.
If you’re going to store this gadget in your bag most of the time, expect some random object to turn it on out of the blue. Apparently, this GPS device doesn’t turn off automatically, which will drain your battery for no good reason.
And, once the battery is drained, there’s a chance for its charging system to suddenly malfunction due to durability issues. This will stop you from fully recharging the device, keeping you from completing the entire golf course.
Another form of malfunction you can experience with this GPS device is the sudden pause while tracking, which will only make the results inaccurate.
Pros:
- Extremely compact
- Versatile placement
- Neutral style
- Clear black-and-white graphics
- Basic data
Cons:
- Randomly turns on
- Malfunctioning charger
- Stops tracking all of a sudden
GolfBuddy Voice 2 Golf GPS/Rangefinder
Taking it up a notch with its access to more than 40,000 golf courses that can be found in at least 150 countries, the GolfBuddy Voice 2 Golf GPS/Rangefinder promotes continuous updates with no extra charges because of its USB sync feature. And, unlike the GPS speaker we’ve introduced earlier, it can give both visual and audible data at the same time without the need for a smartphone.
Since this GPS device is very user-friendly, you’ll be able to check the distance and green view accurately as well as adjust the volume in just six distinct settings. You can even clip it anywhere you want, especially on your belt or cap.
The rest of the features of this GPS device include the GolfBuddy Manager Program for male or female voice selections without additional fees, the one-inch LCD screen, the 14-hour battery life, the IPX3 waterproof rating, and the language options like English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian, French, and German.
On the other hand, the common issues with this GPS device are the blank display despite the audible data, the inability to recharge fully, and the battery that can’t last until the last hole.
Pros:
- 40,000+ golf courses
- Can be used in 150 countries or more
- Free services
- Provides graphics and audible data simultaneously without extra devices
- Volume guides
Cons:
- Blank display
- Can’t fully recharge
- Short battery life
Garmin Approach S40, Stylish GPS Golf Smartwatch
One of the most fashionable GPS watches you can buy, the Garmin Approach S40 GPS Golf Smartwatch is something you’ll love to wear all the time not just because of its functions but also for its style and lightness. It also has high readability since its 1.2-inch LCD touchscreen can display colored graphics clearly even when there’s intense sunlight.
More about the stylish design of this GPS watch, its bezel is made of metal for fashion as well as durability purposes. As a plus, it comes with a quick-release mechanism for the wristband so you can change the color or design anytime you want. The style options are the full-black stainless steel, the light gold bezel with a white band, and the full-gray stainless steel.
Aside from its access to a higher number of golf courses, around 41,000 to be exact, this GPS watch has a wide variety of features like automatic data recording, green view, pedometer, sleep analysis, vibrating notifications, calorie counter, and multiple profiles. You can even use the app called Garmin Golf to compete with other enthusiasts by climbing the leaderboards with your scores.
As for the downsides, this GPS watch can be difficult to navigate, unusable once the screen stops moving, and unsatisfying in pedometer mode since it uses its GPS system for tracking instead of using the standard method with step sensors.
Pros:
- Fashionable design options
- Feels super-lightweight around the wrist
- Readability under sunlight
- Durable bezel
- Wristband can be changed to another color
Cons:
- Not user-friendly
- Malfunctioning screen
- Inaccurate pedometer
Arccos Caddie Smart Sensors Featuring Golf’s First-Ever A.I. Powered GPS Rangefinder
The products just keep on getting more unique than ever as we go over this list, which is great since different types of golfers finally have a chance to buy a GPS device that they really prefer.
On that note, the Arccos Caddie Smart GPS Rangefinder is something a lot of avid golfers haven’t seen before. It’s a tiny device designed to be securely attached to any kind of golf club, specifically at the end of the grip.
No wonder this GPS device is an award-winning product. It has won the Best Game Analyzer award four times in a row from the Golf Digest Editor’s Choice Awards. It’s actually the first-ever purely automatic monitoring system.
Since the aim of this GPS device is to track your performance by analyzing golf clubs, it comes with a total of 14 sensors per box, which is perfect for club sets. There’s totally no need to remove and install a sensor every single time you change clubs.
