If you’ve stepped on a golf course in the last several years you’ve seen how players have become so dependent on the latest golfing technologies. Heck, even my 73-year-old father hesitates to play these days without his GPS system and a new set of hybrids. Every golfer wants to give themselves the competitive edge, hence the reason golf GPS systems have become so popular.
With so many units available it can be a challenge to find the one that meets your needs, so I’ve decided to collect best golf gps reviews here in one place. But first, here are my current recommended units:
Best Golf GPS Systems for 2012
Recommended: Garmin Approach G3
Pros:
Fits in a pocket
User friendly interface
No subscription fees necessary
Cons:
Requires AA batteries
No advanced stat tracking
Full Review
Recommended: Garmin Approach G5
Pros:
Solidly built
Easy to set up
Advanced stat tracking software
Cons:
Requires AA batteries
Occasional screen glare
Full Review
What to Look For
People are always asking me which features are really the most important when buying one of these units. Here are a few things I consider to be absolutely critical when conducting your own golf GPS comparison.
Accuracy
This is obviously an important factor. What good is a golf GPS unit if you can’t rely on the readings that it takes? GPS technology is typically very accurate, often providing the distance to your target or hole within one yard or less. Of course some models are going to be more accurate than others, so it is important to research a unit’s accuracy before making your purchase. The Garmin Approach G3 is one of several golf GPS systems known for having razor-sharp accuracy.
Durability
You’re also going want a unit with a rugged feel that can withstand drops, dings, scratches and whatever else the course throws at it. If your unit feels like a cheap piece of plastic in your hands you can bet that it is not going to last. Depending on your playing style you will ideally want a durable, waterproof golf course GPS that has been designed to withstand the rigors of an active golfing lifestyle. The Approach G5 ranks among the top in this category. Many leading golf GPS reviews and publications rate this one near the top in many categories.
Maps & Course Availability
Will the GPS work at all your favorite local courses or is it only good at courses where you are unlikely to ever play? A GPS can have all the bells and whistles in the world, but if it doesn’t have a map for your favorite course it is nothing more than a fancy brick. There are two ways that course maps can be incorporated into a golf GPS. Some units come preloaded with thousands of courses, so it is ready to be used right out of the box. Other units provide you with access to a database where you can download the courses that you need straight to your unit over the internet. There are often additional fees with these types of units, so it’s important to consider this as you comparison shop.
Whichever type of unit you choose, you’ll want to find one that you will actually be able to use at your favorite courses.
Portability
An often overlooked factor, but no less important. If you’re going to be carrying your GPS around for 18 holes you will want one that is lightweight and can either attach to your bag or belt or slide effortlessly into your pocket. On the other hand, it needs to be large enough that you can easily read the display and operate the controls. Some units are ultra-portable and known for their ease of use in any conditions.
Battery Life
Does the GPS have enough juice to last a full 18 holes? What about 36 holes? Yes, it’s true that some of the best golf GPS units perform better than others in terms of battery life. If you’re the type of person who is always forgetting to charge your cellphone then you’re certainly going to want a GPS with excellent battery life.
Read on for my golf GPS reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between golf GPS systems and rangefinders?
A golf GPS uses satellite technology to determine your location. It then provides you with a map of the hole and distance estimates to critical points. A rangefinder shoots a laser out to different points to determine the distance. I personally prefer GPS because I find the overhead map to be incredibly useful when planning my strategy. However, if you’re just looking to measure distances a rangefinder can be very accurate.
Are iPhone/Android golf apps as good as a dedicated golf GPS device?
I’ve tried several iPhone apps and found them to be quite useful, but there are a few drawbacks to using an app. For one thing, having your phone’s GPS running while you play can drain the battery in a hurry. If you need to be able to take calls as you play you will have to carefully monitor your battery usage, and be prepared to shut off your GPS before finishing the round. Also, golf apps lack many of the features of dedicated devices, such as advanced stat tracking and the ability to measure to any point on the course.
Is the (insert model here) any good?
The best way to answer this is by pointing you to some of my golf GPS reviews on this site.
Are GPS units allowed during tournament play?
It depends on the tournament. The USGA changed its rule a few years back to allow GPS units and rangefinders in tournaments if the tournament’s rules committee votes to allow them. However, advanced units that determine wind speed, course gradient or include a club recommendation feature are still prohibited. If you’re thinking of playing in a tournament you will want to check with the rules committee to find out if your GPS is allowed.
Can I use my car GPS as a GPS for golf?
No, not unless you’re playing golf in the street–which I don’t recommend. A golf GPS provides detailed maps of thousands golf courses, which you won’t find in any other type of GPS unit.
Check out the rest of my golf GPS reviews here.
