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Garmin Approach S42 Review: The Ultimate Mid-Range Golf GPS Watch?

  • Lee Stapleton
  • Mar 10
  • 3 min read


Introduction

If you're looking for a stylish yet powerful golf GPS watch, the Garmin Approach S42 might be the perfect companion for your game. With precise GPS tracking, a vibrant touchscreen display, and smartwatch functionality, this watch blends golf tech with everyday usability. But does it truly stand out in a crowded market? Let’s find out. ⛳

Design: Sleek, Lightweight, and Stylish

The Garmin Approach S42 boasts a 1.2-inch color touchscreen, providing crisp visuals and easy navigation. Its lightweight and modern design makes it comfortable for all-day wear, both on and off the course. Available in multiple colors, it’s as much a fashion statement as it is a golfing tool. 🏌️‍♂️

Key Features

  • Preloaded with 42,000+ golf courses worldwide 🌎

  • 1.2-inch sunlight-readable color touchscreen 📟

  • Green View with manual pin positioning 📍

  • AutoShot tracking for shot distance measurement 📏

  • Smartwatch features (notifications, activity tracking, sleep tracking, etc.) ⌚

  • Up to 15 hours of battery life in GPS mode 🔋

  • Quick-release bands for easy customization

  • Water-resistant design 🌊

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros:

  • Accurate GPS tracking with thousands of preloaded courses

  • Smartwatch capabilities for everyday use

  • Lightweight and stylish design

  • Long battery life

  • Sunlight-readable display with touchscreen

❌ Cons:

  • Lacks slope-adjusted distances

  • No virtual caddie feature like the S62

  • Touchscreen can be less responsive with gloves

Should You Buy It?

✅ Buy it if:

  • You want a versatile golf watch with smartwatch features.

  • You prefer a sleek design with a responsive touchscreen.

  • You need precise GPS tracking and AutoShot technology.

❌ Skip it if:

  • You want slope-adjusted distances.

  • You need a virtual caddie or club suggestions.

  • You prefer a budget-friendly option.

Recommended YouTube Video


@golfshake

FAQs

Is the Garmin Approach S42 waterproof?

It is water-resistant, meaning it can withstand rain and splashes but should not be submerged.

How long does the battery last?

  • GPS Mode: Up to 15 hours per charge

  • Smartwatch Mode: Up to 10 days

Does the S42 track fitness activities?

Yes! It includes step tracking, sleep monitoring, and calories burned.

Can you receive notifications on the S42?

Yes, it provides call, text, and app notifications when connected to your smartphone.

Does the Garmin Approach S42 require a subscription?

No! The watch comes preloaded with 42,000+ courses, and there are no extra fees.

User Reviews: What Are Golfers Saying?

⭐ 4.6/5 – Amazon Review: “Great blend of smartwatch and golf GPS! Super accurate distances and love the touchscreen.”

⭐ 4.7/5 – Golf Monthly: “Sleek and lightweight. A solid option for golfers who also want a stylish everyday watch.”

⭐ 4.5/5 – Reddit Review: “The AutoShot feature is amazing! Tracks my shots perfectly.”

⭐ 4.8/5 – Golf Digest: “One of the best mid-range golf GPS watches out there. Battery life is solid.”

⭐ 4.6/5 – Best Buy Review: “Easy to use, great display, and super accurate on the course.”

Full Specs

Feature

Details

Display

1.2" Color Touchscreen

Battery Life

15+ Hours (GPS Mode), 10 Days (Smartwatch Mode)

Waterproof

Water-Resistant

Weight

Lightweight Design

Preloaded Courses

42,000+ worldwide

Smart Notifications

Yes

Touchscreen

Yes

Fitness Tracking

Yes

Similar Products: Alternatives to Consider

Watch

Key Features

Price Range

Garmin Approach S12

Basic golf GPS, no touchscreen

$$

Garmin Approach S62

Advanced features, virtual caddie

$$$$

Shot Scope V3

GPS + shot tracking

$$$

Bushnell ION Elite

Slope-adjusted distances, touchscreen

$$$$

SkyCaddie LX5

High-res display, premium analytics

$$$$

Verdict: A Stylish and Functional Golf GPS Watch

The Garmin Approach S42 is a fantastic option for golfers who want a blend of GPS accuracy and smartwatch functionality. While it lacks slope-adjusted distances and advanced analytics, it makes up for it with usability, style, and reliability. If you’re looking for a mid-range golf GPS watch that performs on and off the course, the S42 is a great investment. 🏆

👉 Final Rating: 4.6/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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