Even the app that goes with this GPS device has worn an award before. The Arccos Caddie is well-developed for all your golfing needs, just like a real caddie.
However, there are downsides to hi-tech products like this GPS device as well. Since it relies heavily on smartphones, there’s a higher risk of missing data due to inconsistencies in the system. This ultimately leads to inaccuracy and nonstop editing, ruining its purpose of making things more convenient for you on the golf course.
Pros:
- Unique portable design
- Secure attachment
- Award-winning product
- Extensive guidance system
- High versatility
Cons:
- Inaccuracy due to missing data
- Requires to keep your smartphone with you even while you’re playing
- Continuous editing of data
Garmin Approach S60
Whether you’re playing golf or just casually going about your day, the Garmin Approach S60 can be your go-to wristwatch because of its functional yet stylish design. Its fashionable design mostly has something to do with its compatibility with any 22-millimeter wristband. You can quickly change its band anytime, anywhere since you won’t need any kind of tool.
The style choices for this GPS watch are the full-white version, the full-black one with a leather band, and another full-black option but with a silicone band. All of them will look great with the ceramic or polymer bezel of this wristwatch.
Other details you need to know about this GPS watch are the 1.2-inch colored touchscreen, the sunlight-readable display, the profiles for rowing, paddleboarding, skiing, and snowboarding, the 10-hour battery life with the golf setting, the 10-day battery life with the plain watch setting, the 40,000+ golf courses, and around one-gigabyte memory capacity.
Unfortunately, scoring and hole progression can be a problem with this GPS watch. Some of its units also stop working in just a few weeks. If not the watch, its charger can malfunction out of the blue.
Pros:
- Versatile appearance
- Fashionable design
- Colored touchscreen
- Can last for 10 days if used casually
- Large storage capacity
Cons:
- Flawed system
- Sudden total malfunction
- Damaged charger
Garmin Approach S62, Premium Golf GPS Watch, Built-In Virtual Caddie
Slightly bigger than its predecessor the S60, the Garmin Approach S62 Premium Golf GPS Watch has a 1.3-inch colored display instead of a 1.2-inch. Its touchscreen is protected by a ceramic bezel that’s resistant to abrasions.
The Garmin S62 also has access to more golf courses, specifically at least 41,000 maps, which means 1,000+ more than what the S60 offers. The S60 and S62 are still very similar, though, partially because of their wristbands that can be replaced effortlessly.
Now, let’s proceed to the system of this GPS watch. It includes the Virtual Caddie for general assistance, the Hazard View so you can easily spot the obstacles, the PlaysLike Distance for slopes, the PinPointer for blind shots, and the usual Green View for pin positioning.
This GPS watch also works with the app called Garmin Golf so you can analyze your games and even compete with other golfers. Since it’s packed with features, it has a long battery life: 20 hours in the golf setting and 14 days in the watch setting.
Loyal users aren’t complaining about the charges at all because of the convenient features of this GPS watch. They’re even luckier with the addition of Garmin Pay since they can pay through this device, which is absolutely amazing.
Just like most systems, this GPS watch tends to stop working sometimes due to factors like updates and wrong commands. The malfunction often affects hole progression, scoring, and the smoothness of the game overall.
Pros:
- A little bit bigger than the S60
- More golf courses than the S60
- Longer battery life than the S60
- Abrasion-resistant bezel
- Payments through the watch itself
Cons:
- Wrong hole progression
- Wrong score
- Constant editing
Bushnell 368821 Phantom Golf GPS
Thanks to its compatibility with Bluetooth devices, the Bushnell 368821 Phantom Golf GPS can get online updates related to golf courses regardless of your location. It’s also programmed with around 36,000 maps from 30 countries before you can even get your hands on it, eliminating the need for time-consuming preparation during the initial use.
To make things much easier, this GPS device can be operated through the Bushnell Golf App. It also helps that it has an interface that’s very user-friendly plus it comes with automatic features for course recognition and hole progression.
With all of those features in such a small gadget, you might think that this GPS device won’t last long for one round. However, its battery can actually last for two rounds max before the next recharge.
