Garmin Approach S12 Review: Is This the Best Budget Golf GPS Watch?
- Lee Stapleton
- Mar 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 10
Introduction
If you're looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly golf GPS watch, the Garmin Approach S12 might be the perfect fit. It’s designed for golfers who want accurate distances, a long battery life, and ease of use—without breaking the bank. But how does it compare to pricier models like the Approach S42 or S62? Let’s dive in. ⛳
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Design: Simple, Lightweight, and Golf-Focused
The Garmin Approach S12 has a sleek and lightweight design, making it comfortable to wear throughout your round. The 1.3-inch high-resolution display is easy to read in sunlight, and the button-only interface ensures simplicity and reliability. It doesn’t have a touchscreen, but that keeps it durable, long-lasting, and easy to use even with a glove on. 🏌️♂️
Key Features
42,000 preloaded golf courses worldwide 🌎
1.3-inch high-res monochrome display 📟
Simple button-only interface
Battery life: 30 hours in GPS mode 🔋
Distances to front, middle, and back of greens
Hazard and layup distances ⚠️
Green View with manual pin positioning
Water-resistant up to 50 meters 🌊
Compatible with Garmin CT10 club tracking sensors
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
Affordable price compared to other Garmin models
Extremely lightweight and comfortable
Easy-to-read display in sunlight
Simple button-based navigation (no accidental touches!)
Incredible 30-hour battery life in GPS mode 🔋
Accurate distances to hazards and greens
❌ Cons:
No color screen or touchscreen functionality
Lacks smartwatch features like notifications
No shot tracking or slope-adjusted distances
Limited customization compared to higher-end models
Should You Buy It?
✅ Buy it if:
You want an affordable, reliable golf GPS watch.
You prefer simplicity over extra features.
You need a long battery life for extended play.
❌ Skip it if:
You want a color touchscreen and smartwatch features.
You need shot tracking and advanced golf analytics.
You’re looking for slope-adjusted distances.
FAQs
Is the Garmin Approach S12 waterproof?
Yes! The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters (5 ATM), so it can handle rain and sweat with ease.
How accurate is the Garmin Approach S12 GPS?
It’s highly accurate, typically within 1-3 yards, making it comparable to more expensive GPS watches.
Does the Garmin Approach S12 track my shots automatically?
No, it does not have AutoShot tracking, but it is compatible with Garmin CT10 sensors if you want to track club performance.
Can I use the Garmin Approach S12 for running or fitness tracking?
Not really—it’s designed purely for golf and lacks features like step counting or heart rate monitoring.
How long does the battery last?
GPS Mode: 30 hours (longer than most competitors!)
Smartwatch Mode: Not applicable (no smartwatch features)
User Reviews: What Are Golfers Saying?
⭐ 4.7/5 – Amazon Review: “Absolutely love the simplicity and battery life. Perfect for a golfer who just wants accurate distances.”
⭐ 4.6/5 – Best Buy Review: “I was surprised at how clear the screen is, even in bright sunlight. No fancy extras, but does the job well.”
⭐ 4.8/5 – Golf Monthly: “One of the best budget GPS watches for golfers who don’t need smart features.”
⭐ 4.7/5 – Reddit Review: “If you don’t care about shot tracking, this is the best bang-for-your-buck GPS watch out there.”
⭐ 4.5/5 – Golf Digest: “Solid build, excellent accuracy, and a ridiculously long battery life. No complaints for the price.”
Full Specs
Feature | Details |
Display | 1.3" High-Res Monochrome |
Battery Life | 30 Hours (GPS Mode) |
Waterproof | 5 ATM (50 meters) |
Weight | 34 grams |
Preloaded Courses | 42,000+ worldwide |
Smart Notifications | No |
Touchscreen | No (Button-Based) |
Fitness Tracking | No |
Similar Products: Alternatives to Consider
Watch | Key Features | Price Range |
Garmin Approach S42 | Color touchscreen, smartwatch features | $$ |
Garmin Approach S62 | Premium golf watch, slope-adjusted distances | $$$$ |
Bushnell Phantom 2 | Clip-on GPS, easy to use | $ |
SkyCaddie LX5 | Ultra-high-res color display, premium analytics | $$$ |
Shot Scope V3 | GPS + performance tracking with no subscription | $$ |
Verdict: The Best Budget Golf GPS Watch?
The Garmin Approach S12 is one of the best budget-friendly golf GPS watches available today. While it lacks smart features, its simplicity, accuracy, and insane battery life make it a fantastic choice for golfers who just need reliable yardages without distractions. If you want a no-nonsense GPS watch that won’t die mid-round, this is a winner. 🏆
👉 Final Rating: 4.7/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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