When it comes to portability, this GPS device can stick to the metal surfaces of a golf cart because of its BITE magnet. It even includes a clip holder if you want to keep it close to you through your belt or golf bag.
Sadly, the clip isn’t secure enough for rough handling. The magnet is even worse since it’s not guaranteed to stick if the ground is too bumpy. Also, don’t expect the case to have a comfortable rubbery material because it’s actually hard plastic.
Pros:
- Bluetooth-compatible
- Completely programmed for initial use
- Works with a mobile app
- Convenient UI
- Highly portable
Cons:
- Loose clip
- Magnet not strong enough for bumpy rides
- Plastic case
Izzo Swami 6000 Golf GPS
Since its shape is like a small mobile phone, the Izzo Swami 6000 Golf GPS will definitely feel natural in your hands whenever you need to navigate the screen. This boosts comfort and convenience, which perfectly represents a handheld device.
Expected from a bigger display, the two-inch colored screen can show your scores without forcing you to look at them closely. Its colors are vivid for readability and navigation.
What if it’s time to play? How can you use this GPS device at the same time? Fortunately, it has a magnet so you can put it anywhere you want on a golf cart’s metal frame.
Meanwhile, the system of this GPS device includes more than 38,000 maps, a distance measuring technology for each shot you make and automatic features for hole progression and golf course recognition. And, the best part? You don’t need to pay for any subscription and update despite the digital functions of this product.
Even though this GPS device can display vibrant colors, it’s possible that the numbers it shows won’t render completely. This makes the screen look cheap. The entire look of this gadget can also appear cheap due to random protruding objects caused by quality control issues.
Speaking of the screen, it can lag or freeze as well. This affects hole progression and battery life since the on/off button doesn’t even respond sometimes.
Pros:
- Feels natural to hold
- Big screen
- Vivid colors
- Strong magnet
- Free use
Cons:
- Numbers not rendering completely
- Distracting quality control flaws
- Frozen screen
Garmin Approach G30, Handheld Golf GPS with 2.3-inch Touchscreen Display
Even bigger than the previous option on this list of products, the Garmin Approach G30 Handheld Golf GPS has a more readable display. Its colored touchscreen is specifically 2.3 inches big, which is still considered compact for portability.
Just like most high-quality GPS devices, this one has access to at least 40,000 golf course maps on any continent in the entire world. Each map includes different colors in vibrant shades so you can easily use the feature called Touch Targeting.
Another common feature you can enjoy with this GPS device is the Green View. It will let you put a digital pin at a certain location you need to pay attention to in order to stay accurate. Extra features include the digital scorecard that can hold records for multiple players and the Garmin Connect sync.
Unfortunately, this GPS device can be inaccurate sometimes. The difference from your actual location can reach 50 to 100 yards. This is probably caused by the constant rebooting some units require, which takes away the convenience this product is supposed to be ensuring.
Also, despite the larger screen of this GPS device, some users still aren’t satisfied. A lot of icons on the touchscreen are just too small.
Pros:
- Bigger touchscreen than most options with similar design
- Vibrant colors
- Digital pin that can be placed manually
- Scorecards for multiple players
- Can sync data with a mobile app
Cons:
- Inaccurate location
- Constant rebooting
- Navigation issues
Bushnell Neo iON 2 Golf GPS Watch 368850
Even though the Bushnell Neo iON 2 Golf GPS Watch 368850 is made of plastic, the material actually has excellent quality for long-term use. It also has a satiny finish or smooth texture, which is effective for enhanced comfort and appearance.
Speaking of the appearance, you don’t need to buy another wristband just to add another style to this GPS watch. Its band is surprisingly reversible, giving you two colors in just one strap. Simply flip it if you want to change the color. For this particular option, the color combination is black and blue, which is flattering for both men and women.
It goes without saying that this GPS watch is more than just its trendy look and comfortable texture. More importantly, it has access to more than 36,000 golf course maps, wireless updates through Bluetooth, free Bushnell Golf App sync, front, center and back distances, readable fonts, Shot Distance Calculator, hole layouts and 3D flyovers, and battery life good for three rounds.
However, long battery life is useless with a malfunctioning charger. The prongs of the charger can be too fragile.
The GPS can be a hassle as well since it can’t access some golf course maps quickly. You can also lose your location sometimes, even in normal circumstances, which affects hole progression.
Pros:
- High-quality plastic material
- Can last three rounds
- Smooth texture
- Reversible wristband
- Different golf course map views
Cons:
- Fragile charger components
- Slow loading of some maps
- Stops tracking out of the blue
Garmin Approach CT10 Full Set 14 Sensors
Even though a full set of 14 sensors is available, the Garmin Approach CT10 has another option with just three sensors for people who want to save some money. Compared to other products similar to the CT10, this option is generally more budget-friendly.
When it comes to its system or technology, this GPS device works automatically. It can track each shot or stroke you make regardless of the golf club you’re using and every score you get without the need for manual commands. It can also measure distance accurately.
As expected, this GPS device is meant to sync with golf watches from the same brand to extend its functions. As a tracker alone, its purpose is simple, resulting in extremely long battery life. Plus, with the consistent use of the on/off switch, it can last for four years max.
The simplicity of each sensor makes some users disappointed, though. They’re expecting this product to be much cheaper since its purpose is too basic without a smartphone.
And, the worst part? This device can’t even sync smoothly with certain Garmin GPS wristwatches.
Pros:
- Not necessary to purchase the full set because of the 3-piece option
- Automatic function
- Simple design
- Can last for years
- Can be switched off
Cons:
- Too expensive
- Too dependent on smartphones
- Flawed sync feature
Bushnell Hybrid Golf Laser Rangefinder + GPS
Considered as the first of its kind, the Bushnell Hybrid Golf Laser works as a GPS device and a rangefinder at the same time. It’s much bigger than a standard GPS gadget, but that’s only because it has more functions.
Since multipurpose GPS devices tend to drain batteries fast, this one comes with two separate power sources. The laser rangefinder needs CR2 while the GPS requires USB.
Usable in 30 countries around the world, this GPS device is programmed with more than 36,000 golf course maps. It also includes automatic features for hole progression and course recognition, an exterior readout for the distance, the ability to detect four hazards near each hole, +/- 1-yard accuracy, 400-yard range, and Bluetooth compatibility for wireless updates.
It’s a little disappointing, however, that this device doesn’t include slope readings despite its advanced features. Readability can also be a problem since the backlight is quite dim. Additionally, the long battery lifespan of this gadget might not work all the time because of the absence of an off button and the possible malfunction of the integrated timer.
Pros:
- Original design
- Multipurpose
- Dual battery
- Massive range
- Multiple hazard readings
Cons:
- Can’t detect slopes
- Dim backlight
- No distinct off button
Garmin Approach Z82, Golf GPS Laser Range Finder
While the previous hybrid we’ve introduced has the original design, the Garmin Approach Z82 Golf GPS Laser Range Finder focuses on enhanced features. It’s arguably the most accurate option of its kind in stores with a higher range of 450 yards than the standard.
The main reason why this GPS device has an extremely high level of accuracy is its ability to stabilize images regardless of the object’s location on the golf course. This is crucial for measuring distances from any spot. Another feature contributing to accuracy is the vibration you get once a flag is locked into view during rangefinder mode.
Other things you should know about this GPS device are the colored 2D maps, the access to 41,000+ golf courses, the arc feature for the laser, the Hazard View, the 10-inch OLED screen, and the minimalist black and white color combination.
Despite this GPS device looking heavy-duty because of its slightly bulky structure, it can break even when it lands on grassy surfaces. And, even though it’s designed to stay accurate while having a higher range, some units can’t find flags beyond 200 yards for some reason.
As for a minor complaint, a few users don’t like the fact that this GPS device doesn’t have a removable battery. It can only be recharged.
Pros:
- Improved hybrid features
- Highly accurate
- Higher range
- Stable images
- Stunning 2D maps
Cons:
- Breakable
- Can’t exceed 200 yards
- Doesn’t allow battery replacement
How to Choose Good Handheld Golf GPS
Type
Handheld
Although wristwatches and hybrid rangefinders can also be considered handheld devices, the perfect representation of that portable design is the basic GPS device that’s extremely compact with a seamless shape and usually attached on belts through its clip.
The standard handheld GPS device is the most portable since it can fit anywhere, even in tight pockets. However, it generally lacks extra functions because of its small size, forcing the player to use a smartphone while playing if he needs more detailed graphics. That can affect convenience, which is supposed to be the purpose of handheld gadgets in the first place.
Handheld devices are always misplaced, too. Unlike wristwatches, they can be placed anywhere because of their compact size, which is a problem once the user forgets. The best solution is to buy a bigger handheld option so you can handle it like a phone, increasing the chances of long-term use.
Wristwatch
GPS watches are rarely misplaced since they’re meant to be worn around wrists, nothing else. However, since they usually come with two modes–one for golfing and the other for telling time–some users are experiencing a steep learning curve before they can even use the device properly.
Hybrid
When people say hybrid GPS devices for golfing, they usually refer to the ones with an integrated rangefinder. More functions are guaranteed with this type of device but don’t expect them to have a really small size.
Another hybrid option that’s not as common as GPS rangefinders is the one designed for golf clubs to check swing speeds aside from tracking location. The screw-in type is normally installed on the club grips. It’s the smallest one out of all the trackers for golfers.
System
Maps
It’s crucial that any functioning golf GPS device must have maps of golf courses already programmed into its system. After all, convenient navigation in any golf course is one of their priorities.
Most options have access to more than 30,000 maps, so don’t worry too much about whether or not your favorite golf course is included. However, if you’re living outside the U.S., it’s best to go for something with 40,000+ maps just to be sure. It also helps if your GPS device allows wireless updates to receive higher access.
Accuracy
This factor is a must since you can’t record data properly if your exact location is wrong. We recommend GPS devices that promote +/- 1 accuracy. Also, watch out for product reviews saying that the device keeps on rebooting because this can significantly affect accuracy due to lost data.
Scoring
It only makes sense for a GPS device to include a digital scorecard since it’s all about performance analysis and convenience anyway. Some options have multiple scorecards for different players, perfect for friendly competitions.
Just keep in mind that the digital scorecards of smaller devices can only be accessed through mobile apps, so don’t be too disappointed that you have to bring your smartphone with you during your games if you choose to buy an extremely compact gadget.
Sync
Most golf GPS devices have Bluetooth compatibility so they can sync with smartphones and even some computers. This is essential for a smoother data transfer without the need for cables or cords.
Access
Just because a GPS device requires a monthly or yearly subscription for unlimited access doesn’t necessarily mean that the one offering free services is the better option. The reasons why some golf GPS gadgets charge extra fees are the massive scope of their functions and constant updates for a more advanced system. In many ways, they’re better than free-use options, although we can’t deny the fact that they’re much more expensive and high-maintenance.
Battery
Type
Golf GPS devices have batteries that are either removable, rechargeable, or both. Removable batteries are handy for sudden problems on the golf course while rechargeable ones are more budget-friendly. Of course, rechargeable batteries that can be removed for replacement are the best.
Lifespan
Most product descriptions describe the battery lifespan of golf GPS devices in the form of rounds, specifically the number of rounds you can play before the device stops working and needs a recharge.
High-quality options promote two to four rounds until it’s time for the next recharge. To give you a better idea of the duration, each round takes two to six hours, depending on your skill level. If the golf mode isn’t used, a good GPS device can last for one week or more.
Conclusion
A delightful fan favorite, the Bushnell 368821 Phantom Golf GPS is extremely popular because of its user-friendly features and affordable price compared to most hi-tech options. Its appearance also perfectly represents the standard design of handheld GPS devices. It will fit comfortably in your hand, pocket, or bag despite the possibility of a loose clip and weak magnet, which only proves how awesome it is as a handheld gadget.
Because of the multifunctional design of golf GPS devices, there are a lot of factors that should be considered before purchase. To help you start somewhere, think first about the type, system, and battery you need as a golfer.